How to get to San Pedro de Atacama from Santiago, Calama and Copiapó

San Pedro de Atacama is the tourist heart of the desert and the gateway to the Valle de la Luna, the Tatio geysers and the altiplanic lagoons. It has no airport of its own, so most travelers fly into Calama and then take a transfer. Here we explain all the options.

By plane (the fastest way)

Fly from Santiago to Calama airport (El Loa), a roughly 2-hour trip with several daily flights. From Calama, San Pedro is 100 km away (1 hour 15 minutes). You can take a shared transfer, a bus or rent a car right at the airport.

By bus

There are direct buses from Santiago (about 22-24 hours) and, above all, from Calama (1.5 hours) and other northern cities. It's the cheapest option. Buy in advance during high season.

By car

• From Calama: 100 km on Route 23-CH, fully paved.
• From Copiapó: about 800 km (heading north), a long trip but with spectacular scenery.
• Keep a full tank, water and check your tires: distances in the desert are huge.

Tip: acclimatize to the altitude

San Pedro sits at 2,400 m and many excursions climb above 4,000 m. Spend your first day on gentle activities like the Valle de la Luna, stay well hydrated and save the Tatio geysers or the altiplanic lagoons for after a couple of days.