Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport
Santiago, CL · 15 km (9.3 mi) north-west of central Santiago
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Centropuerto Airport bus · Every 10-20 min · roughly 06:00–23:00 | 35-60 min to Pajaritos (airport → Pajaritos leg) | $2-5 |
| Hotel Shuttle Buses Hotel transfer · only on the hour or half‑hour and may require prior booking | 5-20 min (typical hotel shuttle ranges for nearby properties) | compare the quoted shuttle price against Uber or the airport buses |
| Official Airport Taxi Taxi · On demand, aligned with flight arrivals | 25-45 min to central areas (typical reported range) | significantly more than Uber or Cabify for the same ride into central Santiago |
| Private Transfer Vans Shared shuttle · By reservation only | 25-45 min to central Santiago; 1.5-2 hr to Valparaíso (typical reported ranges) | significantly more expensive than simply ordering two Ubers or using an airport bus plus metro |
Insider notes
Build a buffer; morning arrivals often face 60-90 minutes at immigration, while midday can be smoother.
For late-night and early-morning flights, few food options remain open; consider city dining.
The international terminal's duty-free has exceptional Chilean wine selection at competitive prices.
Welcome
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Santiago offers a mix of local flair and logistical challenges more reminiscent of a long-haul outpost than a polished mega-hub. Understanding its quirks is key. For instance, while the airport offers delightful Chilean wine and pastry options, it also has notoriously slow-moving queues at immigration and security. Frequent flyers know to either breeze through or risk significant delays based on timing and strategy.
At a glance
SCL processes around 27.4 million passengers annually, with two primary terminals: T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international travel. Located 15 km northwest of central Santiago, it serves as a hub for LATAM Chile, Sky Airline, and JetSMART. Access to the city is facilitated by buses, taxis, and rideshares, with travel times ranging from 25 to 60 minutes depending on traffic and service choice.
Terminals & layout
SCL’s layout comprises Terminal 1, serving domestic flights primarily operated by LATAM Chile, Sky Airline, and JetSMART, while Terminal 2 caters to international carriers like Air France and American Airlines. Multiple dining options span both terminals, with international fare available at Lavazza and McDonald's in T2 and domestic favorites like Patagonia Café and Dunkin' Donuts in T1. Navigating between the terminals could be confusing for newcomers, so allow ample time for connections.
Getting to and from the city
SCL is well-connected to Santiago city via several transport options. The Centropuerto and TurBus Aeropuerto buses offer convenient rides to Pajaritos, with tickets priced between $2-$5. Taxis are pricier but direct, while rideshares like Uber and Cabify provide cost-effective alternatives, with fares typically around $15-$30. For those preferring a more personalized service, hotel shuttles and private transfer vans are also available.
Parking
The airport hosts several parking options, from express lots at CLP $30,700 per day to more economical long-stay options at CLP $13,000. Given the walking distance from budget-friendly lots, it’s advisable to drop off passengers at the terminal before parking. Valet parking and short-term lots provide slightly more convenience at a higher price.
Traveller essentials
Travelers will find Wi-Fi serviceable but patchy especially during crowded periods; consider arranging a local eSIM for backup. Cash needs are minimal inside the airport as most transactions can be completed by card, but ATMs are available for cash withdrawals. Be wary of strict liquid regulations for transfers, ensuring duty-free liquids are sealed properly to avoid confiscation.
Dining & shopping highlights
SCL brings a taste of Chile with eateries like Cerveceria Del Norte in T1 and Ruby Tuesday in T2. The duty-free section is noted for its excellent Chilean wine selection, a must-visit for wine enthusiasts. Shopping can be done at outlets like Victoria's Secret and Michael Kors in T2. Prices across the airport are higher than downtown, especially for basics like coffee and snacks.
Lounges
The airport hosts nine lounges, with the LATAM VIP Lounge challenging peak-period overcrowding issues. For a calmer experience, consider the Salon VIP Condor or Mastercard Black Lounge. Some travelers find the independent VIP lounges less crowded, particularly for those holding a Priority Pass or opting for a day-pass option.
Insider tips
- Time: Build a buffer; morning arrivals often face 60-90 minutes at immigration, while midday can be smoother.
- Avoid: For late-night and early-morning flights, few food options remain open; consider city dining.
- Local: The international terminal's duty-free has exceptional Chilean wine selection at competitive prices.
- Quiet: Head to the far ends of international gates for less crowded seating and available outlets.
- Money: Economy parking is cheaper; however, it requires a shuttle or a walk, so plan accordingly.
- Insider: Domestic café outlets offer better pastries than chain spots; try them for a local taste.
- Avoid: Airport Wi-Fi is unreliable for heavy usage; have a data plan backup.
- Time: Allow at least 3 hours for connections from international to domestic flights.