Getting To San Pedro de Atacama

Getting To San Pedro de Atacama

The gateway airport is Calama (CJC), served by multiple daily flights from Santiago (around 2 hours) on LATAM, Sky Airline, and JetSmart. From Calama, shared shuttles and taxis to San Pedro take approximately 1.5 hours by road.

• Santiago (SCL) → Calama (CJC): ~2h, multiple daily flights
• Calama airport → San Pedro: 1.5h by shared shuttle or taxi
• Shared shuttles cost significantly less than private taxis and run on a fixed schedule

Exploring the Region

Almost all excursions from San Pedro are done as organised tours rather than self-drive, since many sites require permits or lie within reserves with regulated access. San Pedro town itself is small and entirely walkable.

• Most excursions booked through San Pedro tour agencies or your lodge
• Rental 4x4 available for the more adventurous, but many key sites require a guide or permit
• San Pedro town centre: fully walkable, no vehicle needed

Altitude in the Atacama

San Pedro sits at 2,408m — generally comfortable for most travellers. Excursions to El Tatio geysers (4,320m) and some salt-flat lagoons (over 4,000m) involve a meaningful jump in elevation.

• San Pedro town: 2,408m — mild adjustment for most
• El Tatio geysers: 4,320m — take it slow, dress warmly
• Some salt lagoon excursions: 4,000m+