How to Get to Puerto Varas, Chile
Puerto Varas is easily accessible for international travelers via Chile’s main air transport network. The closest airport is El Tepual International Airport (PMC), located near the city of Puerto Montt, approximately 25 minutes by car from Puerto Varas.
Most international visitors arrive first at:
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) Santiago, Chile. Santiago serves as the country’s main international gateway, offering direct connections from North America, Europe, Oceania, and Latin America.
Domestic Flights
From Santiago, frequent domestic flights connect to: El Tepual Airport (PMC) – Puerto Montt
Flight duration: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Several airlines operate daily flights between Santiago and Puerto Montt.
Ground Transportation
From El Tepual Airport to Puerto Varas:
-
- Private transfers (recommended)
- Taxi services
- Rental cars
- Shuttle services arranged by hotels or event organizers
Travel time: Approximately 25–30 minutes
TAXI
For a secure and stress-free taxi, purchase a ticket at the official counters before entering the arrival hall. A representative will then escort you to your vehicle. Avoid the unauthorized vendors inside the arrivals area, as they can be aggressive and are often involved in scams.
BUS (TRANSFER)
Next to the official taxis, minibus services offer two options:
Shared: Cheaper, but slower with multiple stops.
Private: More expensive, but direct and door-to-door.
RENT A CAR
Process paperwork at the arrival hall desk, then take a shuttle to the lot. Use a navigation app for the 30-minute drive to the city (often longer in traffic).
Tolls: An electronic "Tag" in the car automatically pays highway tolls; the rental company will charge you for the incurred fees.
ELECTRICITY
220V Type C and L rounded legs.
TIME IN CHILE
GMT-3 in spring.
CURRENCY
The Chilean Peso (CLP) is the official currency. US Dollars or Euros are rarely accepted.
EXCHANGE
Currency exchange offices are widely available in cities; ask your hotel for the nearest location.
PAYMENT
Credit/debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are readily available in urban areas.
CURRENCY
The Chilean Peso (CLP) is the official currency. US Dollars or Euros are rarely accepted.
CONSULATES
In case of loss of any documents or other issues, please contact the embassy or consulate of your country in Chile.
HEALTH
Vaccines: Not required for entry.
Water: Tap water is safe, but bottled is advised for visitors and is widely available.
Emergency: Contact your travel insurance and proceed to the nearest hospital.
BANK
Banks open their doors from Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 14:00.
SHOPPING CENTRES
Shopping centres opens usually at 10:00 and close at 21:00.
PRESENTATION AT THE AIRPORT
Domestic flights 2 hours before departure and international flights 3 hours before departure.
PRE-TIP
pointing out whether or not you are bringing in: animals, vegetables, products, parts or by-products of animal and/or vegetable origin. It can be completed online at www.ingresoachile.cl, or on paper forms available at entry points.
Look for different lodging alternatives and tourism activities in the country’s National Registry of Tourism Service Providers www.serviciosturisticos.sernatur.cl.
At Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport (AMB), the authorized means of transportation can be booked at the Terminal T2 exit at authorized counters. They are located after baggage claim and at the terminal exit. Pay special attention to the recommendations announced over the airport loudspeakers.
You will make the most of your stay and get to visit many tourist attractions.