Santiago to Puerto Montt: Best and Cheapest Ways to Travel

Planning your trip from Santiago to Puerto Montt and looking for the best and cheapest options? It is a long journey, about 1.020 km, so your decision really affects comfort, time, and budget.

I have done the Santiago to Puerto Montt route multiple times, and this guide breaks down the options in a simple, practical way so you can choose what fits your trip.

I personally flew with LATAM Airlines between Santiago to Temuco, and then driving to Puerto Montt, but flying is not the only option worth considering.

Overview of Santiago to Puerto Montt

Traveling from Santiago to Puerto Montt means crossing a large part of central and southern Chile. The distance is roughly 1.020 km, so this is not a short transfer. Planning ahead makes a real difference.

Here is what you should expect on this route:

• Travel times range from 1 hour 40 minutes by plane to 12 to 14 hours by bus or around 10 to 11 hours by car
• Most travelers choose flying or overnight buses
• Highways are generally in good condition, but the drive is long
• Prices vary significantly depending on season and how early you book

This route is popular with both locals and international travelers heading into the Lake District, especially during summer and holidays.

Choosing the right transport depends on how much time you have, how much luggage you carry, and how flexible your budget is.

Travel methods

Personal experience taught me that there are comfortable ways to travel from Santiago to Puerto Montt, and some that feel very long very quickly.

Your choice depends mainly on:

• Budget
• Time available
• Comfort expectations
• How much luggage you travel with

Below are the main travel methods, with what you realistically need to know.

By plane

Flying is the fastest and often the most convenient way to travel from Santiago to Puerto Montt.

What to expect when flying:

• Airlines mainly include LATAM Airlines and Sky Airline
• Flight time is about 1 hour 40 minutes

Flights leave from Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport and land at El Tepual Airport, around 20 minutes from the city center

Things to watch out for:

• Basic fares often include no checked luggage
• Seat selection and bags cost extra
• Prices rise quickly close to departure dates

I flew this route and the experience was smooth, but baggage rules can easily increase the total price if you are not careful.

By bus

Buses are a common option for budget travelers and locals.

Here is how bus travel looks on this route:

• Several companies operate daily, including Tur Bus and Pullman
• Comfort ranges from semi cama to full cama seats
• Travel time is usually 12 to 14 hours

Key differences to consider:

• Night buses save on accommodation and are often quieter
• Day buses let you see the landscape but feel longer
• Comfort depends heavily on seat type, not just the company

Bus terminals:

• Santiago departures usually leave from Terminal Sur
• Buses arrive at Puerto Montt Bus Terminal, close to the city center

If budget matters more than speed, this is often the best value option.

By car

Driving gives you flexibility, but it is not always the easiest choice.

Important points about driving:

• Distance is about 1.020 km
• Driving time is 10 to 11 hours without long stops
• Roads are generally in good condition, mainly along Ruta 5 Sur

When renting a car makes sense:

• You plan to stop in Pucón or Valdivia
• You travel with multiple people
• You want flexibility after arrival

Downsides to consider:

• Fuel and toll costs add up
• It is a long day behind the wheel
• One way rentals can be expensive

If you want full control of your route, driving works. If Puerto Montt is your final stop, flying or buses are usually easier. You could also rent a car after arriving in Puerto Montt.

Comparing costs and time

Costs and travel time from Santiago to Puerto Montt can differ a lot depending on how you travel, how early you book, and the season.

Flying can be cheap and fast if you book early and travel light, but prices increase quickly close to departure.
Buses are slower, but prices are more stable throughout the year.

Driving offers flexibility, but fuel, tolls, and rental costs can increase the total significantly.

The comparison below reflects realistic traveler experiences rather than best case promotional prices.
It should help you decide quickly which option fits your schedule and budget.

Travel method	Travel time	One way cost	Best for
Plane	1h 40m flight plus airport time	USD 30 to 100	Speed and comfort
Bus night	12 to 14 hours	USD 20 to 45	Budget travelers
Bus day	12 to 14 hours	USD 20 to 45	Scenic travel
Car rental	10 to 11 hours	USD 130 to 220 plus fuel	Flexibility

A few things to keep in mind:

• Flights are often cheapest if booked early and with light luggage
• Night buses usually offer the best value for money
• Driving makes most sense if you need a car in the Lake District anyway

If time is limited, flying clearly wins. If budget matters most, overnight buses are hard to beat. This comparison usually makes the decision easier before you book.

Continue into the Lake District

For most travelers, Puerto Montt is not the final destination. It is the gateway to southern Chile. From here, you are well placed to explore the Lake District, one of the most scenic regions in the country.

Popular places to continue your trip include:

Pucón for volcano views and outdoor activities

Valdivia for rivers and seafood

Puerto Varas for lakes and mountain scenery

Chiloé Island for wooden churches and coastal landscapes

If you want ideas, routes, and realistic travel times, check the Lake District guide to see what fits your itinerary best.

From Puerto Montt, going further south is straightforward, whether by bus, rental car, or short domestic flights.