Layover in Santiago (SCL)
Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About Santiago
Santiago is the capital and economic center of Chile. With its many museums, events, theaters, restaurants, bars and other entertainment and cultural opportunities, it is also the cultural center of the country. For visitors it's both the gateway to the country and a destination in its own right with an eclectic architecture, a vibrant culinary and cultural scene, surrounded by the mighty Andes welcoming skiers, trekkers and friends of wine. Its central location in the country makes it a great base for visiting other areas, and it is possible to ski in the nearby Andes and later be on the beach in the same day.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | About 1h 31m in the city | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 31m in the city | About 1h 56m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 31m in the city | About 3h 56m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 31m in the city | About 7h 56m in the city |
Getting into Santiago
About 27m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center, roughly 13 km (8 mi). This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in Santiago?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 4 hours or more to get into Santiago and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from SCL to central Santiago?
Allow about 27m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center; the center is about 13 km (8 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to SCL?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.