The cost of getting from SCL to central Santiago varies significantly depending on your transport choice. Here is an honest breakdown.
By bus — the cheapest option
Centropuerto's own published fare is 2,400 CLP one-way, or 4,100 CLP round trip (Centropuerto official FAQ, checked 2026) — roughly $2.5-3 USD one-way at recent exchange rates (about 925 CLP per USD in mid-2026). Turbus runs a comparable service; check its own site for its current fare. Buses take you to Pajaritos or Los Heroes metro stations, where you connect to the metro for a separate fare. The catch: you need to manage your own luggage on the bus and metro, and the journey takes 45-60 minutes depending on connections.
By ride-hailing app
Uber, Cabify, and DiDi all operate at SCL, but none publish a fixed fare — pricing moves with demand and can surge noticeably during rush hour or when several international flights land close together. The app shows you the exact price before you confirm, so check it there rather than assuming a number in advance.
By official airport taxi
The Transvip and Transaereo booths in arrivals quote fixed rates for shared vans and private cars, but the rate is set at the booth at the time of booking rather than published online. Ask for the price before you get in — it is displayed clearly and is not negotiable, so there is no risk of being overcharged, but this guide cannot quote a number that isn't published anywhere to verify against.
By pre-booked transfer
Private transfer operators quote a fixed price at booking, so you know the exact fare — sedan versus van — before you fly. For a family or small group, the per-person cost is often comparable to or less than a shared taxi; get quotes for both to compare on the day.
The currency factor
Chile's peso fluctuates against the dollar and euro, so any USD figure quoted for a CLP fare is only a snapshot. ATMs at the airport give reasonable rates. The currency exchange counters in arrivals charge noticeable spreads — use them only if you need a small amount of cash immediately.
Beyond central Santiago
Destinations outside the main center cost more, roughly in proportion to distance and drive time:
- Vina del Mar / Valparaiso: about 90 minutes by private transfer — get a quote from the operator, since coastal transfers are priced separately from city transfers
- Ski resorts (Valle Nevado, Portillo): 90-120 minutes depending on season and road conditions — prices vary by season, ask the operator directly
- Santiago outskirts (Lo Barnechea, Chicureo): a shorter add-on to a standard city transfer — confirm with the operator
Tips to keep costs down
Travel during off-peak hours when ride-hailing prices are lower. Consider the airport bus if you travel light. For groups, a private transfer often costs less per person than individual taxis. Have Chilean pesos from an ATM rather than exchanging at the airport desks.