How to Get to Antofagasta. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel: Andrés Sabella Gálvez Airport ANF

Flights & Airlines

ANF, also known as Cerro Moreno International Airport, is located 25 km north of the city. Domestic flights are the main service.

Main Carriers & Routes

LATAM Airlines, Sky Airline, and JetSMART are the main carriers.
Most flights connect to Santiago (SCL). Other domestic routes include Calama, Iquique, La Serena.
No direct international flights from major global hubs. Connect using Santiago (SCL).

Airport Facilities & Transfers

ANF is a modern but relatively small airport, offering essential services for travelers.

Services & Transport

Car rental agencies, shops, cafes, ATMs, Wi-Fi, restrooms.
Shared shuttles (e.g., Transfer Delfos) offer cost-effective transfers to the city.
Licensed taxis, Uber, and Cabify are available outside the terminal.

Seasonal Flight Pricing

Flight frequency remains consistent, but prices increase during Chilean summer holidays (Dec-Feb) and long weekends. Book in advance for better rates. Dollar Flight Club can help with flight deal alerts, and Skyscanner for comparisons.

Car Rentals at ANF

Major international and local car rental companies have desks inside the terminal. Booking in advance is recommended to guarantee your preferred vehicle type and rates. DiscoverCars.com for options.

Arrival at Santiago SCL

International travelers typically fly into Santiago's Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) and then take a connecting domestic flight to Antofagasta (ANF). This is a common and straightforward process.

Flight Planning Tips

Booking & Monitoring

Book flights in advance, especially during peak seasons and holidays.
Use comparing flight prices websites (e.g., Skyscanner) to monitor prices.
Set up price warnings for your desired routes.

Traveler Comfort

Consider overnight buses for long domestic journeys to save on accommodation.
Check baggage allowances as budget airlines often have strict limits.
Download offline entertainment for longer flights or bus rides.

Land Transportation: Buses & Driving

Long-Distance Buses

An extensive and efficient network. Major companies: Turbus, Pullman Bus, Ciktur. Book at Terminal Rodoviario or online. Comfort options include Salón Cama (fully reclining) for long journeys.

Border Crossings

Not directly from Antofagasta city. To Bolivia/Argentina, travel via San Pedro de Atacama (Hito Cajón, Paso Jama). No passenger train service exists for tourists in Antofagasta.

Self-Driving

Renting a car offers flexibility. Requirements: valid driver's license, International Driving Permit (IDP), major credit card. Roads are generally well-maintained, but desert tracks often need 4x4. DiscoverCars.com for rental options.

Sea/River Arrivals

Cruise Ships

Antofagasta's port mainly handles cargo for the mining industry. It occasionally serves as a seaport of call for international cruise ships.

Cruise Passenger Information

Not a main embarkation/disembarkation point. Check specific cruise line itineraries.
Immigration procedures are typically handled onboard or upon disembarkation.
Taxis and pre-arranged transfers are available from the dock to the city/attractions.

Ferry & River Transport

Antofagasta, a coastal city in an arid region, does not have navigable rivers for transportation.

Limited Passenger Options

No regular passenger ferry services operate to or from Antofagasta for regular sightseeing.
River transportation options are not applicable to Antofagasta.
Recreational boat trips or fishing charters might be available from the port area.

Effortless Arrival

For air travel, ensure your domestic flight to Antofagasta connects seamlessly with your international arrival in Santiago. Chilean domestic airlines are reliable.

Flexible Land Journeys

Long-distance buses are a comfortable and widely chosen option for internal travel within Chile. Self-driving offers maximum flexibility for exploration.

Maritime Access

While Antofagasta is a major port, passenger sea arrivals are generally limited to occasional cruise ship calls. No regular ferry services exist.

Local Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Regulations

Mandatory Rules

Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
Headlights must remain on 24/7 on interurban roads.
Strict laws against drinking and driving, with zero tolerance.

Speed Limits & Road Conditions

Speed limits are generally consistent. Road quality varies, especially outside main routes.

Speed & Terrain

Urban areas: 50 km/h (30 mph). Rural roads: 100 km/h (60 mph). Highways: 120 km/h (75 mph).
Main roads (Ruta 5, Ruta 1) are well-maintained. Desert tracks can be challenging; 4x4 vehicles are often necessary.
Distances between towns are long; plan fuel stops carefully. Be aware of dust, wildlife, and strong winds.

Parking & Permits

Street Parking

Available but difficult to discover in busy city center areas. Patience may be required.

Paid Parking Lots

Look for "estacionamientos" in commercial areas and shopping malls.

International Driving Permit

Highly recommended and often required by rental agencies. Obtain before travel.

Self-Drive Safety

Do not venture into remote desert areas without proper preparation, a suitable vehicle, and understanding of the terrain.

How to Get to Antofagasta