Getting Around Puerto Montt. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transit Overview

Buses (Micros): These large, colorful buses are the main form of public transportation within Puerto Montt. Operated by various companies, they cover routes throughout the city and to immediate suburbs. They are reliable and very affordable.

Colectivos (Shared Taxis): These are black taxis with a yellow roof sign. They operate on fixed routes, similar to buses but often faster and more direct. Colectivos pick up multiple passengers heading in the same general direction. They cost more than buses but remain cheaper than a private taxi.

Transit Facts

Buses are the main means of public transport.
Colectivos offer faster, shared rides on fixed routes.
Fares are paid directly in cash to the driver.
Buses and colectivos operate from early morning until late evening.

Bus Hubs

The main hub for local buses is the city center (Centro) and the main Terminal de Buses.

Colectivo Hubs

Colectivos congregate at points in the city center, near the bus terminal, and around Angelmó.

Ticketing & Fares

Local Bus: CLP 600-800. Colectivo: CLP 1,000-2,000. Pay cash directly to the driver.

Operating Hours & Accessibility

Hours of Operation

General operation from around 6:00 AM.
Operation continues until around 10:00 PM - 11:00 PM.
Frequency is higher during peak hours (morning and late afternoon).

Accessibility Notes

Public transport has limited accessibility for mobility impairments.
Steps are often steep.
No dedicated space for wheelchairs.

Efficient Transit Tips

Ask Locals

Locals often provide the clearest guidance on routes.

Learn Phrases

Basic Spanish phrases for directions can be very helpful.

Have Small Bills

Drivers appreciate exact change or small denominations for fares.

Awareness of Routes

For colectivos, confirm the route displayed on the car is heading in your desired direction.

Taxis & Ride-Apps

Taxis and ride-sharing apps present direct transport options, offering convenience for shorter or more direct journeys.

Official Taxis

Licensed taxis are black cars with yellow roofs and orange license plates.
They use a meter (taxímetro); confirm it's on at the start of your journey for fair pricing.
A short ride within the city center might cost CLP 3,000 - 6,000.
Cash is the most common payment method; some taxis accept cards.

App-Based Rides

Uber and Didi operate in Puerto Montt, offering an alternative to traditional taxis.
These apps often present upfront pricing and cashless payment options.
Both Uber and Didi offer in-app safety features, including GPS tracking and driver details.

Safety Reminders

Licensed Taxis: Generally safe. Always look for official taxi markings.
Licensed Taxis: Confirm the driver uses the meter.
Ride-sharing: Check the driver's photo and license plate against the app's details.

Ride-sharing: Share your trip details with a trusted contact for added security.
Avoid Unmarked Cars: Never accept rides from unmarked vehicles posing as taxis; these are unregulated and less safe.

Terminal Transfers

Airport PMC

Official taxis and shuttle services are available directly outside the arrivals terminal.

Bus Terminal

A dedicated taxi stand is usually present outside the main bus terminal.

Designated Services

Use designated services rather than unmarked vehicles for safety.

Rental Vehicles

Car Rental Essentials

Major international companies (Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Budget) operate.
A valid domestic driver's license from your home country is necessary.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary for non-Chilean residents.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21 or 25, depending on the company.

Booking & Roads

Booking in advance, especially during high season, is highly advisable.
Major roads are paved and well-maintained.
Rural roads, leading to national parks, can be gravel or dirt.
Be prepared for winding roads and narrow sections, especially in mountainous areas.

Driving Guidelines

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants. Speed limits vary by area.

Urban: 50 km/h; Rural: 100 km/h; Highways: 120 km/h

Mobile Phone Use

It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free device. Distracted driving is discouraged.

Hands-free only

Alcohol Limit

The alcohol limit for drivers is strict (0.03 g/L). Zero tolerance for impaired driving.

Strict (0.03 g/L)

Walking & Cycling

Walking Paths

Waterfront (Costanera) is the most pedestrian-friendly area.
City Center streets like Antonio Varas are suitable for walking.
The walk to Angelmó from the city center is manageable.

Cycling Notes

Puerto Montt has limited dedicated bicycle infrastructure.
Always wear a Helmet and be aware of traffic.
Cycling on Ruta 5 (Pan-American Highway) is not advisable due to high speeds.

Safety Zones

Avoid walking alone late at night in dimly lit areas.
Stay away from deserted areas, especially near the bus terminal or industrial zones.

Cycling on major highways like Ruta 5 is not recommended.
High speeds and truck traffic on highways make them unsafe for cyclists.

Unique Transport Experiences

Beyond standard options, some unique transport types offer specific experiences, notably for sightseeing or island visits.

Organized Tours

No formal hop-on-hop-off bus service operates like in larger cities.
Many tour operators offer full-day excursions from Puerto Montt.
Destinations include Puerto Varas, Frutillar, and Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park.
Tours also extend to Chiloé, providing a convenient way to see multiple sites.

Water Travel

Boat Taxis (Lanchas) frequently cross Canal Tenglo from Angelmó to Isla Tenglo.
These offer quick access to the island's viewpoint and seafood restaurants.
Larger excursion boats offer tours from the main pier in Puerto Montt.
These tours explore the Reloncaví Estuary, visit small islands, or offer fishing trips.

Mobility Challenges

Public transportation is not generally accessible for travelers with mobility impairments.

Private Transfers

Pre-arranged private transfers or specialized tour operators are advisable for those with mobility needs.

Communication

State your requirements in advance to ensure suitable arrangements are made for your journey.

Seamless Travel

Final Transport Tips

Public transit is budget-friendly for local movement.
Taxis and ride-apps offer speed and direct routes.
Car rentals provide freedom for exploring the broader region.

Exploring On Foot

Enjoy leisurely strolls along the waterfront.
Discover the city center's charm by walking.
Consider guided walking tours for insights.

Navigational Pointers

Combine different transport modes for a complete and varied travel experience.

Embrace local transport for an authentic glimpse into daily life in Puerto Montt.

Getting Around Puerto Montt