How to Get to Puerto Varas. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Airport & Flights

El Tepual International Airport (PMC) in Puerto Montt is the main gateway, around 20 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of Puerto Varas.

Information

Domestic flights by LATAM, Sky Airline, JetSMART.
Most frequent route: Santiago (SCL) to Puerto Montt (PMC).
Flight duration: 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours.

International Access & Pricing

No direct international flights to PMC. International travelers fly into Santiago (SCL) then connect domestically. Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Seasonal & Booking Notes

Flight prices typically rise during Chilean summer (Dec-Feb).
Prices also higher around major holidays.

Airport Facilities

PMC airport features car rental agencies, cafes, ATMs, and information desks.

Shuttle Services

Shared shuttles (Transfer Delfos, Andesmar) are popular and cost-effective (CLP 5,000-8,000).

Taxis & Rental Cars

Taxis (CLP 20,000-30,000) are available. Major car rental agencies are at PMC airport.

Land Transportation

Bus Travel

Long-distance buses offer a comfortable and economical travel option.
Major companies: Turbus, Pullman Bus, Cruz del Sur, Bus Norte, ETM.
Frequent services connect Puerto Varas to Santiago and other cities.
"Semi-cama" and "salón cama" provide reclining seat options.

Self-Driving

Valid national driver's license acceptable; International Driving Permit (IDP) highly recommended.
Main highways are paved and in good condition.
Secondary roads can be gravel; some may call for a 4x4.
Night driving outside urban areas may be challenging.

Border Crossings & Rail

Border Crossings

For travel between Chile and Argentina (e.g., to Bariloche), use Paso Internacional Vicente Pérez Rosales or Paso Cardenal Samoré. Valid passport and vehicle documentation are important for self-driving.

Train Connections

There are no passenger train services to Puerto Varas. Chile's passenger rail network is limited, mainly serving central Chile.

Car Rental Access

DiscoverCars.com and major international companies like Hertz Chile, Avis Chile, and Europcar Chile have counters at PMC airport and in Puerto Varas.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Links

Puerto Varas is not a coastal city. Water-based journeys connect it to other regions.

Water Travel Options

Cruce Andino: A scenic route combining buses and catamarans between Puerto Varas and Bariloche (Argentina).
Cruise Port: Puerto Montt is the nearest major cruise port; passengers often take excursions to Puerto Varas.
River transportation: Tour operators offer boat trips on Petrohué River for sightseeing.

Immigration & Connections

Immigration procedures for crossing the Chile-Argentina border via Cruce Andino occur at designated border points.

Border & Transport Integration

Chilean border point for Cruce Andino is often at Peulla.
Present passport and complete forms at checkpoints.
Cruce Andino generally includes all required bus transfers to and from Puerto Varas.

Departure Information

Chile generally does not levy specific exit fees on international air departures; these are typically included in your airfare.

Departure Procedures

For domestic flights from PMC: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
For bus departures: Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Have your passport and Tarjeta de Turismo ready for immigration.

Airport/Station Facilities

El Tepual Airport (PMC) offers basic facilities for departing travelers.

Available Amenities

Check-in counters and security screening.
Waiting areas and restrooms.
Small shops or cafes for snacks or souvenirs.

Essential Reminders

Do not misplace your Tarjeta de Turismo; it is for departure.
Allow ample time at the airport or bus terminal.
Remember to collect any checked luggage before leaving the airport.

Confirm flight status before heading to the airport.
Ensure all necessary documents are accessible.
If returning a rental car, account for time to do so.

Departure Checklist

Before You Go

Final preparations for a smooth departure from Puerto Varas.

Pre-Departure Tasks

Confirm your onward travel plans and bookings.
Locate your Tarjeta de Turismo (Arrival Card).
Settle any outstanding bills with your accommodation.

At the Airport/Terminal

Navigating the departure process efficiently.

Departure Process

Check your luggage allowance and weight limits.
Complete any last-minute customs declarations.
Ensure you have enough local currency for incidentals.

Stay Connected

Inform family/friends of your travel progress.

Backup Data

Ensure all photos and important documents are backed up.

Security Check

Double-check all personal belongings before leaving.

Final Thoughts:

Puerto Varas a memorable journey. We hope this guide supports your travel planning. Safe travels!

How to Get to Puerto Varas