Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport serves as Chile’s main gateway to the world. Located near Santiago, it connects travelers with domestic routes and international destinations across South America and beyond. The airport handles millions of passengers yearly, providing essential services like baggage handling, customs and transportation links to the capital city. Its modern terminals include shops, restaurants and lounges for those waiting before flights. As a key hub for LATAM Airlines, it supports both business and leisure travel with regular schedules throughout the day.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type L
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Chilean Peso (CLP) £1 ≈ CLP 1,306 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Chile, particularly in cities and tourist areas. Credit and debit cards are commonly used.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated in Chile but not mandatory. A 10% tip is typical in restaurants. Taxi drivers and hotel staff also appreciate small tips for good service. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is generally allowed in designated areas, but it is illegal to drink alcohol on the streets in some cities. It is best to consume alcohol in licensed venues. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and public transport. |
| Fiestas Patrias (18–19 September) |
National holiday celebrating Chile's independence with parades and festivities |
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| Christmas (25 December) |
Celebrated with family gatherings and festive meals |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 133 (Police), 131 (Ambulance), 132 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Uber, Cabify |
| Other: | Chile is famous for its natural beauty, including the Andes mountains, Atacama Desert, and Patagonia. It is a top destination for adventure tourism and outdoor activities. |
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport is the busiest airport in Chile and one of the major travel hubs in South America. Opened in 1967 and renamed to honor the founder of the Chilean Air Force, this airport spans a large area with two main passenger terminals catering to domestic and international flights. It offers extensive connections to Europe, the Americas and Oceania.
Passengers can find an array of amenities like duty-free shopping, a variety of dining options, free Wi-Fi and efficient customs procedures. However, despite recent upgrades, the airport can get crowded, especially during peak travel times, which may cause some delays in security and passport control. English is spoken in main service areas but being familiar with some Spanish can be helpful.
The airport offers premium lounges such as the SkyTeam Lounge for international travelers and multiple domestic lounges offering comfort, refreshments and Wi-Fi. Transport to Santiago city center is convenient with options like the Centropuerto shuttle bus, which takes around 30-40 minutes and costs about $3 or taxis available for roughly $25-$35, although traffic during rush hour can extend travel time.
Overall, Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport is a modern, well-located hub providing travelers an energizing first or last impression of Chile. It might have its busy moments but its facilities and access notably improve the travel experience for those exploring this diverse, beautiful country.
Located in the International Terminal Pier E, the SkyTeam Lounge offers a sophisticated space with comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, showers, and business facilities. Available to SkyTeam passengers and Priority Pass holders, it operates 24/7 to accommodate most flight schedules.
Situated in the Domestic Terminal, this lounge provides a relaxed environment with refreshments, TV, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities. Access is available via paid entry or membership programmes. It is ideal for domestic travellers seeking comfort away from the crowd.
Most visitors book accommodations in Santiago city center, which offers everything from luxury hotels and boutique stays to budget hostels. The airport area itself has limited lodging, so staying in Santiago downtown allows for better access to cultural sights and nightlife.
To Santiago city:
Santiago city centre is approximately 15 km southeast of the airport. Travellers can take the Centropuerto shuttle bus departing every 20-30 minutes, with a ride time around 30-40 minutes and tickets costing about CLP 2,400 (£1.84). Official taxis are readily available and provide a quicker, 20-minute ride for CLP 26,000 (£19.96), though traffic congestion during rush hours can add extra time. Car hire and private shuttles are also popular options.
To Valparaíso:
Valparaíso, the coastal city, is about 115 km west and reachable by car or bus from Santiago city. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Regular intercity buses depart from Santiago bus terminals offering a cost-effective option for travellers.
To Pucón:
Pucón lies around 780 km south. It’s accessible via domestic flights from the airport or by long-distance bus or car rides. Many opt for flights connecting in Santiago to minimise travel time.
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