Santiago to Buenos Aires: Top 3 Travel Routes
Santiago and Buenos Aires are two major nerve centers of South America that you can explore in a single vacation. From the majestic Andes Mountains to the sweeping plains of the Pampas, a trip from Santiago to Buenos Aires promises a mesmerizing tapestry of scenery and experiences. Whether by air, bus, or car, adventurers can easily navigate the distance, immersing themselves in the rich history, tantalizing cuisine, and vibrant rhythms that define these vibrant cities.
- Aideen Imerson
- From Australia
Ways to Get to Buenos Aires from Santiago
When planning a trip from Buenos Aires to Santiago, you have several options, from direct flights connecting the bustling capital cities to overnight buses and rental cars.
By flight
Flying from Santiago to Buenos Aires is the most comfortable and quickest way to travel between the two cities. Several airlines, including Sky Airline, LATAM Chile, and Jetsmart, operate direct flights. Airfare can range from USD 86 to USD 499. Flights departing from Santiago International Airport (SCL) to Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) take approximately 2 hours to complete. The distance between these two airports is around 1141 km. Once you land at Ezeiza International Airport, you can get a private transfer to reach Buenos Aires city center, which takes about 1 hour. If you take a bus, the journey will take around 2 hours. Flights to Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery (AEP), which is closer to the city center, are also available, but they may involve more extended layovers and overall longer travel duration.
- Distance covered: Approximately 1,141 kilometers
- Duration of direct flight: Around 2 hours (4 hours with layovers)
Pro tips:
- Santiago to Buenos Aires flights frequently sell out, particularly during the busiest travel times. So book in advance to secure better rites and seats.
- Some flights may have layovers, especially if you opt for cheaper fares. Consider how long layovers will last and whether a direct ticket is worth the extra money.
- Baggage allowances and costs can vary from airline to airline. So be sure to read the airline's luggage policies.
- Use websites like Skyscanner or Kayak to compare prices and in-flight services to find the best option.
- Plan various ways to get from the airport to the city center. Depending on your preferences and financial situation, you can use public transit, taxis, or private shuttles.
By bus
Traveling by bus from Santiago to Buenos Aires is a great way to experience the amazing scenery along your journey. There is a direct bus that leaves from Los Heroes terminal in Santiago to Terminal de Omnibus Retiro in Buenos Aires on Mondays and Fridays. Spanning approximately 1,171 km, the bus journey typically lasts between 22 to 24 hours, depending on the chosen route. Ticket prices range from USD 45 to USD 65. Several reputable bus companies operate the routes between Santiago and Buenos Aires, offering multiple comfort levels and services. Companies like Andesmar and CATA Internacional are popular choices.
- Distance covered: Approximately 1,171 kilometers
- Duration: Between 22 to 24 hours, depending on the chosen route.
Pro tips:
- Look up and read reviews of various bus companies that travel from Buenos Aires to Santiago, and opt for reputable ones.
- Bus schedules may vary, so check departure dates and times to align with your travel plans.
- To secure a good seat and possibly grab a better deal, purchase your tickets well in advance.
- Prioritize your comfort for the long bus journey by selecting a reclining seat or a seat with extra legroom.
- Be prepared for border crossing procedures, including passport checks and customs inspections. To speed up the process, make sure all required documents are easily accessible.
- Always keep your valuables visible and safe, especially when traveling and stopping for breaks. Think about packing essentials in a carry-on bag or using a money belt.
By car
Taking a road trip from Santiago to Buenos Aires offers you the freedom to explore and travel at your own pace. Along the way, you can also discover several hidden gems. The trip covers a distance of about 1,400 kilometers, and usually takes 16 to 17 hours to complete. You can choose between routes that traverse the majestic Andes Mountains via Paso Los Libertadores or the scenic highway through Mendoza's renowned wineries and mountain vistas. The cost of renting a car from Santiago to Buenos Aires ranges from USD 170 to USD 250 per day. You must also account for other expenses such as fuel and highway tolls.
- Distance covered: Approximately 1,400 kilometers
- Duration: Between 16 to 17 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Pro tips:
- Research and map out your journey from Santiago to Buenos Aires, considering alternative routes and potential points of interest.
- Familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions of your rental agreement, including insurance coverage, mileage limits, and any additional fees.
- Ensure you have emergency supplies, water, snacks, and a first aid kit packed. Also, consider bringing a portable phone charger, a map, or a GPS device (in case of limited connectivity).
- Respect the speed limit, traffic signs, and laws when driving in Argentina and Chile. Be aware of any tolls along the route and have local currency ready for payment.
- Take caution when driving through mountainous terrain and rural areas, where the road conditions are not at their best.
A quick overview of traveling from Santiago to Buenos Aires
| Mode of transport | Time | Why choose this |
| Flight | 2 to 4 hours |
|
| Bus | 22 to 24 hours |
|
| Car | 16 to 17 hours |
|
There are multiple ways to get from Santiago to Buenos Aires to suit different tastes and budget ranges. For speed and convenience, opt for direct flight between the two capital cities. Taking a bus is the most affordable way to travel, but the journey time can be very long. If you love road trips and flexible traveling, renting a car is the way to go. Travel at your own sweet pace and uncover the hidden gems en route to Buenos Aires from Santiago.
Buenos Aires Tours
For travelers enchanted by the vibrant energy of Buenos Aires, embarking on one of our packaged Buenos Aires tours offers an immersive trip to Argentina's cultural heart. Our all-inclusive tours from Santiago to Buenos Aires ensure a seamless experience, covering transportation, guided excursions to iconic landmarks like the colorful La Boca neighborhood, the historic Plaza de Mayo, and the grandeur of Recoleta Cemetery.
For more ideas, read our article on top things to do in Buenos Aires. Check out our guides on how many days to spend in Argentina and the best time to visit Argentina for more information on your next trip to Argentina.
If you are looking for a more personalized experience, you can also reach out to our local travel experts in Argentina to create a customized trip to Argentina.
