Flights to Chile

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  • Student flights
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  • How to fly
  • Why visit?
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Best student & youth fares right now to Chile

Check out our best flights right now from the US to Chile, or use the search box above to find more deals!

Student flights from the US to Chile

Chile is a totally unique and absorbing country that offers incredible scenery, beaches, culture and city life. At over 2600 miles long, it covers much of the western coast of South America and packs an enormous amount into its skinny shape (at its thinnest point, the country is just 40 miles across!). Chile is home to the Atacama Desert, one of the world’s driest, squeezed in between the Andes mountains and the sea. Further south, the majestic scenery of Chilean Patagonia awaits, with Torres del Paine National Park, full of pristine lakes and jaw-dropping mountains.

But before you get to any of that, you’ll experience the vibrant capital, Santiago. Highlights here include San Cristobal Hill, with incredible views of the city, and Plaza de Armas. Chile is a country you’ll never forget. Use the search box above to see the best discounts available!

map of Chile

What are the main Chile airport hubs?

The main airport hub in Chile is the Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, which serves the capital, Santiago. The distance between the airport and central Santiago is about 10 miles, and by taxi the journey takes around 20 minutes. Other international airports include Diego Aracena and Presidente Carlos Ibanez del Campo, north and south of Santiago respectively. You’ll find the most options, though, into the Santiago airport, and can get around easily by car or bus for further adventures.

How to fly from the US to Chile

The US is fairly well-connected to Chile, considering the distance! If you’re flying from Miami or Houston, you’ll be able to hop on a nonstop flight—be prepared though, you’ve got about 10 hours of flight time ahead of you. There’s plenty of options available from other US cities as well, you’ll just have a connection on the way. Many airlines will take you to Chile, but Copa, United, LATAM and American are the most popular.

When is the best time to fly to Chile?

Because Chile covers such a huge amount of global latitude, the best time of year to visit partly depends on where you want to go. Many visitors want to see Patagonia, in the far south. If that’s you, you’ll want to travel between October and March, which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere. If you’re just going to the capital, Santiago, and surrounding areas, these are year-round destinations, with sunny, mild and, most importantly, dry weather all year long.

When is the cheapest time to book a flight from the US to Chile?

Avgprice JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDecDate of search $400$500$600$700$800$900$1000$1100$1200$1300$1400

Prices based on bookings made 60-91 days prior to departure.

Why do the American students love visiting Chile?

Chile is an awesome place for students, with some great study abroad placements available, especially around the urban areas, like the capital Santiago. Other than studies, the country offers plenty in the way of travel and adventure, and it’s possible to explore on a budget.

Chilean universities and campuses

Chilean universities and campuses

There are numerous universities in Chile that are open to international students. Some of the more prestigious include the University of Chile, which is the oldest in the country; Austral University, which is located in southern Chile; and the University of Talca. However, there’s other options as well. A good place to start is to check in with your study abroad department of your home university to see what programs and options may be available to you. Volunteer and working abroad placements are also an option for Chile!

chilean lifestyle and culture

Chilean lifestyle and culture

The pace of Chilean lifestyle depends on which part of the country you are in. Areas like Santiago and other big cities have typically urban lifestyles, a faster way of life and more to keep you busy in the way of bars and attractions and the like. But more rural areas, like Patagonia, are more traditional and follow a slower pace of living. Both are exciting to explore for different ways, and if you combine it into one epic trip, you’ll get a good idea of a lot of facets of Chilean culture!

explore chile on a student budget

Exploring Chile on a student budget

While Chile is one of the more expensive South American countries, it’s certainly possible to explore on a student budget. At any rate, the country isn’t any more expensive than the US (and definitely cheaper than cities like New York or LA, if that’s what you’re used to!). We recommend dining on street food in the capital (much cheaper than restaurants) and hiring the public bicycles instead of using public transport. You’ll probably need about $40 per day. If you’re heading out of the city, you’ll find the food and accommodations even cheaper. Hostels are a great option for budget and student travelers in Chile and are much cheaper (and just as good quality!) as staying in hotels.

Frequently asked questions about flying from the UK to Chile

Do I need a visa for Chile?

What are the best foods to try in Chile?

What’s the currency in Chile and how does it compare to the US?

Is Chile safe?

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