How to Get to the Atacama Desert in Chile
The Atacama is one of the world’s most remote landscapes. Getting there is not. A direct domestic flight from Santiago deposits guests at Calama Airport in just over two hours — and from the moment of landing, Awasi takes care of everything else.
From Calama Airport to Awasi Atacama
From Calama, Awasi’s private transfer covers the final 45 minutes to San Pedro de Atacama, arriving at the lodge quietly and without complication. Arrivals and departures are coordinated in advance by the Awasi team, so there is no need to arrange onward transport independently. The transfer is included as part of the fully hosted experience.
Arriving from Argentina or Bolivia
Guests combining Awasi Atacama with destinations in northwestern Argentina or Bolivia often choose to arrive overland, a decision that turns the journey itself into part of the experience.
- From Argentina, the most established route crosses at Paso Jama, connecting Salta or Jujuy Province with San Pedro de Atacama via the high Andean altiplano. The crossing climbs to over 4,300 metres before descending into the desert, passing through landscapes that shift dramatically with altitude. Awasi can coordinate private ground transfers along this route, ensuring a seamless handover at the border.
- From Bolivia, the most scenic approach follows the route from Uyuni through the Bolivian salt flats and across the Hito Cajón border point, one of the most remarkable overland arrivals in South America. This crossing requires a 4×4 vehicle and traverses remote high-altitude terrain, typically as part of a multi-day journey. The Awasi team can arrange to receive guests at San Pedro upon arrival and coordinate the final transfer to the lodge.
Both routes are best discussed directly with the Awasi team when planning your itinerary, as timing, seasonality, and altitude considerations all affect logistics.
Where Is Awasi Atacama Located?
Close to San Pedro de Atacama, far from the ordinary.
Awasi sits near San Pedro de Atacama, within easy reach of the region’s most remarkable landscapes, the Valle de la Luna, the El Tatio geysers, the salt flats of the Salar de Atacama, yet removed from the town center, in a quieter, more private position within the desert.
Getting here Atacama
Can Awasi assist with arrivals from Argentina or Bolivia?
Yes. From Argentina, guests typically cross at Paso Jama from Salta or Jujuy Province. From Bolivia, the most scenic option is the overland route from Uyuni via the Hito Cajón border crossing. Both routes cross high-altitude terrain and are best coordinated in advance. Contact the lodge directly to plan logistics around your itinerary.
How long is the transfer from Calama to Awasi Atacama?
Approximately 45 minutes, arriving in San Pedro de Atacama.
Are transfers to Awasi Atacama included?
Yes, private airport transfers are included as part of the fully hosted experience, coordinated with your check-in and check-out times.
Which airport should I fly into for Awasi Atacama?
Calama Airport (CJC) is the closest airport to San Pedro de Atacama and the standard arrival point for Awasi guests. Most flights connect through Santiago de Chile, with LATAM and Sky operating multiple daily services.
Is the Atacama Desert difficult to reach?
No, Not at all. Most guests fly into Calama Airport (CJC) via Santiago, with the domestic leg taking just over two hours. From Calama, Awasi handles all transfers. The arrival experience is intentionally seamless.
