Overview
Chile is a ribbon of a country running some 4,300 km down the western edge of South America, taking in the driest desert on earth, the wine valleys around the capital and the wild peaks of Patagonia. For UK travellers the entry point is nearly always Santiago, a modern capital framed by the Andes. Comparing fares in one place makes it easier to lock down the right flight for such a long-haul trip.
Best time to fly to Chile
Chile's seasons are the reverse of ours. Its summer, from December to February, is the best time for Patagonia and the Lake District, though also the busiest and dearest. The shoulder months of spring (October–November) and autumn (March–April) bring pleasant weather across the central regions and often easier fares. The price charts on this page show the cheapest dates for your route.
Main gateway cities & airports
The principal gateway is Santiago Arturo Merino Benítez (SCL), which handles almost all international arrivals. From there domestic flights reach Calama (CJC) for the Atacama Desert, Punta Arenas (PUQ) for Patagonia, and the remote Easter Island (IPC).
Airlines and routes
There are no direct flights from the UK to Chile, so journeys involve one connection. Common routings include British Airways and Iberia (via Madrid), Air France (via Paris), KLM (via Amsterdam), Latam and US carriers. Total journey times from London are typically around 16–19 hours depending on the layover. Comparing carriers for your exact dates is the surest way to secure the best value.
Popular places to visit in Chile
- Torres del Paine: Patagonia's spectacular granite peaks and glacial lakes
- The Atacama Desert: lunar landscapes, salt flats and clear night skies
- Santiago & the wine valleys: the capital and nearby Maipo and Casablanca vineyards
- Valparaíso: a colourful, bohemian port city of steep hills
- Easter Island: the enigmatic moai statues far out in the Pacific
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Chile
- Book two to four months ahead for this long-haul route.
- Travel in the shoulder seasons and avoid the December–February peak.
- Compare different European and US hubs — the routing can change the fare.
- Be flexible with dates; midweek departures are often cheaper.
Travel essentials
- Visa: UK travellers do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days
- Currency: the Chilean peso (CLP)
- When to book: check the price charts on this page for the cheapest days
