How to Get to Puerto Natales: 2026 Transport Guide
The most efficient way to reach Puerto Natales is a direct flight from Santiago to Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT), which sits just 10 minutes from the town center. While this direct route is the fastest, many travelers choose to fly into Punta Arenas (PUQ) and take a three-hour bus north to benefit from lower fares and more frequent flight schedules.
As the primary gateway for Puerto Natales and the nearby Torres del Paine National Park, this small port city is well connected by air, land, and sea. Whether you are arriving from the Chilean capital, crossing the border from Argentina, or embarking on a multi-day ferry journey through the fjords, your arrival logistics will define the start of your Patagonian expedition.
Puerto Natales Transport at a Glance
- Primary Airport: Teniente Julio Gallardo (PNT), 7km from town.
- Alternative Airport: Punta Arenas (PUQ), 250km (3 hours) away.
- Main Bus Hub: Terminal Rodoviario, Avenida España 1455.
- Key Bus Carriers: Bus-Sur, Ittsa, Buses Fernández.
- Border Crossing: Paso Río Don Guillermo (to/from El Calafate).
- Maritime Access: Navimag Ferry from Puerto Montt (4 days).
Flying to Puerto Natales: Direct vs. Indirect Routes
Flying directly to Puerto Natales is the fastest option, though flying to Punta Arenas offers more flexibility and often lower fares. Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT) is a small, modern facility located only 10 minutes north of the city. For the 2026/27 and 2026/27 seasons, direct flights from Santiago (SCL) operate primarily during the peak months of October through April.
The primary carriers serving Puerto Natales are LATAM and Sky Airline. While JetSmart occasionally operates seasonal routes, LATAM and Sky provide the most consistent service, with 1–3 direct flights daily during the height of summer. Flights from Santiago take approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes. Because PNT is a smaller airport with a shorter runway, flights are more susceptible to delays or diversions during periods of extreme Patagonian winds. If your flight is diverted, it will typically land in Punta Arenas, where the airline will provide bus transport to Puerto Natales.
For travelers seeking more reliability or traveling during the winter months, Punta Arenas (PUQ) remains the primary alternative. It handles significantly more traffic and is less likely to experience weather-related closures. From PUQ, you can board a bus directly at the airport for the three-hour journey north.
If you are deciding between the two hubs, consider the following trade-offs regarding time, cost, and convenience.
- Proximity: 10 minutes to town center vs. 3 hours by bus.
- Frequency: 1–3 flights daily in peak season vs. 10+ flights daily year-round.
- Typical Cost: Generally higher, especially if booked late vs. Often 30–50% cheaper.
- Reliability: Higher risk of wind-related diversions vs. High reliability in all weather conditions.
Fly to PNT if you value time and are traveling in peak season; fly to PUQ for better reliability, lower prices, or year-round travel.
When arriving at PNT, transport into town is straightforward. Taxis wait outside the terminal for every arriving flight. As of the 2026/27 season, the fixed fare to the town center is approximately 10,000 to 12,000 CLP. Shared shuttles (transfers) are also available for approximately 4,000 to 5,000 CLP per person.
Getting from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales by Bus
The bus from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales is the most common transport link in Chilean Patagonia, taking approximately three hours to cover the 250km journey. This route follows Route 9, a well-paved road that transitions from the flat, windswept pampa of the south into the rolling hills and distant granite peaks of the Ultima Esperanza province.
Three main companies operate this route: Bus-Sur, Ittsa, and Buses Fernández. For the 2026 season, these carriers maintain modern, comfortable fleets with semi-cama (partially reclining) or cama (fully reclining) seats. Most buses include USB charging ports and chemical toilets.
If you are flying into Punta Arenas and heading straight to Natales, do not go into the city center. All major bus companies stop at the Punta Arenas Airport (PUQ) on their way north. However, you must book these seats in advance online, as the bus will only stop if there is a pre-booked passenger waiting.
Buses depart from the Punta Arenas city terminals and stop at the airport roughly 20–30 minutes later. For example, a 10:00 AM departure from the city will pick up at the airport at approximately 10:25 AM. The pickup point for Bus-Sur and other carriers is located directly outside the main arrivals hall at the designated bus parking area.
Tickets typically cost between 10,000 and 16,000 CLP (as of 2026/27). During the high season (December to February), these buses frequently sell out days in advance. It is essential to book your tickets via the company websites to ensure you aren’t stranded at the airport, particularly if you arrive on a late-afternoon flight.
Crossing the Border: Getting to Puerto Natales from El Calafate
Traveling from El Calafate to Puerto Natales by bus takes between five and six hours, including the mandatory border crossing at Paso Río Don Guillermo. This is the most popular route for travelers combining the glaciers of Argentina with the trekking trails of Torres del Paine.
The journey involves two distinct stops: the Argentine exit post (Cancha Carrera) and the Chilean entry post (Cerro Castillo). The most common crossing point is Paso Río Don Guillermo, located near the small village of Cerro Castillo. This border is roughly 2.5 hours from El Calafate and 1 hour from Puerto Natales.
Depart El Calafate
Buses typically depart early (around 7:00 or 8:00 AM) from the El Calafate Bus Terminal. Ensure you have your passport and any necessary visas ready.
Argentine Customs (Aduana)
You will disembark at the Argentine border post to get your exit stamp. This is usually a quick process, but lines can form if multiple buses arrive simultaneously.
Chilean Entry (PDI and SAG)
After a short drive through “no man’s land,” you arrive at the Chilean post. Here, you will clear PDI (immigration) and SAG (agricultural inspection). Chile has extremely strict rules regarding the entry of organic materials.
Arrival in Puerto Natales
The bus continues for another hour, dropping you at the Terminal Rodoviario in Puerto Natales.
Do not attempt to bring fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, meat, or unsealed nuts into Chile. The SAG inspection uses X-ray machines and sniffer dogs. Failure to declare these items can result in immediate fines starting at approximately $210 USD (3 UTM). Check the official SAG website for the most current list of prohibited items.
Bus-Sur and Cootra are the primary operators on this route. For the 2026/27 season, expect daily departures, though frequency may drop to three times a week during the winter months. During the peak summer season, Paso Río Don Guillermo typically operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Always check current border opening hours if you are planning a private transfer, as the pass may close earlier in the shoulder and winter seasons.
If you are planning to explore the Argentine side of the mountains, see our guide on El Calafate for more logistics on the “Patagonia Triangle” route.
The Scenic Route: Arriving by Navimag Ferry
The Navimag ferry offers a four-day maritime journey from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales, serving as a scenic alternative to flying. The vessel, named the Esperanza, navigates the intricate network of fjords, channels, and islands that define the Chilean coastline.
This is a “slow travel” experience rather than a luxury cruise. While the cabins are comfortable and meals are provided, the focus is on the landscape and the expedition atmosphere. The ferry departs from Puerto Montt and travels through the Messier Channel, passing the English Narrows and the shipwreck of the Captain Leonidas.
The journey is a prime opportunity for wildlife spotting. From the deck, you can often see Peale’s dolphins, sea lions, and various seabirds. During certain months, it is possible to spot humpback whales in the deeper channels.
For the 2026/27 season, departures from Puerto Montt typically occur once a week, usually on Fridays, arriving in Puerto Natales on Monday or Tuesday. Prices vary significantly based on cabin choice, ranging from shared four-person cabins to private suites with ocean views. If you find that a 4-day journey does not fit your itinerary, we recommend returning to the Flying section to explore quicker air connections.
Self-Drive: Renting a Car to Reach Puerto Natales
Renting a car to reach Puerto Natales provides maximum flexibility, but requires navigating high-wind conditions on Route 9 and securing specific permits for border crossings. Most travelers rent their vehicles in Punta Arenas to take advantage of the better selection and lower rates at the airport.
Route 9 is the primary artery connecting the two cities. It is a two-lane paved highway in excellent condition. However, the wind is a constant factor. Sustained winds of 80 km/h are common, and gusts can exceed 100 km/h. These winds can catch high-profile vehicles and make steering difficult, especially when passing large trucks.
If you plan to drive your Chilean rental car into Argentina (to visit El Calafate or El Chaltén), you must obtain a Permiso Internacional (specifically the Convenio Argentino-Chileno). This is not just an international driver’s license; it is a specific notarized document and insurance extension (Seguro Obligatorio para Vehículos Extranjeros).
The Permiso Internacional for border crossings must be requested from your rental agency at least 10 days before your arrival. It cannot be issued on the spot, and you will not be allowed to cross the border without the original paper documents.
As of 2026/27, expect to pay between $100 and $160 USD for this permit, depending on the rental duration and agency. Additionally, be aware of fuel logistics. There are no gas stations on the 250km stretch between Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales. Always start your journey with a full tank.
Arrival Logistics: The Puerto Natales Bus Terminal & Airport
Upon arrival in Puerto Natales, most travelers will find themselves at either the Rodoviario bus terminal or the PNT airport, both of which are served by a reliable, fixed-rate taxi system.
The Terminal Rodoviario is located at Avenida España 1455. It is a modern facility with a small cafe, public restrooms (usually requiring a small CLP fee), and luggage storage lockers. While it is possible to walk to the town center in about 15–20 minutes, the walk is often uphill and difficult with heavy trekking packs, especially in high winds.
Taxis in Puerto Natales do not use meters; they operate on a fixed-price system within the town limits. For the 2026 season, the flat rate for a private taxi ride within the city is approximately 3,000 to 5,000 CLP. Note that Uber and other ride-sharing apps have limited to no presence here; you will need to call a local taxi radio service or find one at a designated stand.
To help orient yourself once you land or step off the bus, we have prepared several resources for your first few hours in town.
For those continuing their journey immediately, the next logistical step is arranging transport to the national park. You can find the full breakdown of schedules and shuttle options in our Torres del Paine Transport Guide.
FAQ
QUESTION: What is the closest airport to Puerto Natales? ANSWER: The closest airport is Teniente Julio Gallardo Airport (PNT), located just 10 minutes (7km) north of the Puerto Natales town center.
QUESTION: Can I fly directly from Santiago to Puerto Natales? ANSWER: Yes, LATAM and Sky Airline offer direct flights from Santiago (SCL) to Puerto Natales (PNT), primarily during the peak season from October to April.
QUESTION: How long is the bus ride from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales? ANSWER: The bus journey from Punta Arenas to Puerto Natales typically takes 3 hours, covering a distance of approximately 250 kilometers on a fully paved road.
QUESTION: Do I need to book the bus to Puerto Natales in advance? ANSWER: Yes, it is highly recommended to book bus tickets online in advance, especially during the high season (December–February), as routes from Punta Arenas and El Calafate frequently sell out.
QUESTION: Is there a ferry that goes to Puerto Natales? ANSWER: The Navimag ferry “Esperanza” travels from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales on a 4-day, 3-night journey through the Patagonian fjords.
QUESTION: How do I get from El Calafate to Puerto Natales? ANSWER: You can take a daily public bus (approx. 5–6 hours) or a private transfer from El Calafate to Puerto Natales, crossing the border at the Cerro Castillo/Paso Río Don Guillermo pass.