How to Travel by Bus in Chile

Chile as seen from the window of a bus

Chile is a land of extremes. Located at what seems like the end of the world, Chile is bound by the Andes in the east, the Altacama desert in the north, the Pacific Ocean in the west and the glaciers of Torres del Paine in the south. In this country, which runs for over 2,880 miles from north to south, buses are often the easiest and best way to travel. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

1. Decide on the details of your trip: where exactly you want to go, what dates you want to travel on, how much money you are willing to spend, and whether or not you'll be returning to your original city or traveling on.

2. Search for available times. There are two main ways to do this. You can check the schedule for the major companies online. If you don't want to use one of the major carriers, or you want to look for a better deal, you can check to the times and availability at the bus station itself.

3. Remember, when choosing your bus that night buses are your friend. Distances are far in Chile and trips often take over 10 hours. That times passes a lot more easily if you are asleep for most of it. Pay close attention to the departure and arrival times of the bus you want to take.

4. Choose the bus company that you want to use. There are many options, from small mini buses to huge double-deckers, and the price will vary accordingly. Usually, the larger carrier will be more expensive, but will also nicer with more routes and options. The larger carriers are also much more reliable.

5. Decide on what class you want to travel. Normally in Chile, there are three classes of bus you can choose from: cama, semi-cama, and regular. These classes translate to full bed, partial bed, or regular seat. If you choose a full bed, you will have a seat that fully reclines in addition to more personal space. On some buses, you will even get a personal television. In most others, there will be a television playing movies in the cabin. Personal space and amenities decrease as you go down in class.

6. Buy your ticket at the bus stop. It is usually possible to buy tickets online, but that doesn't give you any information about the bus station itself. After buying your ticket, scout out the station. Make sure that you know exactly where your bus is going to leave from and what time you'll need to be there. Chilean buses usually leave on time and the ticket is almost always non-refundable.

Tips & Warnings

• Stock up on food and drinks. If you are taking a cama bus, a meal will often be provided. Don't count on it. Make sure, if nothing else, that you have your own water with you.

• Bring plenty to do. Despite the movies, which are often only in Spanish, long bus trips can begin to drag after 10 to 15 hours.

• Watch your belongings. Bus stations are public places with many people coming and going. Make sure you know exactly where your bags are at all times.

Resources

• Turbus bus company
• Pullman bus comany