Planning a trip from Wellington to Santiago de Chile? You're in for a treat. Santiago, nestled in a valley surrounded by the Andes Mountains, offers a unique blend of culture, history, and stunning natural beauty. Explore the city's rich colonial architecture, visit the vibrant markets, and marvel at the majestic Andes. Its iconic landmarks, historical significance, and vibrant culture attract travellers worldwide. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or a city explorer, Santiago has something to offer.

The average direct flight time from Wellington to Santiago is approximately 12 hours, although this can vary slightly depending on weather conditions and the specific flight path. While direct flights are less frequent, several major airlines offer this route, although it may involve a stopover. Some airlines may offer 1 or 2 flights per week. It's wise to look for cost-effective flight options. You should check flight availability with eDreams.

If you're looking for the cheapest months to fly, consider booking your flights during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). These months typically offer the best deals, and you'll find fewer crowds at your destination. Booking in advance is always advisable, especially during peak season (November-March). The ideal time to book is usually 2-3 months prior to your departure date, as this usually offers the best balance of price and flight availability.

Peak travel season in Santiago typically runs from December to February. During this period, you can expect to find higher prices for flights and accommodation due to warm weather and higher tourist influx. This makes it more difficult to find budget-friendly options. The quietest months are June to August, which fall in winter in the Southern Hemisphere and are generally colder and wetter, thus reducing tourist numbers.

Santiago experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons. Summers (November to March) are warm and dry, with average highs around 27°C and lows around 13°C. Winters (June to August) are mild and relatively dry, with average highs around 10°C and lows around 3°C. Spring (September to October) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. While extreme weather events are uncommon, occasional rainfall is possible throughout the year. The best time to travel to Santiago depends on your preferences, and the activities you wish to do. For warm and sunny weather, the best time is during the summer. For budget-friendly travel, spring and autumn are optimal.

Wellington has two airports that currently operate and serve commercial flights. Wellington Airport is the primary airport for the city, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights. It is a modern airport with excellent facilities and numerous airlines operating from it.

Wellington Airport

Wellington Airport, officially opened in 1930, is the main airport serving the city of Wellington. This busy airport handles a significant volume of both domestic and international flights, boasting a substantial number of airlines and passengers. It is a modern airport equipped with modern facilities, including multiple terminals to efficiently manage its high traffic volume. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years to accommodate the growing demand. This airport is well-connected to the city centre via public transport.

Main airlines for this route

• Air New Zealand
• LATAM Airlines
• Qantas

Santiago de Chile is primarily served by one major international airport. Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) handles most of the commercial air traffic for the city. This airport offers a wide range of services for the passengers.

Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport

Comodoro Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is the primary airport serving Santiago de Chile. Opened in 1967, this large international airport is one of the busiest in South America, connecting Santiago with destinations worldwide. It has multiple terminals and handles millions of passengers annually. The airport has modern facilities, numerous shops, and restaurants. It is well-connected to the city centre. You can reach the city centre via the Metro, taxi or car. The airport has a dedicated metro station and taxi stands. Car rental services are also available at the airport.

Santiago offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. The city is a hub of exciting experiences. Here are three must-do activities:

• Explore the historical centre: Wander through the colonial streets, admire the architecture, and visit the Palacio de La Moneda, the presidential palace.
• Ride the funicular up Cerro San Cristóbal: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Andes Mountains from the top.
• Visit the Museo Chileno de Arte Precolombino: Discover the rich history and culture of pre-Columbian Chile through its impressive collection of artefacts.