Cheap flights from Lima to Calama

Calama sits in the Atacama Desert, so January brings long daylight, strong sun and cool nights. That month is the cheapest on this route, although December and the holiday period usually lift fares. Weekday departures and overnight connections tend to cost less than weekend returns, and fares usually rise around school holidays and Christmas. Check the months with prices to compare January, February and June before you commit.

Because there are no direct flights, every itinerary connects, and the routing depends on the carrier and date. The airlines named for this route are Jetsmart, JetSMART Perú, Sky Airline, Sky Airline Peru, LATAM Airlines, LATAM Paraguay, Copa Airlines, Aerolineas Argentinas, Lanperu and Lanecuador Aerolane SA. Compare fare rules before booking: inclusions such as checked baggage, carry-on size, seat selection, meals and airport changes vary by ticket, and a cheaper base fare can cost more after add-ons. If your itinerary uses more than one carrier, check whether the connection is protected and who handles delays.

El Loa is a small airport close to central Calama, and taxis, colectivos and hotel transfers are the usual ways into town. The ride is short, but desert heat, wind and strong sun can make waiting outside uncomfortable, especially with luggage. If Calama is only a stop on the way to San Pedro de Atacama or the altiplano, confirm whether your onward transport leaves from the airport, the bus terminal or your hotel, and allow time for a possible terminal change.

Currency

CLP (CLP$)

Power sockets

Type C, L · 220 V

Language

Spanish

Emergency number

130, 131, 132

Driving side

right

Calling code

+56

Internet domain

.cl

Population of Calama

158 k (2017)

Altitude

2,260 m · high altitude — take the first day slowly

Time zone

UTC-03 (America/Santiago)

Country facts: Wikidata

• Check whether your itinerary is one protected ticket or separate tickets, because missed connections on separate tickets are usually your cost.
• Confirm the connection airport and minimum connection time, especially if the routing changes airports or terminals.
• Read the baggage rules for each carrier, since low-cost and full-service inclusions differ.
• Verify passport, entry and onward-ticket requirements for Chile before booking.
• Check the months with prices if your dates are flexible, including January and the holiday period.