If you’ve got a layover in Puerto Natales, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PNT. The city, in Chile, is within easy reach — roughly 45 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside PNT
Before heading into Puerto Natales, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Chile vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Puerto Natales is roughly 45 minutes from PNT via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CLP. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Get Into Puerto Natales
You have two main options for getting from Tte. Julio Gallardo Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 45 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 65 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Puerto Natales layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Puerto Natales:
Start with Puerto Natales Waterfront Promenade (Costanera). Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Plaza de Armas & Artisan Shops. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
If you’d rather stay inside PNT — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Panoramic Patagonian Views
- Airport Souvenir Shop
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Puerto Natales: Santolla and The Singular Restaurant. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Aeropuerto PNT Restaurant or PNT Express Cafe. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at PNT may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Puerto Natales’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PNT is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Puerto Natales and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at PNT
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at PNT, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Puerto Natales genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.