- Recommended
Museo de Historia Natural y Cultural del Desierto de Atacama
Local museum focused on the Atacama Desert, archaeology, geology, and regional history, useful for understanding Calama’s setting.
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Copiapó to Calama is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Copiapó to Calama will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 1 buses from Copiapó to Calama, including 1 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 563 km distance in an average of 10 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 10 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 10 h 10 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

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Buses from Copiapó to Calama run on average 2 times per day, taking around 10h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:55, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 349 miles (563 km) distance in 10h 0m.
Plan this route
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Copiapó to Calama.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:55AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:55AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price $13 |
The table below shows live departures for Copiapó to Calama buses for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 11:40 PM Copiapó | 10h10 | 9:50 AM Calama | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Buses from Copiapó to Calama with FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Calama — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Calama trip today.
Local museum focused on the Atacama Desert, archaeology, geology, and regional history, useful for understanding Calama’s setting.
Mining interpretation center presenting Chuquicamata’s industrial history, equipment, and the role of copper in the region.
Community museum in Chiu Chiu with exhibits on local heritage, desert life, and the nearby settlement’s long history.
Calama’s main square, lined with civic buildings and trees, ideal for a short walk and people-watching in the city center.
Urban park with paths, lawns, and family areas, popular for an easy outdoor break within the desert city.
Small oasis village area near Calama known for traditional adobe homes, river scenery, and access to nearby heritage sites.
Hearty Andean soup with corn, potatoes, pumpkin and beans, often with beef or llama. A high-altitude staple in northern Chilean homes and markets.
Traditional Atacameño stew of dried llama or beef with potatoes, corn and local seasonings. It reflects desert preservation methods and pastoral life.
Andean corn prepared from large kernels, usually boiled and served as a side or simple snack. It is a basic staple across the Altiplano and Atacama.
Polished restaurant inside a major hotel, serving Chilean and international dishes in a quieter business-friendly atmosphere.
Established casual restaurant known for grilled meats, Chilean dishes and generous portions in a relaxed local setting.
Reliable local seafood spot for ceviche, fried fish and shellfish dishes, with an informal atmosphere popular with residents.
Calama is Moderate for Chile. Hotels and tours near the Atacama area raise prices, while local meals and buses remain fairly affordable for most travelers.
Restaurants often add a 10% tip voluntarily; check the bill. Round up or tip small in cafes. Taxis do not require tips, but rounding up is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Terminal Nuevo -> Plaza 23 de Marzo, Calama
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Calama.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Copiapó to Calama by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Calama, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Copiapó to Calama buses use the Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO) to Calama (Terminal Nuevo) station pair. Use this guide to compare Copiapó and Calama bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO) is 1 km from Copiapó city centre. Public transport options include:
Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO). ATMs are aTM located inside the station.
Ticket office support is available at Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO).
Available at Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Copiapó, Terrapuerto Atacama (CPO): Wheelchair accessible platforms and entrance.