If you are flying into Valdivia, your gateway is Pichoy Airport -- the air entry point to the capital of the Los Rios Region. This complete, up-to-date guide covers everything you need to know: the airlines that fly here, how to get to downtown Valdivia, and insider tips for a smooth arrival.
Airport Overview
Pichoy Airport (IATA code: ZAL, ICAO: SCVD) is located in the Mariquina district, approximately 32 kilometers northeast of downtown Valdivia. Despite its name being associated with the city, the airport sits in a rural area on the road toward San Jose de la Mariquina.
It is a small-scale airport with a modernized terminal that has been renovated in recent years. It features a 2,000-meter paved runway -- long enough to handle narrow-body commercial jets such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| IATA Code | ZAL |
| Location | Mariquina, Los Rios Region |
| Distance to downtown | 32 km (~20 minutes by car) |
| Elevation | 19 meters above sea level |
| Runway length | 2,000 meters |
Airlines Operating at Pichoy
As of 2026, Pichoy Airport receives commercial flights from Chile's three major airlines:
- LATAM Airlines: South America's largest carrier operates regular flights between Santiago (SCL) and Valdivia (ZAL). It offers the highest frequency, with multiple daily departures in peak season and at least one flight per day year-round.
- Sky Airline: A low-cost carrier connecting Valdivia and Santiago with competitive fares. Frequencies vary by season.
- JetSmart: Another budget airline flying the Santiago-Valdivia route, known for frequent promotional deals.
Traveler tip
Flight frequencies change dramatically between peak season (December to March) and low season. In summer you may find 5-6 daily flights, while in winter the schedule can drop to 1-2. Book early, especially in summer and during school holidays.
Getting from the Airport to Downtown Valdivia
This is one of the most common questions travelers have. There are three main ways to get from Pichoy Airport to central Valdivia:
1. Private Transfer (Recommended)
A private transfer is the most comfortable and reliable option. A driver meets you right at the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name, helps with your luggage, and takes you directly to your hotel or accommodation. The trip takes about 20 minutes.
Transfer Express offers this service from CLP 20,000 per sedan (up to 4 passengers), with real-time flight tracking and 60 minutes of free waiting time in case of delays. It is particularly recommended if you are traveling with family, heavy luggage, or arriving when public transport is limited.
2. Taxi
You will find taxis in the arrivals area, though availability is not always guaranteed -- especially on late-night or low-demand flights. Fares can vary and generally do not include flight monitoring or free waiting time. Always agree on the price before getting in.
3. Shuttle Bus
Some airlines offer shuttle buses connecting the airport to central points in Valdivia. This is the cheapest option but comes with trade-offs: schedules depend on flight times, stops are fixed, and it is not door-to-door. Not ideal if you have a lot of luggage.
| Option | Approx. Price | Time | Door-to-door |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Transfer | From CLP 20,000 | 20 min | Yes |
| Taxi | CLP 25,000 - 35,000 | 20 min | Yes |
| Shuttle Bus | CLP 3,000 - 5,000 | 40-50 min | No |
Parking
Pichoy Airport has an open-air parking lot in front of the terminal. Capacity is limited, but there is usually availability given the airport's size. Parking rates are reasonable compared to larger airports.
If you plan to leave your car for several days, consider a round-trip transfer instead. You avoid the parking fee, vehicle wear, and the worry of leaving your car unattended for an extended period.
Airport Facilities
Pichoy is a compact terminal with essential but functional amenities:
- Waiting area: Comfortable and climate-controlled, with enough seating for regular flight loads.
- Cafe: A small coffee shop selling hot drinks, snacks, and quick bites.
- Restrooms: Clean facilities in both the public zone and the boarding area.
- WiFi: Free WiFi available throughout the terminal.
- ATM: One ATM in the public area.
- Baggage carousel: One conveyor belt for checked luggage.
- Tourist information: During peak season, you may find a SERNATUR tourism info desk.
Good to know
The airport does not have duty-free shops, VIP lounges, or car rental desks inside the terminal. If you need any of these services, arrange them in advance. Some car rental companies offer direct delivery at the airport with a prior booking.
Tips for Travelers
After years of shuttling passengers to and from Pichoy Airport, here are our best pieces of advice:
- Arrive early: Even though the airport is small, we recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before a domestic flight. Security lines can build up during peak hours.
- Check the weather: Valdivia is known for its frequent rain. The airport can experience delays or cancellations due to poor conditions, especially in winter. Always have a Plan B.
- Book your transfer in advance: Do not wait until you land to look for transportation. On late-night or early-morning flights, taxi availability can be very limited.
- Pack a jacket: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly at dusk. Always bring an extra layer.
- Consider alternative airports: If you cannot find a convenient flight to Pichoy, the airports in Temuco (ZCO) and Puerto Montt (PMC) are about 2 hours away by transfer and offer more flight options.
- Download your boarding pass: Cell signal can be weak on the road to the airport. Download your boarding pass before you leave.
Transfer Express: Your Best Option to and from the Airport
At Transfer Express, we specialize in transfers to and from Pichoy Airport. Our service includes:
- Real-time flight tracking
- 60 minutes of free waiting time for delays
- Driver with a name sign at arrivals
- Luggage assistance
- Climate-controlled, sanitized vehicle
- Complimentary bottled water
- 24/7 service with no late-night surcharges
- Prices from CLP 20,000
We also offer transfers to Puerto Montt Airport (PMC) from CLP 171,000 and Temuco Airport (ZCO) from CLP 120,000 -- ideal when flights to Pichoy are unavailable.
Book Your Airport Transfer
Do not leave your airport ride to chance. Book ahead and travel stress-free.
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