Choosing where to stay in Calama, in northern Chile, is very easy. The city is the main gateway to the impressive Atacama Desert, as it is home to the most important airport in the region.

→ Where to stay in Atacama

The El Loa International Airport (CJC) is located 6.5 kilometers from the Center and does not yet receive direct flights from Brazil, requiring a connection in the Chilean capital. The trip from Santiago to Calama takes about two hours.

The car trip from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama, the main city for tourism in the desert, takes approximately 1h20.

As you may notice, if your flight is very early or very late, it may be safer to stay overnight in Calama so you don’t have to rush.

Where to stay in Calama

The best area to stay in Calama is in the Center, in blocks near Plaza 23 de Marzo, and its surroundings.

Since the city is small and the airport is nearby, there is no need to search for accommodations outside this area.

In the Center are the main tourist spots and those services we always need: pharmacy, market, ATM, and more.

Staying further away from the Center is only worthwhile for those who are driving and are not in a hurry.

If you prefer to stay near the airport, the best option is the Park Hotel Calama.

Best options in Calama

To get straight to the point, you can see below the most reserved options by readers: hotels, inns, hostels, and apartments.

Best hotels in Calama

Now, I’ll show you the five most reserved hotels in the center of Calama. They are very close to the main attractions and services we always need.

Geotel Calama ★★★★☆ | Rating: 8.4 Geotel Calama offers suites and rooms that accommodate up to four people. It is located in a good area, close to everything, and the service is very attentive, as well as the light decoration of the environments, which welcomes us and fills us with comfort.

ibis budget Calama ★★☆☆☆ | Rating: 6.9 The rooms at ibis budget Calama are basic, following the worldwide standard of the chain. It can be a good option for its convenience and price of daily rates, which are usually lower than competitors without sacrificing quality.

ibis Calama ★★★☆☆ | Rating: 7.2 Similarly, ibis Calama also ensures standardization and no unpleasant surprises. Basic rooms, breakfast paid separately, and good location are basic requirements for the network’s hotels.

Ayelen Apart Hotel ★★★☆☆ | Rating: 8.0 Ayelen Apart Hotel is an excellent option for those who are just passing through Calama to use the airport, either on arrival or departure. It has basic rooms, sufficient comfort for a good night’s sleep, and friendly prices.

Prices in Calama

Now that you have seen my preferred options – not only mine but also from many other people – it’s time to check the prices before deciding where to stay in Calama.

In the map above are all accommodation options in the city. To learn more, you just need to click on the blue pins and you’re all set.

Where to stay in Calama

If you are just passing through the city, you won’t have difficulty choosing where to stay after the tips I gave.

Anyway, it’s always good to keep in mind a few points:

• The Center is the most practical area and close to everything – including the airport;
• The city is more used for airport connections, with few well-known attractions;
• There are options to stay very close to the hotel, which can be more comfortable if you have a very early flight.

With all this, you will have a good lodging experience, and your trip will be much better.