Car and Taxi Travel

Because of the distances between cities, a car is the best way to truly see El Norte Chico. Many national parks can be visited only by car, preferably a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Without one, metered taxis are the most efficient way to get around any city. A cheaper alternative is a colectivo, a shared taxi that picks up several people going in the same direction. Colectivos charge a fixed rate per person regardless of the number of passengers and run very regularly during business hours. Fares begin at around 800 pesos per person for inter-city trips, increasing up to around 3,500 for traveling longer distances between towns.

Taxi Contacts

Pacífico. Los Carreras 572, La Serena, Coquimbo, 1710123. 51/221–8000; 51/221–8000.