Pichoy Airport

Pichoy Airport (ZAL) serves as the main aerial gateway to the picturesque city of Valdivia and the entire Los Ríos Region in Chile. Located near the river of the same name, this airfield acts as a starting point for exploring the unique nature and culture of the country's south. It is from here that journeys to ancient forests, majestic rivers, and cities with rich German heritage begin. Although the airport is small, it plays a key role in the region's transport system, connecting it with the capital and other parts of Chile.

The main advantage of Pichoy Airport is its strategic location, making it indispensable for tourists wishing to explore Chile's famous Lake District. Despite its modest size, the airport offers passengers basic amenities. Currently, it is undergoing extensive modernisation: a new terminal covering over 4,500 square metres is expected by the end of 2026, which will double its capacity. These improvements will transform Pichoy into a modern and comfortable hub, opening new opportunities for tourism development in this amazing region.

Below you will find the main contact information for Pichoy Airport (ZAL), serving the city of Valdivia and its surroundings in Chile.

• Official Website: www.aeropuertopichoy.cl — here you will find flight schedules, information about services, and airport news.
• Information Desk Phone: +56 63 227 2282. Please note that international rates may apply when calling from abroad.
• Airport Address: Ruta T-205, San José de la Mariquina, Valdivia, Los Ríos Region, Chile.
• Email: For general enquiries, you may use the address contacto@aeropuertopichoy.cl. A contact form is also available on the official website.
• Social Media: The airport does not currently have actively maintained official pages on social media. The most up-to-date information is published on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all matters regarding lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, please contact the airline representative directly for the flight you travelled on.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general information about the airport, please use the information desk phone number. For questions regarding your ticket, flight check-in, or carriage regulations, please contact your airline.

Pichoy Airport (ZAL), serving the city of Valdivia, is located approximately 32 kilometres north of the city centre. There are several ways to travel to or from the airport, each offering its own advantages in terms of cost and convenience. The journey usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions.

Taxis and Transfers are the most popular and reliable way to reach the airport. Right at the terminal exit, you will find counters for official taxi services and shared transfers (shuttle/colectivo). A private taxi is the fastest but also the most expensive option. A more budget-friendly alternative is the shared shuttle, a minibus that drops off several passengers at different addresses in the city. This offers an excellent balance between price and comfort, although the trip may take slightly longer due to stops.

For travellers who value independence and plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of the Los Ríos Region, car rental is the ideal solution. Several international and local rental company offices are present at Pichoy Airport. It is recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during the high tourist season. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, paid parking is available for short or long-term stays.

There is no direct connection to the airport via regular city public buses. The function of public transport is fulfilled by the aforementioned shared transfers (colectivos), which operate according to flight schedules. The cost of a trip on such a shuttle is significantly lower than a taxi, making it the best choice for budget-conscious travellers. Tickets can be purchased at the counter in the arrivals hall.

If you cannot find convenient flights directly to Valdivia, consider flying into one of the neighbouring airports in Chile or Argentina. The largest of these are El Tepual in Puerto Montt and Temuco (Maquehue), from where Valdivia is easily accessible by intercity bus. Other options include airports in Osorno, as well as in the Argentine cities of San Martín de los Andes and Bariloche, which may be convenient when planning a grand tour of Patagonia.

Pichoy Airport (ZAL), serving the city of Valdivia, is a small and convenient regional aviation hub. Its structure is extremely simple, making navigation intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Due to its compact size, all key areas are within walking distance of each other. There are no complex walkways, multi-level halls, or requirements to use internal transport. Check-in counters, the security screening area, the waiting lounge, and the baggage claim belt are all located in a single building.

The Departure Zone and Arrival Zone are essentially separated only by function. Upon entering the terminal, you will immediately see the airline check-in counters. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security, followed by a small but comfortable waiting lounge with boarding gates. For arriving passengers, the path is even simpler: after disembarking the aircraft, they enter the baggage claim hall, and from there, the general meeting area where taxi representatives and car rental counters are located.

Completing all formalities typically does not take much time. Thanks to the low passenger volume, queues for check-in and security are minimal. On average, all procedures can be completed in 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1 to 1.5 hours before departure, to drop off luggage and pass through security without haste. The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the signs; it is practically impossible to get lost in such a compact terminal.

The history of Pichoy Airport is inextricably linked to one of the most dramatic events in the history of Chile — the Great Chilean Earthquake of 1960. Until that moment, the region's main airfield was Las Marías, but it was almost completely destroyed by the disaster. An urgent need arose for a new air harbour to deliver humanitarian aid and restore the region. Thus, in 1960, Pichoy Airport was founded and opened on an emergency basis, becoming a symbol of rebirth and hope.

In the first months of its existence, Pichoy Airport functioned as a vital logistics hub, receiving aircraft with medicine, food, and specialists from all over the world. It became a true lifeline for the affected city of Valdivia and its surroundings. After the completion of the main phase of reconstruction work, the airport secured its status as the main aerial gateway for the entire Los Ríos Region.

Over the decades, Pichoy Airport has continuously developed to meet the growing needs of passengers and airlines. A key stage in its history was a major modernisation in the early 2000s. In 2005, a new passenger terminal building was inaugurated, significantly increasing capacity and comfort levels. The runway and other airfield infrastructure were also reconstructed to accommodate modern aircraft types.

Today, Pichoy Airport is a modern regional aviation hub that continues to play an important role in the transport system of southern Chile. Its history is not just a chronicle of construction and modernisation, but an inspiring example of how an object serving development and prosperity for decades to come can rise from the ruins of a catastrophe. Every traveller arriving here, perhaps unknowingly, comes into contact with a unique history of resilience and revival.

Pichoy Airport (ZAL), serving the city of Valdivia and its surroundings, is a compact regional aviation hub that nevertheless offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait before a flight. Despite its modest size, the airport is well-organised and oriented towards passenger needs.

A small café operates within the terminal, where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase refreshments before departure. There is also a souvenir shop offering items by local artisans and other memorabilia. The selection of dining outlets and shops is limited, which is typical for airports of this scale.

For passenger convenience, comfortable waiting areas are provided. Although there are no separate VIP lounges for major alliances, the general waiting area is quite comfortable. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, and there are points for charging electronic devices. For financial needs, an ATM is installed in the terminal; however, currency exchange services may be unavailable, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in the city beforehand.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with special needs. There are ramps and specially equipped restrooms for people with disabilities. Passengers travelling with small children are provided with mother and child rooms. In case of necessity, one can contact the medical point for first aid. There are no hotels or business centres directly on the airport premises; the nearest hotels and conference halls are located in Valdivia, which is easily accessible by taxi or transfer.

Pichoy Airport (ZAL), serving Valdivia, is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find basic options for a snack before departure.

Typically, one or two small cafés or kiosks operate at the airport. They are located in the main terminal hall, in the public area before security control (landside). After security (airside), the selection is likely to be absent or extremely limited, so it is better to purchase everything you need in advance.

The menu usually features simple and quick items: sandwiches, pastries, crisps, chocolate, as well as hot and cold beverages, including coffee, tea, and bottled water. Sometimes you can find classic Chilean snacks, such as empanadas (filled pastries). This is an excellent option for a quick snack, but the selection will be insufficient for a full lunch or dinner. It is recommended to eat in the city before travelling to the airport if you require a substantial meal.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, those requiring Halal options, or gluten-free diets) will find it difficult to locate suitable options. In such cases, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are standard for such locations — somewhat higher than in the city. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule; they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last aircraft leaves.

To ensure your journey to Valdivia goes smoothly, make use of our tips for Pichoy Airport (ZAL). It is a small and usually quiet airport, but proper preparation always helps to avoid stress.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within Chile, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2–2.5 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without haste. Although the airport is small, it is better to have a buffer of time, especially during the tourist season.

Check-in and Security: Procedures at Pichoy Airport are standard. To speed up the process, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. At security, be ready to present your boarding pass and identification. Keep laptops and liquids separate to expedite the check.

Seat Selection: The Los Ríos Region, where Valdivia is located, is famous for its rivers and forests. Request a window seat to enjoy stunning views of the green landscapes during approach or takeoff.

Hand Luggage: Rules for carrying liquids are standard: containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons are prohibited. Chile is known for its local beverages and produce, but please remember that any liquids purchased outside the airport must be placed in checked baggage.

Connecting Passengers: Pichoy Airport mainly serves direct flights, most often from Santiago. If you have a connection in the capital, ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you need to re-check your luggage. When arriving on an international flight in Santiago, you will pass customs and passport control there, and the flight to Valdivia will be considered domestic.

Customs Control: Strict rules regarding the import of plant and animal products apply when entering Chile. If you arrived via an international flight and are passing through customs, you must declare all food products, seeds, and plants. Fines for violations can be quite high.

Saving Time and Money:

• Book a taxi or transfer from the airport online in advance; this may be cheaper than hiring a car on the spot.
• Bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security to avoid spending money on drinks.
• Check in online and travel with hand luggage to save time on queues at check-in counters and baggage claim.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Leisure opportunities in a small airport are limited, so it is useful to have a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you to pass the waiting time.