Travel to Bhutan from Chile ( South America)
Travelling to Bhutan from Chile involves several steps, including flights, visa requirements, and understanding the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF). Visiting Bhutan offers a unique opportunity to experience its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and spiritual heritage. Here is a detailed breakdown of how to travel from Chile to Bhutan, including flight options, visa requirements, and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF):
How to travel to Bhutan from Chile South America?
Flights from Chile (South America) to Bhutan:
Since there are no direct flights from Chile to Bhutan, you’ll need to take connecting flights through Asia. Bhutan’s only international airport is Paro International Airport (PBH).
The first leg of your journey will be from Santiago (SCL) to a major city in Asia that connects to Bhutan. The most common transit points are:
- Bangkok, Thailand (BKK)
- Delhi, India (DEL)
- Kolkata, India (CCU)
- Kathmandu, Nepal (KTM)
- Singapore (SIN)
Once you arrive at one of the above cities, you must catch a connecting flight to Paro International Airport (PBH) in Bhutan.
Druk Air Flight Details
- Delhi to Paro-KB201 Dep:1230 Arri:1520 and Return Paro to Delhi-KB200 Dep:0940 Arri:1130
- Round trip fare is USD 595 Per Person
- Kathmandu to Paro-KB401 Dep:0900 Arri:1020 and return Paro to Kathmandu-KB400 Dep:0700 Arri: 0800
- Round trip fare USD 465 Per Person
- Kolkata to Paro-KB211 Dep:1320 Arri:1520 and return Paro to Kolkata- KB210 Dep:1130 Arri:1220
- Bangkok to Paro-KB153 Dep: 0600 Arri: 0815 and return Paro to Bangkok-KB152 Dep:1620 Arri: 2030
- Round trip Fare is USD 950 Per Person
- Singapore to Paro ( Every Thursday and Sunday) and return Paro to Singapore ( Every Wednesday and Saturday)
- Round trip fare is USD 1090 per person.
Flights to Bhutan are limited, and booking tickets well in advance is advisable.
Note: The flight schedule is valid till January 2025 and the schedule and fare are subject to change. Please contact us at excursiontohimalayas@gmail.com or WhatsApp at +97517140505.
Visa Requirements for Bhutan:
Bhutan requires all tourists (except citizens of India, Bangladesh, and the Maldives) to obtain a visa before arrival. Here’s what you need to know:
How to Obtain a Bhutan Visa for a Chilean Citizen?
- You cannot apply for a Bhutan visa independently. Instead, your visa must be arranged through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or one of their international partners.
- Once you book a tour package with a licensed operator, they will handle the visa application on your behalf.
Visa Application Process:
- Confirm your travel dates and itinerary with a Bhutanese tour operator.
- Pay for the full cost of the tour, which includes the visa fee, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), and the daily tour cost.
- The tour operator will submit your visa application to the Bhutanese government.
- You will receive a visa clearance letter via email once the visa is approved (typically issued 72 hours before your travel).
- Present the visa clearance letter at your point of entry (either at Paro International Airport or at a land border).
Visa fees, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) and Tour Package
Bhutan follows a “High Value, Low Impact” tourism policy, which requires tourists to pay a Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) as part of their visit.
- The Bhutan visa costs $40 USD.
- The SDF is $100 USD per person per night.
- This fee is part of Bhutan’s initiative to preserve its culture and environment, supporting sustainable tourism and local development.
Bhutan Tour Packages:
- Visitors to Bhutan must book a pre-arranged package tour with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator.
- Cost: The tour package typically depends on no. of nights per person and depends on the season and services included.
- This package usually includes:
- Accommodation (3-star hotels or higher)
- All meals
- A licensed tour guide
- Internal transportation
- Entrance fees to attractions and monuments
Best Time to Visit Bhutan:
The best times to visit Bhutan are:
- Spring (March to May): Known for blooming rhododendrons and festivals.
- Autumn (September to November): Clear skies, ideal for trekking and festivals.
- Winter (December to February) offers fewer crowds and discounted rates, but colder weather.
Payment Method by Chile Citizen
Travelers from Chile (and most other countries) visiting Bhutan typically make payments through their Bhutanese tour operator. Since you cannot book travel to Bhutan independently, all payments for your tour, visa, and the Sustainable Development Fee (SDF) will be handled by the tour operator. Here are the common payment methods:
1. Bank Transfer (Wire Transfer)
- The most widely accepted method of payment for booking your Bhutan tour is via international bank/wire transfer.
- Once you confirm your tour with a licensed Bhutanese tour operator, they will provide you with their bank details.
- You will need to transfer the total cost, including the visa fee, Sustainable Development Fee (SDF), and tour package cost.
- Ensure you transfer the correct amount, including any bank fees, to avoid delays in your visa application.
2. Credit/Debit Cards
- Some Bhutanese tour operators may accept credit card payments, but this is less common due to high transaction fees.
- If credit cards are accepted, expect a surcharge (often 3-5%) on top of the total cost to cover transaction fees.
- Cards like Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted, but it’s important to verify with the operator in advance.
Important Notes:
- Always confirm the payment method and ensure the operator is licensed by the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
- Payments for your trip need to be made in advance before your visa is processed and approved.
- Once the full payment is received, the tour operator will apply for your visa and make all the necessary arrangements for your travel to Bhutan.
Similar Sightseeing
- Bhutan Sustainable Development Fee Discount
- 7 Days Bhutan Tour Packages
- Bhutan Tourism Council
- Royal Highlander Festival of Laya 23rd to 24th Oct. 2025
- Thimphu Tshechu Festival Tour 2nd to 4th Oct. 2025
- Rhododendron Festival Tour
Travelling to Bhutan from other Destinations
- Travel to Bhutan from Sweden
- Travel to Bhutan from Germany
- Travel to Bhutan from Nepal
- Travel to Bhutan from Russia
FAQ
Do Chilean citizens need a visa to visit Bhutan?
Yes, Chilean citizens need a visa to enter Bhutan. The visa must be arranged in advance through a licensed Bhutanese tour operator or an international travel agency working with Bhutan.
Are there direct flights from Chile to Bhutan?
No, there are no direct flights from Chile to Bhutan. You’ll need to fly from Santiago (SCL) to an Asian hub city and then take a connecting flight to Paro, Bhutan’s only international airport.
How long is the journey from Chile to Bhutan?
The total travel time varies but usually takes around 30 to 40 hours, including layovers. The exact time depends on your chosen connections and layover durations in Asia.
What visa requirements are there for Chilean citizens flying to Bhutan?
Chilean citizens need a pre-arranged visa to enter Bhutan. This will be arranged by a licensed Bhutanese tour operator as part of your tour package.
