Arica / Chile

On the north of the western coast of Chile lies Arica, in the province of the same name, home to about 200,000 inhabitants. The northernmost city of Chile is located just under 20 kilometers from the border with neighboring Peru.

Archaeological findings prove that the area was inhabited as early as 10,000 years ago. In the mid-16th century, the Spanish arrived here, and already in colonial times, Arica was an important maritime port. After the end of Spanish rule in 1821, the region was assigned to Peru, from which it was acquired by Chile in 1880 as a result of the Pacific War, to which it belongs to this day.

The Cathedral of Saint Mark was built in the Gothic style, but it dates back to 1876, and its creator is the famous French architect Gustave Eiffel. Not far from the center, the Morro de Arica mountain rises 139 meters above sea level, offering beautiful panoramic views from its summit. The place played a significant role in the region's history, and those who want to learn more about it should visit the Historical and Military Museum. A wide collection of archaeological finds, including interesting petroglyphs or well-preserved Inca mummies, awaits at the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum.

Arica is known for its beautiful beaches, popular especially with surfers. They also benefit from the mild climate of northern Chile, for which Arica is often called the "city of eternal spring." The best places for relaxation and safe swimming are located south of the city. The coast here is lined with dramatic cliffs with caves, used by the Chinchorro culture people as early as 9,000 years ago.

About half an hour's drive from the city lies the Azapa Valley, a green and fertile oasis used for growing vegetables and olives. To the east, the majestic peaks of the Andes rise to the sky, home to the Lauca National Park and Lake Chungará. With its altitude of 4,517 meters above sea level, it is one of the 30 highest lakes in the world, and the reflection of the surrounding mountains in its calm surface is enchanting. The national park itself is a biosphere reserve listed on the UNESCO list: active leisure enthusiasts will find kilometers of hiking trails, beautiful nature, and a variety of animal species, including flamingos, llamas, and alpacas.

About 3,000 meters above sea level, heading back towards the coast, lies Pucará de Copaquilla, the remains of a pre-Hispanic fortification from the 12th century, offering beautiful views of the stunning desert landscape from its stone walls. Those seeking a bit of relaxation should not miss a bath in the hot springs of Termas de Jurasi with a beautiful scenery.

Among the Chilean specialties worth tasting in Arica are pan con pebre, bread with fresh tomato, spicy pepper, onion, and olive oil spread, machas a la parmesana, clams baked with cheese, or meat with llama or alpaca, often served with quinoa and washed down with the unofficial national drink pisco sour, a grape brandy mixed with lemon juice and sugar.

Places worth seeing

Morro de Arica – Enjoy beautiful sunsets from the summit of the mountain, rising 139 meters above sea level.

Catedral de San Marcos – Admire the beautiful cathedral, built at the end of the 19th century by the creator of the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris.

MUSEOA Arqueologico San Miguel de Azapa – Delve into the ancient history of the settlement of the strategic region and the magical and religious worlds of its ancient inhabitants.

Parque Nacional Lauca – Set out on a trek through the beautiful landscape of the national park, home to flamingos and llamas.

Cuevas de Anzota – Walk around dramatic cliffs with beautiful ocean views and explore caves used by prehistoric cultures.

Chungará Lake – Be enchanted by the reflection of snow-capped peaks in one of the highest lakes in the world.

Playa Chinchorro – Swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports on a nice beach with parks, restaurants, and a freshwater swimming pool.