What to do and See in and around Arica, Chile

From Bonnie Hamre, former About.com Guide

See More About:

Rich in history, Arica is Chile's northernmost city, a duty-free oasis and the gateway to archaeological and natural wonders in Lauca National Park, the geoglyphs at Putre, and the high altitude lake Chungara. Arica's beaches are somewhat warmer than other beaches and attract surfers and swimmers.

1. Morro de Arica

ArtToday.com

The 110 meter Morro de Arica looks north over the city toward Peru, and south over the beaches to the rest of Chile. This headland is the site of a bloody battle during the War of the Pacific, and the Museo Histórico y de Armas del Morro de Arica displays weaponry and artifacts from that war.

Fostering better relations, the statue of Cristo de la Concordia offers a symbolic embrace to Peru.

2. Iglesia de San Marcos de Arica

French engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel designed a number of buildings for South American cities in Peru and Ecuador. This church dates from the time that Arica was Peruvian territory. Originally designed for the beach resort at Ancón, the church was assembled here after an earthwuake destroyed an earlier edifice.

Ironically, it was the Treaty of Ancón, signed on October 20, 1883, that ceded this area to Chile.

3. Swimming and Surfing in Arica

Beacchgoers enjoy swimming and surfing in one of the few areas of Chile where the frigid Humboldt current doesn't keep people out of the water.

South of town, Playa El Laucho and Playa Lisera are good for swimming. Isla Alacran, La Capilla and Playa Brava are popular with surfers.

North of the city, Playa Chinchorro is good for swimming and surfing. Playa Las Machas is great for experienced surfers, but too rough for swimming.

The Maestros del Gringo surfing championship at Isla Alacran is held in early July.

Read Review

4. Festivals and Events

Bill Glover

During carnival in late February or early March, Carnival Ginga celebrates the meshing of Andean and European customs.

Semana Ariquena in June includes local celebrations and the Concurso Nacional de Cueca, celebrating Chile's national dance, the cueca.

5. Valle de Azapa

Clarence Fisk

The Azapa valley along the San Jose river was from prehistoric times the route between the sea and the the altiplano. The fertile valley produces olives, citrus and vefetables.03.

Geoglyphs on the barren hillsides along the route mark the passage of llama pack trains. The Parque de Geoglifos and the Museo Arqueologico San Miguel de Azapa protect and preserve the rock paintings as well as displays of life through the early hunter gatherers to the present.

The Chinchorro Mummies are preserved here.

6. Quebrada Cardones

Clarence Fisk

At altitudes between 2000 and 2800 meters, a number of cactus candelabros grow, with multiple upper branches that look like the arms of a chandelier.

7. Putre

ArtToday.com

Called the Gateway to the Altiplano, at 5800 meters, on the Massif de Putre, this town is a good place to stop and get acclimated to the altitude before continuing any higher.

Putre is an Aymara settlement used by the Spanish colonialists to control the native population through religion, tax and tribute. Today it offers colonial buildings, scenic views and access to the national park of Lauca.

8. Bofedales de Parinacota

ClipArt.com

The bofedales, or marshes, are home to wild geese, ducks and other waterfowl. Irrigation canals make the pasturelands fit for agriculture and grazing. Flora abounds.

9. Parque Nacional Lauca

ArtToday.com

Lauca National Park is a breathtaking experience, not only for the altitude, between 3200 and 6342 meters, but also for the wildlife and the views.

Named a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve in 1981, the park is the habitat of numerous bird species, inclduing flamingos, vicunas, llamas and alpacas.

The park is open all year around, but best between September and April. Experienced climbers can ascend the 6320 m Parinacota volcano.

10. Parinacota

Clarence Fisk

The high altitude village of Parinacota, 4400 m, is a national monument for its traditional architecture. The church dates from the 17th century and is noted for its features: separate a bell tower, two lateral chapels, murals, and a small table fixed to an interior wall.

Legend has it that the table left the church at night seeking evil spirits.

11. Lago Chungara and Twin Pallachata Volcanos

Clarence Fisk

The lake at 4517 m covers 21.5 square kilometers, but is shallow. Wildflife abounds here, including geese, ducks and flamingos.

Parinacota volcano,6350 m, and Pomerabe volcano, 6232 m, are the area's most imposing sights. They are dormant although nearby volcano Guallatire, 6061 m, smolders. Since the twin volcanos are on the border with Bolivia, climbers need permission to climb.

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Hot Winter Travel Deals

Check out these tips on finding the best airfare, hotel rates and cruise deals. More >

South America Travel