Have you ever heard of the “city of eternal spring”? If not, you’re in for a treat! Arica, Chile, is the northernmost city in the country. It’s a hidden gem with lots of top attractions and unique experiences. You can explore the historic city center or tackle the iconic Morro de Arica.
This coastal paradise offers endless adventure, culture, and relaxation. Arica’s constant pleasant climate and world-class waves make it a top spot for travelers. Whether you love surfing, history, or just want to try local cuisine and specialty coffee, Arica has something for you. So, are you ready to discover the best things to do in this remarkable city?
Key Takeaways
- Arica, Chile is known as the “city of eternal spring” due to its constant pleasant climate
- The city offers a variety of top attractions and hidden gems, making it a must-visit destination
- Visitors can explore the historic city center, conquer the Morro de Arica, and indulge in specialty coffee and fresh seafood
- A day trip to the Azapa Valley allows you to discover ancient geoglyphs, mummies, and olive farms
- Arica has something for everyone, whether you’re seeking adventure, history, or just relaxation
Explore the Historic City Center
The historic city center of Arica is a must-see for anyone visiting this lively coastal town. At its heart lies the Cathedral de San Marcos de Arica, a beautiful building made famous by Gustave Eiffel in the 1870s. Nearby, the Plaza 21 de Mayo is full of life, where locals go about their day and traditional dancers perform during festivals.
Walking through Arica’s city center shows you the town’s daily life. You’ll see old colonial buildings, modern shops, and busy markets. This mix shows the unique spirit of the area. Take your time to enjoy the vibe and get to know the local culture.
Cathedral de San Marcos de Arica
The Cathedral de San Marcos de Arica stands out in the city center. It was designed by Gustave Eiffel and shows off beautiful iron work and neo-Gothic style. Inside, the stained glass windows make the interior light up, showing off the cathedral’s beauty.
Plaza 21 de Mayo
Close to the cathedral is the lively Plaza 21 de Mayo. It’s a great spot to watch people, relax, and enjoy the fun atmosphere. Look out for traditional dancers and street performers who bring the plaza to life with their talents.
Taste Specialty Coffee at Barista Café
In the heart of Arica, the Barista Café is a hidden gem. It delights coffee lovers with its tasty brews and sweet treats. The cozy rooftop setting offers a peaceful break from the city’s noise.
At Barista Café, quality and craftsmanship are key. Baristas are proud of their work. They carefully make each cup of Arica specialty coffee perfect. You’ll find a brew that excites your taste buds, whether you want a strong espresso, a smooth latte, or a unique seasonal drink.
The Arica specialty coffee is the main attraction, but the café also has delicious baked goods. You can enjoy flaky croissants or rich pastries. Each treat is made with love, adding to the great coffee experience.
Enjoying a carefully made coffee on the rooftop terrace is perfect for relaxing in Arica. The cozy vibe and friendly staff make it a welcoming place. The Barista Café is a top spot for those wanting to try specialty coffee in this coastal city.
“The coffee at Barista Café is the best I’ve had in Arica. The baristas really know their craft, and the rooftop setting is just the icing on the cake.”
Conquer the Morro de Arica
The Morro de Arica stands tall over Arica, a key spot for any Chile trip. It’s famous for being the last battle site in the War of the Pacific between Chile and Peru. Now, it’s home to memorials and museums that tell the story of this important time in history.
Memorials and Museums
As you climb the Morro de Arica, you’ll find memorials and museums that honor the war’s sacrifices. These places let you learn about the strategic role of this landmark and the courage of its soldiers. They offer a deep dive into Arica’s history and the lasting impact of the conflict.
Stunning Views of the Pacific Ocean
The Morro de Arica is also known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The hike up can be tough because of the heat, but the views from the top are amazing. Looking out at the vast ocean, you’ll feel a deep peace and wonder. This moment will stay with you long after you leave Arica.
“Climbing the Morro de Arica was the highlight of my time in Arica. The history and the views were simply breathtaking.” – Sarah, Travel Blogger
Visit the Terminal Pesquero Fish Market
Down by the pier in Arica, you’ll find the bustling Arica Terminal Pesquero, the city’s lively fish market. Watch as local fishermen bring in the day’s catch and have it prepared right before your eyes. Don’t miss out on trying the fresh Arica ceviche, a local favorite thanks to its close location to Peru.
The friendly fishermen love to talk to visitors and even let you try unique finds like rock urchin. They say it has special properties. The Arica Terminal Pesquero is a key spot in the city, showing you the daily life of the fishing community. It also lets you enjoy the Arica fresh seafood at its best.
Fresh Seafood and Ceviche
At the Arica Terminal Pesquero fish market, you’ll see a wide range of just-caught seafood. From shiny whole fish to colorful shellfish, the stalls are full of the day’s catch. The fishermen are excited to share their finds with visitors. Make sure to try the famous Arica ceviche. It’s a dish of raw fish “cooked” in citrus juices, mixed with onions, chili peppers, and cilantro.
“The Terminal Pesquero is a true highlight of any visit to Arica. You’ll find the freshest seafood and the most authentic ceviche in the region.”
If you love seafood or just want to try new things, the Arica Terminal Pesquero is a place you must visit. Dive into the sights, sounds, and tastes of this lively fish market. Connect with the local fishing community and enjoy a memorable experience.
Learn About the Traditional Reed Boat Viracocha III
In Arica, you’ll find the amazing Bolivian reed boat, the Viracocha III. This boat is the third try by American adventurer Buck to cross the Pacific with just reeds from Lake Titicaca. People visiting Arica can see how the boat is made and learn about the old ways to build these big vessels.
The Viracocha III shows that ancient Polynesian explorers might have used similar boats to reach South America. It’s a huge 60ft long, 4.9m wide, and weighs 2,200kg. Making the Viracocha III took about 22 tons of reeds and five months for ten skilled builders.
The Viracocha III will sail more than twice the distance from Chile to Easter Island, going to Mangareva Island in French Polynesia. It’s expected to take about six months, with a crew of 8-12. The first reed boat by Phil Buck went from Arica to Easter Island, covering 2,850 miles in 44 days at 2.7 knots. But his second boat took 76 days to get to Easter Island after trying to sail to Australia.
Even with challenges, the Viracocha III was launched in March 2019 and reached Tahiti four months later. It stayed there because of hull damage in the Tuamotus. Visitors to Arica can learn about this incredible project and the old traditions behind it.
Arica, Chile: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
Arica, Chile, is a hidden gem with lots to see and do. It has historic sites, great waves, and specialty coffee. There’s adventure, history, and relaxation for everyone. Don’t miss out on exploring this coastal paradise.
Don’t forget to visit the Morro de Arica, a huge sand hill with amazing ocean views. Climb to the top for a view of the city and learn about its history from the 19th-century battles.
For culture, go to the Feria Dominical Market, a market that’s been around for over 60 years. You’ll find lots of goods at good prices and enjoy the lively vibe.
- See the historic Cathedral de San Marcos de Arica, a beautiful neo-Renaissance building that stands out in the city.
- Check out the Cuevas de Anzota, a coastal area with caves that were once home to the Chinchorro culture.
- Try the city’s specialty coffee at Barista Café, where you can enjoy tasty brews in a relaxed setting.
Arica is great for outdoor lovers. Surf the amazing waves or hike in Lauca National Park to see Andean landscapes and learn about the Quechan culture.
Arica has cultural, adventure, and beach activities. It’s a unique place for making memories. Come and see what makes it special.
Take a Day Trip to the Azapa Valley
Just a short drive from Arica takes you to the Azapa Valley, a lush oasis. It’s perfect for a day trip. This historic region shows off the unique culture and ancient history of northern Chile.
Ancient Geoglyphs and Mummies
In the Azapa Valley, you’ll see ancient geoglyphs on the hillsides. These huge, mysterious designs show llamas and other symbols. They give us a peek into the lives of the area’s first people.
The valley also has some of the oldest mummies found, now in a modern museum. These mummies add to the valley’s ancient charm.
Olive Farms and Oasis
The Azapa Valley is a natural oasis, filled with olive farms. You can walk through the groves, taste the olive oil, and enjoy the peaceful setting. It’s a hidden gem.
Visiting the Azapa Valley lets you explore northern Chile’s rich history and beauty. From the ancient geoglyphs to the green olive farms, it’s a trip you can’t miss.
“The Azapa Valley is a true hidden gem, offering a window into the fascinating history and natural splendor of northern Chile.”
Where to Stay: Sunny Days Hostel
The Sunny Days Hostel is a great place to stay in Arica. It’s run by a friendly New Zealand-Chilean couple. They make sure everyone feels welcome.
Breakfast at Sunny Days Hostel is a big deal. You’ll get local foods like quinoa and rice cereals. The owners also give out lots of tips to help you enjoy Arica.
This hostel is in a great spot and has a friendly staff. It’s perfect for your Arica trip. You can stay comfy and check out the city’s best spots, like the historic center and Morro de Arica.
The hostel is also very affordable. The average cost per person for a night is 11,000 CLP (€15.40). With €1 = 714.20 CLP, your money stretches even further.
If you want a cozy, friendly place in Arica, choose the Sunny Days Hostel. It has a great location, tasty breakfast, and a staff that cares. It’s the ideal spot for your Arica adventure.
Surf the World-Class Waves
If you love surfing, Arica, Chile, is a spot you can’t skip. It’s famous for its top-notch waves. Surfers from all over come to ride the waves on its beautiful beaches.
Arica is perfect for advanced surfers but also has spots for beginners and those in between. Every year, it hosts surf competitions with top athletes. This shows how great the waves are here.
For both new and experienced surfers, Arica’s Arica surfing is a dream come true. The place has warm waters, good winds, and varied landscapes. This makes Arica surf spots unforgettable for anyone who loves the water.
“Arica is the Northern California of South America when it comes to surfing. The waves here are world-class, and the consistent swells make it a true paradise for surfers.”
Chile has a long surfing history, starting in the early 1970s. The central region is known for waves that can reach 15 feet or more. With 300 days of surfing a year, Arica is ideal for catching waves and enjoying the sun.
So, whether you’re going solo or with friends, make sure Arica is on your list. It offers beautiful landscapes, a lively culture, and amazing Arica surfing spots. This place will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.
Conclusion
Arica, Chile, is a place full of amazing sights and secrets waiting to be found. It has a historic city center with the famous Cathedral de San Marcos de Arica. Plus, it’s known for its top-notch waves and specialty coffee.
Looking for adventure, history, or just a place to relax? Arica has it all. You can try the Morro de Arica, visit the Terminal Pesquero Fish Market, or learn about the Viracocha III reed boat.
If you have time, take a day trip to the Azapa Valley. There, you can see ancient geoglyphs and mummies. Arica is a city that will leave a lasting impression on you.
So, pack your bags, grab your surfboard, and get ready to explore Arica, Chile’s hidden treasures.
