The City of Eternal Spring

Cruise to Arica, Chile

If your ideal vacation includes days filled with endless sunshine, you need to cruise to Arica, Chile, the world's driest city. Located at the foothills of the majestic Andes Mountains, the spirited developing seaside resort is home to miles of golden shores, vibrant nightlife, and duty-free shopping. Spend your time surfing wild breaks in the warm Pacific Ocean, coming face-to-face with the world's oldest mummies at the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum, and taking in the sweeping sun-soaked views from Morro de Arica. Indulge in fresh seafood, juicy tropical fruit from neighboring valleys, local Pintatani wine, and traditional Azapa olive bread. Arica is also a gateway to ancient villages with archaeological ruins and historic Lauca National Park, which is home to snow-capped volcanoes, many fascinating animal species, and the world's highest mountain lake. When you seek sun-kissed adventure, let cruises to Arica, Chile, take you there.

National Language Spanish

Currency Accepted Chilean Peso ($)

Things To Do in Arica

Check out Chile's most famous wave

Surf the High Seas

Arica is known for its stellar surf breaks, so it's only right to take them for a test run. Hire a board, and then take your pick. El Gringo, aka the Chilean Pipeline, is Chile's most famous wave and a must for experienced surfers. Meanwhile, Arenillas Negras is a black sand beach with waves suited for all levels.

Summit Morro de Arica for great views and a war museum

Marvel at Morro de Arica

It takes just 10 minutes to summit Morro de Arica, a solid rock overlooking the seaside town that looks like it belongs in The Lion King. Beyond the panoramic views waiting for you at the top, there's a war museum commemorating the country's military victory over Peru in the War of the Pacific at this very site.

Explore the archaeological finds of Chile

Spot Mummies at the Museum

The San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum is a must-visit. It's home to over 20,000 archaeological artifacts and displays documenting 10,000 years of local history, culture, agriculture, and religion. The museum's two most popular exhibits include preserved petroglyphs outside and the famed Chinchorro mummies, renowned as the world's oldest mummies.

LOCAL CUISINE

Local Arica delicacies include fresh seafood, goods from the surrounding valleys like olives, Pintatani wine, and tropical fruit, and traditional Chilean dishes. Visit Central Market for local produce, including Azapa olive bread. Head to Terminal Pesquero for portside views and sensational seafood or Mercado Mariscos for fresh ceviche. When you need to fit a quick bite into your packed itinerary, stop by Argo Boulevard, a fantastic food court with affordable lunch plates.

The blue stone is only found in Chile and Afghanistan

SHOPPING

One of the best things to do in Arica, Chile, is shop. For a souvenir you'll cherish forever, buy lapis lazuli jewelry, a vibrant blue stone only found here and in Afghanistan. Head to Bolognesi, an alley off Arica's main thoroughfare to find this and other handicrafts. Alternatively, Poblado Artesanal is a mock village filled with craft shops selling everything from ceramics to alpaca knitwear and Greda (handmade Chilean clay pottery).