In the far north of Chile, Arica is a Pacific coastal gem where the reliably sunny weather and lush foliage leave no doubt as to why it's nicknamed the “City of Eternal Spring.” The city’s golden beaches, historical attractions, and access to diverse landscapes attract visitors from all across Chile, as well as Bolivians and Peruvians from just over the borders. From catching surf breaks to marveling at some of the world's oldest mummies, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Arica.
Thanks to its mild climate and year-round temperatures of 70-75°F (21-24°C), Arica is a great place to visit at any time of year. However, the beaches are typically busy in January and February, with sunseekers driving up prices and filling hotels over the Chilean summer. By March, the crowds will have thinned. The morning coastal fog can dampen spirits but usually burns off early in the day.
Arica is a fairly compact city, making it easy to get to the main attractions on foot; a walk from the main square, Plaza Colón, to the steep Morro de Arica hill, and then El Laucho Beach will take around 20 minutes in total. For destinations further afield, such as the airport or bus station, you can hop on a bus or taxi.
Thanks to its proximity to Bolivia and Peru, as well as the Indigenous Aymara communities of the region, Arica is a great place to shop for handicrafts. Stalls line Bolognesi, off the city’s main thoroughfare, and a Bolivian-Peruvian market runs along Máximo Lira, between the port and train station. In the eastern part of the city, the Poblado Artesanal sells crafts such as alpaca knitwear and ceramics.
