Arica is a seaside resort town of 223,000 (2016) in Northern Chile. It's quiet, relaxed and safe, with several nice beaches and sun virtually every day of the year. Its mild weather has made Arica known as the "city of the eternal spring" in Chile while its beaches are frequented by Bolivians. This city is the northern gateway to Peru and Bolivia.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
Arica has a mild, temperate climate with one of the lowest annual rainfall rates anywhere in the world. You will rarely find any clouds in Arica, although the sky can sometimes be darkened with a sort of fog called camanchaca. The city was an important port already during Spanish colonial rule. Chile seized the city from Peru in 1880 during the War of the Pacific, being recognized as Chilean by Peru in 1929. A substantial part of African Chileans live in or trace their origins to Arica. Near the city is the Azapa Valley, an oasis where vegetables and Azapa olives are grown. Economically, it is an important port for Chilean ore.
Walking will get you most places in town Buses run along the major avenues for those in a hurry. They are also handy for getting to and from the bus station. The usual fare is 320 pesos. Radio taxis (colectivos) average 550 pesos per trip.
1 Cathedral of San Marcos (St. Mark's Cathedral) (entry is from Plaza Colón). The magnificent church designed by Gustave Eiffel (who also designed that tower in Paris) was built in the 1870s. It's a popular attraction. 2 Morro de Arica. A steep hill that overlooks Arica from 139 m above sea level. The views from el Morro are superb. You can follow the work being done in the harbour closely or gaze at the mountains gradually turning into the altiplano in the east. The hill looks like a giant sand dune from a distance but it is in fact made of solid rock. The paved footpath visible from anywhere in town starts at the south end of Calle Colón.
Surfing – Good around Arica, including boogie boarding. The beaches north of town are good for beginners, while more experienced surfers go south of el Morro. There is a surfshop in the centre, but it's best to bring your own board. Beaches – Swimming and sunbathing on the beaches north of town. Summer is the main season, in winter you will have the beaches for yourself. Water is cold. Hiking – "Playa Corazones" area Nearby valleys – Visit the olive trees plantations
Chifa Maxi, Baquedano 494. Delightfully slow and nonexistent service at this authentic Chinese place with vegetarian options. Popular. Take away available. La Casa del Coctel, San Martin 495, +56 58 250400. Excellent cheese empanadas in downtown Arica. Fastfood from 500 pesos. La Nanu, Av. Santa Maria 1182, +56 58 312399. Great empanadas (21 different kinds). Between the bus station and the centre. Also pizza. Good for vegetarians. Lider Supermercado, 18 de septiembre 401. Well stocked supermarket in a convenient location.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Aug, Arica typically sees ~19°C daytime highs and 0 rainy days.
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