Arica Port Guide

ARICA, CHILE

Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” Arica boasts a warm climate, rich history, and stunning landscapes. From ancient geoglyphs to coastal cliffs and lively markets, this northern Chilean city is a unique blend of culture and nature.

KEY INFO

PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at the Port of Arica, located approximately 1 km (0.6 miles) from the city centre (10-min walk).

Facilities: Shuttle bus service to port gate
Port Address: Port of Arica, Av. Comandante San Martín, Arica, Chile.

Getting Around: Arica is a walkable city, and taxis are readily available for exploring further afield. Public buses cost around 800 CLP ($1 USD) (cash only), while colectivos offer shared taxi services for similar fares.

Taxis: Operate on set fares. Typical fare to Morro de Arica is 3,000-4,000 CLP ($4-$5 USD).

Tourist Bus: There is no Hop-On Hop-Off tourist bus in Arica. Private tours can be arranged.

For more information: Visit www.chile.travel/en/

ARICA HIGHLIGHTS

Morro de Arica: A historic hill offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. Features a military museum. 8a-8p | 2,000 CLP ($3 USD) | 1.4 km (30-min walk) from port.

Museo de Armas: At the top of Morro de Arica, this small museum brings the War of the Pacific (1879-1883) to life. 10a-8p (Tue-Sun) | 1,000 CLP | 1.4km (30-min walk) from port.

Museo de Sitio Colon 10: Housing Chinchorro mummies, dating back 7,000 years; the world’s oldest mummies. At base of Morro de Arica. 10a-6p (Tue-Sun) | 2,000 CLP | 800m (13-min walk) from port.

Centro Comercial Las Palmeritas: For shopping, people watching or a local lunch, head to this relaxed outdoor shopping zone. 10a-8p (Mon-Sat) | Free | 400m (5-min walk) from port

San Marcos Cathedral: A striking Gothic pre-fab church designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1875, located near the main square. Hours unknown | Free | 450m (7-min walk) from port.

Museo del Mar de Arica: A quirky private museum with an impressive collection of seashells, corals and marine fossils. 11a-7p (Tue-Sun) | 4,000 CLP | 550m (9-min walk) from port.

BEACHES NEAR ARICA

Playa Tortuga: Half-rock, half-sand beach, very close to the port. Fun for watching crabs in rock pools.
24 hours | Free | 1.2 km (15-min walk) from port.

Playa Chinchorro: A family-friendly beach with a crescent-shaped bay and gentle waves.
24 hours | Free | 2.5 km (35-min walk) from port.

NATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Parque Brasil:  A relaxing urban park, named in honour of Brazil’s role in mediating post-war territorial disputes between Chile and Peru. 24 hours | Free | 650m (10-min walk) from port.

Humedales del Río Lluta (Lluta River Wetlands): A serene area ideal for birdwatching, home to flamingos and other migratory birds. 6a-6p | Free | 10 km (15-min drive) from port.

Valle de Azapa: A fertile valley known for its olive groves, ancient geoglyphs, and archaeological sites.
24 hours | Free | 12 km (20-min drive) from port.

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TIPPING CUSTOMS

Optional. Restaurants often add 10% service charge. Small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.

FOOD & DRINK

Cazuela de Llama: A hearty Andean stew made with llama meat, potatoes, and local spices.

Choros al Pil Pil: Mussels cooked with garlic, olive oil, and chilli, a coastal favourite.

Pisco Sour: Chile’s version of the iconic cocktail, made with pisco, lime juice, syrup, and egg white.

Pan de Chicharrón: A savoury bread filled with crispy pork rinds, perfect for a snack.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Shop for alpaca wool clothing, handmade pottery, or traditional copper jewellery. Arica is also known for its olive products, including oils and tapenades, which make excellent gifts.

LOCAL LINGO