Discover the Arica and Parinacota Region

The Arica and Parinacota Region offers Chinchorro heritage, protected areas, regional traditions and activities by the sea. When planning your trip, it is worth considering cultural sites and nature destinations individually: access conditions vary, and experiences range from archaeological sites to surfing.

Chinchorro Culture and Historic Sites

The Chinchorro World Heritage Site consists of three component areas: Faldeo Norte del Morro de Arica, Colón 10 and Desembocadura de Camarones. It includes the oldest known archaeological evidence of the artificial mummification of the dead and is considered a unique testament to the complex spirituality of the Chinchorro culture. The World Heritage Site gives the region a distinctive cultural focus.

Other places tell of different periods and forms of expression. Near the village of Ofragía, in the Cerro Blanco sector, 60 blocks bear pre-Hispanic engravings dating approximately from between 1000 and 1500 AD. Pucará de Copaquilla was built for defensive purposes in the 12th century; a double wall protects the site. Both examples show the diversity of archaeological evidence found in the region.

Morro de Arica also combines views and culture: its summit has a lookout with views of the bay and coast, as well as a museum dedicated to preserving regional identity. The Ruta de las Misiones offers another perspective on Andean cultural heritage. It passes through the regions of Arica y Parinacota and Tarapacá and introduces visitors to old colonial churches whose architecture reflects this heritage.

Protected Areas, Wildlife and Trails

The Lauca Biosphere Reserve includes Parque Nacional Lauca, Reserva Nacional Las Vicuñas and Monumento Natural Salar de Surire. In Reserva Nacional Las Vicuñas, vicuñas can be observed in family herds, groups of juveniles and as solitary males. In the Pueblo del Diablo area, the geological formations consist of shapes created by water erosion; the area is recommended for photography.

Three flamingo species live year-round in Monumento Natural Salar de Surire: the Chilean flamingo, Andean flamingo and James’s flamingo. The Termas de Polloquere at Salar de Surire reach water temperatures of up to 60 °C; there is also a picnic area. The surroundings of Lago Chungara offer opportunities for recreational activities and wildlife watching. Possible sightings include alpacas, vizcachas, guanacos, vicuñas, pumas, llamas and foxes. Sightings depend on the season and are not guaranteed.

For walks in Parque Nacional Lauca, Sendero Chungará is a clearly defined option: it is 600 metres long, takes 30 minutes and is rated easy. Sendero de Excursión Cotacotani is 13 kilometres long, accessible to vehicles and pedestrians, and has eight viewpoints. Check access to and conditions on the Cotacotani trail before setting out.

Access and Planning Your Excursions

Access conditions are important when choosing excursions. Parque Nacional Lauca can only be reached via the international Arica–La Paz road, Ruta 11-CH. There is no public transport to Monumento Natural Salar de Surire; private vehicles must have four-wheel drive. Reserva Nacional Las Vicuñas can be reached via routes 11-CH and A-235, also without public transport. If you plan to visit natural areas, take these respective requirements into account when planning your trip.

The coast also offers activities of its own. At Playa Chinchorro, visitors can find schools where they can rent equipment and learn to surf. Since providers and availability may change, it is best to check what is on offer before your visit. When choosing a hotel location, it helps to first decide whether cultural sites, coastal experiences or excursions to protected areas will shape your stay; the access conditions outlined above provide practical guidance.

Festivals and Regional Traditions

The Carnaval Andino Con la Fuerza del Sol takes place every year during the summer season in the Arica and Parinacota Region. Dates vary each year, so check the specific event dates for your travel period. Wine and tradition are at the heart of the Vendimia de Codpa: this Andean celebration revolves around Pintatani and includes traditional grape stomping and tastings of local wine. The program and dates may differ from one edition to the next. In Codpa, Pintatani is made from locally grown grapes.

Whether you are interested in Chinchorro culture, wildlife watching, hiking trails, surfing or local traditions, the Arica and Parinacota Region offers several distinct themes to consider when planning your trip. Base your accommodation search on the places and activities that matter most to you, and take note of the access and seasonal conditions outlined for each excursion.

Discover more destinations: Parinacota Province, Arica, Metropolitan Region, Bío-Bío, Magallanes and Chilean Antarctic Region, Araucanía Region, Los Lagos Region and Antofagasta.

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