Copiapó Province: Volcano, Coast and Cultural Heritage

Copiapó Province combines striking natural destinations with coastal activities and traces of industrial and natural history.

High Mountains and Bird Habitat

Volcán Ojos del Salado is a 6,891-meter-high stratovolcano on the border between Argentina and Chile. Mountaineering on the volcano is recommended; its ascent is a goal for climbers. During the climbing season from October to March, adventurers come to its vicinity. Check current conditions and access before setting out on a trip.

Humedal Desembocadura Río Copiapó is an important habitat for migratory birds. About 20 species come from the Río Loa wetland, including the Coscoroba swan (Coscoroba coscoroba), Many-colored Rush Tyrant (Tachuris rubrigastra), Black-necked Stilt (Himantopus mexicanus), Yellow-winged Blackbird (Agelasticus thilius) and Grey-hooded Sierra Finch (Lessonia rufa). These species give an idea of the diversity that makes this wetland important for migratory birds.

Routes and Activities

Ruta Copayapu is a rural tourism route more than 55 kilometers long in the valley of Copiapó Province. It passes through Toledo, Chamonate, Piedra Colgada and Hacienda San Pedro. Check current operations and the services offered before planning your visit.

Kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking and diving are offered in Bahía Inglesa. Mar de Dunas extends across the communes of Chañaral, Caldera and Copiapó; its dune slopes are suitable for sandboarding and off-road vehicle rides. For activities in the dune area, check current conditions and tour availability.

Paleontology and Industrial History

Parque Paleontológico Los Dedos near Caldera preserves the remains of marine fauna that became extinct millions of years ago and is of scientific and cultural-historical value. The park includes interpretive trails, an open-air museum with reconstructions and a visitor center. Check current access conditions before visiting.

The port of Caldera also tells the story of industrial development: it was established in connection with the construction of the first railway by Compañía de Ferrocarriles de Copiapó, which served to transport minerals. Museo Regional de Atacama was moved in 1978 to the restored historic building known as Casa de los Hermanos Matta Goyenechea.

Natural Destinations in the Atacama Region

In the Atacama Region, Parque Nacional Nevado de Tres Cruces is divided into two sectors: Santa Rosa to the north and Negro Francisco to the south. The park has trails, shelters and viewpoints. Also in the Atacama Region is Ruta de los Seismiles, which comprises fifteen peaks over 6,000 meters high.

Parque Nacional Llanos de Challe in the Atacama Region includes more than 220 plant species, including 14 endemic to the Atacama Region. The park also protects one of the largest guanaco populations within Chile's protected wilderness areas. Desierto Florido also occurs there, but only in rainy years with unusually high winter rainfall and suitable moisture and temperature conditions.

Discover more destinations: Copiapó, Caldera, Tierra Amarilla, Huasco Province, Chañaral.

Return to the main travel overview: Atacama Region.