Northern Chile is often overshadowed by the popular Patagonia in the south. This is an oversight, however, as the north of Chile has a lot to offer it’s visitors starting with Arica and Lauca National Park. Arica is often referred to as the ‘city of eternal spring’ as it is a great Chile travel destination literally any time of the year. The stretch of beaches to the north and south of the city make Arica a terrific destination for both thrill-seeking surfers and lazy lying out in the sand types.
The remarkable thing about your vacation to Arica is that you will not only be able to spend the days lounging on the beach or testing out your skills on a surf and boogies boards but you are also a days excursion away from the stunning and beautiful Lauca National Park. On a tour of Lauca, you will climb up into the altiplano through the soupy clouds into a world of clear blue skies and breathtaking volcanic mountains. Lauca is known by its visitors as one of Chile’s most impressive national parks. Lago Chungara is one of the highest lakes in the world and in addition you’ll see a plethora of lava fields and smaller ponds and the region is teeming with wildlife.
In the park itself, you’ll find several species of plants and animals. There are Vicunas, Llamas, Alpacas, Guanacos, Tarucas, Cougars and Vizcachas, some of which just waiting to caught by your cameral lens. You’ll find over 140 different species of birds, making it one of the best places in Chile for birdwatching. The birds you’ll find in the park include Puna Ibis, Andean Goose, Giant Coot, Puna Tinamou, Silvery Grebe, Crested Duck, Puna Teal, Chilean Flamingo and the famous Andean Condor.
Lauca is also a great place to practice adventure sports such as trekking and mountaineering. Imagine, as well, that by the end of the day, you’ll return to your comfortable Arica hotel for an evening drinking a cocktail by the beach, or going dancing in one of Arica’s many Oceanside clubs.
Very near to the city of Arica, you’ll discover the Azapa Valley, which is an oasis where delicious produce and the famous Azapa olives are grown. It’s an easy excursion from the city center, just 12 miles to the north.
Tips and comments:
Arica is in an excellent and convenient location for overland border crossings to or from Peru and Bolivia. You can organize your trip to Peru, beginning in Santiago and then working your way north to Arica before crossing into Peru to go to Arequipa. Regardless of your travel plans, make sure you include Arica, a beautiful and worthwhile destination.
