How to get to Arica

Located in the far north of Chile, sunny Arica rightfully holds the title of the "City of Eternal Spring." Thanks to its unique microclimate, it almost never rains here, and the comfortable temperature allows travelers to enjoy relaxation on the Pacific coast all year round.

This city serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the majestic landscapes of the Atacama Desert and the high-altitude Lauca National Park. Above the historic center rises the famous El Morro hill, offering a breathtaking panorama of the port and the ocean. A trip to Arica is an opportunity to combine a relaxed coastal holiday with exploring ancient history and the unique nature of the region.

For most travelers, flying remains the most convenient and fastest way to get to Arica. The city is served by Chacalluta International Airport (ARI), which receives regular daily flights from Santiago and other Chilean cities. The flight from the capital usually takes about 2.5 hours, offering passengers impressive views of the desert coastline and the Andes mountain ranges before landing.

The airport is strategically located: just 18 kilometers north of the city center and in close proximity to the border with Peru. This makes it an important transport hub not only for those planning a holiday on Chilean beaches but also for tourists heading to neighboring regions. Sometimes travelers consider arriving in the neighboring Peruvian city of Tacna or Chilean Iquique, but a direct flight to Arica significantly saves time and eliminates unnecessary transfers.

Planning a trip to Arica by train from central Chile or the capital is not advisable: there is no direct rail connection with these regions. The country's passenger railway network does not cover the far north, so it is impossible to get here from Santiago by rail — for long-distance travel, it is better to choose a plane or intercity bus.

However, there is a unique opportunity for tourists to ride a train along a historic route. A one-of-a-kind railway line connects Arica with the neighboring Peruvian city of Tacna. This vintage train travels across the border, covering the distance between the cities in about an hour and a half. The trip allows you not only to conveniently arrive from Peru but also to enjoy atmospheric views of the desert along the way.

Bus services connect the city with neighboring countries and regions, offering travelers convenient and scenic routes. The nearest foreign transport hub is the Peruvian city of Tacna, located just 50–60 kilometers to the north. The trip by bus or shared taxi takes about an hour and a half, including border control, making this route extremely popular. Bus services from Arequipa are also in demand: comfortable coaches cover the distance to the coast in about 6–7 hours.

For travel within Chile, the main destination is Iquique. The distance between the cities is about 300 kilometers, and the travel time varies from 5 to 6 hours. The road runs through the harsh but mesmerizing landscapes of the Atacama Desert, allowing tourists to enjoy unique views of one of the driest places on the planet right from the bus window.

Traveling to Arica by car allows you to enjoy the rugged landscapes of the desert and ocean at your own pace. The Peruvian city of Tacna is the closest: the distance of about 58 kilometers can be covered in just an hour, making this route very popular. Travelers from Arequipa face a longer journey of 424 kilometers, which will take about 6 hours.

If you are heading from the south, from Iquique, the 311-kilometer road will take almost 4 hours of driving along the scenic Pan-American Highway. To cross the border, many tourists prefer to use international taxis ("colectivos"), as this avoids bureaucratic nuances with rented transport in Chile.

Before traveling to Arica, it is useful to know a few nuances of local life to ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible. These practical recommendations will help you easily navigate northern Chile and avoid common tourist mistakes.

1. Clothing and sun protection. Despite the "City of Eternal Spring" status, the weather here has its peculiarities. During the day, you will need light summer clothes, shorts, and t-shirts, but be sure to bring a windbreaker or sweater for the evenings — the temperature drops noticeably after sunset. Most importantly: the sun in this region is very active, so high-factor sunscreen (SPF 50+), a hat, and sunglasses are mandatory even in cloudy weather.
2. Transport. The most popular and affordable way to get around the city is "colectivos." These are black sedans operating as shared taxis on fixed routes. The route number is indicated on a sign on the roof. Regular taxis are also available but are more expensive. The city center is compact and pleasant to explore on foot.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Cards are accepted in supermarkets, hotels, and major restaurants, but you will need cash for fares, market purchases, and small cafes. It is better to exchange dollars or euros at official exchange points (*casas de cambio*) in the city center, avoiding street money changers.
4. Health and water. Although tap water in Chile is considered some of the cleanest in Latin America, in Arica it contains a high concentration of minerals, which may affect digestion if you are not used to it. It is recommended to buy bottled water for drinking. Pharmacies (*farmacias*) are common, and many medicines are available without a prescription, but it is better to bring specific medications with you.
5. Language and communication. The main language is Spanish. English is not widely understood, mostly only by staff at large hotels and tour operators. Download an offline translator or learn a few basic phrases — locals will appreciate your efforts and be more willing to help.
6. Local etiquette. Chileans are friendly and welcoming. It is customary to greet people when meeting, even if you are entering a small shop or an elevator. Life here flows at a measured rhythm, so service in restaurants may be unhurried — treat this calmly, as it is part of the local culture.
7. What to avoid. Be careful with food items when crossing borders. Strict phytosanitary rules (SAG) apply in the region. Importing fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, and meat products from neighboring countries is strictly prohibited and subject to high fines. Do not attempt to bring an apple or a sandwich across the border.
8. Gastronomic tip. Be sure to try olives from the Azapa Valley (*Aceitunas de Azapa*). They are grown in the immediate vicinity of the city and are considered some of the best in the world due to their rich taste and purple hue.

Following these simple rules will make your stay in Arica safe and pleasant. The city is very hospitable to travelers, and by preparing in advance, you can fully focus on the ocean, history, and the unique atmosphere of the desert.