ARICA

• Population: 160.000 habitantes
• Distance from Santiago: 2075 km.

This is the north gate into Chile. This city, on the border of Peru and quite close to Bolivia, is also known as the city of eternal spring. It is the starting point towards the National Parks of the Altiplano. Its landscapes are unmistakable. At a glance, the visitor will be able to see local inhabitants descending the steep hillsides of the mountain range, riding their llamas, carrying products and wearing colorful traditional garments. Some of the sights tourists simply cannot miss are: the Morro, from where the sea and part of the city can be seen, and the battlefield of one of the bloodiest battles of the Pacific War. The Historical Museum of Weapons was founded in this very place, being a true historical document of great value for the country. The Anthropological Museum of San Miguel de Azapa is also very important, with its display of millenary mummies from the Chinchorro culture. Its beaches are warm and peaceful. Walking along its coastline the visitor will discover some beaches of unusual beauty, with caves which used to be used as shelter by the inhabitants of the region who made their living by recollecting shellfish over 8,000 years ago. There, life in its most natural state, untouched by the hand of Man, can still be appreciated. At night, a number of shows and forms of entertainment can be enjoyed. Its Municipal Casino, with bingo lounges, slot machines and musical shows, is one of them. Summing up, Arica is sun, sea, entertainment and culture.