8 Best Sights in El Norte Grande, Chile

A visit here is a must for anyone who travels to El Norte Grande. In an 18th-century olive oil refinery, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the cultures of the Chinchorros (a coastal people) and Tijuanacotas (a group that lived in the antiplano). Of particular interest are the Chinchorro mummies, the oldest in the world, dating to 6000 BC. The incredibly well-preserved mummies are arranged on beds behind thick glass. They have a great presence, and to look into their expressive faces is to glimpse into a history that spans more than 8,000 years. The tour ends at an olive press that functioned until 1956, a reminder of the still thriving industry in the surrounding valley. The museum is a short drive from Arica. You can also make the 20-minute journey by colectivo from Patricio Lynch for about 1,200 pesos.

This museum houses a well-maintained and colorful collection of more than 1,000 seashells and oceanic oddities from around the world. The owner has traveled the globe for more than 30 years to bolster his collection, which includes specimens from Africa, Asia, and you guessed it—Arica.

Across from the Parque General Baquedano, the Aduana de Arica, the city's former customs house, is one of Alexandre Gustave Eiffel's creations. It currently contains the town's cultural center, where you can find exhibits about northern Chile, old photographs of Arica, and works by local painters and sculptors.

Hanging over the town, this fortress is impossible to ignore. This former Peruvian stronghold was the site of one of the key battles in the War of the Pacific. The fortress now houses the Museo de las Armas, which commemorates that battle. As you listen to the proud drum roll of military marches, you can wander among the uniforms and weapons of past wars.

Located on the Plaza Colón, the Iglesia de San Marcos was erected in 1876 and constructed entirely from iron. Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, designer of that famed eponymous Parisian tower, had the individual pieces cast in France before bringing them to Arica.

The long stretch of Playa Brava is renowned for its consistent waves (which are too strong for swimming) and beautiful sunsets. Amenities: parking. Best for: solitude; sunset; surfing.

The white sands of Playa Chinchorro, 2 km (1 mile) north of the city are popular with families and swimmers. You can also rent Jet Skis in high season. Amenities: food and drink; parking; toilets. Best for: swimming.

South of El Morro, Playa El Laucho is the closest to the city, and thus the most crowded. It's also a bit rocky at the bottom, but waters are calm and inviting. Amenities: food and drink; lifeguards; parking; showers; toilets. Best for: swimming.