The Arica y Parinacota Region is Chile's northernmost region, sitting on the country's border with Peru and Bolivia in South America. It is a place of wide, dry landscapes shaped by the Atacama Desert, one of the most arid environments on Earth, and its climate is the defining feature for anyone planning a visit.
What to expect
Much of the region is extremely dry, and the desert light and open horizons give it a stark, uncluttered character. Visitors who enjoy quiet landscapes, big skies and the sense of being at the edge of a country will find the region rewarding. The contrast between the coast and the high desert inland is part of its appeal.
Arica and the surrounding area
The port city of Arica is the region's main hub and the natural base for a stay. It offers a working coastal city to explore, with the Pacific Ocean nearby and the desert rising behind it. From Arica, the wider region can be reached, and the border crossings to Peru and Bolivia make it a meaningful stop for travellers moving between countries.
Planning your visit
- Expect a very dry climate, so bring water, sun protection and layers for temperature changes between day and night.
- Use Arica as a starting point for exploring the region's desert and border areas.
- Check travel conditions and routes before heading into remote desert areas.
For visitors drawn to desert scenery, cross-border travel and a less crowded corner of South America, the Arica y Parinacota Region is worth considering as part of a longer trip through Chile.
