Caldera Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Caldera, Chile with this comprehensive tour guide featuring the best things to do, places to visit, and tips for safety and health.


Introduction to Caldera

Caldera is a scenic coastal town situated in the northern region of Chile. This charming destination is known for its rich cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and breathtaking natural scenery. The town boasts a range of attractions and experiences, making it an ideal retreat for both adventure seekers and culture enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Caldera

Caldera offers a variety of attractions that cater to the tastes of all kinds of travelers. Whether you want to immerse yourself in local history and culture, explore natural landscapes, or embark on scenic tours, Caldera has something for everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Paleontológico de Caldera: This museum houses an impressive collection of fossils and minerals, highlighting the region’s rich geological history.
  • Iglesia San Vicente Ferrer: A neoclassical church that dates back to the mid-19th century, this historical landmark is a must-visit for those interested in religious architecture.
  • Estación Caldera: A beautifully preserved railway station that once served as the primary transportation hub in the region.

Natural Attractions of Caldera: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Playa Brava: This secluded beach is known for its turquoise waters and white sand. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, beach volleyball, and enjoying gorgeous sunsets.
  • Nevado Tres Cruces National Park: This protected area boasts stunning landscapes, including the Nevado Tres Cruces volcano and the Salar de Maricunga salt flat.
  • Bahía Inglesa: A picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by white sand beaches and lush vegetation. This spot is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and snorkeling.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Caldera

Caldera is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a challenging hike or biking adventure. Here are some of the top routes:

  • Cerro La Virgen: A moderate hike that rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the coastline and the town of Caldera.
  • Cerro Pan de Azúcar: This challenging hike takes you to the top of the tallest peak in the region, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • La Higuera: A scenic bike route that takes riders through the central part of the Atacama Desert, offering a unique perspective on this starkly beautiful terrain.

Best Things to Do in Caldera: Activities and Tours

Caldera offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to the tastes of all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the top things to do:

  • Boat tours of Bahía Inglesa: Take a boat tour of the bay and its surroundings, explore hidden coves and beaches, and swim or snorkel in the clear waters.
  • Wine tasting in the Atacama Desert: Experience Chilean wine culture amidst the stunning backdrop of the Atacama Desert. Enjoy tastings of local wines, learn about the winemaking process, and sample traditional snacks.
  • Surfing: Caldera is a great spot for surfing, with waves that cater to both beginners and experienced surfers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Caldera

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay in Caldera:

Day Activity
1 Orientation tour of the town and visit to the Museo Paleontológico de Caldera
2 Hike up Cerro La Virgen and explore the local beaches
3 Take a boat tour of Bahía Inglesa and adjoining beaches
4 Cycle the La Higuera route or go wine tasting
5 Visit the Iglesia San Vicente Ferrer and the Estación Caldera
6 Explore Nevado Tres Cruces National Park
7 Surf at Playa Brava or free time before departing

Food and Drink Scene of Caldera

Caldera offers a unique culinary experience, blending traditional Chilean fare with international influences. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Asado: A traditional Chilean dish of barbecued meat, usually beef, served with fresh salads and baked potatoes.
  • Empanadas: Delicious savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Cebiche: A tasty seafood dish made with fresh fish or shellfish, marinated in citrus and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Pisco: A distilled grape brandy that’s Chile’s national spirit.
  • Mango Sour: A refreshing cocktail made with pisco, lime juice, and sweetened mango juice.

Where to Stay in Caldera: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Caldera offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxurious hotels and resorts to backpacker hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Hotel Bahía: A luxury hotel perched on a hill overlooking Bahía Inglesa, with stunning ocean views and modern amenities.
  • Hostal Pachamama: A cozy and affordable hostel in the heart of Caldera, with friendly staff and comfortable communal spaces.
  • Hotel Playa Brava: A beachfront hotel with spacious rooms and a restaurant serving local and international cuisines.

What to Buy in Caldera: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Caldera is known for its unique local products, including handmade crafts, textiles, and jewelry. Here are some recommendations for souvenirs and products to bring home:

  • Alpaca Wool Clothing: Soft, warm, and lightweight, alpaca wool products are a must-buy for those looking for cozy winter wear.
  • Atacama Salt: This flavorful salt is harvested from the Salt Flats of Maricunga, and makes for a unique and tasty souvenir.
  • Handmade Pottery: Caldera is famous for its handmade pottery, with intricate designs and vibrant colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Caldera

Caldera is a town with a rich cultural heritage, with influences from indigenous and colonial traditions. Respect for local customs and traditions is important when visiting. Most locals are friendly and welcoming, and appreciate visitors who take an interest in their culture.

Best Time to Visit Caldera

The best time to visit Caldera is in the summer season from December to March, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town can be visited year-round, with mildly cool temperatures prevailing in the winter season from June to August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Caldera

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress comfortably and modestly for the weather and environment.
  • Tip servers and tour guides.

Don’t:

  • Public displays of affection are not appreciated in Caldera.
  • Avoid political discussions with the locals.
  • Littering and disrespecting the environment is not tolerated by the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Caldera

Caldera is a relatively safe town, with a low crime rate. However, it’s still important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and taking care of your belongings.

Health in Caldera

The town has a good hospital, pharmacies, and medical centers for routine healthcare needs. Make sure to bring any necessary medication with you and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns. Wear sunscreen, drink bottled water, and stay hydrated to avoid sunburn and dehydration.

Getting to Caldera: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Caldera

The closest airport to Caldera is the Atacama Airport, located in Copiapó, which is roughly a 50-minute taxi ride away.

Bus Stations Near Caldera

If you’re coming from other parts of Chile, you can reach Caldera via bus from major cities, such as Santiago de Chile and La Serena.

Other Options

Alternatively, you can reach Caldera by car or by train.

How to Get Around in Caldera

Caldera is small enough to explore on foot, but you can also use local taxis or buses to get around town. Traveling by car is also an option for those looking to explore the surrounding countryside or nearby attractions.

Where to Go Next from Caldera: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Caldera is an ideal base for exploring other destinations in northern Chile. Here are some of the top places to visit nearby:

  • Copiapó: A city located just a short drive from Caldera, known for its colonial-era architecture and excellent mining museum.
  • Valle de Huasco: A beautiful valley located in the Huasco Province, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and mountains.

Conclusion

Caldera is an enchanting destination that has something for everyone, from adventure seekers to culture enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to explore natural landscapes, immerse yourself in local history and culture, or simply relax on the beach, this charming coastal town offers an extraordinary travel experience that’s unparalleled.

Plaza Condell Plaza Condell Inside of the former Railway Station of Caldera Inside of the former Railway Station of Caldera San Vicente de Paul Church San Vicente de Paul Church Tornini House Museum Tornini House Museum Orbicular Granite from Orbicular Granite Nature Sanctuary Orbicular Granite from Orbicular Granite Nature Sanctuary Bahía Inglesa Bahía Inglesa