Coquimbo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Coquimbo, Chile with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, cultural customs, and more.


Introduction to Coquimbo

Coquimbo is a port city located in the Northern region of Chile, in South America. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and historical significance. Coquimbo is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and international travelers, making it one of the most visited areas of Chile. The city is home to a vibrant community, consisting of indigenous people and immigrants from various parts of the world, which makes for a unique cultural experience. In this guide, we will take a closer look at the top attractions, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, cultural customs, and much more that Coquimbo has to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Coquimbo

There are many places to visit in Coquimbo, but some of the most popular attractions are:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • La Cruz Hill: This is a must-visit site, which offers an incredible view of the town and the sea. It is also popular as a pilgrimage site.
  • The San Francisco Church: This historic church is located in downtown Coquimbo and is one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
  • Gabriela Mistral Museum: A museum dedicated to the famous Chilean poet who won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1945.
  • Francisco Coloane Museum: The museum is dedicated to the famous Chilean writer, Francisco Coloane, and is home to numerous artifacts related to his life and works.

Natural Attractions of Coquimbo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Isla Damas: A beautiful island that is home to various animals including sea-lions, pelicans, and penguins.
  • Elqui Valley: A picturesque valley famous for its vineyards and pisco distilleries. The valley is also ideal for stargazing.
  • La Serena Beach: Coquimbo has many beaches, but La Serena Beach is the most popular one, characterized by long stretches of golden sands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Coquimbo

Coquimbo offers various hiking and biking routes which are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes:

  • Elqui Valley Trek: A popular hiking trail through the picturesque Elqui Valley.
  • Cerro Moreno National Park: A beautiful hiking trail offering incredible views of the region.
  • Pichasca to Cerrillos Trek: A scenic hiking route that takes you from the beautiful Pichasca Valley to the Cerrillos Canyon.

Best Things to Do in Coquimbo: Activities and Tours

  • Stargazing: Coquimbo offers some of the best stargazing spots in the world, with clear skies and negligible light pollution.
  • Wine Tasting: If you’re a connoisseur of wine, you must visit the vineyards in the Elqui Valley and indulge in some wine tasting.
  • Pisco Tours: Pisco is a famous alcoholic drink of Chile and Coquimbo offers some of the best pisco tours in the country.
  • Water Sports: Coquimbo’s beaches are ideal for water sports such as surfing, bodyboarding, and windsurfing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Coquimbo

For those planning a week-long vacation in Coquimbo, here is a possible itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Visit La Serena Beach and enjoy fishing.
2 Go on a wine tour in the Elqui Valley.
3 Visit various museums, such as the Gabriela Mistral Museum.
4 Go on a boat tour to Isla Damas.
5 Explore the Cerro Moreno National Park.
6 Take a bike tour of the city.
7 Enjoy the nightlife and food scene of Coquimbo.

Food and Drink Scene of Coquimbo

No trip to Coquimbo is complete without trying out the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages when in Coquimbo.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood: Coquimbo is famous for seafood, and you’ll find dishes made with crab, shrimp, and fish on every menu.
  • Empanadas: These are savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
  • Chorrillana: A plate of French fries topped with fried eggs, meat, and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Pisco: A grape brandy made in Chile and Peru.
  • Chicha: A non-alcoholic beverage made from fermented corn.

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

Coquimbo has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area:

  • La Serena Apart Hotel: A friendly and affordable hotel located in downtown Coquimbo.
  • Hotel Costa Real: A luxurious hotel offering incredible views of the ocean.
  • Hostal Puerto Romano: A budget-friendly hostel located just a few blocks from the beach.

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

Coquimbo has many souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts and keepsakes. Some popular items include:

  • Alpaca products: Alpaca wool products are popular in Coquimbo due to the country’s large alpaca population.
  • Pisco: You can take home a bottle of Chile’s famous grape brandy.
  • Handcrafted jewelry: Coquimbo is known for hand-made jewelry, and you’ll find many stores selling intricate designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Coquimbo

Coquimbo has a unique and vibrant culture, influenced by its indigenous population and Spanish colonial past. Some cultural customs to be aware of include:

  • Religion: Coquimbo is predominantly Catholic, and many important religious festivals take place throughout the year.
  • Dress code: Chileans dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites. It’s advisable to dress modestly to respect the local customs.
  • Language: Spanish is the dominant language spoken in Coquimbo.

Best Time to Visit Coquimbo

The best time to visit Coquimbo is during the fall and winter seasons, from March to September. The weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds, making it the ideal time for outdoor enthusiasts to hike and explore the city’s stunning natural beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Coquimbo

Do:

  • Try local food: Coquimbo is famous for its seafood and other local specialities, so ensure that you try some food while you’re there.
  • Respect the local customs: Chileans are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, so ensure that you respect their customs.
  • Explore the Natural Beauty: Coquimbo is famous for its natural beauty, so make sure to explore and take in the sights.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and rowdy: Chileans tend to be quiet and reserved, so it’s advisable to maintain a similar demeanor.
  • Be Offensive: Avoid making politically incorrect statements or discussing religious topics as these are sensitive subjects in Chilean culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Coquimbo

Coquimbo is generally safe for travelers, but it’s always advisable to be cautious and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips:

  • Avoid walking alone late at night: It’s always safe to have a companion with you and avoid carrying expensive items while walking late at night.
  • Take necessary precautions at the beach: The water currents can be strong, and it’s recommended to listen to lifeguards and avoid swimming in the high tide.

Health in Coquimbo

Coquimbo is relatively safe as far as health concerns go. However, travelers should take the following precautions:

  • Drink bottled or boiled water: Chilean tap water may not be of the same quality as in other countries, so it’s safer to drink bottled or boiled water.
  • Pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent: Ensure that you pack sunscreen and mosquito repellent as these are essential items in the region.

Getting to Coquimbo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Coquimbo

  • La Florida Airport is the closest airport and is located about 11 km from the city center of Coquimbo.

Bus Stations Near Coquimbo

  • La Serena Bus Terminal is the main bus station serving Coquimbo and is located about 6 km from the city center.

Other Options

  • Taxi: Taxis are available 24/7 and are a convenient way to travel around Coquimbo.

How to Get Around in Coquimbo

Taxis are readily available throughout Coquimbo, and the fares are relatively cheap. Bus services are also available and provide a more affordable way to travel around the city. Moreover, the region has several bike rental shops, which can be a great way to explore the city and the beautiful outdoor landscapes.

Where to Go Next from Coquimbo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Coquimbo offers easy access to some of the most beautiful destinations in Chile. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can visit from Coquimbo:

  • Valparaiso: A picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its colorful houses and street art.
  • Atacama Desert: A magnificent desert known for stargazing, nature reserves, and geysers.
  • Santiago: The capital city of Chile, famous for its plazas, museums, and nightlife.

Conclusion

Coquimbo offers visitors an excellent opportunity to explore Chile’s natural beauty, rich culture, and unique customs. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a food lover, or just looking for a tranquil getaway, Coquimbo has something for everyone. Plan your trip now and have an unforgettable vacation experience.

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