Solo female travel in Arica

Arica, fondly known as the 'City of Eternal Spring', is a vibrant and historical city located in the northernmost tip of Chile. This mesmerizing coastal city is celebrated for its pleasant year-round weather, stunning Pacific coastline, and vibrant beach culture. Known for its cultural significance as an ancient trading hub, Arica proudly hosts the ancient Chinchorro mummies, which are older than their Egyptian counterparts. The charming city is also recognized for its iconic Morro de Arica, a steep hill offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into the past with its War of the Pacific artifacts. For surfers and beach lovers, Arica's exotic beaches like Playa Chinchorro present delightful opportunities for relaxation and adventure. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Arica promises an unforgettable Chilean experience!

Travel rating

3.7 /5

Based on our research

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Is Arica good for solo travel?

Safety:Safe

Arica is generally a safe city for solo female travelers. Crime levels are comparatively low, the city is typically peaceful, and the locals are friendly and accommodating. However, like any other city, it's also sensible to keep a watchful eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places, and try not to walk alone at night in unpopulated areas. Avoid risky situations, and take normal security precautions.

Transport:Easy

Arica is relatively easy to navigate. Public transportation such as buses and taxis are readily available, plus the city is compact enough to navigate by foot or bike in many areas. However, finding your way may be a little bit challenging if you're not familiar with the Spanish language.

Things to do:Interesting

Arica is a fantastic destination for solo female travelers. The city is known for its gorgeous beaches that are perfect for surfing and swimming, historical sites such as the San Marcos Cathedral, and the Arica and Parinacota Region, which features stunning views of volcanoes and salt flats. The coastal city also has vibrant markets for shopping and tasty local cuisine. However, it may lack a variety of larger scale attractions or activities compared to other major cities.

Food:Above average

The food in Arica offers an exciting array of flavors to satiate your taste buds. With its coastal location, seafood dominates the culinary scene. You'll find a good mix of traditional and local dishes that include ingredients like fresh fish, shellfish, maize, potatoes, beef, and fruits. They’re both healthful and tasty, which could reflect the freshness of ingredients used in recipes. You can also find a selection of dishes from other regions in Chile, giving a decent amount of diversity. However, more variations of international cuisines would enhance the eating experience for travelers.

Budget:Moderate

Arica offers a pretty well balanced cost of travel. Accommodation is moderately priced, with budget hostels and more luxurious hotels available. Food is relatively cheap, particularly local cuisine. However, some tourist attractions and activities might be a bit pricey. Public transportation is available and cost-effective. Overall, it's neither extremely cheap nor overly expensive.