What to do at night in Arica, Chile?

Arica, the city of eternal spring in the far north of Chile, is famous for its warm weather, beaches, and vibrant Andean culture. While many tourists enjoy its daytime attractions, such as Morro de Arica or the Azapa Valley, nightlife in Arica also offers a variety of activities ranging from seaside dining to cultural tours and high-energy parties.

1. Dinner with sea view at Playa Chinchorro

Arica has several urban beaches, with Playa Chinchorro being one of the most popular. In the surrounding area there are restaurants that offer dinners with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Here you can taste fresh seafood dishes, fish and typical regional dishes, such as octopus ceviche or crab soup. Recommended restaurants include:

• El Buey Marino Restaurant : Specializing in seafood and regional dishes, it offers a cozy and quiet atmosphere to enjoy an evening by the sea.
• Mojito Beach : A more casual place with a youthful atmosphere, which stands out for its offer of tropical cocktails and fusion dishes.

2. Night walk through the historic center of Arica

Arica's downtown is small and easy to navigate on foot, and its nightlife is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed experience. In this area you can admire the city's architectural heritage, especially the San Marcos de Arica Cathedral , designed by Gustave Eiffel and built in 1876. At night, the cathedral is illuminated, creating a mystical and photogenic atmosphere. You can also walk around Plaza Colón , which is often lively with local musicians and street performers.

If you are a history buff, you can also visit the Casa de la Cultura de Arica , which sometimes organizes nightly events, such as art exhibitions, dance and music performances. It is a good opportunity to learn more about the Afro-descendant and Andean culture of the region.

3. Visit the city's bars and pubs

Arica has a very diverse bar and pub scene. Many of these places offer live music, local cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere to meet locals and other travelers. Some of the most popular bars in the city are:

• Pampa Restobar : This is one of the most visited bars in Arica. It offers a wide selection of cocktails, especially pisco sours, and often has live music or DJs to liven up the night. You can also find Chilean craft beers.
• La Peña del Loro : A bar with a more bohemian atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a relaxed place with good music and atmosphere. Here it is common to find performances by local artists and Andean music groups or Latin American rock.
• Bar Mestizo : A place with a focus on the Andean and Afro-descendant culture of Arica. Here you can enjoy cocktails prepared with local fruits and spices, and themed events are frequently organized, including live music and traditional dances.

4. Tour of the Arica Casino

For those looking for a night of entertainment and fun, the Casino de Arica is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of the city, this casino offers a wide variety of games of chance, such as slot machines, poker tables, blackjack, and roulette. In addition to the games, the casino has a restaurant and bar, where you can enjoy dinner or a drink while observing the vibrant atmosphere of the place. The Casino de Arica also organizes live shows, such as concerts and comedy shows, making this experience a complete option for a fun night.

5. Nightlife in El Laucho Beach

Playa El Laucho is one of the most popular beaches in Arica, and at night the atmosphere around it becomes a meeting point for young people and tourists. Along the pedestrian promenade of this beach you will find small bars and restaurants with outdoor terraces, ideal for enjoying the night breeze. In summer, beach parties are organized that include live music, DJs and recreational activities, making Playa El Laucho one of the favorite places to party in Arica.

Among the highlights on this beach is the Dejavú bar, known for its festive atmosphere and selection of cocktails. In addition, Playa El Laucho is ideal for those looking for a more relaxed evening, enjoying a bonfire by the sea or simply walking along the sand under the moonlight.

6. Enjoy local cuisine at the Mercado Colón

One of the best ways to get to know a place’s culture is through its food, and Arica is no exception. While most markets tend to close early, Mercado Colón has a few stalls and restaurants that stay open into the evening, offering local food at affordable prices. Here you can sample typical dishes from the region, such as lamb broth, seafood empanadas, and fried fish. The market offers a family-friendly and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for those who want an authentic, less touristy dining experience.

7. Stargazing in the Atacama Desert

Arica is located near the Atacama Desert, one of the most spectacular places in the world for stargazing due to its clear skies and low light pollution. There are tourist agencies that organize nighttime excursions to observe the starry sky, where you can see constellations of the southern hemisphere and learn about the astronomy of the region. These tours include telescopes and expert guides who will help you identify planets, stars and galaxies.

This experience is ideal for those looking for a quiet and fascinating activity, especially on moonless nights. Some of the companies offer transportation to and from Arica, which makes it easy to organize this type of activity.

8. Visit the Azapa Valley for a nighttime cultural experience

The Azapa Valley is known for its olive groves and its important archaeological heritage. Some night tours include visits to archaeological sites, such as the Azapa geoglyphs and the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum. These tours usually include guides who explain the history and culture of the civilizations that inhabited the region, such as the Aymara and Chinchorro peoples. In addition, you can enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant in the valley, where you can taste typical dishes such as llama jerky and goat cheese.

This activity is ideal for those looking for a cultural and educational experience during their visit to Arica.

9. Local festivals and cultural events

Arica has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its local festivals and events. Between January and February, the famous Carnaval Andino con la Fuerza del Sol (Andean Carnival with the Force of the Sun) is celebrated, one of the most colorful and important festivals in the region, which includes parades, traditional dances, and Andean music concerts. Although this festival takes place once a year, small cultural events and celebrations are organized throughout the year that highlight the city's Afro-descendant and Aymara heritage.

Check the local calendar to see if there are any events taking place during your visit. Many of these events are held in outdoor venues and are usually free, allowing tourists and residents to enjoy Arica's vibrant culture together.

10. Walk through the illuminated Morro de Arica

The Morro de Arica is one of the icons of the city and an ideal spot for those looking for a panoramic view of Arica at night. Climbing the hill is a peaceful and fascinating experience, especially at dusk or at night, when the place is illuminated and offers an incredible view of the city and the ocean. From here, you can take spectacular photographs and enjoy the peace and silence of the surroundings.

Arica not only has beautiful beaches and an enviable climate, but also offers a nightlife rich in cultural, gastronomic and entertainment experiences. No matter your interests, in Arica you will find something special to do at night, which will make your visit unforgettable.