Arica’s best tours focus on archaeology and cultural heritage, delivering solid value for curious travelers. The stand-out choice is the 5-day Archaeological Tour – perfect for history buffs who want to explore ancient sites, including the excellent Archaeological Museum and fascinating Picaflor Sanctuary. For those short on time, I love the efficient 4-hour Panoramic City Tour, which hits the main highlights like San Marcos Cathedral and the impressive Cerro Sombrero geoglyphs.
Despite occasional service hiccups, these tours offer expert local insights and good historical context. Let’s explore the top tour options in detail:
Key Points
- Consider the Panoramic City Tour of Arica, which covers key cultural and natural attractions, including the San Marcos Cathedral and Cerro Sombrero geoglyphs.
- The Archaeological Tour offers 5 days of exploration, including visits to the Archaeological Museum and Picaflor Sanctuary, though reports suggest potential communication and service delivery issues.
- Opt for tours led by professional guides, which can provide a more comprehensive and informative experience of Arica’s rich cultural heritage.
- Research tour operators thoroughly, as some reports indicate potential scams and challenges with refunds, to ensure a satisfactory and reliable tour experience.
- Prioritize tours that offer flexibility, such as free cancellation, to accommodate any last-minute changes or unforeseen circumstances during your visit to Arica.
Archaeological Tour
The Archaeological Tour in Arica, Chile provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Lasting 5 days, this tour offers a chance to visit the Archaeological Museum and Picaflor Sanctuary, with transportation and snacks included.
However, the tour has received concerning reviews, with reports of poor communication, failure to provide the promised service, and issues with refunds.
Potential travelers should approach this tour with caution, as it appears to be viewed by some as a potential scam.
Read our full review: Archaeological Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Arica: Half Day Panoramic City Tour
Arica’s “Half Day Panoramic City Tour” offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights. This 4-hour tour covers sandy beaches, historic landmarks, and scenic viewpoints, making it ideal for families and small groups up to 15 travelers.
Highlights include the Gustave Eiffel-designed San Marcos Cathedral, the Casa de Gobierno, and the panoramic vantage point of El Morro cliff. The tour also visits the Pukará de San Lorenzo village, the Archaeological Museum of Arica, and the geoglyphs at Cerro Sombrero and Cerro Sagrado in the Azapa Valley.
With a professional guide, shared panoramic bus, and free cancellation, this tour provides an excellent overview of Arica’s diverse cultural and natural attractions.
Read our full review: Arica: Half Day Panoramic City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Arica offers a diverse range of tours that allow visitors to explore its rich history and stunning natural landscapes. From archaeological sites to panoramic city tours, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re a history buff or nature enthusiast, Arica’s tours provide an engaging and informative way to discover this fascinating destination.