Things To Do
in Caldera

Caldera is a coastal town located in the Atacama Region of northern Chile, known for its stunning beaches and rich mining history. This charming destination offers picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and a warm, dry climate. Visitors can explore its historic architecture while enjoying fresh seafood and local culture.

Caldera serves as a gateway to the Atacama Desert, providing a unique blend of ocean and desert landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Beach and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Playa Brava for sunbathing and swimming in the clear waters.

afternoon
:

Explore the Museo del Mineral, where you can learn about the region's mining history and view interesting exhibits.

evening
:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant and take a sunset stroll along the promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a scenic drive to Pan de Azúcar National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting.

afternoon
:

Visit the local artisan market to shop for unique crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife by visiting a bar or club, enjoying live music and dancing.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$2-$4
🍕Street food (empanadas)$1-$3
🚌Bus ticket$1
🏨Hotel (per night)$40-$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning coastal scenery and beautiful beaches.
  • Rich cultural and historical experiences.
  • Pleasant weather year-round.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Some tourist attractions may have limited hours.
  • Public transportation may not be frequent.
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "¿Dónde está...?" - Where is...?
  • "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Caldera

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa Brava

A beautiful sandy beach ideal for capturing stunning sunset photos.

Caldera Lighthouse

An iconic landmark offering panoramic views of the coastline.

Museo del Mineral

The museum's architecture and exhibits provide unique photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Caldera

Caldera's culinary scene is a delightful mix of fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Chilean dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Caldera Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

Freshly caught fish marinated in lime juice and seasoned with onions and cilantro.

Must-Try!

Pastel de Choclo

A corn pie filled with meat, olives, and hard-boiled eggs, topped with a layer of corn puree.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercado Municipal de Caldera

A local market where you can find fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables.

Street vendors

Try empanadas or completos (Chilean hot dogs) from various street vendors around the town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Caldera enjoys a desert climate with mild temperatures year-round. Summers can reach highs of 30°C (86°F) while winters are cooler, averaging around 15°C (59°F). Rainfall is minimal, mostly occurring in winter months, making it a great destination for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting customs

A warm handshake or a friendly kiss on the cheek is customary when meeting.

Respect for local customs

Be respectful of local traditions and ask before taking photos of people.

Punctuality

While social events may be more relaxed, try to be punctual for formal appointments.

Safety Guide

Safety

Caldera is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when walking alone at night. Emergency services are accessible, and it's advisable to keep a local emergency number handy.

Tipping in Caldera

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping customs

It's customary to leave a tip of 10% in restaurants; rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect warm temperatures and sunny days, perfect for beach activities.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures begin to cool, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

Winter (June to August)

Milder weather with occasional rain; great for visiting museums and local markets.

Spring (September to November)

A pleasant season with blooming flowers, suitable for hiking and outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Caldera at Night

Caldera offers a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars and clubs featuring live music, dancing, and local drinks. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, with many venues located near the beach. Popular spots include outdoor terraces where you can enjoy the ocean breeze, and events often include local bands playing traditional Chilean music.

Hiking in Caldera

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sendero de La Virgen

A moderate hike offering stunning views of the coastline and unique rock formations.

Cerro del Águila

An uphill trek that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Caldera and the surrounding areas.

Airports

How to reach Caldera by plane.

Desierto de Atacama Airport (CPO)

Located about 50 km from Caldera, this airport offers domestic flights connecting to major cities in Chile.

Getting Around

Walkability

Caldera is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance from one another. The town has well-maintained sidewalks, and walking along the beach promenade is particularly enjoyable. However, some areas may require transportation, especially for those wishing to explore further afield.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of residents are Chilean, with a strong cultural connection to the sea and mining.

Tourists

Visitors from both domestic and international locations come to Caldera for its natural beauty and history.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in Caldera, with local teams playing in regional leagues.

Surfing

The favorable beach conditions attract surfers looking for good waves.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Caldera is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, with buses being a cost-effective way to travel locally. However, during peak tourist seasons, traffic may increase near popular attractions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Caldera.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, seafood is predominant in the area.

Gluten-free options

Gluten-free meals can be found, but it's advisable to ask for specific dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Caldera includes a local hospital and several clinics. Emergency services are available, and while the facilities are adequate for most needs, serious medical conditions may require travel to larger cities like Copiapó. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Chile

Read more in our Chile 2025 Travel Guide.

Chile Travel Guide