Things To Do
in Coquimbo
Coquimbo is a port city located on the northern coast of Chile. It is known for its rich maritime history and fishing industry. The city is also a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and historical architecture.
Visitors can explore attractions such as La Herradura Beach, the Francisco Coloane Marine Park, and the Cruz del Milenio monument.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to La Serena Beach, enjoying the sun and the surf. Take a relaxing stroll along the shore and savor a light breakfast at a beachfront café.
Explore the historic lighthouse and visit Coquimbo's fish market for fresh seafood. Taste local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Head to the iconic Fort Lambert for a sunset view over the ocean. Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional Chilean dishes.
Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Playa de La Herradura. Swim in the warm waters and enjoy beach games.
After lunch, take a boat tour to explore nearby coves and spot sea lions. Relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery.
Enjoy cocktails at a beach bar while listening to live music. Watch the stars come out as you enjoy dinner by the ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and beautiful beaches.
- A vibrant cultural scene with local festivals and events.
- Mild climate, making it a pleasant place to visit year-round.
- Rich in history with various historical sites and architecture.
- Proximity to various natural attractions such as Elqui Valley and national parks.
- Limited public transportation options, making travel dependent on cars.
- Some areas may experience higher crime rates.
- Economic disparities and poverty can be observed in certain neighborhoods.
- Tourist infrastructure might not be as developed compared to larger cities.
- Seasonal fluctuations in tourism can affect local businesses.
Best Activities in Coquimbo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Relax on the sandy shores and soak up the sun at La Herradura beach.
Visit this iconic lighthouse, offering stunning views of the coastline and city.
Explore the diverse flora and fauna in this protected area, featuring a unique fog forest.
Engage in activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling in the clear waters of Guanaqueros Beach.
Experience the magic of the night sky through guided stargazing tours at this renowned observatory.
Tours
Uncover the best of Coquimbo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Coquimbo
Visit one of these nice places.
Popular for its beautiful coastal scenery and sunset views.
An iconic landmark with panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Lighthouse offering stunning views of the ocean and coastline.
Food in Coquimbo
Coquimbo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich seafood stew featuring a mix of fish, shrimp, and other seafood, cooked with potatoes, onions, and cheese. Found in many local seafood restaurants along the coast.
Must-Try!
These savory pastries are filled with a delicious mix of minced meat, onions, eggs, olives, and raisins. They can be sampled at various bakeries and street food stalls throughout Coquimbo.
A comforting corn and meat pie, typically made with ground beef, chicken, olives, onions, and hard-boiled eggs, topped with a creamy layer of fresh corn. Look for it at traditional Chilean restaurants in the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Coquimbo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a culinary paradise, featuring stalls overflowing with fresh seafood, local fruits and vegetables, and a variety of authentic Chilean products. Visitors can sample ready-to-eat empanadas, ceviche, and other local favorites.
Along the waterfront, visitors can find a plethora of street food vendors offering fresh ceviche, seafood empanadas, and traditional Chilean dishes such as humitas and sopaipillas. It's a great spot to experience the local street food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Coquimbo, Chile, it is customary to greet people with a kiss on the cheek, especially among friends and acquaintances. It is important to reciprocate this gesture when meeting someone for the first time and when saying goodbye.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Coquimbo's culture. It is important to address older individuals with formal titles such as 'Señor' (Mr.) and 'Señora' (Mrs.) as a sign of respect.
In Coquimbo, mealtimes are a significant part of social interaction. It is polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to express gratitude for the food served. Additionally, it is common to linger over meals and engage in conversation after eating.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Coquimbo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Coquimbo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Coquimbo, Chile. However, it is customary to leave a small tip, around 5-10% of the bill, for good service at restaurants or for other services.
In Coquimbo, Chile, cash is widely used for small transactions, while credit and debit cards are commonly accepted in larger establishments. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and for situations where cards may not be accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Coquimbo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Coquimbo, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. You can expect clear skies and a relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer in Coquimbo brings warm weather and an abundance of outdoor events and festivals. The beaches are popular during this season, and it's a great time for water activities like swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Autumn offers mild temperatures and a chance to witness the changing colors of the foliage. It's a quieter time in Coquimbo, perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back experience and want to escape the crowds.
Winter in Coquimbo brings cooler temperatures and the occasional rainfall. However, it's a great time for whale watching along the coast and enjoying local seafood specialties in cozy restaurants.
Coquimbo at Night
Hiking in Coquimbo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that offers stunning views of the coastline and the option to explore unique rock formations.
This moderate trail winds through a beautiful landscape with diverse flora and fauna, leading to a viewpoint overlooking the city.
A picturesque coastal walk that connects La Serena and Coquimbo, perfect for a leisurely hike with ocean views.
A short hike leading to a historic lighthouse with panoramic views of the surrounding area and the Pacific Ocean.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Coquimbo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Coquimbo by plane.
Located in La Serena, approximately 11 kilometers from Coquimbo.
Located in Arequipa, Peru, approximately 1500 kilometers from Coquimbo.
Located in Santiago, approximately 470 kilometers from Coquimbo.
Located in Antofagasta, approximately 800 kilometers from Coquimbo.
Located in Iquique, approximately 1000 kilometers from Coquimbo.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Coquimbo, comprising those who speak Spanish as their primary language.
Includes groups such as the Mapuche and Diaguita, who have historical ties to the region.
Consists of individuals from Peru, Bolivia, and other South American countries who have settled in Coquimbo.
Represents the demographic of university students and young professionals, particularly concentrated near educational institutions.
Includes elderly residents often residing in urban areas, reflecting the aging population trend.
The Soul of Coquimbo
Discover the essence of Coquimbo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Coquimbo, with numerous local clubs and a passionate fan base.
With its beautiful beaches and favorable waves, surfing is a popular activity among both locals and tourists in Coquimbo.
Beach volleyball is commonly played on Coquimbo's beaches, attracting many players and spectators during the summer months.
Basketball has a strong following in Coquimbo, with many local leagues and youth programs available.
Athletics, including running and other track events, is a popular sport with several competitions held in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coquimbo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives like pastel de choclo and empanadas de queso (cheese empanadas). Vegan options may be more limited but some places can accommodate with dishes like grilled vegetables and salads.
Travelers with gluten restrictions can find options such as ceviche, grilled fish, and fresh fruit at many seafood restaurants and markets. It's recommended to communicate dietary needs with the staff for a tailored dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Coquimbo with these cultural adventures.
