Chinchorro Beaches

Playas Chinchorro

A series of dramatic black and white sand beaches near Arica offering excellent conditions for swimming, surfing, and observing ancient archaeological sites. These beaches showcase the unique Pacific coastline where the Atacama Desert meets the sea.

Things to do

• Swimming at Playa Blanca — Wade into the calm waters of the white sand beach, one of the most sheltered and accessible swimming spots along the Chinchorro coast.
• Surfing at Playa Negra — Catch consistent Pacific swells at the black sand beach known for reliable waves suitable for intermediate to advanced surfers.
• Chinchorro Archaeological Site exploration — Visit the pre-Columbian Chinchorro mummy burial grounds to observe some of the world's oldest artificially mummified remains dating back over 7,000 years.
• Desert-to-ocean hiking — Trek along the dramatic cliffs where the Atacama Desert descends directly to the Pacific, offering stunning landscape photography and geological views.
• Tide pool exploration — Search the rocky outcrops during low tide for starfish, sea urchins, and other endemic marine life in the nutrient-rich Humboldt Current waters.
• Sunset observation from coastal bluffs — Position yourself on the black sand cliffs at dusk to witness the sun descend over the Pacific while the desert landscape glows in amber light.

Food to try

• Ceviche de corvina — Fresh white fish cured in lime juice with onions and cilantro, a coastal staple that highlights the day's catch from local fishermen.
• Empanadas de mariscos — Baked pastry pockets filled with local shellfish, squid, and sea urchin reflecting the region's deep maritime traditions.
• Chupe de camarones — A creamy shrimp stew thickened with bread and enriched with cheese and egg, warming and protein-rich for the cool Pacific climate.
• Fresh ulva and cochayuyo seaweed dishes — Harvested locally from tide pools, these nutrient-dense sea vegetables are prepared simply to showcase their briny ocean flavor.
• Pastel de choclo with local seafood — A savory corn and seafood pie baked with fresh jack mackerel and local vegetables, a regional adaptation of the traditional Chilean dish.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect archaeological sites — The Chinchorro burial grounds are sacred indigenous heritage; stay on marked paths and do not disturb artifacts or human remains.
• Bring sun and wind protection — The Atacama Desert creates intense UV exposure and persistent coastal winds, so sunscreen, hats, and windbreakers are essential year-round.
• Visit during austral summer (December-February) — Beach season aligns with the Southern Hemisphere summer when water temperatures are warmest and local fishing communities are most active.
• Learn about the Chinchorro culture — Engage with local guides who can explain the region's pre-Incan maritime heritage and the significance of the ancient mummification practices unique to this coast.