A Pacific coastal city in Chile, known for its active fishing industry and copper production. Founded in 1826, this port town has deep ties to mineral mining.
Coquimbo stretches along Chile's northern coast, where fishing boats fill the harbor and white-sand beaches line the shore. Walk through the Victorian mansions of the English Quarter, dance salsa in the bars along Aldunate Street, or watch Humboldt penguins nest on rocky islands. In the nearby Elqui Valley, vineyards climb the hillsides and small distilleries produce pisco, Chile's national spirit.
Getting Around Coquimbo
The Pan-American Highway and north-south railroad connect Coquimbo to major Chilean cities. Fly into La Florida International Airport in La Serena, just 15 minutes away, with hourly flights to Santiago. Buses run between Coquimbo and La Serena every 15 minutes from 6 AM to midnight. You'll find taxi stands at major intersections and shopping areas in both cities.
Beaches and Marine Life
Swim and windsurf in the calm waters of La Herradura beach, which extends for 2 kilometers along the bay. Take a boat tour from Punta de Choros to see Humboldt penguins nesting on three protected islands, alongside colonies of sea lions and bottlenose dolphins. From November to April, watch humpback whales migrate past Chañaral de Aceituno.
Food Scene and Local Markets
In Caleta San Pedro, local fishermen supply restaurants with fresh seafood daily. Try Chilean specialties like pastel de jaiba (crab pie), machas a la parmesana (razor clams with parmesan), and empanadas de mariscos (seafood turnovers). Browse through Recova market's stalls for regional wines, fresh produce, and handmade crafts. Many waterfront restaurants set up tables facing the ocean, serving the morning's catch.
English Quarter and Nightlife
British settlers built Victorian-style houses in the English Quarter during the 1800s mining boom. The neighborhood maintains its original street layout and architecture. After sunset, head to Aldunate Street, where bars and clubs fill with locals dancing salsa and cumbia until early morning.
Wine and Pisco Production
The Elqui Valley's grape farmers cultivate wine varieties and muscatel grapes for pisco. Visit wineries year-round for tours and tastings. In the village of Pisco Elqui, watch distillers craft the spirit using copper stills and traditional methods. Try pisco neat or in a piscola, mixed with cola.
Sports Activities
Surf at La Herradura beach, where the best waves roll in during morning hours. Book sport fishing trips at the harbor, or paraglide from coastal cliffs with views of the Pacific Ocean. Walk through Fray Jorge National Park's 10,000 hectares, home to 440 species of native plants growing in a unique coastal desert ecosystem.
