Arica, Chile’s northernmost city, lies on the Pacific coast, at the foot of the towering El Morro cliff. This MSC World Cruise destination boasts picturesque colonial squares, charming churches, colourful markets, a bustling harbour, and a sweeping golden-sand beach.

MSC Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

• Flavours of Arica
• Chinchorro Culture
• Atacama Coastal Walk

Enjoy a tour of Arica’s scenic countryside on an MSC Cruises excursion. Here, you’ll visit a delightful local farm to learn about olive cultivation. Savour different varieties of olives before journeying to a lively fruit and vegetable market where you’ll sample luscious mangos and guavas. Afterwards, visit the neighbouring handicraft centre to browse artisan knitwear, pottery, and ocarinas — a rounded flute-like musical instrument!

History enthusiasts will revel in an MSC Cruises excursion to learn more about Chichorro culture — a prehistoric fishing people that resided in the seaside regions of northern Chile and southern Peru from 7,000 B.C. to 1,500 B.C. Then, explore the stark desert landscapes of the Azapa Valley before stopping by the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum. Housing an enthralling selection of Chinchorro artefacts, San Miguel de Azapa also showcases a remarkable array of mummies. Some are regarded as the most ancient in the world, dating back thousands of years!

Experience the dramatic Chilean Pacific coast on an MSC Cruises excursion, where you’ll take in golden beaches, scenic bluffs, and mysterious seaside caverns. Stop by Morro de Arica, an iconic hill, that boasts breathtaking views as far as Peru. Then, venture southwards to the stunning Corazones beach where you’ll visit the prehistoric Anzota grottoes. Renowned for their striking Chinchorro paintings, the caves were shaped by wind and waves. Afterwards, stroll along scenic cliffs that overlook the ocean to spot vultures, sea lions, and cormorants.
Read more