The charming port city of Caldera combines crystal-clear waters and colourful fishing boats with rocky coastal landscapes and sumptuous desserts. Caldera is an enticing destination for beach dwellers and nature enthusiasts, thanks to its national parks and alluring coastal hangouts.
Things to do in Caldera
Visit one of Caldera’s oldest homes at the Tornini House Museum. Discover traditional furniture, machinery and decorations as you wander through the rooms of this early-19th-century home. Take a guided tour for an in-depth look at the intriguing history of the Port of Caldera and the Atacama region.
Cycle six kilometres into Bahia Inglesa, a laid-back village with one of the most beautiful beaches in the country and a crop of terrific restaurants. For a unique coastal experience, discover the granite boulders and rock pools at Orbicular Granite Nature Sanctuary.
Experience the Atacama Desert on a guided tour of Pan de Azucar National Park. Trek through a burnt landscape filled with wildflowers and rare cactI, before reaching the turquoise waters and white sand of Virgen Beach.
Admire the towering red spire of San Vicente de Paul Church. Built in 1862, the Gothic wooden church features a small religious gallery. For an authentic souvenir, follow the artisan's trail through the surrounding villages of Lirama, La Ligua, Coihueco and Doñihue. Find handmade ceramics, woolen clothing and wicker homewares.
Getting around Caldera
You can fly into Desierto de Atacama Airport in Copiapo and take a 15-minute taxi or 45-minute shuttle bus into Caldera. Buses from Santiago arrive in 12 hours, while buses from Antofagasta take six hours. The town is easily explored on foot, while taxis and bikes are also available.