Caldera

Caldera is a port city whose oceanfront setting provides relief from the vast and arid Atacama Desert. After viewing the geyser fields and odd rock formations of San Pedro de Atacama, come here for some leisurely beach time. Swim in the ocean, explore the quaint city attractions and stroll through the port.

Learn about the city, whose port was once among the most important in the country. Caldera played a major role in the development of the mining industry in the 19th century and it was also the site of the famous Battle of Caldera Bay, a key conflict during the 1891 Chilean Civil War.

Many travelers arriving from the desert are drawn straight to the turquoise blue of the ocean. Enjoy the region’s warm and dry climate, which varies little year-round. Bring a picnic to Caldera Beach or savor some seafood at one of the restaurants on the shore.

Watch the kids play on the small wooden pier and descend down the steps leading into the ocean. Locals often dive into the water from the pier.

After getting your fix of sand and sun at the beach, visit the Paleontological Museum of Caldera near the water to discover the fossil history of the area. Look for the gigantic skull of a 10 million-year-old whale.

Head into town to take photos of the Iglesia San Vicente de Paul, with its striking yellow-tinted façade. Admire the four white columns at its center and gaze up at the tiered spire, which holds a crucifix.

Find Caldera in the Copiapó region of northern Chile. The city is just 4 miles (6 kilometers) north of Bahía Inglesa, a beach resort area with a selection of hotels and restaurants. Caldera is often seen as a more affordable alternative to Bahía Inglesa. If traveling by air, fly from Santiago de Chile to the Desierto de Atacama Airport and drive 15 miles (24 kilometers) north to Caldera.

Get away from the crowds and the desert in the pleasant port town of Caldera.