Making the most of Coquimbo
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Coquimbo's port lies under one mile from the town centre and roughly 10 miles from La Serena. Taxis usually wait at the pier; agree the fare with your driver before leaving the harbour.
Coquimbo occupies a valley 10 km (6 mi) south of La Serena. Together they form Greater La Serena, which has more than 400,000 residents. Pirate and privateer attacks in earlier centuries have made the city a source of legends and tales of hidden treasure. It was established on 5 May 1867.
See the Third Millennium Cross, an important symbol of Christian faith in Chile, and admire the city from the height of its arms. Other stops include Plaza de Armas, Plaza Prat, Avenida Costanera, the Museum and the House of Culture and Tourism. South are La Herradura beach, while Los Hornos cove, Totoralillo Norte and El Temblador beach lie north. Peñuelas connects Coquimbo with La Serena and provides a casino, places to eat and stay, and further attractions.
Getting around
The area surrounding Coquimbo has plenty of beaches to explore.
Nearby places
Coquimbo provides access to popular southern beach towns including Guanaqueros and Tongoy.
Food and shopping
Calle Aldunate is Coquimbo's principal retail street. La Serena adds further choices at La Recova Market and Plaza Mall. Shops generally open 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., then 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Money
Credit cards are much less widely accepted in small towns and communities, so carry cash in the local currency, the Chilean peso, when visiting. The rate is 1 USD = 712 CLP, helping prevent unwelcome surprises.
Staying connected
Chile's official language is Spanish.
Chile's cyber-cafés provide internet access, with prices differing between towns. An hour online costs about 4 dollars in Santiago and approximately 6 dollars in Calama. Major hotels and other accommodation frequently supply internet access to guests, often without an additional fee.
Call the Ambulance service on 131, Fire Brigade on 132 and Carabineros (Chilean police) on 133. Drug Enforcement uses 135, Andean Mountain Rescue Squad 136 and Sea Rescue 137.
Opening Hours and
Chilean businesses and trading premises generally open Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m., taking a 60-minute lunch at 1 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; malls trade Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Each year, Coquimbo stages Chile's largest popular festival, La Pampilla, during Independence Day celebrations from September 18 to 20.