The department of Tacna has become the favorite destination of Chilean tourists, especially those who live in the border region of Arica. What explains this growing wave of visitors from our southern neighbor? What factors contribute to Tacna’s positioning as a preferred place for these visitors?
In 2024, one million 95,296 foreign tourists entered to Peru through the Santa Rosa Border Control Post in Tacna, and around 850,000 were Chilean, according to data from the Peruvian National Superintendency of Migration,
Why do Chilean tourists prefer to visit Tacna?
The Chilean radio website BioBio highlights in the article titled "Why has Tacna become a paradise for Chileans? The phenomenon behind the growing tourism" that Tacna has consolidated itself as an unmissable destination, with a commercial and tourist offer in constant growth that seems to leave its Chilean neighbor Arica behind.
The Chilean media emphasizes that their compatriots visit Tacna for various reasons, but the economic factor is key.
The price difference in products and services is significant compared to the southern country, making many Chileans prefer to cross into Peruvian territory to purchase goods or access health services.
Another main attraction of Tacna is the gastronomy. “Peruvian cuisine, recognized worldwide, has in Tacna a varied and affordable offer. Dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, adobo tacneño, and picante a la tacneña are among the favorites of visitors,” highlights the BioBio article.
It adds that, in addition to restaurants, commerce is another magnet for Chileans. “Tacna has a wide variety of markets and stores where one can find appliances, clothing, footwear, and electronic products at lower prices than in Chile. This has turned the city into a strategic shopping point for the residents of Arica and other northern Chilean cities,” it mentions.
Medical care
Another main reason for Chileans visiting Tacna is medical care, because the cost for dental treatments are less expensive than in Chile.
BioBio states that health costs in Chile are high, which leads many to opt for treatment in Tacna, where prices can be up to 70% lower. Services such as dental and ophthalmological consultations are the most in demand.
For example, a dental consultation costs between 60 and 70 soles (about 15,000 Chilean pesos), a very accessible price compared to what it costs there, according to Chileans interviewed by the media.
In addition, many take advantage of the offer of opticians in Tacna, where it is possible to get eye exams and buy complete glasses for significantly less than in Chile.
Commercial expansion
BioBio emphasizes that the commercial expansion of Tacna has been another determining factor in the increase of Chilean tourism.
“The city has experienced sustained growth, driven by investments in hotel infrastructure, shopping centers, and entertainment spaces,” it emphasizes.
It highlights that the hotel sector has grown with the arrival of chains such as Casa Andina and Radisson, which have bet on offering high-quality accommodations at competitive prices.
In addition, the city has modern cinemas, casinos, and amusement parks, which makes it an ideal destination for families and tourists looking for a more complete experience, it notes.
Growing tourist offer
The Chilean media also states that while commerce and gastronomy continue to be the main attractions, Tacna is developing new tourist options.
“The city seeks to position itself as a comprehensive destination, with natural and historical attractions that complement its offer,” it adds.
It highlights that one of the most notable places is the Valley of the Geysers of Candarave, located more than 4,000 meters above sea level.
“This site, with columns of steam emerging from the earth, has begun to capture the interest of visitors,” it states.
Other important tourist spots include the Boca del Río beach resort, the Calientes hot springs, and the rock paintings of the Miculla archaeological complex.
“These attractions have allowed Tacna to diversify its offer and attract tourists beyond commerce and gastronomy,” the BioBio article highlights.
Interdependence and competition
BioBio states that the relationship between Tacna and Arica is one of interdependence, but also of competition. “While the Peruvian city has managed to consolidate itself as an attractive destination, in Arica, investments in tourism and commerce are progressing more slowly,” it specifies.
It reports that the government of Arica has tried to encourage local consumption through promotion campaigns and events, but Tacna’s offer continues to be more attractive for many Chileans.
“Despite this, the connection between both cities continues to grow. Each year, it is estimated that more than 5 million people cross the border through the Chacalluta Pass, consolidating Tacna as the main border destination for Chileans,” it asserts.
Booming destination without pause
BioBio appreciates that Tacna has known how to take advantage of its strategic location and varied offer to attract thousands of Chilean tourists.
“Gastronomy, commerce, medical tourism, and new recreational options have turned this city into a true paradise for visitors from northern Chile. Residents of Arica and other Chilean regions have found in Tacna a place where they can enjoy good prices, excellent food, and quality services. As investments in infrastructure and commerce continue to grow, the Peruvian city strengthens its position as a favorite destination for tourists from the neighboring coutry,” concludes the BioBio article.
Tacna: an ideal place to live
To this report from the Chilean media is added the opinion of Chilean YouTuber Arquitecta Fran, who at the beginning of the year expressed her preference for Tacna by highlighting the low cost of living and the quality of the services the city offers.
As she revealed, Tacna represents an ideal balance between high quality of life and an affordable economy, making it an excellent option for those seeking tranquility and comfort outside the hectic urban life of Lima.
Bilateral migration agreement
The increase in Chilean tourism in Tacna is largely due to integration efforts between Peru and Chile, expressed, for example, in the Agreement between Peru and Chile for the entry and transit of their nationals as tourists, signed on July 6, 2005.
According to this official document, citizens of both nations may enter and remain, as tourists, for a maximum period of 90 days in the territory of each country, without the purpose of immigration, residence, or performing remunerated activities.
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(END) LZD/MAO/JMP / MDV
Published: 5/1/2025