A mountain on the international border, a wetland with migratory birds, and a route through rural towns show how varied the discoveries in Copiapó Province can be. Between high mountains, coast and industrial history, the scenery shifts: wildlife observation, water sports, geological history and traces of ore transport shape the options.
High mountains and a landscape of sand
Volcán Ojos del Salado is a 6,891-meter-high stratovolcano on the border between Argentina and Chile. The volcano is recommended for mountaineering; its ascent is a goal for climbers. Adventurers come to the area during the climbing season from October to March. For specific plans, check current conditions and access.
Mar de Dunas also offers a distinct perspective on the landscape: it stretches across the municipalities of Chañaral, Caldera and Copiapó. Its dune slopes are suitable for sandboarding and off-road vehicle rides. Here, sand and movement across the slopes shape the experience, rather than a mountain ascent. Conditions and tour availability may change; check them before making specific outdoor plans.
Coast and birdlife
Bahía Inglesa offers kitesurfing, windsurfing, kayaking and diving. This gives you a choice of different ways to enjoy water sports, from wind-dependent activities to kayaking and diving.
Humedal Desembocadura Río Copiapó is an important habitat for migratory birds. About 20 species come from the Río Loa wetland; these include Coscoroba swan (Coscoroba coscoroba), many-colored rush tyrant (Tachuris rubrigastra), black-necked stilt (Himantopus mexicanus), yellow-winged blackbird (Agelasticus thilius) and austral negrito (Lessonia rufa). Here, wildlife observation takes center stage, while the activities at Bahía Inglesa cover water sports.
Fossils and industrial history
Parque Paleontológico Los Dedos near Caldera preserves the remains of marine fauna that became extinct millions of years ago, and is of scientific and cultural-historical value. Interpretive trails, an open-air museum with reconstructions and a visitor center offer different ways to explore this heritage: the trail leads through the open-air museum, while the visitor center provides context about the area's paleontological significance. Check current access conditions before your visit.
The port and railway also tell a specific story. The port of Caldera was established in connection with the construction of the first railway by the Compañía de Ferrocarriles de Copiapó: the need for a port to ship minerals was the deciding factor. Another historical trace can be found in Copiapó. In 1978, the Museo Regional de Atacama moved to the restored historic building known as Casa de los Hermanos Matta Goyenechea.
A route through rural towns
Ruta Copayapu is a rural tourism route more than 55 kilometers long in the valley of Copiapó Province. It passes through Toledo, Chamonate, Piedra Colgada and Hacienda San Pedro. Its length and the towns it passes through give you a sense of the route. Before planning your visit, check current operating and service information.
Discover more destinations: Copiapó, Caldera, Tierra Amarilla, Huasco Province and Chañaral.
Go to the broader travel overview: Atacama Region.
