Arica seeks to boost economy through Chinchorro culture tourism

Arica is seeking to revitalize its local economy by leveraging the Chinchorro culture, a funerary tradition dating back over 7,000 years. Despite being recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, local leaders argue that this cultural heritage has not yet been fully translated into significant tourism development.

Mayor Orlando Vargas emphasized the need for central government support to strengthen Arica as a bifronteral city and a destination for senior tourism. He announced plans to promote the city's attractions at the Expo Cruz in Bolivia in September 2026.

Ricardo Jorquera, director of the Arica Chamber of Tourism, noted that while the Azapa Museum saw approximately 42,000 visitors in 2025, challenges remain regarding infrastructure, visual appeal, and effective communication of the mummies' scientific value. Industry representatives suggest that diversifying the tourism offer to include nature, gastronomy, and year-round activities is essential to compete globally.