Coquimbo is a beautiful, historic city located in central Chile. It is known for its beaches, fishing, and stunning coastal views. While it may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of kid-friendly destinations, there are actually a number of great things to do with kids in Coquimbo. The city’s beaches are perfect for building sand castles, fishing, and swimming, while the nearby La Serena Zoo is a great place to see Chilean animals up close. For a taste of history, families can visit the Plaza de Armas, the oldest square in Coquimbo, or the nearby Elqui Valley, home to some of Chile’s oldest wine-producing vineyards. And of course, no visit to Coquimbo would be complete without trying the local seafood, which is some of the best in Chile.
10 Fun & Kid-Friendly Things To Do In Coquimbo, Chile
1. Visit the La Serena Lighthouse: The La Serena Lighthouse is a historic landmark and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Coquimbo. The lighthouse was built in 1853 and is still in operation today. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history.
2. Climb El Morro: El Morro is a large hill located in the center of Coquimbo. The hill offers great views of the city and the harbor. Visitors can hike to the summit of the hill or take a cable car.
3. Visit the Cathedral of La Serena: The Cathedral of La Serena is the largest church in Coquimbo. The cathedral was built in the 16th century and is one of the most important historical landmarks in the city. Visitors can tour the cathedral and learn about its history.
4. Take a Boat Tour: Coquimbo is home to a large harbor and there are many boat tour operators offering tours of the area. Visitors can see the city from the water and learn about the local history and culture.
5. Visit the Museum of La Serena: The Museum of La Serena is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and historical items from the area. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Coquimbo at the museum.
6. Enjoy the Beaches: Coquimbo is home to several beaches that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. Visitors can find a variety of beach activities to enjoy including surfing, fishing, and boating.
7. Shop at the La Serena Market: The La Serena Market is the largest market in Coquimbo. The market sells a variety of goods including fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts. Visitors can find great deals on souvenirs and other items at the market.
8. Visit the La Serena Aquarium: The La Serena Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in South America. The aquarium is home to a variety of fish, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can learn about the local wildlife and see the animals up close.
9. Play Golf: Coquimbo is home to a number of golf courses that are perfect for a day of relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery while playing a round of golf.
10. Take a Day Trip: Coquimbo is located near a number of interesting places that make great day trips. Visitors can explore the vineyards of the Elqui Valley, visit the town of Vicuña, or go hiking in the Andes Mountains.