Arica y Parinacota Region, Administrative region in northern Chile
Arica y Parinacota is an administrative region in northern Chile that comprises two provinces. The territory stretches from the Pacific coast to the Andean mountain range, reaching elevations above 4,500 meters (14,760 feet).
The territory belonged to Peru until the War of the Pacific in the late 19th century. Chile gained control after the conflict, and the final status was settled through diplomatic negotiations.
Aymara communities have lived in the highland valleys for centuries, maintaining their language and weaving traditions. In small villages, you can still see traditional terraces where quinoa and potatoes grow.
Travelers should prepare for significant altitude differences, especially when visiting the Andean areas. Coastal zones remain mild throughout the year, while the highland zone can become very cold at night.
Parinacota Volcano forms an almost perfect cone shape and reflects in the water of the nearby lake. The summit sits right on the border between Chile and Bolivia.
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