Tacna - Discovering Peru

Travelling to Tacna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tacna, a pretty good destination in Peru (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tacna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tacna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Peru, here's everything to know about Tacna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tacna

Sure, Tacna is a city located in southern Peru, close to the border with Chile. It has a population of around 300,000 people and is known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and strategic location as a commercial center. Tacna has a warm and dry climate, with temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F) throughout the year. The city is home to various museums, parks, and cultural attractions, as well as traditional Peruvian food and handicraft markets. Additionally, Tacna is a popular stopover for tourists traveling to nearby destinations such as the Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca, and Machu Picchu.

What to visit in Tacna

Here are some of the tourist attractions in Tacna, Peru: 1. Arco Parabólico: This is a majestic structure with a parabolic arch. It was built in honor of the Peruvian army's victory in the War of the Pacific. The arch is illuminated at night, and it's a great place for taking photos.
2. Alto de la Alianza: This is a historical site located on a hill where the Battle of Tacna took place during the War of the Pacific. Here you can see a monument in honor of the Peruvian soldiers who fought in the battle, as well as a museum that showcases weapons and uniforms from the time.
3. Paseo Cívico: This is a pedestrian street that connects Arco Parabólico with the Plaza de Armas. It's a great place to walk and see the city's architecture, such as the government palace and the Cathedral of Tacna.
4. Paseo del Recuerdo: This is a beautiful park where you can find a large memorial to fallen soldiers. There are also several statues and sculptures that honor Tacna's history.
5. Calientes hot springs: These hot springs are located just outside of Tacna and are a great place to relax and unwind. The water is naturally heated and has therapeutic properties.
6. Casa Museo Jorge Basadre: This is the former home of renowned historian Jorge Basadre. The museum showcases his personal collection of books, documents, and art.
7. Mirador del Cerro Intiorko: This is a lookout point located on a hill overlooking Tacna. From here, you can see a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains.
8. Mercado Central: This is a bustling market where you can find a wide variety of products, from fresh produce to handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Tacna!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Peru, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tacna.

When to go on holiday to Tacna

The best time to visit Tacna is between the months of April and November when the weather is dry and sunny. The temperatures during this time are around 20-25°C which is very pleasant. However, it's important to note that Tacna can be visited all year round because it has a mild climate due to its location in the southern desert area of Peru. The rainy season is from December to March and although it may rain a little bit, the temperatures are still mild. It's important to check the weather forecast before you go to Tacna to ensure that the weather conditions are favorable for your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tacna

There are different ways to get to Tacna, Peru depending on where you are coming from. Here are some options: 1. By Air: The closest airport to Tacna is the Coronel FAP Carlos Ciriani Santa Rosa International Airport (TCQ). You can try to book a flight from the Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima to Tacna.
2. By Bus: Tacna is accessible via bus from several cities in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, including Arequipa, Lima, La Paz, Arica, and Santiago. There are several bus companies like Oltursa, Cruz del Sur, and Ormeño which have daily routes to Tacna.
3. By Car: You can also consider renting a car and drive to Tacna. There are several car rental companies available in nearby cities such as Arica and Arequipa.
Note: Make sure to check the current travel restrictions and entry requirements due to COVID-19 before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tacna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tacna

Sure, here are some typical foods you might find in Tacna, Peru: 1. Chairo: This is a hearty soup made with meat, vegetables, and chuño (freeze-dried potatoes). It's often served with a spicy sauce called ají.
2. Locro: This is another soup made with potatoes, cheese, and a variety of other ingredients like corn, beans, and meat. It's a traditional dish during celebrations.
3. Causa rellena: This dish's base is mashed yellow potatoes mixed with lime, chili and oil, that is layered with different fillings like avocado, chicken, tuna, or shrimp.
4. Arroz con pollo: This is a popular rice dish made with chicken, vegetables, and spices like cumin and aji panca.
5. Picante de cuy: A spicy dish made of guinea pig meat mixed with a sauce of aji, peanuts, garlic, and other spices.
6. Empanadas: These are small baked or fried pastries filled with meat, cheese, and vegetables.
7. Helado de fraile: A dessert made of ice cream mixed with fruits, nuts, and syrup.
8. Chicha morada: A refreshing drink made of purple corn mixed with spices and fruits like pineapple and lime.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods you can taste in Tacna, Peru!
You can find general info about typical foods in Peru here.

Is Tacna an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Peru, Tacna can be considered a bit more expensive. However, it is still an affordable destination for most travelers. The cost of accommodation, transportation, and food in Tacna is generally less expensive than in more popular tourist destinations such as Cusco or Lima. Additionally, there are a variety of options for different budgets, ranging from budget hostels to luxury hotels. It is always a good idea to research and plan ahead to find the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Tacna

The best areas to find accommodation in Tacna are the city center, known as the Plaza de Armas area, and the surrounding neighborhoods of Pocollay, Magisterial, and Cercado. These areas have easy access to popular tourist attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants. Additionally, these areas have good transportation connections, making it convenient to travel around the city and surrounding areas.
You can check hotel prices at Tacna here:
Booking.com

Is Tacna a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Tacna is generally a safe place for tourists. However, like in any other city around the world, it is always recommended to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. - Avoid walking alone at night in less-populated or poorly lit areas - Keep your valuable belongings with you at all times and avoid carrying large amounts of cash - Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts - Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services to get around the city Overall, Tacna is a popular tourist destination and thousands of visitors come here every year without any problems.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Peru here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tacna.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tacna the most?

Tacna, Peru is a city that will appeal to a mix of travelers, including couples, young people, and families. Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway exploring the city's charming streets and squares, visiting museums and churches, and indulging in local cuisine. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the lively nightlife scene in Tacna, with a variety of bars, clubs, and casinos to choose from. Families can also enjoy the city's attractions, such as the Tacna Cathedral, the Alameda Bolognesi park, and the Museo Ferroviario. Additionally, Tacna is located near the coast, offering options for a day trip to the beach. Overall, Tacna is a destination that can be enjoyed by travelers of all ages and interests.

How to get around Tacna

In Tacna, you can move around by taxi, bus or walking. Taxis are the most convenient option, but you should ensure that the taxi is reputable and uses a meter. Buses are cheaper but can be crowded at peak times. Walking is a good option for short distances, but you should take care as the traffic can be chaotic.

What to see around Tacna

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tacna: 1. Arica, Chile - located just across the border from Tacna, Arica is a beautiful coastal city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do.
2. Pampa de la Quinua - this historic site is well-known for being the site of the Battle of Ayacucho, a key moment in Peru's fight for independence.
3. Santa Rosa de Tacna Shrine - a beautiful and historic church located in Tacna that is a popular destination for religious pilgrimages.
4. Rio Seco Hot Springs - just a short drive from Tacna, these hot springs are a great place to relax and unwind.
5. Toquepala Caves - located about 100 km from Tacna, these stunning caves are filled with fascinating geological formations and underground rivers. 6. Titicaca Lake - while this is a bit further away, it's still possible to visit this beautiful lake on a day trip from Tacna. The lake is known for its stunning views, unique wildlife, and interesting indigenous communities. These are just some of the many incredible places you can visit in a day trip from Tacna.
For every travel information about Peru you can click here.

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