A Caracoles Street is the beating heart of San Pedro de Atacamain the north of Chile. This is the city's main meeting point, where tourists and locals come together to explore a plethora of restaurants, stores, tourist agencies and an atmosphere that combines local charm with the effervescence of one of the country's most sought-after destinations.
In this guide, we'll delve into the history, curiosities and services offered on Caracoles Street, answering all your questions so that you can make the most of your visit to this iconic San Pedro de Atacama spot.
History of Caracoles Street
A Caracoles Street got its name because of its curved shape, which resembles a spiral (in Spanish, "caracol" means snail or spiral). In the past, San Pedro de Atacama was a small town, inhabited mainly by indigenous Atacameño communities. For many years, Caracoles Street was a simple dirt road, used by locals for trade and the transportation of goods.
With the increase in tourism in the Atacama Desert from the 1980s onwards, San Pedro de Atacama began to change. Caracoles Street, located in the city center, soon became the main concentration point for tourists and the place where local companies and businesses began to establish themselves.
Today, the street retains the rustic charm of its origins, with adobe buildings (typical of the region) and an atmosphere that mixes local culture with the energy of visitors from all over the world.
What to find in Calle Caracoles?
Caracoles Street is a real "tourist avenue" in the heart of San Pedro. Here, you'll find everything you need for your stay in Atacama, from tourist agencies to craft stores. Here's what you can expect:
Restaurants and bars
Caracoles Street offers a wide range of dining options, from typical Chilean dishes to international cuisine. Some highlights include:
- Traditional Atacameño food: Try local dishes such as calapurca (soup made with meat and corn) and goat's cheese empanadas, such as Emporio Andino - perfect for coffee and empanadas! Take note of this recommendation from Dias in Chile! Extra tip: always opt for the Menu of the Day, regardless of the type of restaurant.
- Breweries and bars: take advantage of the climate to relax, have a beer and enjoy live music at Chela Cabur, the only bar in the city that serves alcohol without the need to buy food.
- Ice cream parlors: with typical and artisanal flavors, don't miss Babalú - a franchise present at various points on Caracoles!
- Vegetarian and vegan options: San Pedro has a gastronomic scene that caters to all tastes, including creative vegetarian options made with local ingredients.
Craft and souvenir stores
The craft stores along Caracoles Street are an invitation to take a little piece of Atacama home with you. Among the most popular products are:
- Jewelry and accessories made with volcanic rock or lapis lazuli, a blue semi-precious stone characteristic of Chile.
- Fabrics and clothing produced by indigenous communities using alpaca or vicuña wool.
- Sculptures and decorative objects made of wood or ceramics inspired by the landscapes and culture of Atacama.
Don't miss the Mercado Blanco, an exclusive gallery for handicrafts, jewelry and other souvenirs typical of the Atacama region!
Pharmacies and essential services
If you need medicines, hygiene products or medical help, Calle Caracoles has pharmacies and small markets to supply your basic needs.
Tip: Take sunscreen and lip balm - essential items for the dry climate and high solar radiation in the Atacama.
Currency exchange and ATMs
For international tourists, there are bureaux de change on Calle Caracoles that allow you to exchange money. However, the rates can vary a lot, so it's a good idea to compare. The street also has some ATMs, but it's advisable to take cash, as not all establishments accept cards.
For emergencies, use BCI, the bank located on the Street. Always choose to use foreign ATMs, okay?
The bureaux de change are on Calle Caracoles and Calle Toconao, at the beginning of Calle Caracoles, one of the city's main landmarks!
How to make the most of Calle Caracoles?
- Explore the street on foot: Caracoles Street is compact and easy to explore on foot. Take the opportunity to observe the details of the adobe buildings and feel the vibrant atmosphere of the place.
- Talk to the localsMany of the shopkeepers and guides are long-time residents of San Pedro. They can share stories and valuable tips about the culture and the region.
- Enjoy the end of the day: Sunsets in San Pedro de Atacama are magical, and many bars and restaurants on Caracoles Street offer outdoor areas perfect for relaxing as the day draws to a close.
Frequently asked questions about Caracoles Street
Is Caracoles Street safe?
Yes, Calle Caracoles is considered safe, both during the day and at night. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to take basic precautions, such as keeping your personal belongings safe.
What are the opening hours of the establishments?
Most of the establishments on Calle Caracoles are open between 10am and 10pmBut bars and restaurants can go on until later.
Is it possible to park near Caracoles Street?
San Pedro de Atacama is a small town, and Caracoles Street is pedestrianized. There are public parking lots nearby, but it's best to avoid cars in the city center.
A Caracoles Street is much more than just a street: it is the center of cultural, gastronomic and tourist experiences in San Pedro de Atacama. Whether you want to plan unforgettable walks in the desert, taste typical dishes or immerse yourself in the local culture, this is the ideal place to start your journey in Atacama.
See more exclusive and personalized tips about Caracoles Street on our YouTube channel, with the exclusive view of Dias in Chile! Give it a play and see our recommendations:
Ao planejar sua viagem, conte com a Days in Chile to organize all the details and guarantee an incredible experience in the heart of the world's driest desert.