4 Nov 2025
Route of the Missions
LANDSCAPES:
DESERT AND ALTIPLANO
ACTIVITIES:
ADVENTURE AND SPORTS
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MORE ADVENTURE
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NATURE AND ECOTOURISM
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OUTDOOR LIFE
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FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
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RURAL TOURISM
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CULTURE AND HERITAGE
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INDIGENOUS PEOPLES
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CULTURAL SPACES
Updated on 21 de November, 2025
The historic churches of the highlands
The Route of the Missions is an incredible journey through the regions of Arica y Parinacota and Tarapacá, where you will discover ancient colonial churches that reflect the Andean cultural heritage. Built in adobe and stone between the 17th and 18th centuries, these religious centers are a testament to the blending of Spanish and Andean peoples, mainly Aymara.
The tour invites you to visit historic towns such as Socoroma, Parinacota and Isluga, each with its own festivities. In them, the religious architecture is mixed with the impressive landscapes of the highlands. This environment, populated by llamas and alpacas, extends with the majestic Andes Mountains in the background.
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Route information will be updated soon.
How to get there
How to get there by air
The nearest airport is Chacalluta International Airport in Arica (ARI), with direct flights from Santiago. From there, you must rent a vehicle or hire a tour to start the Route of the Missions. The distance from the Airport to Route 11-CH (Highway to the Highlands) is 10 km.
How to get there by land
While in Arica, you must take Route 11-CH, the main road to the Highlands and key to the missions in the area. The section to Parinacota is 190 km (3 hours). You must plan the trip carefully due to the altitude. Another option is to access from the Tarapacá Region via Route 5 South.
Must-Know Tips
Being over 3,000 meters above sea level, acclimatization and hydration are essential. The highlands have a dry climate and very cold nights, even in summer, so you will need adequate clothing for sudden changes in temperature. In rural areas, services are limited, so bring enough water, food and fuel.
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