Coquimbo
 
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Coquimbo, with a population of 120,000, is the underappreciated sister city of La Serena. It is the main port for the area and includes a rocky peninsula that forms the southern part of the bay that both cities sit upon (Bahia de Coquimbo). A labyrinth of unique houses and assorted buildings has grown up on the rocky outcrops of the peninsula that overlook the central plaza as well as the main port. Coquimbo - LookoutThis area is well worth a visit (in daytime only, as shadier folk seem to populate it at night), with a dozen or so zig-zagging stairways winding upwards at the end of the main avenues of town. A fantastic view of the entire bay including La Serena in the distance is possible from one of the many miradores (lookouts) up top. There are also tidal pools at the point of the peninsula that are a popular swimming spot at low tide. Outrageously good seafood can be had at the various restaurants around the central market or purchased fresh from the stalls at the pier moments after arriving from the fleet of boats that dock there. From the wharf one can take tranquil half hour tours of the harbor and enjoy the feel of the ocean as well as its salty smell. Like La Serena, Coquimbo is surrounded by some of Chile´s most beautiful beaches both to the north and south.
   
Hotels
 
  Hotel Iberia
 

Accomodation Service
Cafe, fax service.

Prices
 Double US$25, Triple US$33, Quadruple US$37, Quintuple US$43
Rates valid until 31 December 2005

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  Hotel Lig
 

Accomodation Service
Bar, cafe, laundry, parking, fax service.

Prices
Single US$20, Double US$32, Triple US$39
Suite Single US$34, Suite Double US$51, Suite Triple US$60
Rates valid until 2005

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Activities
 
  Culture, Historic Buildings
 

Plaza de Armas:
This aged plaza is a nice place to relax on a bench in the shade of huge trees and take in the salty sea air. It has fountains, a few artisans selling their wares and an incredible population of black crowned night herons nested in the upper reaches of some of the ancient trees. Several of the city´s unique stairways lead from the Plaza upwards towards the rocky heights overlooking the entire bay. The Plaza is located off Metgarego street.

Fish Market:
This is only the largest fish market in the entire Fourth Region, but it even has something for those who are not seafood lovers. On Sundays the market becomes packed with stalls of all sorts and people strolling around and haggling for deals. It is a spectacle in itself, but also a gastronomic feast for those who love to consume the freshest of seafood. Empanadas de mariscos (fried dough stuffed with seafood) are a specialty of the region. When you get tired of the market, there is a nice park nearby in which to rest. The market is located just behind the main docks of the Coquimbo wharf.

Note:
Unfortunately for , it is usually placed in the shadow of its more famous and upscale sister up the bay, La Serena. This guide is no different. I will only mention the attractions located directly in the city of Coquimbo. For information on beaches and other excursions outside of the city, please look in the La Serena directory for ACTIVITIES. I apologize to the wonderful inhabitants of Coquimbo for the ongoing slighting of their unique home, of which I am now a contributor.