Pica

Pica is an oasis town of approximately 6,000 in the Tarapacá Region, 100 km southeast of Iquique at 1,300 m elevation. It is famous for its mangoes, lemons, and the Cocha Resbaladero — a natural swimming hole fed by thermal springs. Pica has been inhabited since pre-Columbian times and was an important stop on the Inca road.

By Plane

Diego Aracena International Airport (IQQ) in Iquique is 100 km west. Buses from Iquique run 3–4 times daily (1.5 hr, CLP 3,000).

By Car / Road

From Iquique, take Route 16 east through Pozo Almonte, then south to Pica (100 km, 1.25 hr). Paved road.

The compact oasis is walkable.

• Cocha Resbaladero: a natural thermal pool (30°C) set in a palm-fringed canyon, with a water slide (resbaladero).

• Plaza de Armas: the main square with a white church and a monument to the oasis settlers.

• Mango and lemon groves: the oasis produces the sweetest mangoes in Chile.

• Museo de Pica: a small museum of local history and agriculture.

• Swimming at Cocha Resbaladero: the main attraction — a 30 m natural pool with warm, crystal-clear water. CLP 3,000 entry.

• Mango tasting: buy fresh mangoes, mango preserves, and mango wine from the local producers.

• Hiking: the surrounding Quebrada de Pica canyon has petroglyphs and desert scenery.

• Restaurante El Oasis (mid-range): Chilean food with local produce. Mains CLP 6,000–12,000.
• Cocinería La Mango (budget): empanadas. Mains CLP 3,000–5,000.

Tap water is safe to drink. There are a few simple bars and cafés on the main square.

• Budget: Hostal Pica (shared CLP 10,000).
• Mid-range: Cabañas del Oasis (cabins with garden, CLP 35,000–50,000).

• Mercado local: a small market selling fresh produce and basic goods.
• Almacenes de la plaza: grocery stores for daily needs.

• Iquique (100 km west, 1.5 hr): city and beaches.
• Matilla (5 km north, 5 min): smaller oasis village.
• La Tirana (30 km west, 30 min): pilgrimage town.
• Pozo Almonte (50 km northwest, 1 hr): mining service town.