Quillota

Quillota is a city of approximately 90,000 in the Valparaíso Region, 40 km east of Valparaíso in the fertile Aconcagua Valley. Founded in 1717, it is an important agricultural centre known for chirimoya (custard apple) and avocado production. The city has a well-preserved historic centre with the large Plaza de Armas.

By Plane

Arturo Merino Benítez Airport (SCL) in Santiago is 80 km south. Buses from Valparaíso run every 30 minutes (1 hr, CLP 2,000).

By Car / Road

From Valparaíso, take Route 60 east for 40 km (35 min). Paved road.

The town centre is compact and walkable. Local taxis and colectivos cover the residential areas.

• Plaza de Armas: one of the largest plazas in Chile, with a neoclassical cathedral, fountains, and palm trees.

• Catedral de Quillota: a 19th-century cathedral on the plaza.

• Museo de Quillota: local history and archaeology.

• Chirimoya tasting: the local chirimoya (custard apple) is famous — buy from the Mercado.

• Hiking: Cerro Mayaca has a short trail with city views.

• Restaurante La Plaza (mid-range): Chilean food. Mains CLP 6,000–12,000.
• Cocinería El Mercado (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 Quillota (shared CLP 10,000).
• Mid-range: Hotel Aconcagua (private 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.

• Valparaíso (40 km west, 35 min): historic port.
• La Calera (10 km north, 10 min): industrial town.
• Limache (15 km south, 15 min): agricultural market.
• Villa Alemana (20 km southwest, 20 min): residential city.