Entrance to the historical military museum
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Museo Histórico y de Armas Arica

4.6
·480 reviews·Arica, Chile

Discover Arica's military past and breathtaking coastal views from the historic Morro. A must-visit for history buffs and photographers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Entrance to the historical military museum

Museo Histórico y de Armas Arica

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Arica's military past and breathtaking coastal views from the historic Morro. A must-visit for history buffs and photographers.

4.6
(480 reviews)

"A nice little museum with history all the way around and stunning views."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views from the Morro; they're perfect for photos!

💰 Budget-Friendly Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable, making it a great value for history and views.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Morro Views

Panoramic Morro Views

Top of Morro de Arica

Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Arica, the Pacific Ocean, and the coastline. A must-see for photographers and history buffs alike.

Military Artifact Collection

Military Artifact Collection

Museum Interior

Discover a compelling array of historical weapons, uniforms, and memorabilia detailing the region's military past.

The Guard Cat

The Guard Cat

Museum Entrance/Interior

A friendly feline resident who often welcomes visitors, adding a touch of charm to the historical setting.

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Planning Your Visit

Morro Views & Military History

Perched atop the iconic Morro de Arica, this museum offers stunning panoramic views of the city and coast. Explore a fascinating collection of military artifacts, delving into the region's rich history. Plan for a visit that combines breathtaking scenery with historical insights.

Affordable Entry & Guard Cat

Enjoy a budget-friendly experience with a nominal entrance fee. Keep an eye out for the museum's resident guard cat, a charming furry friend who often greets visitors, adding a unique touch to your historical exploration. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Enjoy the golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🇨🇱Panorama para el día del patrimonio: Cambio de guardia historico en la Brigada Motorizada N.⁰ 4 "Rancagua" y Museo Histórico y de armas del morro. ✅ Mañana domingo Cambio de guardia histórico con los uniformes de la época a las 10:00, 12:00, 15:00 y 16:30 hrs. ✅ Se presentara una muestra de material militar. 👍 #aricayparinacota #aricaesbacán #chile #arica #paratí
aricaesbacan_
1.2K likes • 38.1K views

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views from the Morro; they're perfect for photos! Instagram+1

💰 Budget-Friendly Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable, making it a great value for history and views. Reddit

Lo mejor de Arica 🇨🇱 #recomendado 📍Morro de Arica 📍Museo Histórico y de Armas 📍Catedral de San Marcos (Arquitectura de Gustave Eiffel) 📍Plaza Colon, Parque Vicuña Mackenna, Parque Brasil 📍Cuevas de Anzota 📍Parque Nacional Lauca (Lago Chungará 🌋) 📍Playas: El Laucho, Chinchorro, La Lisera Algo de lo que me faltó por conocer: 😢 -Museo Arqueológico de Azapa -Museo Momias Chinchorro -Laguna ro...
lelenapz
541 likes • 12.3K views
Museo Histórico y de Armas del Morro de Arica
lobodelosbienesraices
4 likes • 148 views

🐾 Meet the Guard Cat

Look out for the friendly resident cat who often greets visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Morro

Combine your museum visit with a walk around the Morro for more stunning vistas. Instagram

Arica é uma cidade portuária no norte do Chile conhecida pelas suas praias de surf. Perto do centro, um caminho conduz ao Morro Arica, que tem vistas deslumbrantes e o museu de guerra Museo Histórico y de Armas. A Catedral de São Marcos em metal e madeira, de estilo gótico, concebida pelo arquiteto francês Gustave Eiffel, data de 1876. As planícies elevadas da Cordilheira dos Andes elevam-se p...
nordestinosnorumodaventa
21 likes • 216 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Views

Don't miss the incredible panoramic views from the Morro; they're perfect for photos! Instagram+1

💰 Budget-Friendly Entry

The entrance fee is very affordable, making it a great value for history and views. Reddit

🐾 Meet the Guard Cat

Look out for the friendly resident cat who often greets visitors. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Morro

Combine your museum visit with a walk around the Morro for more stunning vistas. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(480 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Museo Histórico y de Armas Arica for its stunning panoramic views and affordable entry fee. The historical military collection is noted as interesting, offering a glimpse into the region's past. A unique highlight for many is the friendly resident guard cat.

"Nice little museum. Even has a guard cat who likes to great some visitors."

Lane H.

"Historical place, the entrance fee CLP 1000 for Adult and CLP 500 for Children or Elder"

MaYu Chan

"Very interesting museum in a beautiful location."

Max Reitenauer

What People Like

Spectacular panoramic views
Affordable entrance fee
Interesting historical artifacts

What People Dislike

Can be crowded at peak times

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The museum is located atop the Morro de Arica. You can reach it by car, taxi, or by walking up the scenic path from the city center. The walk offers increasingly impressive views as you ascend. Instagram+1

Limited parking is available near the summit of the Morro. Taxis and ride-sharing services can also take you directly to the entrance. Instagram

Yes, a well-maintained path leads up to the Morro, offering a pleasant walk with rewarding views. It's a good option for those who enjoy a bit of exercise. Instagram+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The museum has a very affordable entrance fee, typically around CLP 1000 for adults and CLP 500 for children or seniors. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daytime hours. It's advisable to check local listings or inquire beforehand, especially for special events like 'Museos en Verano'. Instagram

Advance booking is usually not required for general admission. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. Reddit

Occasionally, museums participate in events like 'Museos en Verano' which offer free admission for a day. Keep an eye out for such promotions. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The museum houses a collection of historical military artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, and documents, offering insights into the region's past conflicts. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The museum's location on the Morro provides stunning panoramic views of Arica and the coastline, perfect for photography. Instagram+1

Yes, children can find the historical artifacts interesting, and the panoramic views are always a hit. The friendly guard cat is also a highlight for younger visitors. Reddit

The 'Cambio de Guardia' is a historical reenactment with period uniforms that sometimes takes place at the museum, offering a unique glimpse into military traditions. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The best photo opportunities are from the museum's exterior terraces, offering sweeping views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. The interior displays also make for interesting shots. Instagram+1

Generally, photography is allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. Instagram

Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for both the cityscapes and the museum's architecture. Mornings can also be good for clearer skies. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families visiting the Museo Histórico y de Armas Arica will find a blend of engaging history and stunning views. The affordable entrance fee makes it an accessible outing for all budgets. Reddit Kids often enjoy spotting the resident guard cat, adding a fun, unexpected element to the visit. Reddit The panoramic views from the Morro are also a big hit, providing a great backdrop for family photos and a chance to point out different parts of the city. Instagram+1

While the military artifacts might be more appreciated by older children or adults, the overall experience of exploring the Morro and learning about its history can be educational and exciting. Consider making it part of a larger day exploring the Morro and nearby attractions. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

This museum is a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers. The entrance fee is very low, making it one of the most affordable attractions in Arica. Reddit You get incredible value for your money, combining historical exhibits with spectacular panoramic views of the city and coastline. Instagram+1

Combine your visit with a walk up the Morro instead of taking a taxi to save even more. Pack some snacks and water, as dining options directly at the museum might be limited, but the views are priceless and free to enjoy for as long as you like. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Morro de Arica: A Strategic Landmark

The Museo Histórico y de Armas is strategically located atop the Morro de Arica, a prominent hill that has played a crucial role in the region's history. Its elevated position offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding coastline, making it a natural vantage point for both defense and observation. The museum itself leverages this location to provide visitors with not only historical context but also breathtaking scenery. Instagram+1

Historically, the Morro has been a site of significant military importance, particularly during the War of the Pacific. The museum's collection directly reflects this, showcasing military artifacts, weapons, uniforms, and historical documents that narrate the events and struggles that shaped Arica. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the battles fought and the strategic significance of this landmark. Instagram+1

Beyond its military past, the Morro is now a popular tourist destination. The ascent to the museum is an experience in itself, with pathways offering increasingly impressive vistas. It's a place where history, natural beauty, and strategic importance converge, offering a compelling visit for any traveler interested in the region's heritage. Instagram+1

A Glimpse into Arica's Military Past

The Museo Histórico y de Armas Arica serves as a repository for the region's military heritage, offering a tangible connection to its past. The collection is diverse, featuring a range of historical weaponry, from early firearms to more modern pieces, alongside military uniforms that represent different eras and branches of service. These exhibits provide a visual narrative of the conflicts and defense strategies employed in the area. Instagram+1

Visitors often highlight the historical significance of the artifacts, noting how they bring to life the stories of soldiers and battles. The museum's location on the Morro, a site of historical contention, further enhances the immersive experience. It's a place where one can truly appreciate the strategic importance of Arica throughout history. Reddit

Some visitors also mention the unique presence of a guard cat at the museum, adding an unexpected and charming element to the historical exploration. This blend of serious historical exhibits with a touch of local character makes the museum a memorable stop. Reddit

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