
Caleta Riquelme
A bustling fishing port in Iquique, offering the freshest seafood and a chance to see playful sea lions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See fishermen's catch

Caleta Riquelme
Best Time
See fishermen's catch

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling fishing port in Iquique, offering the freshest seafood and a chance to see playful sea lions.
"Wonderful market, very fresh fish and very friendly and talkative vendors."

🎯 Fresh Fish Prep
Ask vendors to clean even small fish; it's often included! :moneybag:
🐾 Sea Lion Snacks
Bring a snack for the sea lions, they're used to visitors! :dog:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fresh Seafood Market
Along the waterfront
Savor the freshest catch of the day, from fish to shrimp and squid, prepared by friendly local vendors.

Sea Lion Colony
Near the water's edge
Witness impressive sea lions lounging and waiting for a snack, a unique and memorable wildlife encounter.

Colorful Fishing Boats
The harbor
Admire the picturesque scene of vibrantly colored fishing boats bobbing in the harbor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Fresh Catch & Sea Lions
Seafood Delights & Atmosphere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Fresh Fish Prep
Ask vendors to clean even small fish; it's often included! :moneybag:
🐾 Sea Lion Snacks
Bring a snack for the sea lions, they're used to visitors! :dog:
⏰ Early Bird Catches
Arrive early to see fishermen unload their daily catch. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🚶♀️ Explore the Stalls
Wander through the market; the second stall on the left is highly recommended. :shopping_cart:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Fresh Fish Prep
Ask vendors to clean even small fish; it's often included! :moneybag:
🐾 Sea Lion Snacks
Bring a snack for the sea lions, they're used to visitors! :dog:
⏰ Early Bird Catches
Arrive early to see fishermen unload their daily catch. :fishingpoleand_வத:
🚶♀️ Explore the Stalls
Wander through the market; the second stall on the left is highly recommended. :shopping_cart:
🍽️ Local Eats
Try the ceviche or empanadas for a delicious local bite. :taco:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Caleta Riquelme is celebrated for its incredibly fresh seafood and the lively atmosphere of its fishing port. Visitors enjoy interacting with friendly vendors and the unique opportunity to see sea lions. However, some find the area can be quite dirty and feel unsafe at times, suggesting a need for awareness.
"Wonderful market, very fresh fish and very friendly and talkative vendors. I liked the second stand on the left, he really cleans even the smallest fish for you. Which is included in the price."
tanja s
"This is a street of small shopping facilities with a nice square. Nice place. Might feel a bit crowded at times. Fast food shops also available."
Anwar Hoque
"Came for the seal lions. Very impressive animals. Just walk in the building and go to the sea and you ll find them waiting for food."
Lukas Mohr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Caleta Riquelme is located in the port area of Iquique. You can reach it by taxi or a short drive from the city center. Some TikToks show it's about a 15-minute drive from the city.
Public transport options might be available, but taxis are a convenient choice for tourists.Yes, it's a well-known spot in Iquique. Instagram Reels often showcase aerial views, indicating good accessibility for visitors.
For a culinary experience, consider a taxi or ride-sharing service to get directly to the restaurants within the caleta. This ensures you don't miss out on the fresh seafood options.
While not explicitly detailed in the provided content, being a port area, parking might be available but could be limited during peak hours. It's advisable to check locally or consider drop-off options.
Depending on your starting point in Iquique, it might be a considerable walk. It's generally recommended to use local transport for convenience and to save time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Caleta Riquelme is a public fishing port and market, so there are no entrance fees. You can freely explore the area and enjoy the atmosphere.
The market is most active in the early mornings when fishermen bring in their catch. Restaurants and stalls generally operate during daytime hours, with some potentially open into the evening. It's best to visit during daylight for the full experience.
One Instagram Reel mentioned that Caleta Riquelme was temporarily closed for sanitation but has since reopened.
It's always a good idea to check for any recent updates if you're planning a visit.There is no admission fee to see the sea lions. They are a natural part of the environment at Caleta Riquelme and can be observed freely.
While some restaurants might accept reservations, it's generally a more casual dining experience. For popular spots, arriving earlier or being prepared for a short wait is often the norm.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find an incredible variety of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, clams, and squid, directly from the fishermen. Many vendors offer to prepare it for you on the spot.
TikToks mention restaurants like 'Donde los Emis' on the second floor
and 'Cevicheria La Reyna'. Reviewers also praise the second stall on the left for excellent fish cleaning services.Ceviche and fresh fish preparations are highly recommended. TikToks also mention trying empanadas
and other seafood dishes. The key is to go with what's freshest that day!Yes, buying directly from fishermen and local stalls can be very affordable. While some restaurants might have higher prices, the market offers great value for fresh seafood.
Absolutely! Caleta Riquelme is the perfect place to buy the freshest seafood to take home and prepare yourself. Vendors are happy to help you select the best options.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the fishing boats,
the bustling market activity, and the playful sea lions. The aerial views from Instagram Reels also offer stunning perspectives of the caleta.While most visitors have positive experiences, one review mentioned feeling unsafe and observing shady characters.
It's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.Early mornings offer great light and the chance to photograph fishermen at work. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also provide beautiful lighting for the boats and the sea.
The harbor with its colorful boats and the area where the sea lions gather are prime spots. The market stalls themselves also offer a lot of visual interest.
Most vendors are friendly and may be happy to have their photo taken, especially if you're purchasing from them. Always ask for permission before taking close-up shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting with children, consider arriving earlier in the day to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. While the market is lively, some areas might feel a bit gritty, so keeping a close eye on little ones is recommended. The fresh seafood options are plentiful, and many vendors are friendly, potentially making it an enjoyable outing for the whole family.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are restaurants within the caleta, exploring the market for raw ingredients or simpler preparations like empanadas can significantly stretch your budget. The experience of the bustling port and the chance to see sea lions are free, adding to the value. It's a place where you can immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy great food without breaking the bank.
🍽️ Foodies & Seafood Lovers
Don't miss the opportunity to try the local ceviche or have your freshly bought fish expertly cleaned and prepared. The friendly vendors are often passionate about their products and can offer recommendations. It's an authentic culinary adventure where the star is the incredible seafood sourced directly from the Pacific Ocean.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Culinary Heart of Caleta Riquelme
Beyond buying raw ingredients, Caleta Riquelme boasts several eateries that serve up delicious seafood dishes. TikTok creators have highlighted spots like 'Donde los Emis' for its second-floor dining experience and 'Cevicheria La Reyna', suggesting a vibrant culinary scene. The ceviche and fresh fish preparations are particularly popular, offering a taste of the ocean's bounty. It's a place where you can truly savor the authentic flavors of Iquique's coastal cuisine.
Encountering the Local Wildlife: Sea Lions
While observing these animals is a highlight, it's important to remember they are wild creatures. Visitors are advised to maintain a respectful distance and avoid feeding them anything other than appropriate food if permitted. The presence of the sea lions contributes to the lively and natural atmosphere of Caleta Riquelme, making it a memorable stop for wildlife enthusiasts.
Navigating the Atmosphere and Vibe
However, it's worth noting that some visitors have described the area as 'extremely dirty' and 'unsafe,' with 'shady characters' present. This suggests that while the market offers fresh produce and a lively vibe, it might also have areas that feel less polished or secure. Being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure is advisable, as with any busy public space. Despite these concerns, many reviews highlight the friendly and talkative vendors, contributing to a positive overall experience for most.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit