Chile > By night bus through Chile

Today is a free day in the travel itinerary. We can have breakfast at the hotel between seven and nine, so at quarter to nine we sit down to eat (just like the other travelers). Afterwards, we head into the town of Arica. First, we walk to the viewpoint atop the rocky promontory. It’s a bit misty, but the sun is slowly breaking through the clouds. From the rocks, we have a beautiful view over Arica, and we can also see the small beach just south of the town. Looking down at it, we decide to go have coffee at that beach.

Chile - A day at the beach in Arica

When we arrive at the terrace, we find that there’s no cappuccino available. The waiter handles it pragmatically: he places all the types of instant coffee he has on the table and then gives everyone a cup of hot water. Done! A completely different version of self-service. The terrace suits us perfectly. From there, we test the seawater, wading in up to our knees. It isn’t until around half past three that we leave to do some shopping and check the internet in the town center. At quarter to six, we meet to have dinner at a cozy restaurant. Today I choose Lomo Champignons, and it tastes great. After dinner, we return to the hotel to gather for the overnight bus ride to San Pedro de Atacama. We take five taxis to the bus terminal, which is incredibly busy. All luggage is checked — every suitcase must be opened. There are inspections for drugs and fruit. After the check, the duffel bag is labeled and loaded onto the bus. We have reserved seats on the bus with comfortable chairs (yes, really!).

Chile - The night bus from Arica to San Pedro de Atacama

The bus departs a little after ten from Arica, heading for San Pedro de Atacama. While a movie plays on the video, Kristina collects our passports so that we can sleep through the border controls during the night. Around half past eleven, we reach the first provincial border crossing. Everyone must leave the bus with their carry-on luggage. All baggage is scanned, and the bus is inspected for fruit and possibly drugs. After about fifteen minutes, everyone is allowed back on the bus, and it’s time to sleep. I fall asleep quickly. Around half past four, we reach the second checkpoint. So far, I’ve slept well, though unfortunately not everyone has. Again, everyone must get off the bus with their carry-on luggage. This time there’s no scanning; instead, a random check is conducted. I have to show my bag, but aside from opening and closing it, the inspection is very brief. Afterwards, we continue toward Calama. Around seven o’clock, everyone is awake, and we’re offered tea with a cookie for breakfast. At Calama, the bus stops at the terminal for people to get on and off. Around nine o’clock, the bus enters San Pedro de Atacama.