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The Top 10 Things to See and Do in Iquique, Chile

Often times, when you’re travelling a country of such length like Chile , you can get caught up in the rush of trying to see everything so quickly. This goes against everything that Chile’s about, which you’ll see when you visit the town of Iquique—a beautiful beach city with an ocean that’s several shades of blue and a historic centre that offers the perfect balance of culture and relaxation.

Playa cavancha.

The most popular beach in Iquique, Playa Cavancha is the bustling, beautiful, golden lining of the city. Running along the Pacific Ocean, Cavancha is a great place to join in on a game of beach soccer, paddle ball, volleyball, work out on its exercise bars, take a dip in the refreshing ocean or just slowly cruise along its boardwalk at a leisurely pace away from the centre of town.

Corbeta Esmeralda

Museo regional de iquique.

Municipal Theatre of Iquique

Cerro dragon sand boarding.

Surfing down a gigantic mountain of sand is definitely not something you can do everywhere and when the sun is setting over Iquique, there is no other place you’ll want to be. The view itself from Cerro Dragon is worth the journey, and a tour that lets you glide down its sand makes this one of the most special sunset experiences you will ever have.

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Humberstone

Calle baquedano.

Walking down this wide, pedestrian-only street leading into the centre of town, you’ll feel like you’re in the Wild West and not present-day Chile. The train tracks running down the street’s centre provide proof of the old street cars that used to run on it and the faded, wooden, saloon-style architecture is reflective of Iquique’s mining history, an instrumental part of the city’s establishment. Calle Baquedano is a great street to wander on for a bite to eat or a drink in the sun.

Marinero Desconocido

Iquique naval museum.

Museum, Building

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12 Best Things to Do in Iquique, Chile

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital of Chile’s Tarapaca Region , Iquique is a very interesting city to visit with a lot of different sides. Lying along the country’s northern coastline, right by the Atacama Desert , it attracts everyone from beachgoers and gamblers to sandboarders, shoppers and paragliders.

Set in a stunning spot beneath towering dunes, the coastal city was founded in the sixteenth century. The strategic port remained part of Peru however until the War of the Pacific in 1883. It was around this time that a nitrate mining boom financed the construction of many of the beautiful old buildings that dot its historic center today.

After this industry’s collapse and decades of decline, it became a duty-free zone to entice shoppers and investors alike. As a result, there are now some massive malls and a couple of casinos to check out, scattered around town.

Other than shopping and exploring its charming old colonial center, there are also more active things to do in Iquique thanks to a huge range of exciting adventure sports. Due to Iquique’s unique setting, these include not just scuba diving and surfing but sandboarding and paragliding too.

12. Teatro Municipal

One of the city’s most important and impressive buildings, the marvelous Teatro Municipal lines one side of the picturesque Plaza Arturo Prat. Over the decades, it has put on countless top-class shows and concerts by both local and international acts. After numerous delays, all its ongoing renovations are scheduled to be completed sometime in 2023.

Remarkably built back in 1889, the old theater exhibits some exquisite architecture with its brilliantly bright white facade overlooking the iconic clock tower in the center of the square outside. Other than admiring its ornate neoclassical features and snapping some pics, visitors can usually also enter its richly-decorated amphitheater.

Dedicated teams are currently working to restore its three floors, hallowed stage and brightly painted ceiling to their former glory. Once open again, it will be amazing to see the historical theater sparkle and new acts take to the stage. As it is, its refined facade already makes for some fabulous viewing.

11. Go Paragliding

If you’re after an exhilarating experience, it’s hard to beat parasailing above the coastal city’s soaring mountains and surrounding desert . Thanks to its unique setting, it is one of the best places to go in the world with flying conditions almost always being ideal.

From town, a number of companies run unforgettable excursions that see you soar through the sky, many hundreds of meters above the ground and glinting ocean. What makes Iquique so perfect is its dry climate and steady ocean breeze combining to create consistent thermals. With only a handful of non-flyable days per year, pilots of all levels can clock up some serious air time.

On top of this, the professional guides and their expert equipment will also ensure you have the best time imaginable. Gliding gracefully through the sky above all the magnificent mountains, desert and coastline is an unbelievable feeling like no other.

10. Zofri Mall

Back on firm ground again is the absolutely massive Zofri Mall. Located on the north side of town, its endless shops lie within one of the world’s largest duty-free zones. This means there are lots of great deals to be had with plenty of cafes and restaurants also on offer.

Almost like a mini-city, the colossal shopping complex was first opened to the public in 1976. Its low price tags and enticing tax rates mean shoppers and investors have flocked here ever since. Across its two vast floors, you can buy everything from accessories and electronics to clothes, jewellery and even car parts.

The gleaming mall also contains a huge food court while roughly 450 stores, restaurants, businesses and service providers pack out almost every conceivable space. Although not big shoppers, we were amazed at its size and the sheer number of people and products found there.

9. Regional Museum

For visitors interested in learning more about Iquique and its surroundings, the highly-rated Regional Museum is an absolute must. Now occupying the city’s former courthouse, its fascinating artifacts and exhibits lie a few blocks south of Plaza Arturo Prat.

Founded in 1960, the museum’s well-done displays now cover everything from the lives and cultures of pre-Columbian peoples to Iquique’s interesting origins and the impactful Pacific War. Other rooms look at the region’s important nitrate mines and ancient Incan mummies uncovered in the area.

Photo exhibits also explore its age-old past as does a walk-through recreation of a traditional adobe altiplano village. Its collection encompasses not just examples of old coins and rusting miners’ gear but stuffed animals, sparkling jewellery and even some elongated skulls.

We really loved the museum due to its well-thought-out exhibitions and the remarkable architecture of the historic building itself. Bordering the beautiful Baquedano Street, it boasts a colourful facade, lovely courtyard and light and airy galleries.

8. Go Surfing

Another fun activity to try in town is surfing atop the sizeable swells that pound its Pacific coastline. At the northern end of the popular Playa Cavancha, you can find a number of challenging breaks and cylindrical barrels.

While many of these rather gnarly reef breaks are only suitable for experienced pros, there are some schools nearby where you can learn to surf. Starting on the beach, the teacher will show you how to balance before you advance to the open ocean. Here you’ll learn how to stand up, paddle out and safely surf small waves.

Skillful surfers can already attempt exciting but intimidating breaks such as Punta Dos, Las Urracas and El Bestia. If surfing is not your thing, you can always try bodyboarding and windsurfing instead or watch others zip across the ocean’s shimmering surface on their boards.

7. Trip to the Red Lagoon

One of the most spellbinding natural attractions in the area, the Red Lagoon lies roughly four hours’ drive away amidst the inhospitable Atacama. Its bright blood-red waters make for some fantastic photos, standing out delightfully against the desolate desert around them.

Hidden away in a remote part of the Chilean highlands , the mysterious lake has numerous myths and legends explaining its dazzling color. In reality, scientists are unsure why the little studied lagoon is red with most attributing it to algae and sediments.

Despite the long, tiring, difficult drive through the Andes to the lagoon, taking a tour here is well worth it. Aside from ogling at its unusual hue, you can also take in all the dramatic landscapes and scenery you pass on the way. There are also yellow and green lagoons to see nearby and ancient petroglyphs to stop off at along the route.

6. Plaza Prat

The heart and soul of life in the city, Plaza Prat is bordered by many of its most impressive buildings. Fountains and flowerbeds also decorate the wide, open square while the spectacular Torre del Reloj clocktower rises theatrically in the center.

The pretty plaza and its attractive old buildings as we know them today largely date to the 1880s and 1920s. After a devastating earthquake leveled much of the city center back in 1877, the square was reconstructed and re-imagined. A nitrate mining boom financed the building of the Teatro Municipal and majestic Moorish-style Spanish Casino and clocktower among others.

Other than ambling about enjoying the ambience and taking photos of all the fine architecture, there are some excellent restaurants and cafes to try out. Fun dance classes, concerts, crafts markets and community events are also regularly held here.

5. Museo Corbeta Esmeralda

Just a short walk north of the expansive plaza is a life-sized replica of the Esmeralda. Sunk just off of Iquique during the War of the Pacific, the massive museum ship is full of interesting period artifacts and exhibits on its past.

Now located along the waterfront, the huge wooden-hulled steam corvette was commissioned by the navy in 1855. It was eventually sunk during the Battle of Iquique by the ironclad Peruvian Huascar on 21st May 1879. Commanded by the Chilean national hero Arturo Prat who died trying to board the enemy ship, its loss actually led to the country mobilizing behind the war and winning it in 1884.

Aboard the very well-done replica, you can see where the sailors ate, slept and fought and learn about the fierce battle. We found the ship fascinating as we didn’t know much about the hugely important War of the Pacific before visiting. A must-see, it has very informative guided tours to take about its decks.

4. Baquedano Street

On the opposite side of the square to the ship is the bustling Baquedano Street. Another of the most popular attractions in town, the long avenue is lined by lots of lovely old historic buildings. Top-class restaurants and bars can also be found along here as can souvenir shops and cultural institutions.

Also dating to between the 1880s and 1920s, many of its traditional wood houses were erected after the 1877 earthquake with proceeds from the mining boom. Known for its ‘Wild West’ look, the paved pedestrian street has an old tram track running through its center.

To either side are beautiful colonial-era buildings that have picturesque porches and balconies lining their facades. These now house countless local bars and restaurants that are packed with crowds of people in the evenings. You can also pick up souvenirs and gifts along the lively street or listen to the outstanding music acts and dance groups that perform here.

3. Playa Cavancha

If after all the sightseeing and outdoor activities you want to kick back, relax and soak up some sun, then the endless Playa Cavancha is certainly the place to go. Lying just south of the center alongside the glittering Pacific, its soft sands are perfect for lounging on lazily.

Bordered by hotels and high-rises, parks and palm trees, the broad beach stretches just under three kilometers in length. While its warm, sheltered waters make it a great spot to swim, some fun surfing and bodyboarding can be hard at its northern end.

Aside from strolling about or cycling along its scenic boardwalk, you can also sunbathe, sail and jet ski. There are also numerous restaurants nearby and the prominent peninsula of the same name to explore too. Due to its proximity to the center, the beach can get quite crowded, particularly at weekends and holidays.

2. Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works

Not to be skipped, the Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works provide a very interesting look into the history of the city. Now abandoned, the former mining towns and all their valuable deposits played a key role in the development of Iquique.

Set around forty-five minutes’ drive directly east of town, the sun-scorched site was first exploited for its nitrate in 1872. What followed was a mining boom that financed the building of many of the city’s most impressive old edifices. The saltpeter works were eventually abandoned in the 1960s however after decades of financial difficulties.

At the intriguing old ghost towns in the Atacama, you can now wander around rusting equipment and railroad cars left behind by the miners. The buildings’ striking shapes and the colours of the sky and desert about them also make for some fab photos. At one point, 200 mining communities dotted the desert with these two adjacent sites being the best-preserved of the lot.

1. Go Sandboarding

The most memorable and fun thing we did in Iquique though was definitely sandboarding down the colossal Cerro Dragon. Overlooking the city’s skyline, the immense hill is astonishingly the largest urban sand dune in the world. As you shoot about its sweeping slopes, you can bask in breathtaking panoramas of the city and ocean below.

From the center, a couple of companies run tours out to all the towering dunes on its eastern edge. After a short demonstration and class on how to slide, break and also position yourself on the board, you’re good to go!

While there are loads of rather dramatic looking drops, there are also smaller slopes for beginners to try out. As such, people of all ages and abilities can enjoy sandboarding about the undulating dunes. The captivating landscapes and panoramas also help make it an unforgettable experience.

Where to Stay in Iquique

When visiting Iquique, you can either stay in its historic center or along its broad beaches. As they don’t lie very far from one another, you’re not going to miss out, whichever option you choose.

Right next to Playa Cavancha is the very highly-rated Hilton Garden Inn . A great choice if you’re after a quiet, comfortable stay, the four-star hotel is also located just a stone’s throw from the peninsula’s countless restaurants and bars. Besides modern, spacious rooms, its huge gleaming, glass building has an excellent restaurant, bar and indoor pool to enjoy.

A bit further back from the beach is Arriendo Diario Iquique ; a budget-friendly option with an amazing rooftop pool. Set right next to several shopping centers, the large, private apartment is equipped with everything needed for a pleasant stay. Ideal for families or groups of friends, it has two comfy, clean bedrooms, a kitchen and living room for visitors to make use of.

How to get to Iquique

Squeezed in between the ocean and dunes, the city is situated in a rather isolated, inhospitable spot. Despite this, it has decent connections to the rest of Chile as flights regularly land at Diego Aracena International Airport. These fly to Santiago, Antofagasta and a couple of other destinations.

Long distance buses are also available to many places up and down the country’s long Pacific coast. Some even head to La Paz , Oruro and Cochabamba in Bolivia.

In Iquique, you can either walk to the center or beach from your hotel or hop on a bus and hail a taxi.

Map of Things to Do in Iquique, Chile

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10 Awesome Things to Do in Iquique Chile

With a long and lovely desert coast line, delicious fresh seafood, and its laid back beach-vibes, there are many diverse things to do in Iquique, Chile . In fact, this chilled out city has oftentimes been called the “Miami of South America.”

While most tourists skip the north of Chile altogether, the beaches and desert provide a fun playground, at least for a few days. There are more things to do in Iquique than soak up the sun on its many beaches; however, the coastline provides awesome sunsets, a plethora of fresh seafood options to indulge in, and an old war ship museum.

The “Miamiesque” city has a lovely plaza and some beautiful streets to stroll, like Calle Baquedano, and a bustling Central Market. Keep your eyes peeled for politically fueled street art and graffiti. One of the more adventurous things to do in Iquique is to paraglide above the city. There are a few interesting day trips like the ghost town of Humberstone. The region has such a huge history with mining that port cities like Iquique were formed.

So, let’s discover all the awesome and overlooked things to do in Iquique, Chile.

Table of Contents

Quick facts about iquique, explore all of the beaches, walk the boardwalk at sunset, eat at the fish market, stop by the corbeta esmeralda museum, relax in the plaza arturo prat, stroll along calle baquedano, visit the central market, look for street art, catch some wind, go paragliding, take a day trip from iquique, 10 awesome things to do in iquique.

Iquique is located in the North of Chile in the heart of the Atacama Desert, the driest desert in the World. Arica, Chile’s border city to Peru, is 200 miles to the north, while Chile’s larger port city of Antofagasta is over 300 miles to the South. Yes, sometimes it’s easy to forget how long Chile really is.

Iquique makes an excellent place to chill out, especially for those  overland travelers moving slowly south from Peru by bus. While the border city of Arica is also known for its beaches, I personally preferred the whole overall feel of Iquique.

Hang out in this port city for a few days and make sure to not miss the desert oasis town of San Pedro de Atacama . San Pedro de Atacama is probably most famous for its incredible star gazing; however, the region is the gateway to some “out of this world” landscapes.

In short, Iquique is a great place to help break up the long distances of the north and still provides a lot of fun things to do!

Safety Precaution

Although most of Iquique is safe, it should be noted that when the sun goes down, the area around the main bus terminal should not be walked, especially for solo travelers. Also, some of the streets further from the main areas can also become a little dodgy at night. Make sure to verify with your hostel or a local of which streets to avoid.

Psst… I loved the sleeping at Aotea Hostel Iquique . The staff was incredibly helpful and showed me interesting things to do in Iquique and what to avoid. The shared rooms are super clean with lots of plugins in the beds, and the kitchen was impressive with a small terrace and pool!

Iquique is nestled in the arid Atacama desert, making the many beaches THE place to be in the city. The most popular beach is Playa Cavancha . Here, find a sprawling beach with places to lay out a towel and soak up the sun. What’s nice about this stretch of beach is there are lots of vendors selling street food and public showers to rinse off at.

If looking for something a little more “rustic,” Bellavista Beach is a tranquil favorite. Walk north from Playa Cavancha, around 20 minutes or so. Behind the local government building of Tarapacá are a few secluded and quiet beaches. These small beaches are rockier, but offer some great views of Iquique in the backdrop. There is less beach space to lay out and relax, but you may just be the only person at this beach.

South of Playa Cavancha is the sprawling Playa Brava .

One of the best things to do in Iquique is to walk the wooden boardwalk at sunset. The most beautiful section is around Playa Cavancha, where there are places to sit and watch the sun disappear into the Pacific Ocean. Nearby on the side streets, find a few ice cream shops. Treat yourself with a cone during your sunset stroll.

Due to its close proximity to the ocean, a visit to the fish market IS a MUST . Locals and tourists alike flock to Caleta Riquelme , Iquique’s most popular fish market. In the morning hours, the first floor is filled with people eyeing up the day’s fresh catch. Find everything from crab, fish, shrimp, and sea urchins. The first floor also has some snacks to munch on while shopping, like seafood empanadas or a small cup of ceviche.

At lunch time, the second floor is packed with locals eating from a variety of small restaurants serving up daily lunch menus for around $5. Do you hear something quite noisy? Don’t miss heading out the back door of the market to watch lazy sea lions fight over scraps.

There are so many places to grab fresh fish, but Caleta Riquelme has the ambiance, the bustle, and the views to make it one of the top places to eat and one of the best things to do in Iquique.

A short walk away from Caleta Riquelme is the Corbeta Esmeralda Museo (Corvette Esmeralda Museum). This museum is all about the Esmeralda ship that was actually sunk in Iquique in 1879. Yes, the museum is housed in a replica of the wartime vessel. You don’t have to pay for an entrance ticket to walk up and get a closer look of this impressive ship. Out front are some info plaques in Spanish and English; however, all the tours are in Spanish only.

Logistics | Entrance Ticket for Non-residents: $3,500 CLP ($4.50 USD) | Tour Duration: 50 minutes | Hours: Monday to Friday 9:30 – 12:30 & 14:00 – 17:15 | official website & online reservations

The Plaza Arturo Prat is Iquique’s main plaza and is lined with restaurants, cafes, and inviting places to relax in the grass or on a shaded bench. The plaza’s center piece is the Torre del Reloj , the clock tower made of Oregon Pine Wood. Street performers are often playing music and dancing, creating a lively atmosphere. At night, the plaza is filled with families enjoying the cooler temperatures.

In the Plaza Arturo Prat are important buildings like the Performing Arts Theater and the beautiful Spanish Casino . The Spanish Casino has a private membership that allows access to the “club.” Non-members can enjoy the lobby and beautiful restaurant, or attend a free cultural event.

Right off of Plaza Arturo Prat is the beautiful street of Baquedano . Cutting through the center of the street is the old railroad tracks, a reminder of the mining history in this region. Now, along this street are trendy restaurants and rooftop bars. The streets are often times filled with local artisans selling jewelry, old coins, used books, souvenirs, and street food.

Baquedano is one of Iquique’s most picturesque streets, and it’s pedestrian friendly!

Although not as visually appealing as many markets throughout South America, the Central Market still makes for an interesting pit-stop. There are many women selling produce and veggies, but again, the most interesting section of this market is the fresh seafood market. On display, find fresh seafood that was brought into the market at wee hours of the morning. The central market also offers up a few restaurants with seafood focused menus. Many of these can be found on the 2nd floor of the central market.

Chile has been struggling for years with the current government administration. The people have been vocally protesting and opposing the constitution in place. Chile has been no stranger in the news recently for the torching of the public transportation system in Santiago. The people are not afraid to have their voices heard. One of the most interesting things to do in Iquique is to seek out the political street art.

Many times the street art is simply a powerful saying that has been spray painted onto a wall. Other times, it’s beautiful murals and paintings. One of the most moving and powerful things to see in Iquique is the government buildings. A majority of these buildings have been “paint bombed” by locals to show their distaste and current feelings towards the Chilean government.

Looking for something a little more daring? One of the most adventurous things to do in Iquique is to go paragliding. The city of Iquique is surrounded by coastal mountains and since it is located in the driest desert, the flying conditions are almost always on-point. Iquique loves to boast that they have no less than 10 “non-flying days” for eager paraglider’s through the whole year. Almost every single day, it’s possible to see adventure-seekers flying above the city.

Tandem flights are available, but many people come to Iquique to become certified to fly on their own.

Although there are a wide range of things to do in Iquique, some of the most memorable experiences are actually day trips from the city. Here are two great day trip options to take from Iquique.

The Mining Ghost Town of Humberstone

Less than 45 minutes away from Iquique is the mining ghost town of Humberstone . In northern Chile, there were over 200 mining communities and these two may be the best preserved and most interesting. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is fascinating and the entrance ticket allows access to both Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works.

At one time, there were over 3,500 inhabitants in this make-shift mining community. It was abandoned abruptly in 1960, but what is left behind is fascinating. Walk next to abandoned mining equipment, old railroad cars on tracks that lead to nowhere, a school, community pool, and housing units that show the harsh living conditions for these workers and their families.

With public buses passing frequently departing from Iquique, a tour of Humberstone makes an excellent and worthwhile full day trip.

Pica Hot Springs

Iquique’s salty beaches are a great place to relax, but looking for a more natural oasis? Two hours from Iquique is the small village of Pica. In this hamlet find the rustic thermal pools of Cocha Resbaladero . The natural spring is nice, but it’s quite small. What is fun is there are little caves you can swim in to escape the hot desert sun. This natural pool has become quite popular, so if you don’t arrive early or stay later, the bath can be overcrowded.

Don’t expect a high-end luxury pool, but there are basic showers, lockers, and changing rooms onsite. Pica is a great (but long) day trip for those spending an extended amount of time in Iquique.

Logistics | Bus Fare (Round Trip) : $7,000 CLP ($9 USD) | Entrance Ticket: $3,000 ($3.75 USD) | Full Day Trip from Iquique

Another bonus of Pica is that they are known for their citrus fruits. All along the road leading to Cocha Resbaladero are multiple food stalls selling fresh squeezed juices and bags of citrus for cheap. A fresh squeezed glass of lemonade will set you back $1,000 CLP ($1.25 USD). Some vendors even sell fresh fruit ice cream; I highly suggest the mango! Another foodie treat of Pica is the traditional plate of Pastel de Chocolo.

While most tourists skip the north section of Chile, Iquique is a wonderful port town to visit. The sizzling city offers a wide range of activities for any type of traveler. Some of the best things to do in Iquique are free, like enjoying one of the many beaches, strolling through the Plaza Arturo Prat, or seeking out the political street art. With its close proximity to the sea, don’t miss a chance to sample as much local seafood dishes as possible. Some of the most interesting highlights of the city are actually day trips, like the ghost town of Humberstone.

Overall, there are lots of amusing and fun things to do in Iquique. Don’t make the mistake of missing the north coast of Chile!

Have you visited the beach city of Iquique? Did you visit any of the sites from my above list of things to do in Iquique? Do you have something to add to this list of things to do in Iquique? Let me know in the comments below!

Disclaimer: There’s a chance this post contains affiliate links, and I receive a small (but grateful) portion of the sale. There’s no extra cost to you, and I only promote things that I use and love.

Hey, my name is Megs! I'm an adventure-seeking, wanna-be storyteller, with a wandering soul who is smitten with the diversity of this beautiful world. You can find me hiking in the mountains, eating delicious food, and seeking out the most authentic travel experiences possible. Experiences and memories are my most prized possessions. I love to slow travel and have been nomadic for over 12 years.

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I just returned from an incredible trip to Iquique! A fabulous city in a naturally gorgeous setting, I completely fell in love with the place!

That is fantastic!! I really liked it too and found it to be really underrated! Thanks for sharing 💙

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The Ultimate Guide to Travel in Iquique Chile

The capital of Chile’s northernmost region, Region I, comprising the provinces of Arica, Parinacota and Iquique, the city of Iquique is one of the country’s most visited cities. The attractions are a mild climate, commerce, the Atacama desert, natural and archaeological treasures, access to Peru and Bolivia and a great many recreational and sporting activities. Orient yourself with this interactive  map  from Expedia.

Iquique’s history dates back to pre-Columbian times when the native tribes lived by the sea and collected guano or settled in the interior regions where hot springs and Andean snow runoff provided water for agriculture. They left behind their ruins and their petroglyphs for modern study, but not much is known of their way of life.

The Spanish explorers came through on their way south , and for many years, this was territory belonging to Bolivia. This was the way to the sea to export the silver mined in Bolivia to the world, primarily to Spain .

Nitrate and Money

Nitrate, a natural fertilizer although it is mined in barren desert, changed the region. From the 1830’s foreign investors thronged to the area, and Iquique bloomed into a cultural and financial center. The city installed electric service to homes and businesses. The Municipal Theater showcased the best in music and plays. The English “King of Nitrate”, John Thomas North, oversaw the building of the railway station and other civic and commercial buildings. Champagne flowed.

Earthquakes almost leveled the town in the latter part of the 1800’s, but the city rebuilt itself. Great wealth brought amenities, lavish mansions, water, and the port became active and famous. When Bolivia began to clamp down on the mining and fabulous wealth of the nitrate mines, called salitreras , demanding a rise in taxes, these investors and the government of Chile protested.

Thus began the difficulties leading to the War of the Pacific, in which Peru sided with Bolivia against Chile, culminating in the Battle of Iquique on May 21, 1879, which is commemorated in the Glorias Navales. With Chile winning the war, Peru and Bolivia lost and ceded to Chile what is now the provinces of Tarapacá, Tacna, Arica, and Antofagasta. Bolivia is still seeking redress and access to the sea in an ongoing political discussion with Chile, who is disinclined to return any territory.

The days of great wealth from nitrate lasted until Germany developed a synthetic nitrate to free itself from Chile’s monopoly of natural nitrate. The history of Oficina Santa Laura is typical of the rise and decline of the salitreras, called Oficinas . Oficina Humberstone is easily visited from Iquique and is on many of the desert tours.

With the fading of Region I’s source of wealth, Iquique and other communities turned to the sea and built up the port facilities to export copper. Today Iquique is one of Chile’s largest ports and has the largest duty-free zone in South America, called ZOFRI of Zona Franca de Iquique, where a shopping mall has hundreds of shops selling duty-free goods.

Things to Do and See in Iquique Chile

Iquique has re-invented itself as a commercial center and a tourist base for explorations into the desert, sports and recreation, deep sea fishing, beaches, and archaeological tours. The hot springs and thermal baths attract visitors for the mud baths and healing properties to these oases.

The great Andes and the national parks bring climbers, trekkers, and photographers. The inland orchards and farms provide produce to complement the seafood found offshore.

In the city, the small historic center is surrounded by modern growth, including new housing sectors, development of the beaches and hotels, including the Casino Iquique, all to accommodate the visitors who make Iquique the most visited city in Chile. Where to go in Iquique describes some of the city’s attractions. The city grows as visitors come for vacations, for shopping and to tour the desert, fall in love with the region and make Iquique there home. Browse  views of Iquique  for a better idea of the aesthetics.

Getting There and When to Go

By land, access by the Pan American highway going north or south. Arica, on the border with Peru, is 307 km north. Calama is 389 km southeast and Santiago is 1843 km south. By air, to Diego Aracena International Airport . Compare and select flights from your area. You can also browse for hotels and car rentals. By sea, Iquique is a port of call for a number of cruise lines, whose passengers enjoy the duty-free shopping, local restaurants, and short tours.

Iquique's annual climate is mild, ranging from an average winter low of 12.5º C to an average summer high of 24.4º C. Check today's weather and forecast. The climate makes Iquique an all-season destination.

Enjoy your trip...Buen viaje!

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6 Awesome Things To Do in Iquique – Where the Desert Meets the Ocean

My name’s Yerko Bustillos. I was born and raised in Iquique. This city is located in the amazing Tarapacá Region on the coast of Northern Chile.

Travelling has always been a big part of my life. We used to go on road trips when I was a kid and visit the southern parts of Chile at least once a year. My Dad was an antiques dealer and he used to sell many analog cameras. I started to acquaint myself with photography from this point onwards.

It was only a couple of years ago that I started to take photography as more than just a side hobby. I began taking pictures of stunning landscapes across Chile and specifically aerial photographs with my drone. These days I love taking photos of Iquique – its unique buildings, landscape and sea.

Why Iquique Should be on your Bucket List

Iquique is a unique coastal city which makes for a great addition on a wider tour of the Atacama Desert . It’s also a great stop off point for travellers on the way from Argentina to Peru. What I love most is the fact that it never rains and the weather is always suitable for outdoor adventures.

The city offers a mix of different attractions including surf beaches, paragliding adventures, glitzy casinos and massive shopping centres. You can even go sand-boarding here. Probably the biggest drawcard out of all the activities just mentioned is surfing. It’s some of the best in all of Chile.

One of my favourite places to enjoy an adventure in Iquique is “El Cerro Dragón”. It’s the world’s largest urban sand dune. When you reach the top, you have a panoramic view of the whole city and the coastline. The best part is that it doesn’t cost anything to enjoy the sunset from here.

6 Best Things To Do in Iquique

1. catch a wave and swim at playa cavancha.

Cavancha Beach is located in the heart of Iquique and is one of the best beaches in Chile. You’re surrounded by modern urban architecture, a fantastic walkway and convenient shops. Here you can catch a wave and learn how to surf from the many surf schools in Iquique.

2. Go Sandboarding in the Dunes of Cerro Dragón

El Cerro Dragón is the highlight of any trip to Iquique and makes for an unforgettable experience. The enormous sand dune is around 4km long and varies in height from 150-500 meters. Only the sand dunes in the Sahara are higher. Of course, you have to go sandboarding!

3. Visit Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works

Just 50kms outside of Iquique is the UNESCO World Heritage Site – Humberstone and Santa Laura. The site contains over 200 former saltpeter works where workers from across Chile, Peru and Bolivia lived in company towns and formed a unique communal culture. It’s a fantastic day trip.

4. Drive to the Hot Springs of Colchane

It’s a three and a half hour drive from Iquique to the hot springs near Colchane but the drive takes you through some stunning scenery in the Altiplano. Known as “Termas de Enquelga”, these springs range from 30-85 degrees. You can relax in these springs and the scenic views of nature.

5. Cool off from the Heat at Cocha Resbaladero, Pica

Pica is a small town just outside of Iquique which has a freshwater oasis called Cocha Resbaladero. This pool is surrounded by unique rocks, hanging vegetation and a watery cave. It’s a great spot to cool off from the heat of the desert. However, there’s not much else to do in Pica.

6. Enjoy a Paragliding Adventure from Alto Hospicio

There is a whole other city sitting above Iquique called Alto Hospicio and it’s the perfect spot to go paragliding. In theory, you can take off from any part of the ridge here above Iquique. Flying over the desert landscape is just stunning, especially at sunset which offers unparalleled views.

The Rich History and Heritage of Iquique

The rich multicultural identity of Iquique can be seen through the mixture of different languages, traditions, foods, religions and celebrations. Everything is constantly evolving here and adapting to new trends but the city (and wider region) maintains its culture and preserves its uniqueness.

Due to the proximity of Iquique to Peru and Bolivia, there is a really exciting culinary flair to be enjoyed in this city. Since we are a seaside town, we have typical seafood dishes like “caldillo de pescado” which is a type of fish stew/soup. Also, we have a traditional pastry called “chumbeque”. Yum!

Where to Stay on your Visit to Iquique

Since Iquique is a tourist city, there is a wide variety of accommodation available from five-star hotels such as Terrado Suites and Hilton , to budget backpacker accommodation like Backpackers Hostel which is located right on Cavancha Beach. It’s got the best location in all of Iquique.

What you Need to Know Before you Go

If you decide to visit Iquique don’t forget to bring your swimsuit to enjoy some of the best beaches in Chile. I invite you to travel through the highlands and small towns that make up this unique region of South America. Thanks for reading and feel free to get in touch with me anytime!

BY YERKO BUSTILLOS IG: @YERKOBUSTILLOS

Author:  Yerko Bustillos

Yerko Bustillos is an aerial and landscape photography from Iquique - a coastal city in northern Chile. He is most comfortable in the desert landscapes.

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Beautiful Beaches, Places to Visit and Things to Do in Iquique, Chile

Iquique city is the capital of the Tarapaca region in Chile. The city faces the Pacific Ocean and has the Atacama Desert towards its east. These two landscapes are backdrops for the majority of top things to do in Iquique . On the coastal side, you can enjoy the beaches as well as activities such as surfing, scuba diving, paragliding, swimming, and so on. There are also a variety of boat cruises you can take to enjoy the ocean and to catch some beautiful sights to see in Iquique city including the city skyline, sunset, and sunrise. The desert side is famous for its large sand dune, desert hikes, and sand-surfing.

The best places to visit in Iquique city are centered around the city’s mining, naval and colonial history. The city was founded around the 16th century but primarily flourished during the saltpeter mining of the 19th century. You can learn more about the city’s mining history at Iquique tourist attractions like Regional Museum and Humberstone. Before becoming a part of Chile, Iquique city was under the Viceroyalty of Peru. Wars fought for the city, namely the War of the Pacific and the Battle of Iquique are an integral part of the city’s history. The history of these wars is best exhibited at Corbeta Esmeralda and Naval museum, which are a must-visit during Iquique sightseeing .

The city also has some beautiful colonial buildings. A major highlight of Iquique travel is Baquenado street. This street reflects the city’s mining history with its wild west-style look. It is also a great place for shopping, dining, drinking, and nightlife. Another great place with colonial buildings is the Plaza Arturo Prat. The theatre and the clock tower at this historic public square are among the top things to see in Iquique .

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Table of Contents

Top 12 Tourist Places to Visit in Iquique

1. playa cavancha.

Facing the marvelous Pacific Ocean, Playa Cavancha is the best beach in Iquique city. The long coastal stretch is popular for a variety of leisure, adventure and entertainment activities. You can spend a couple of hours or more enjoying at this beach.

2. Adventure Sports

With ocean on one side and a desert on another, there are several fun things to do in Iquique including sandsurfing, watersports, beach sports, coastal hikes, paragliding, surfing, scuba diving and more.

I suggest you must try below mentioned two adventure activities in Iquique.

• Sandsurfing in the dune of Cerro Dragon
• Fat Biking Tour in Atacama Desert

3. Corbeta Esmeralda Museum (Chilean Corvette Esmeralda)

This ship museum is a replica of the Corbeta Esmeralda ship which was sunk by Peruvians in the War of the Pacific in 1879. This battle holds great significance to the history of this city. Hence, this ship is one of the most important Iquique tourist attractions. You will need 45 minutes to tour the ship.

4. Regional Museum of Iquique (Museo Regional de Iquique)

This museum tells about the history of Chinchorro people and the city of Iquique. You will get to learn about the origins of the town, its history, culture and peculiarities. It is one of the most important places to visit in Iquique. You will need an hour to tour this museum.

5. Municipal Theatre (Teatro Municipal)

This theatre and the adjoining clock tower are integral part of the city’s culture and history. They are also two of the most beautiful buildings among things to see in Iquique city. You can tour the theatre to explore behind the scenes and mechanics of performances. It will take you an hour to explore these two places when you visit Iquique.

6. Cerro Dragon

This large sand-dune is the largest relict urban dune in the world. This coastal dune is most visited for sand-surfing. But it is also one of the most popular Iquique attractions to visit for sunrise and sunset views. You would need half a day to enjoy Cerro Dragon.

7. Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works

This abandoned mining town is included among UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This town was established in the 1800s and is considered a precursor to Iquique city. You will need a couple of hours from Iquique travel to visit this town.

I suggest you should book a full day tour of Humberstone Town .

8. Baquedano Street (Calle Baquedano)

This street is known for its Wild West style look, old train track and saloon style buildings. It is one of the best picturesque places to explore during Iquique sightseeing. You can spend a couple of hours shopping, dining and strolling along this street.

9. Caleta Riquelme

This fishmarket is popular among those who enjoy sea-food. There are a few restaurants and street shops to enjoy tasty preparations. You can also buy a variety of sea-food items for yourself. Though, the biggest attraction of this market are the sea-lions who gather around to munch on scraps thrown by fishermen. You would need 30 to 45 minutes for this market and its sight.

10. Monumento al Marinero Desconocido

Marinero Desconocido means Unknown Sailor. This statue is situated on northern side of the city is best place to visit in Iquique city to enjoy the sunset. You also get a great view of the beach and the city skyline. It will take you 30 to 45 minutes for this attraction.

11. Cocha Resbaladero Hot Springs

These natural hot springs are situated in the village of Pica, which is about 2 hours drive away from Iquique city. The quaint hot springs pool are quite enjoyable, especially during winters. You can also enjoy fresh-fruit ice-cream, lemonade and fruits close to the hot spring pool.

12. Naval Museum (Museo Naval De Iquique)

This museum is dedicated to the War of the Pacific and the sea-faring history of Chile. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

If you are looking for more Iquique tourist attractions, check out the sections below. We have put together a long list of places and activities you can enjoy in and around Iquique city.

Things to do in iquique, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in iquique.

• Corbeta Esmeralda Museum
• Marinero Desconocido
• Plaza Arturo Prat
• Iquique Clock Tower
• Museo Regional de Iquique
• Museo Naval de Iquique
• Municipal Theatre
• Immaculate Conception Cathedral
• Corporation Museo del Salitre
• Santuario Sagrado Corazon de Jesus
• Museo Historico Militar
• San Antonio de Padua Parish
• San Pedro de Atacama
• Humberstone Town

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Iquique

• Atacama Desert
• Cerro Dragon

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Iquique

• Pica Hot Springs
• Dreams Iquique Casino
• Huayquique Recreation Center

Shopping in Iquique

• Terminal Agropecuario
• Caleta Riquelme
• Mega Shopping
• Las Americas
• Plaza Iquique Mall

Beaches & Islands in Iquique

• Playa Cavancha
• Playa Huaiquique
• Playa Poza Los Caballos
• Estacion Buque Varado

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure Activities to Do in Iquique

• Water Sports
• Sandboarding
• Paragliding
• Bicycle tours
• Scuba Diving
• Boat Cruise

Sightseeing in Iquique

• Peninsula Cavancha
• Monumento Boya Esmeralda
• Monumento al Pampino
• Plaza Slava
• Plaza Condell

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Iquique

• El Sombrero
• Cantaba La Rana
• El Tercer Ojito
• Boulevard Pizzeria
• Kiru Lounge
• El Vijo Clipper

Where to Stay in Iquique?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range and Budget Hotels in Iquique. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Iquique.

• Hilton Garden Inn Iquique
• Holiday Inn Express Iquique, an IHG hotel
• Gavina Sens
• Gran Cavancha Suite
• Gran Cavancha Hotel & Apartments
• Hotel Diego de Almagro Iquique
• Ibis Budget Iquique
• Iquique Beachfront – B&B, Hostel
• Ibis Iquique
• Backpacker’s Hostel Iquique

Custom Tours Package in Iquique

How to reach iquique.

The easiest option to reach Iquique is through Diego Aracena International Airport. It receives direct flights from La Paz, Arica, Santiago de Chile , Santa Cruz de la Sierra, La Serena and Antofagasta. You get cabs and buses to go for Iquique sightseeing directly from the airport.

You can get direct and connecting buses to visit Iquique from several cities and towns in Chile. You also get direct buses from several cities in Peru and Bolivia.

If you are planning to visit Iquique by road, you should head for route 1 or 16.

Despite having a port, there are no passenger boats or ferries to reach Iquique.

Image Reference

• Playa Cavancha – Eliasluco / Wikimedia Commons
• Adventure Sports – Cristian Calcagno / Wikimedia Commons
• Corbeta Esmeralda Museum (Chilean Corvette Esmeralda) – meschmarco / Wikimedia Commons
• Regional Museum of Iquique (Museo Regional de Iquique) – Mircalla22 / Wikimedia Commons
• Municipal Theatre (Teatro Municipal) – Seba Flores / Wikimedia Commons
• Cerro Dragon – Robin Fernandes / Flickr
• Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works – Teo Romera / Flickr
• Baquedano Street (Calle Baquedano) – Javier2601 / Wikimedia Commons
• Caleta Riquelme – Mario Felipe Espinoza González / Flickr
• Monumento al Marinero Desconocido –
• Cocha Resbaladero Hot Springs – Bachelot Pierre J-P / Wikimedia Commons
• Naval Museum (Museo Naval De Iquique) – Richardfotografias / Wikimedia Commons
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Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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Know iquique, información del destino:.

Urban equipment. Flora, fauna and interesting topography in the highlands. Archaeological, anthropological and architectural interest zone. Zona Franca (free taxes zone) and outdoor activities.  

All year long.  

Banano, scuba diving, aquatic ski, buggy, mountainbike, swimming, parapente, sport fishing, sandboard, surf, windsurf, photography.  

Desert weather, with homogeneous temperatures in the shore. The high media temperature is 24,4ºC and the lowest is 12,5ºC. The rain is almost non existent due to shore couldiness, with a high media of 0,9 milimeters.  

Housing, food, transportation, outdoor activities, handmade crafts, mueseums.  

Anywhere-Santiago: Airway Santiago-Iquique: Airway (LanChile and Sky) Anywhere-Iquique: Land route, by Panamericana Highway. Also by seaway.  

Acovinto giant cactus, San Marcos Bay, Baquedano historical street, Zona Franca Shopping center, Dragon Hill, Serrano lighthouse, Puchuldiza Geisers, Sol de Aura Hill geoglifos, Iquique, Pica, Isluga Volcano National Park, Patache, Chillaiiza petroglifos, Piragua, blanca Beach, Brava Beach, Chanavayita Beach, Los Verdes Beach, Yape Beach, Isluga town, Punta Gruesa, Loa River, Tarapacá, Enquelga springs.  

• Fiesta Religiosa La Tirana - 51 km Geoglifos de Pintados - 64 km Oasis de Pica y Termas de Mamiña Chile - 82 km Oficinas Salitreras Humberstone - 36 km
• Pica - 87 km Playa Cavancha - 1 km Tarapacá - 74 km Termas de Mamiña - 46 km

Meet the well-known Pintados Geoglyphs and the Nitrate factory-servicing town of Humberstone with this half day excursion, departing from Iquique.…

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Isluga Volcano National Park

Cavancha Beach

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Barefoot surfers, paragliding pros, casino snobs and frenzied merchants all cross paths in the rather disarming city of Iquique. Located in a golden crescent of coastline, this city is counted among Chile's premier beach resorts, with a glitzy casino, beachfront boardwalk and more activities (from paragliding to sand-boarding) than any sane person can take on in a week. The big draw here is the swaths of pitch-perfect beach, which offer some of the best surfing around.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

The city's 19th-century swagger is hard to miss on Iquique's central square. Pride of place goes to the 1877 Torre Reloj clock tower, seemingly baked and…

Museo Corbeta Esmeralda

This replica of sunken Esmeralda, a plucky little Chilean corvette that challenged ironclad Peruvian warships in the War of the Pacific, is Iquique's new…

Muelle de Pasajeros

Hour-long boat tours around the harbor leave from Iquique's 1901 passenger pier, just west of the Edificio de la Aduana. The tour floats past the Boya…

Centro Cultural Palacio Astoreca

Originally built for a nitrate tycoon, this 1904 Georgian-style mansion is now a cultural center, which exhibits contemporary work produced by local…

Museo Regional

Iquique's former courthouse now hosts the catch-all regional museum, which earnestly re-creates a traditional adobe altiplano village and also exhibits…

Casino Español

The prize for the showiest building in Iquique goes to this Moorish-style place from 1904, on the plaza's northeast corner. The gaudily tiled creation is…

Torre Reloj

This 1877 clock tower takes pride of place on Iquique's main square.

Museo Naval

Take in the artifacts salvaged from the sunken Esmeralda at this small museum inside the haughty colonial-style customs house, built in 1871 when Iquique…

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A beautiful waterfront walk, La Costanera, borders the local beaches of Playa Brava and Cavancha

• Several bus lines connect Iquique with Santiago and other Chilean cities. 
• Iquique has also become a major destination for cruise ships.

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Best Things To Do in Iquique, Chile

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Iquique.

Iquique may not be as popular as other cities in Chile, but don’t let that fool you. Iquique is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Iquique.

If you have plans to visit Chile and are not sure if Iquique should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Iquique and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

Tourist Attractions in Iquique

Here is the list of things to do in Iquique and tourist attractions in city.

Diego Aracena International Airport

Address: Diego Aracena International Airport Avenida Diego Aracena, s/n Iquique, Chile

Salitrera Santa Laura

Playa cavancha.

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