Iquique Itinerary: Saltpeter, naval history and beaches
Updated on 14 de January, 2026
2 days in the heart of the pampa and the Pacific
2 DAYS
This itinerary immerses you in the rich history of northern Chile. Travel back in time touring the
SEASON
ATTRACTIONS
Inicio del itinerario
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
The Humberstone and Santa Laura saltpeter offices
Your journey into the past begins in the Pampa del Tamarugal, 47 km from Iquique, home to the Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works. These ghost towns, designated as a World Heritage Site, stand as silent witnesses to the golden era of the nitrate industry.
In Humberstone, wander through the streets and step into iconic buildings such as the theater, the company store, and the workers’ quarters. The exhibits will transport you back to the daily lives of the thousands of people who forged Chile’s wealth in the heart of the world’s driest desert.
Just a few minutes away in Santa Laura, the landscape takes on a more industrial feel. Here, the imposing ruins of the nitrate processing plants and their weathered machinery provide a hauntingly beautiful photographic setting. After this historical immersion, return to Iquique to enjoy the local seafood.
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
The Humberstone and Santa Laura saltpeter offices
Your journey into the past begins in the Pampa del Tamarugal, 47 km from Iquique, home to the Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works. These ghost towns, designated as a World Heritage Site, stand as silent witnesses to the golden era of the nitrate industry.
In Humberstone, wander through the streets and step into iconic buildings such as the theater, the company store, and the workers’ quarters. The exhibits will transport you back to the daily lives of the thousands of people who forged Chile’s wealth in the heart of the world’s driest desert.
Just a few minutes away in Santa Laura, the landscape takes on a more industrial feel. Here, the imposing ruins of the nitrate processing plants and their weathered machinery provide a hauntingly beautiful photographic setting. After this historical immersion, return to Iquique to enjoy the local seafood.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
History and coast of Iquique
Dedicate the morning to the history of Iquique, beginning with a stroll along Paseo Baquedano. Admire the Georgian-style houses built during the nitrate boom and visit architectural gems such as the Municipal Theater and the Astoreca Palace.
Then, head to the coast for an immersive experience at the Corbeta Esmeralda Museum. This is a full-scale replica of the Chilean ship that was heroically sunk during the War of the Pacific. Stepping onto its decks is like reliving one of the most important chapters in the country’s naval history.
In the afternoon, visit the famous Zona Franca (ZOFRI) for lunch and tax-free shopping. End your day at the iconic Cavancha Beach, the perfect place to lounge on the sand, soak up the sun, and relax to the soothing sound of the Pacific waves.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
History and coast of Iquique
Dedicate the morning to the history of Iquique, beginning with a stroll along Paseo Baquedano. Admire the Georgian-style houses built during the nitrate boom and visit architectural gems such as the Municipal Theater and the Astoreca Palace.
Then, head to the coast for an immersive experience at the Corbeta Esmeralda Museum. This is a full-scale replica of the Chilean ship that was heroically sunk during the War of the Pacific. Stepping onto its decks is like reliving one of the most important chapters in the country’s naval history.
In the afternoon, visit the famous Zona Franca (ZOFRI) for lunch and tax-free shopping. End your day at the iconic Cavancha Beach, the perfect place to lounge on the sand, soak up the sun, and relax to the soothing sound of the Pacific waves.
What you should know
How to get there by air
To begin your trip, you must take a flight from Santiago Airport directly to Diego Aracena International Airport in Iquique. The airport is located 45 minutes south of the city; you can reach the center by transfer or taxi.
How to get there by land
From Iquique, it is 47 km to the saltpeter works. For this itinerary, the most convenient way is to hire a tour to visit the pampa. Within the city, you can easily get around by taxis, shared taxis, or local buses to reach the historic center, ZOFRI, and the beaches.
Climate and clothing
Iquique enjoys a coastal desert climate with pleasant temperatures all year round. In the pampa, the sun is intense and the air very dry. Wear light clothing, but always bring a windbreaker or a light coat for the evenings.
Must-Know Tips
The sun in the desert is very strong. Always use sunscreen, a hat, and glasses, especially in the saltpeter works. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. To go to Humberstone and Santa Laura, it is recommended to go on a guided tour for a better historical experience.
