Itinerary: Iquique and Ancient Saltpeter Works in the Desert
Updated on 13 de January, 2026
Saltpeter heritage, beaches, and history in the desert
3 DíAS
Explore the fascinating contrasts of the Tarapacá Region on this two-day journey. From the coastal charm of Iquique, featuring its Oregon pine architecture and tax-free shopping at Zofri, to the mystical atmosphere of the Humberstone and Santa Laura saltpeter works. This tour seamlessly blends the history of “white gold” with the refreshing breeze of the Chilean Pacific.
SEASON
ATTRACTIONS
Inicio del itinerario
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Historical Splendor and Sea Breeze in Iquique
Iquique features strong port activity, beaches for water sports, and the Zofri shopping center. The tour begins in the historic district, where you will see old Oregon pine buildings on Baquedano Boulevard, reflecting the saltpeter boom.
Be sure to visit the Esmeralda Corvette replica on the coast, a fundamental historical landmark offering excellent photo opportunities. Finally, the Zofri mall allows you to find souvenirs and tech products at competitive prices due to its tax-free status.
Attractions included on this day
Day 1
Historical Splendor and Sea Breeze in Iquique
Iquique features strong port activity, beaches for water sports, and the Zofri shopping center. The tour begins in the historic district, where you will see old Oregon pine buildings on Baquedano Boulevard, reflecting the saltpeter boom.
Be sure to visit the Esmeralda Corvette replica on the coast, a fundamental historical landmark offering excellent photo opportunities. Finally, the Zofri mall allows you to find souvenirs and tech products at competitive prices due to its tax-free status.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
The Ghost Towns of Humberstone and Santa Laura
The former saltpeter works are vestiges of an era when Chile’s economy depended on “white gold.” Both Humberstone and Santa Laura, declared UNESCO World Heritage sites, are located in Pozo Almonte, 47 kilometers from Iquique.
You can tour the theater, the market, the company store (pulpería), the old church, and the houses that formed these towns, now frozen in time. It is a moving experience that recounts social life and harsh industrial labor in the world’s driest desert.
Attractions included on this day
Day 2
The Ghost Towns of Humberstone and Santa Laura
The former saltpeter works are vestiges of an era when Chile’s economy depended on “white gold.” Both Humberstone and Santa Laura, declared UNESCO World Heritage sites, are located in Pozo Almonte, 47 kilometers from Iquique.
You can tour the theater, the market, the company store (pulpería), the old church, and the houses that formed these towns, now frozen in time. It is a moving experience that recounts social life and harsh industrial labor in the world’s driest desert.
What you should know
How to get there by air
Diego Aracena Airport (IQQ) receives daily flights from Santiago and other major cities. Located 45 kilometers south of Iquique, you can reach the city center via official shuttle services or rental cars. The 40-minute scenic drive offers breathtaking views of massive sand dunes and steep cliffs meeting the Pacific Ocean along a well-maintained coastal highway.
How to get there by land
Access from the rest of Chile is via Route 5 North. Iquique connects through Route 16 (via Alto Hospicio) or Route 1 (the coastal road). Intercity buses arrive at the main terminal near downtown. To reach the saltpeter works in Pozo Almonte, it is a straightforward 45-minute drive on a safe, fully paved desert highway.
Climate and clothing
Coastal desert climate: mild and humid. Sunny days (20-25°C) and cool nights. Wear light layers, a hat, and sunscreen. If visiting the pampa, temperatures are more extreme; bring a warm jacket for sunset and breathable clothing for the intense midday desert heat.
Must-Know Tips
Carry cash for entry fees at pampa sites. Sunscreen and water are mandatory. Book saltpeter mine tours in advance to secure specialized guides. Download offline maps, as signal drops in the middle of the desert. Visit the Zofri mall for tax-free shopping and don’t forget your camera for the unique historical and desert landscapes.
