Iquique
From the beaches of Iquique to Altiplano villages, through desert plains, hidden canyons, and ancient trails—this region is full of striking contrasts.
To the adventure!
To the adventure!
This land, shaped by nitrate history and Andean cultures, offers experiences that blend adventure, spirituality, and tradition. Explore ancient geoglyphs, ride horseback across the Pampa del Tamarugal, soak in natural hot springs, discover hidden canyons, or paraglide over the Pacific Ocean. Tarapacá is northern energy, a deep connection with the land, and wonder at every turn.
In Iquique and its surroundings, adrenaline, ancient culture, and stunning desert landscapes intertwine at every step. Discover unforgettable adventures across the ocean, pampa, and oasis.
Horseback ride through the Tamarugal
Follow ancient Indigenous trade routes—known as the Inca Trail—on horseback, passing by the Gigante de Tarapacá geoglyph and desert petroglyphs.
Santa Laura Saltpeter Works
Among ruins and sand, this abandoned saltpeter plant brings the “white gold” industrial past of Chile back to life. A haunting and fascinating journey through history!
Paragliding from Alto Hospicio
Soar above the ocean and desert in one of the top paragliding spots in South America. An unforgettable flight with panoramic views.
Pica Oasis
Discover a lush oasis in the middle of the desert, with mangoes, lemons, and traditional Aymara dishes. Tradition, freshness, and culture in every corner.
Horseback ride through the Tamarugal
Follow ancient Indigenous trade routes—known as the Inca Trail—on horseback, passing by the Gigante de Tarapacá geoglyph and desert petroglyphs.
Santa Laura Saltpeter Works
Among ruins and sand, this abandoned saltpeter plant brings the “white gold” industrial past of Chile back to life. A haunting and fascinating journey through history!
Paragliding from Alto Hospicio
Soar above the ocean and desert in one of the top paragliding spots in South America. An unforgettable flight with panoramic views.
Pica Oasis
Discover a lush oasis in the middle of the desert, with mangoes, lemons, and traditional Aymara dishes. Tradition, freshness, and culture in every corner.
Discover the unique charm this city has to offer.
Food in Tarapacá is a delicious fusion of ocean, desert, and Altiplano flavors. On the coast, enjoy the freshness of fish and seafood like octopus and scallops, prepared with local recipes. Inland, Aymara culinary traditions shine with dishes featuring quinoa stew, llama meat, Andean potatoes, mote (soft wheat kernels), and native herbs. Also notable are the fruits of the Pica oasis—lemons, mangoes, and oranges with designation of origin. Dining in Tarapacá means tasting centuries of cultural diversity in every bite.
The handicrafts of Tarapacá are a living testament to Aymara heritage. In villages like Mamiña, Pica, and Tarapacá, women weave with alpaca wool to create blankets, hats, and belts dyed with natural pigments. Ritual objects, functional ceramics, and ornaments made from volcanic stone and local wood are also crafted. Fairs and markets serve as showcases for this ancestral knowledge, where each piece carries symbolism, history, and a deep connection to the land.
Life in Tarapacá has long depended on sustainable practices adapted to the extreme desert environment. Aymara communities developed terraced farming, pre-Hispanic irrigation canals, and community-managed water systems. Today, various local initiatives focus on preserving the Tamarugal ecosystem, promoting solar energy, and encouraging conscious tourism.
Waterproof and windbreaker jacket Base and mid layers Trekking pants High-ankle trekking shoes Swimsuit
Trekking backpack Hiking poles Sunglasses Sunscreen Chargers and power bank
Minimum temperature: between 10°C / 50°F (Iquique) and 0°C / 32°F (Mamiña) Maximum temperature: between 22°C / 72°F (high Andean plateau) and 28°C / 82°F (oasis and coast)
General climate: Sunny or partly cloudy Wind: Light to moderate, stronger in open areas
Hospital Regional de Iquique – Héroes de la Concepción 2555 Phone: +56 57 240 5200 – Emergency services available 24/7
Iquique: ATMs available in malls, banks, and shopping centers (24/7)
Iquique has a tax-free zone. The Zofri (Zona Franca de Iquique) is one of the largest free trade zones in South America, where you can buy products at lower prices.
The wave known as “Punta 1” is considered the longest in Chile, making Iquique a top destination for professional surfers.
Waterproof and windbreaker jacket Base and mid layers Trekking pants High-ankle trekking shoes Swimsuit
Trekking backpack Hiking poles Sunglasses Sunscreen Chargers and power bank
Minimum temperature: between 10°C / 50°F (Iquique) and 0°C / 32°F (Mamiña) Maximum temperature: between 22°C / 72°F (high Andean plateau) and 28°C / 82°F (oasis and coast)
General climate: Sunny or partly cloudy Wind: Light to moderate, stronger in open areas
Hospital Regional de Iquique – Héroes de la Concepción 2555 Phone: +56 57 240 5200 – Emergency services available 24/7
Iquique: ATMs available in malls, banks, and shopping centers (24/7)
Iquique has a tax-free zone. The Zofri (Zona Franca de Iquique) is one of the largest free trade zones in South America, where you can buy products at lower prices.
The wave known as “Punta 1” is considered the longest in Chile, making Iquique a top destination for professional surfers.