Iquique

South America

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Chile

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Iquique

Located in northern Chile, Iquique was once a booming mining town in the 19th century. Nowadays, many locals visit Iquique to shop in the duty-free zone, known as "Zofri.”

Aside from shopping, Iquique also offers numerous tourist attractions. The city center boasts historic landmarks like Arturo Prat Square and the Clock Tower, along with various shops and restaurants. There are also stunning beaches, such as Cavancha, Brava, and Huaiquique. Visit Cavancha Beach for a fun day in the sun and to sample local delicacies from street vendors.

For a short getaway, drive around 50 minutes to the historic Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, a UNESCO World Heritage site where you can learn about the region's saltpeter mining history. Whether you're interested in shopping, outdoor activities, or history, Iquique has something for everyone!

Travel Tips for Iquique

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Iquique

A guide to Iquique 's local transportation

Bus

Taxi

Colectivo

Car Rental

Buses are the only mass transport option in Iquique. The bus system is operated by several companies, offering more than 15 routes that connect various locations across the city. While buses may take longer to reach your destination, they provide an affordable way to travel around Iquique.

Practical Tips for Iquique

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top attractions in Iquique?

Don't miss Baquedano Street, which begins at Arturo Prat Square and ends at the Arturo Prat Monument. Stroll along the cobbled avenue lined with 19th-century buildings, including the iconic Clock Tower. Visit Cavancha Beach, the city's largest beach, known for its warm waters and long stretch of sand, perfect for surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.

When is the best time to visit Iquique?

The best time to visit Iquique is during the summer (December to March), when the weather is warm and sunny, perfect for beach activities. However, Iquique has a subtropical desert climate with hardly any rain, making it an excellent destination year-round.

What are some must-try foods in Iquique?

When in Iquique, make sure to try the seafood dishes. Enjoy ceviche, raw seafood marinated in citrus juice and spices, and empanadas de mariscos, seafood-filled pastries. For dessert, don't miss chumbeque, a treat introduced by Chinese immigrants. This snack consists of three layers of biscuits with honey, lemon syrup, or other sweet fillings.

Where can I shop in Iquique?

Head to the free zone, locally known as Zofri, about 3 km from the city center. At Mall Zofri, you can find a wide variety of goods, including perfumes, toys, electronics, alcoholic beverages, and even spare parts. If you're looking to buy chumbeque, head to Chumbeques M. Koo at Eleuterio Ramirez Street.

How do I get from Santiago to Iquique?

The most convenient way to get from Santiago to Iquique is by flying to Diego Aracena International Airport. Direct flights take about 2.5 hours, followed by a 40-minute drive to downtown Iquique. Alternatively, you can take a bus, but be prepared for a journey that can take over 24 hours.