Top Iquique How to Get Around

Get a glimpse of life in 19th-century Chile as you explore the ghost towns of Humberstone and Santa Laura on this full-day tour from Iquique. Discover the fascinating history of the long-deserted Saltpeter works, now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, then pay a visit to La Tirana, which hosts the famous Fiesta de la Tirana each summer. After lunch at a local restaurant (included), relax in the Pica hot springs, then marvel over the dramatic Pintados Geoglyphs as you journey back through the Pampa del Tamarugal National Reserve.

Discover the driest place on earth by bike on a 9-hour fat biking tour of the Atacama Desert from Iquique. In a small-group limited to four, you’ll embark on a 10-mile (16-km) ride over the dunes of the Atacama Desert. A flat downhill route and fat-tire bike means you’ll be able to travel safely and at high-speeds throughout the tour. All equipment, water, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

This tour takes you to several scenic and historic areas in the Isluga National Park, including the Geysers of Puchuldiza. First stop at Gigante de Atacama to see 390ft (119m) tall geoglyphs and hear about their origins. Next visit the geysers for some photos and more information. Stop again at Laguna Aravilla to enjoy the scenery, and finally have a rest and a dip in the thermal baths at Enquelga.

Immerse yourself in the history of Chile as you explore Iquique and its surroundings. Visit the UNESCO-listed Humberstone town which was once a booming nitrate extraction site, observe the local flora and fauna, see the petroglyphs carved into the mountain slopes, and visit the salt-mining desert town of Salar Grande. This tour is great for those interested in learning about the history, culture, and daily life of northern Chile.

There are great sand dunes within the city of Iquique (Cerro Dragón) and to the south part of the city as well; they are amazingly fun to slide on with the use of sandboards. Take advantage of the nearby location with public transportation or your car to go sandboarding while at Iquique.