Iquique is a charming coastal city in northern Chile that is perfect for those who love adventure and history. It has a long and fascinating past, which is still evident in its well-preserved architecture and museums. One of the must-visit spots in Iquique is the historic district, which boasts colorful buildings dating back to the 19th century. For those seeking thrills, the city offers plenty of outdoor activities such as surfing, sandboarding, and paragliding. And if you want to unwind, Iquique has a gorgeous beachfront where you can relax and soak up the sun.
Iquique will steal your heart. Spend your day in front of the ocean, sunbathe on a deck chair, discover the Pacific seabed diving, or get on a jet ski to ride the waves. On its beaches, nothing seems impossible and the nightlife is intensely felt in its bohemian establishments, where cultural mix is a constant. Visit its Free Trade Zone, a business center for Mercosur and Asia Pacific countries, a true shopping paradise, where you will find everything from electronic products to fine perfumes. Enjoy its fine cuisine in restaurants overlooking the ocean and treat yourself with a traditional mango sour: a drink based on the creamy tropical fruit, one of the city’s treasures along with guavas, grapefruits, and lemons grown in its oasis.
Walk around downtown Iquique and let yourself be transported to a time when ladies wore taffeta and used parasols, and men’s handlebar mustaches. Be amazed by the buildings that maintain the glamour of the abundance of saltpeter times.
Start by admiring the architecture of the Arturo Prat Avenue Customs Office, which also houses the Navy Museum, or walk along the Passenger Pier. There you can get a boat to visit the exact site where the Esmeralda corvette sank during the famous Iquique Naval Battle.
