Iquique Highlights
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Port
Iquique, Chile
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$120
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3 Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Take a panoramic drive through Iquique, viewing from the coach the major attractions of this pretty town of 180,000 inhabitants.
Begin with a ride to Plaza Arturo Prat. You will view the Municipal Theatre (1890) -- an attractive Renaissance-style building which served as an opera theatre and stood at the heart of the refined cultural life of this desert outpost during the nitrate era.
The Regional Museum's archaeological and ethnographic exhibits give an interesting insight into the indigenous sierra and high plateau cultures. The museum features also a display documenting the nitrate industry.
Admire the turn-of-the century Baquedano Avenue. You'll stroll along this thoroughfare declared a National Monument due to its handsome buildings commissioned by the nitrate barons.
Visit Astoreca Palace -- one of the most impressive mansions on the row. Most of these houses are still inhabited, while others have become shops or businesses. Their traditional styling is preserved by municipal decree.
At Centro Español, established in 1904 for the resident Spanish community, you will learn about the ancient cultures that have inhabited this area for centuries. Built in Moorish style, it features a series of large oil paintings depicting scenes of Don Quixote's life. Enjoy a typical Chilean beverage while visiting this beautiful building.
Relax on a sightseeing drive south of the city along the scenic Avenida Costanera to the popular beach area of Cavancha before heading back to the port.
Please note:
Your guide will do his/her best to speak English, but please keep in mind that the limited tourism infrastructure of Iquique is part of the city’s charm, and bear with any language difficulties he/she may encounter. The theatre is undergoing restoration; views of its façade may be obscured.