Excursion Highlights of antofagasta with appetizers demonstration tour at Antofagasta

Antofagasta, meaning in Quechua "town of the great salt lands", rose from the desert like a mirage, thanks to the industry producing nitrates, which for several decades were one of Chile's main exports. Antofagasta became the largest city of the "Norte Grande" region, as a result of the mining boom that took place in the 19th century. The historic district is home to several historic Victorian buildings, and the clock tower of the Plaza Colón is an exact replica of the Big Ben. The highlight of the shoreline is La Portada, an enormous rock located north of town which the sea has steadily eroded into a dramatic natural arch.

Drive from the pier towards the south to the Huanchaca Ruins, the remains of a large silver smelter that was constructed by Bolivian, Chilean and English engineers to treat silver ore brought over the mountains from the famous silver deposits of Pulacayo and Oruro.

Leave your vehicle to begin your walking tour through the historic district, which includes a group of buildings belonging to the Ancient Port facilities, all of them declared National Monuments. These buildings include the Former Coast Guard Light House, constructed in 1910, the Former Clearance House, constructed in 1910, the Former Customs Office built in Oregon pine, housing today the Regional Museum and the Former Port Authority Office.

At the Regional Museum see objects related to the geological and natural history of northern Chile, while a section is devoted to the War of the Pacific and the Nitrate Era. Also visit the former Train Station from outside, where an old train is exhibited in a beautiful patio.

Finally walk a few yards up to the fishing wharf, where there will time to observe the picturesque panoramas with sea-lions, pelicans and fishing boats. Continue to the Antofagasta Yacht Club where the chef will be waiting to give a demonstration of local delicious appetizers that you will learn to make and enjoy.

Re-join your vehicle to drive north 30 minutes alongside the coastal road to reach La Portada Monument, a beautiful spot for photographs, and the perfect place for a cheerful toast, to say goodbye to Antofagasta, in front of its city's magnificent symbol. Return drive to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Antofagasta, Historic District walking tour

Note

Please note: This tour entails a lot of walking on uneven terrain, including uphill walking and one mile on sandy terrain, making it not suitable for guests with limited mobility. Guests are recommended to dress in lightweight summer clothing, comfortable walking shoes, hat and sunscreen.