Iquique – Chile (the North)
Heading up or down the coast of Chile, Iquique is a logical stopping point – and you won’t be disappointed! It’s a gorgeous city where the sun shines practically all year round, making it excellent for paragliding (one of the best places in the world), surfing, scuba diving or sandboarding. Walking around town, the main street, Baquedano, is an attractive pedestrian boulevard with architecture that takes you back in time. The cathedral and the Plaza Arturo Prat are both beautiful and worth taking a look at.
Surfing in Iquique.
Outside Iquique, don’t miss the geoglyphs Atacama Giant, the world’s largest rock art, and the remarkable Cerros Pintados (painted hills) which demonstrate the ancient Tiwanaku culture. Enjoy the natural hot springs at the Pica Oasis, explore the Tamarugos Woods or marvel at the salt flats and the geysers of Puchuldiza.
If you’re after a change from all the outdoor activities, soak up some history in the nitrate mine ruins, Humberstone and Santa Laura, located outside of the city. It was this industry that gave life to the Iquique region but since the closure of the mines, they have become complete ghost towns and named World Heritage Sites.
Baquedano street with its colonial buildings.
If you’re there in July, go to the “Fiesta de La Tirana,” one of the most important religious festivals of the country .
BACKPACKER’S HOSTEL IQUIQUE – Budget Category
Backpacker’s Hostel Iquique is definitely a unique place to stay! The hostel is actually two houses joined together and is nicely decorated with all kinds of funky objects. Located a stone’s throw from Cavancha, the best local beach, and only a ten minute walk from downtown.
It has single, double, triple and shared rooms with lockers. A fully equipped kitchen is supplied, and they also grill three yummy BBQs a week at discount prices! The hostel has balconies with great ocean views so you can check out the waves before hitting the surf.
Otherwise, there is ping pong and a pool table if you want to stay inside. The friendly staff can help you arrange surf lessons, sandboarding, bike rental, or any local tours.
Also check out their in-house coffee shop with affordable prices, opened for non-guests too!
Address & contact
Amunategui 2075, Iquique
tel. +56 572320223
[email protected]
www.hosteliquique.cl
Backpacker's Hostel Iquique
HOSTAL ALOHA INN – Budget Category
We were delighted to have discovered, Hostal Aloha Inn, a 19th century historical house, entirely built up of wood, located at the end of Iquique’s most famous & beautiful Baquedano Street. The wood interior, tasteful décor and high ceilings give the place a cosy, rustic feel. A highlight is the large terrace with sea view, the perfect place to relax, chat and people watch.
Also equipped with an efficient kitchen and living area, this hostal is a quiet & peaceful gem offering a range of pretty and inexpensive single, double, matrimonial and family rooms, all with TV & towels and private or shared bathroom.
Enjoy your stay at Hostal Aloha Inn with its fantastic location at just a stone’s throw from the beach and Iquique’s main square. English also spoken.
Address & contact
Baquedano 1408, Iquique
tel. +56 572214117
tel. & whatsapp: +56 997872568
[email protected]
Hostal Aloha Inn
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