Northern Chile’s port city of Iquique packs plenty of authentic experiences into its coastal setting. Two standout tours deserve special attention. We love the full-day Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo excursion. This tour efficiently combines ancient rock art, a fascinating abandoned saltpeter town, and the stark beauty of Chilean salt flats – all with expert local commentary. The compact City Tour hits Iquique’s must-see spots, including the elegant Astoreca Palace and the history-rich Iquique Museum, topped off with a boat ride to the historic Esmeralda Buoy. These well-organized outings showcase the best of both old and new Iquique.
Let’s explore our favorite tours in detail:
Key Points
- The Pintados Geoglyphs Tour offers a full-day excursion through northern Chile’s history and landscapes, featuring UNESCO-listed Humberstone and Pampa del Tamarugal National Reserve.
- The Humberstone Highlights tour provides a glimpse into the lives of workers and the boomtown era of the 19th and early 20th century nitrate extraction industry.
- The City Tour of Iquique showcases the coastal beauty of the city, including key landmarks such as Astoreca Palace, Municipal Theater, and Plaza Prat.
- The Navigation to Esmeralda Buoy tour adds a nautical element to the sightseeing experience, offering opportunities to view marine life and coastal scenery from the water.
- The tours are reasonably priced, with options for 2 to 10 travelers, and provide a personalized experience with knowledgeable local guides.
Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour
The Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the rich history and stunning landscapes of northern Chile.
During this full-day excursion, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Humberstone, a former nitrate extraction site, and admire the striking Pampa del Tamarugal National Reserve and Salar Grande.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the culture and daily life of the region from an engaging local guide.
With a maximum of 6 guests, this tour offers a personalized experience, including lunch at a local restaurant and entrance tickets to key sights.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and fascinating historical insights.
Read our full review: Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Setting out on a 4-hour sightseeing journey, this city tour of Iquique, Chile, provides an immersive experience showcasing the city’s coastal splendor, historical landmarks, and 19th-century architectural gems.
Highlights include the Astoreca Palace, Municipal Theater, Plaza Prat, Iquique Museum, and ZOFRI shopping mall.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and the opportunity to navigate to the Esmeralda buoy.
Priced from $55 per person, the tour is suitable for a minimum of 2 travelers and a maximum of 10.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, and the tour operator reserves the right to refuse service to intoxicated passengers.
Read our full review: City Tour of Iquique With Navigation to the Esmeralda Buoy Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Iquique offers a diverse range of tours that showcase the region’s rich history and natural wonders. The Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone, and Salar Crespo Tour provide a glimpse into the area’s cultural heritage, while the City Tour of Iquique with navigation to the Esmeralda Buoy allows visitors to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and stunning coastal scenery. These tours cater to a variety of interests and make for an enriching and memorable experience.