

80-night Arctic To Antarctic Explorer Cruise
Aboard
Viking Polaris
From
Nuuk, Greenland
1 Sailing
Sep 15, 2028
Published prices from
$74,995
per person*
taxes & fees included
Desert Oasis: History, Dunes, and Pacific Breezes

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Overview
Iquique, a vibrant port city nestled between the vast Atacama Desert and the Pacific Ocean in northern Chile, presents a fascinating blend of natural extremes, rich history, and modern energy. Once a booming nitrate port in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, its opulent past is still visible in its well-preserved historic district with its elegant Georgian architecture and wooden sidewalks. Today, Iquique is a bustling free-trade zone, a surfing hotspot, and a gateway to unique desert landscapes.
A cruise stop in Iquique offers a diverse array of experiences. Visitors can explore a captivating blend of historical grandeur, engage in thrilling adventure sports like paragliding over vast sand dunes, or simply relax on sun-drenched urban beaches. From delving into the poignant history of the nitrate era to enjoying the city's lively atmosphere and stunning coastal views, Iquique provides a memorable and often surprising encounter with Chile's arid north.
Take a leisurely walk along Paseo Baquedano, Iquique's beautifully preserved historic promenade. Lined with elegant wooden Georgian-style buildings (many now housing cafes, shops, and museums) and illuminated by old gas lamps, it offers a charming glimpse into the city's opulent nitrate boom era.
Tip: Admire the intricate details of the architecture and consider visiting the Regional Museum (Museo Regional) to learn more about the local history and culture.
Head to Cavancha Beach (Playa Cavancha), Iquique's most famous and popular urban beach. With its golden sands, calm waters, and palm trees, it's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply enjoying the lively atmosphere. The promenade also offers restaurants and cafes.
Tip: It's very close to the city center and easily accessible. You can often see local surfers and bodyboarders enjoying the waves.
Embark on an excursion to the Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Atacama Desert, about an hour's drive from Iquique. These haunting ghost towns offer a poignant look at the lives of nitrate miners during the industry's boom and bust.
Tip: This is typically offered as a cruise excursion or can be done via a pre-booked private tour. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as it's an expansive, open-air site in the desert.
Marvel at Cerro Dragon (Dragon Hill), an enormous sand dune that looms dramatically over the city, forming a natural amphitheater. It's one of the largest urban dunes in the world and offers fantastic views of Iquique and the Pacific Ocean. It's also a famous spot for paragliding.
Tip: You can walk to viewpoints near the base of the dune for photos, or if you're adventurous, consider a tandem paragliding experience (pre-book if possible).
Visit the Esmeralda Corvette Replica, a full-scale floating replica of the Chilean naval ship that famously sank during the War of the Pacific. This meticulously recreated vessel offers an immersive experience into 19th-century naval life and Chilean maritime history.
Tip: It's docked in the city's harbor and is a significant national symbol. Guides provide fascinating historical context.
If you're looking for duty-free shopping, explore Iquique's Zona Franca (ZOFRI), one of South America's largest free-trade zones. You'll find a vast array of electronics, clothing, perfumes, and other goods at competitive prices.
Tip: Be aware of customs regulations for items you bring back to your ship or home country. It can be a very large shopping complex, so prioritize if time is limited.



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