Making the most of Antofagasta
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Ships are due to berth at the Port of Antofagasta, roughly 2 miles (3 km) from the town centre. Taxis may not enter the port.
A leading destination in Chile's second region, Antofagasta is a city with deep traditions. Its exceptionally clear skies bring no more than 20 overcast days each year, making the region a base for many observatories and some of the world's biggest telescopes. Barrio Historico is especially worth seeing. There stands Muelle Salitrero, a national monument constructed in 1872 by Melbourne Clarc Co, where saltpetre was loaded for export around the world. During the Pacific War, the pier also handled Chilean soldiers embarking and disembarking...
Getting around
Most of the area that interests visitors can be comfortably explored on foot.
North of Antofagasta, La Portada is a natural rock arch with dramatic views along the coast and across the Pacific Ocean.
A brief drive into the Atacama Desert reaches Hand of the Desert (La Mano del Desierto), a monumental sculpture symbolising humanity and offering memorable photographic views.
At the fishermen's harbour, watch sea lions, pelicans and smaller birds feeding on discarded fish.
Food and shopping
Follow the pedestrianised shopping street between the two principal squares: market-lined Plaza Sotomayor and Plaza Colon, which has a replica of Big Ben.
Money
Credit cards are accepted much less often in smaller towns and communities, so avoid unwelcome surprises by carrying Chilean peso in cash. The exchange stated is 1 USD = 712 CLP.
Staying connected
Spanish is the official language of Chile.
Cybercafés provide internet access across Chile, with charges differing by location. Approximately 4 dollars buys an hour in Santiago, compared with 6 dollars in Calama. Leading hotels and accommodation also frequently connect their guests, in many cases without extra cost.
For emergencies: Sea Rescue 137, Andean Mountain Rescue Squad 136, Drug Enforcement 135, Carabineros (Chilean police) 133, Fire Brigade 132 and Ambulance service 131.
Opening Hours and
Most Chilean commercial premises open to the public from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, including a 60-minute lunch interval at 1 p.m. Saturday trading runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; malls open Monday to Sunday between 10 a.m. and 9 p.m.