Making the most of Iquique
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
Cruise ships berth close to the town centre.
With more than 200,000 people, Iquique is the capital of Chile’s northernmost region. Its name comes from the native Aymara language: Iqui-ique means “peaceful place of rest”. The city is sometimes called “The Miami of Chile” because of its high beachfront hotels and condominiums, and its duty-free status draws holidaymakers from across South America.
Paseo Costanera is a 4 km waterfront promenade running from Playa Bellavista to the Playa Huantajaya neighbourhood, south of Playa Brava. This wide, open strip is lined with gardens, children’s games, fountains and beaches, including Playa Cavancha. In the northern part of the costanera, Puntilla del Marinero sits on a rocky promontory where waves break thunderously; a massive bronze statue honours the Navy. From there, see the buoy marking the Esmeralda sinking and take in an extensive city view. Boya de la Esmeralda The…
Getting around
Walking is most convenient for the beaches. Share a taxi for 500 pesos or take a faster private one for 2000 pesos rather than the bus.
Nearby places
Beach visits are essential in Iquique, known for favourable weather and playas, with Playa Cavancha the largest. Not every beach is safe for swimming because submarine tides are dangerous in some areas, but surfing is good in town.
Food and shopping
Zofri, the duty-free zone, is north of town and useful for duty-free perfumes and laptop computers.
Baquedano Street is a cobbled street with an old-Western feel and plentiful artisan and tourist activity.
Money
As credit cards are considerably less widely accepted in small towns and communities, carry cash in the local currency, the Chilean peso, when visiting. At 1 USD = 712 CLP, this can help avoid unpleasant surprises.
Staying connected
Chile’s official language is Spanish.
Chile’s cyber-cafes are shops providing Internet access, with prices varying by town. An online hour costs approximately 4 dollars in Santiago and 6 dollars in Calama. Many principal hotels and lodging places also provide guest internet, often at no additional charge.
Emergency numbers are 131: Ambulance; 132: Fire Brigade; 133: Carabineros (Chilean police); 135: Drug Enforcement; 136: Andean Mountain Rescue Squad; and 137: Sea Rescue.
Opening Hours and
Chile’s business and trade establishments usually open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with a 60 minute lunch break at 1 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. In malls, trading is Monday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.