A large port city that in recent years has made an effort to improve its industrial image. While many travelers pass through Antofagasta, few, other than those with business at the nearby mines, stay.

Climate

Although it is located in the Atacama desert, temperatures in Antofagasta remain mild almost year round. Like the rest of the region, Antofagasta is extremely dry and recives an average of only 4 millimeters of rain annually.

Hotels in Antofagasta

Many hotels in Antofagasta cater to the mining industry and budget options are generally close to where the old bus stations were.

Many budget options near the bus stations.

By Air

The Aeropuerto Internacional Cerro Moreno is located about an hour to the north of the center.

By Bus

The new bus station, Terminal Cardenal Carlos Oviedo Cavada is located north of downtown on the corner of avenue Pedro Aguirre Cerda and Paihuano. It’s not in the nicest of neighborhoods, so avoid walking around the area alone and watch your luggage.

Buses leave Antofagasta to the following destinations

Restaurants in Antofagasta

For cheap eats, try one of the many stands in the mercado.

Nightlife in Antofagasta

If your looking for strip joints, you won’t have to venture too far. There are many of them in the center.

Shopping in Antofagasta

There are two shopping malls located on the waterfront

The pedestrian walkway Arturo Prat makes for a good place to stroll or sit and drink a coffee.

Check out the replica of Big Ben. in Plaza Colòn.

Walk down to the waterfront and view seals and There aren’t any real beaches in town, but to the north in Mejillones or a bit further in Hornitos there are a few decent ones.

A natural arch can be found on the shore at the Portada, just north of the center.