Northern Chile’s Iquique offers four standout tours that showcase this region’s unique character. We love the full-day Pintados Geoglyphs and Humberstone tour – it perfectly combines ancient rock art with fascinating ghost town history. The Isluga National Park excursion is another winner, featuring both impressive geoglyphs and relaxing thermal baths – a great mix of culture and comfort.
For a quick city overview, the Iquique coastal tour hits all the main landmarks while including practical shopping stops. Nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Red Lagoon tour through the Atacama Desert, where you’ll follow ancient Inca paths to stunning colored lakes.
Let’s explore our favorite Iquique tours in detail…
Key Points
- The Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour offers a full-day exploration of northern Chile’s history and landscapes with a personalized experience.
- The Isluga National Park Tour provides a private tour featuring stunning natural landscapes, including geoglyphs, geysers, and thermal baths.
- The City Tour of Iquique with Navigation to the Esmeralda Buoy is a 4-hour excursion showcasing the coastal charms of Iquique, including a stop at the ZOFRI shopping mall.
- The Red Lagoon Tour is a day trip from Iquique to explore the Laguna Roja in the Atacama Desert, with stops at ancient petroglyphs and Inca caravan routes.
- The tours in Iquique offer a diverse range of options catering to different interests and fitness levels, with professional guides and necessary transportation and tickets included.
Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour
The Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the history and landscapes of northern Chile.
This full-day tour explores Iquique and its surroundings, including the UNESCO-listed Humberstone and the Pampa del Tamarugal National Reserve. Guests will learn about the region’s rich culture and daily life from a professional guide, while enjoying a simple buffet lunch at a local restaurant.
With a maximum of 6 guests, the experience is personalized. Highlights include the impressive Geoglyphs, the ghost town of Humberstone, and the stark beauty of the Salar Grande.
Pickup is from centrally located hotels in Iquique, and the tour has earned a high rating of 4.8/5 from past visitors.
Read our full review: Pintados Geoglyphs, Humberstone and Salar Crespo Tour Review
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Isluga National Park Tour
For those seeking a more adventurous tour in Iquique, the Isluga National Park Tour offers a chance to explore the region’s stunning natural landscapes.
This private tour takes visitors to scenic and historic sites, including the massive Gigante de Atacama geoglyphs, Geysers of Puchuldiza, and Laguna Aravilla. Guests can also relax in the thermal baths at Enquelga.
The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, complimentary meals, and all necessary entrance tickets. However, it’s important to note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate fitness level.
With prices starting at $466.58 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Isluga National Park Tour offers a unique and customizable experience in Iquique.
Read our full review: Isluga National Park Tour Review
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What better way to experience the coastal charms of Iquique than on a city tour that includes a navigation to the iconic Esmeralda buoy?
During this 4-hour excursion, you’ll explore Iquique’s highlights, from the seafront promenade to the 19th-century architecture of Plaza Prat.
Admire the Astoreca Palace, the Municipal Theater, and the Iquique Museum.
Stop at the ZOFRI shopping mall for some retail therapy.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, along with transportation by car or minibus.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes, as this tour involves some light walking.
With a 5.0 rating based on reviews, this city tour is a must for visitors to Iquique.
Read our full review: City Tour of Iquique With Navigation to the Esmeralda Buoy Review
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Red Lagoon Tour
Situated amidst the breathtaking Atacama Desert, the Red Lagoon Tour offers visitors an opportunity to explore the striking natural wonder of Laguna Roja.
On this day trip from Iquique, Chile, travelers will visit Quebrada Camina to see ancient petroglyphs and pictographs, as well as learn about Inca caravan routes.
The tour also includes stops at the green and yellow lagoons. While entrance fees to the lagoon are additional, the tour package includes air-conditioned transportation, breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
Priced from $639.15 per person, the Red Lagoon Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
With an overall rating of 3.0 from 2 reviews, this tour provides a unique glimpse into Chile’s stunning natural landscapes.
Read our full review: Red Lagoon Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Book the Tours in Advance?
To book tours in advance, travelers can visit the tour operator’s website or contact them directly. Many offer online booking options, allowing customers to secure their spots before their trip. This ensures availability and a smooth experience upon arrival.
Are the Tours Suitable for Children?
Many tour operators offer family-friendly options suitable for children. Families should check with the tour provider to ensure the activities and logistics align with their children’s abilities and interests. Advance booking is recommended to secure availability.
What Is the Duration of Each Tour?
The duration of each tour varies, typically ranging from 2 to 4 hours. Some tours may be shorter or longer depending on the specific itinerary and activities included. Visitors should check with the tour operator for the exact duration of each tour option.
Do the Tours Have Any Age or Fitness Restrictions?
The tours often have age and fitness restrictions. Some may require participants to be a certain age or have a reasonable level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the activities involved. It’s best to inquire about specific requirements when booking.
Can I Customize the Tours to My Preferences?
Most tour companies in the area allow you to customize the tours to your preferences. You can typically adjust the itinerary, activities, and pace to suit your interests and fitness level.
Recap
Iquique offers a diverse array of tours showcasing its natural and cultural wonders. From exploring the Pintados Geoglyphs and Isluga National Park to a city tour and visit to the Red Lagoon, there’s something to captivate every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or stunning landscapes, Iquique’s tour options provide an enriching experience for visitors.