Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works: A Journey into Chile's Mining Past
Step back in time at these remarkably preserved saltpeter mining towns in the Atacama Desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the abandoned Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Atacama Desert, offering a glimpse into Chile's 19th and 20th-century saltpeter mining era. Wander through well-preserved buildings and learn about the lives of the 'pampinos' who once called these towns home.
A brief summary to Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works
- Ruta 16 km 47, Pozo Almonte, Tarapacá, CL
- +56572760626
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection, as the desert environment can be harsh.
- Bring water and snacks, as options are limited within the sites.
- Plan for at least 3 hours to explore both Humberstone and Santa Laura.
- Consider visiting early in the morning or during cooler months to avoid the desert heat.
- Read up on the history of saltpeter mining in Chile to enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
From Pozo Almonte, buses depart frequently (every 10-15 minutes) for Humberstone. Several companies, including Paraiso del Norte and Transportes Santa Angela, operate this route. The journey takes approximately 7 minutes. A single fare costs between $1 and $4.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Pozo Almonte. A taxi ride to Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works takes about 5-8 minutes. The estimated cost is between $5 and $8.
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Driving
Humberstone and Santa Laura are located off Ruta 16, approximately 47 km east of Iquique. From Pozo Almonte, head south on Ruta 16. Free parking is available at both Humberstone and Santa Laura.
Discover more about Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works
0.0 km
Explore the haunting beauty and rich history of Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works in Chile's Atacama Desert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Santa Laura Saltpeter
1.8 km
Discover the rich heritage of Santa Laura Saltpeter, a UNESCO World Heritage site embodying Chile's saltpeter mining history in the stunning Tarapacá region.
Dunas de Iquique
34.2 km
Explore the stunning Dunas de Iquique, where towering sand dunes meet the Pacific Ocean in a breathtaking natural landscape.
Edificio Velamar
35.6 km
Discover Edificio Velamar, an exquisite apartment building in Iquique, offering stunning ocean views and easy access to local attractions.
Plazoleta Croata
36.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural heritage of Plazoleta Croata, a family-friendly playground in Iquique, Tarapacá, Chile.
Morro Tarapaca
36.4 km
Hike to panoramic views atop Iquique's iconic coastal mountain, where history meets breathtaking Pacific scenery.
Backpacker`s Hostel Iquique
36.7 km
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Hilton Garden Inn Iquique
36.8 km
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Plaza Arturo Prat
37.1 km
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Museo Naval De Iquique
37.2 km
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Clock Tower
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Termas De Mamina S A
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Municipal Theater
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Probable Segundo Lugar de Desembarco Toma de Pisagua
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Unmissable attractions to see
Quebrada de Tarapacá
22.8 km
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Reserva Nacional Pampa del Tamarugal
31.8 km
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The Tarapacá Giant
33.5 km
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Monumento al Pampino
35.1 km
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Cavancha Beach
35.6 km
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Playa Huaiquique
35.7 km
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Marinero Desconocido
36.4 km
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Yacaré Park
36.7 km
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Playa Cavancha
36.8 km
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iquique año nuevo
36.8 km
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PLAYAS EN IQUIQUE
36.9 km
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Estación Buque Varado
37.0 km
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Mistico outdoor
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Corbeta Esmeralda Museum
37.1 km
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Palacio Astoreca
37.2 km
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Essential places to dine
La Estacion Restaurante
7.8 km
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Restaurante La Chinita
23.8 km
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Flor de Huara
23.9 km
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Bar Restaurante Shoperia EGIPTO
31.5 km
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Restaurant Copacabana Tu Punto de Encuentro
35.0 km
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RESTAURANT JM
35.1 km
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Restaurant Peru Fusion
35.2 km
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Massiel Restaurant
35.2 km
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la cantera celeste
35.2 km
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Ragustino Food Experience
35.3 km
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Caleta Buena restaurant
35.4 km
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Royalty Restaurant Comida China
35.6 km
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Don toro restaurante
35.7 km
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LA ISLA - Terraza Restobar
35.7 km
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La Pulperia
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
komorebi Arte y Crea
5.0 km
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Casa Dulce Comercializadora
5.2 km
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Libreria y bazar Martina
6.1 km
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Feria el peregrino
20.4 km
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RAME
30.6 km
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Darkrose Tiendita
30.6 km
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TTM CHILE
30.7 km
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Pixelis Chile
32.6 km
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Boutique Móvil
32.6 km
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Latienditaregalona20
33.8 km
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MillonLuxuryStore
33.8 km
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Jallalla vasos verdes SPA
33.8 km
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Regalos Iquique
34.9 km
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Libreria Punto Y Coma
35.2 km
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El lugar Secreto (Ropa deportiva, outlet)
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Lucky drinks
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Bar y Mar
33.6 km
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MANHATTAN BAR & FOOD
34.8 km
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La Barra Sport & Bar
35.6 km
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La Casona Iquique Bar-Restaurant
35.6 km
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Valhalla - Paraíso Vikingo
36.1 km
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El Bar de Aníbal
36.4 km
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Checkpoint Restobar Game
36.4 km
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Lola SKY Bar
36.8 km
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Estilo Urbano
36.9 km
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LA FABRICA
36.9 km
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Barsovia
36.9 km
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EDEN BAR
36.9 km
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Glorioso Bar Restaurant
36.9 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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5.4 km
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FF Discoteca Night Club & Events
30.5 km
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Espacio Murano
31.3 km
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falopa
34.8 km
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DISCO DELIRIUM CLUB
35.3 km
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Kameo Club
35.4 km
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Nativos Experiencia
35.5 km
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Heaven
35.6 km
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Spacios
35.6 km
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Sala Murano
35.7 km
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Sunrise
36.3 km
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Dancing club Acrópolis
37.0 km
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Soundset Blvck Club
37.0 km
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Hadez After & Party
37.2 km
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