Iquique City Guide

Local seafood dishes such as ceviche and crab pie are popular. There are good international options including Peruvian, Italian, and Asian food. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but are limited. Some places and street vendors stay open late near the beach and city center.

Nightlife centers around Cavancha beach and downtown with bars, pubs, and clubs.

Coffee scene is developing with a mix of traditional cafés and a few specialty shops. Limited local roasters and coffee events.

Tipping in restaurants is usually 10% and expected for good service. Taxis don't require tipping, but rounding up is common.

SIM cards are available at the airport and provider stores. Major providers include Entel, Movistar, and Claro. eSIMs are offered by Entel and Movistar. ID or passport is needed for activation.

Generally clean in tourist and city areas. Waste pickup is regular; recycling exists but less extensive than bigger cities.

Some pharmacies and minimarts operate late or 24/7. Hospital emergency rooms are open all night. Late-night food options exist mainly on weekends.

Supermarkets like Lider, Jumbo, and Santa Isabel stock international and local products. Fresh produce and seafood are available at Mercado Centenario. Supermarkets usually open 9 AM to 9 PM. Smaller stores may close on Sundays or holidays.

Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) work in supermarkets, restaurants, and larger stores. Carry some cash for small vendors, markets, and public transport.

ATMs are common in shopping centers and banks like BancoEstado, Banco de Chile, and Santander. Expect withdrawal fees around CLP 5,000-7,000 plus any fees from your home bank.

Local schools teach primarily in Spanish. Not many international or English-language schools.

The digital nomad community is small with few meetups or events. Nomad-friendly cafes exist but no dedicated hubs.

Parks like Parque Balmaceda and Plaza Prat offer green areas and shaded walking routes, good for running.

The coastal promenade is a popular, safe running route with scenic views and local running groups.

Gyms offer day passes and short-term memberships. Outdoor fitness equipment is also available along the beach.

Tennis courts and padel are available at clubs like Club de Tenis Iquique. Coaching and equipment rental offered.

Padel courts are growing in availability, mostly at sports complexes.

Several yoga studios offer styles like Hatha and Vinyasa. Drop-in classes available, though English-speaking instructors may be limited.

Multiple martial arts schools teach Taekwondo, Karate, Judo, BJJ, and Boxing. Both traditional and modern styles. English instructors limited.

No ski resorts near Iquique; the region is desert and coastal.

Activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular at Playa Cavancha with good rentals and tours.

Surf spots like Playa Cavancha offer beginner waves; La Punta is for experienced surfers. Water is cool year-round; wetsuits recommended. Best surf season is autumn to winter.

Diving spots include shipwrecks and marine life. Visibility is generally good with options for all skill levels. PADI centers are available.

Hospitals like Hospital Regional de Iquique and private clinics provide services. English-speaking staff are mainly in private clinics. Pharmacies are common and can offer advice.

Tap water is treated and safe to drink, but some prefer bottled water due to taste or sensitivity.

Parks and playgrounds like Parque Balmaceda and beach promenades are kid-friendly. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include the water park and Museo Corbeta Esmeralda.

Fairly open in tourist areas but more conservative than Santiago. Legal protections exist. Few dedicated spaces and small pride events.

Pet policies vary. Several vet clinics and pet supply stores exist. Coastal promenades are good for dog walks. Pet-friendly places are increasing but still limited.