Iquique has a population of about 200,000 inhabitants. The name is derived from the native Aymara language, Iqui-ique meaning “peaceful place of rest”. Iquique is sometimes referred to ‘the Miami of Chile”, it has high front beach hotels and condominiums and a holiday destination for people all over South America. The waterfront promenade is 4 klm long, stretching from Playa Bellavista to the neighbourhood of Playa Huantajaya, to the south of Playa Brava. It is made up of a wide open strip, lined with gardens, fountains and beaches. The old town feels like an old wild west with wide boarded sidewalks and saloon looking buildings. Taxis here should not cost more than a few USD.
Alhough it is famous for its beautiful beaches, Iquique is located adjacent to the Atacama Desert. Enormous rolling dunes loom over the town, including the Cerro Dragon, one of the largest urban dunes in the world. Sandboarding and paragliding are very popular activities here.
Our shuttle took us to the centre of town where we did a little walkabout to the city’s cathedral, main market then over to where the beaches are for some incredible views. We walked back along the pedestrian street, Baquedano Avenue, stopped for a beer and some wifi and then continued to the waterfront and a dock side fish market to find some sea lions looking for a handout - there must of been about a hundred of them, an incredible sight. Great photo opportunities abound. Back to the ship for what seems like a usual 3 o’clock late lunch, 4 pm trivia, a little rest. then some exercise before having a a bit of an earlier dinner as Marianne had invited, Jeffery and his ten year old daughter Madeleine to dine with us. Jeffery and Madeleine are traveling the world on HAL cruise ships this year, a very special memorable adventure for them.
The weather was a perfect 27 degrees with a nice light breeze, a very nice summer day, here are a few pics of our day, hope you enjoy…
Quote of the day: “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer” - Anonymous
Beautiful photos! We have a tradition of a beer in every port, and enjoying wandering through the local markets, so would have enjoyed the stop with you.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lucky little girl Madeleine is; what an education she is receiving during this voyage!!