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Immerse yourself in a fascinating journey to the heart of the Chilean desert on the White Gold Route: Humberstone and Santa Laura. This tour invites you to discover the secrets of the iconic nitrate offices that powered Chile’s economic rise in the early 20th century.At Humberstone, you’ll walk through its streets and emblematic buildings like the school, theater and general store, where the presence of the saltpeter workers still lingers. The visit continues to Santa Laura, known for its industrial plant and impressive metal structures, which demonstrate the engineering capabilities of the time.You’ll learn how saltpeter was extracted and exported, how it impacted global markets, and how it shaped the lives of thousands of families. The tour also provides time to reflect on the technological and economic shifts that led to the decline of this industry—now preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.This is a deep and immersive experience combining historical storytelling, authentic architecture, and the striking desert landscape.

Zona Norte

Iquique

Comfortable transport will pick up participants from their accommodation to begin the experience.

9:00 AM – Pick-up from Accommodation

As we leave the city and coast behind, enjoy the changing landscape en route to the Atacama Desert.

9:30 AM – Scenic Transition into the Desert

Tour the preserved remains of the saltpeter town: the school, church and theater, while the guide shares historical context.

10:00 AM – Arrival at Humberstone

Short transfer to the neighboring industrial site.

11:30 AM – Transfer to Santa Laura

Explore the structures and learn about the saltpeter extraction process and its economic legacy.

11:45 AM – Visit to Santa Laura

Begin the return journey while reflecting on the historical impact of the "White Gold" era.

1:00 PM – Return and Reflection

Drop-off at participants' accommodations.

2:00 PM – Return to Accommodation

Visit the iconic saltpeter towns of Humberstone and Santa Laura in a historic desert tour. Includes guide, transfers and snack. A journey into Chile’s nitrate past.

White Gold Route: Humberstone and Santa Laura | Activities | Chiletur

Discover the nitrate boom in the heart of the Chilean desert.
Visit Humberstone and Santa Laura with a local guide.
Learn about the lives of saltpeter workers and the "White Gold" legacy.
A heritage tour full of history and reflection.

White Gold Route: Tour of Humberstone and Santa Laura from Iquique

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$50.000 CLP

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