Calama - Cheap flights to Calama

Copper mining is very important part of the city’s and region economy, with its essence deeply rooted in citizens’ minds. The proof of this can be the fact that the roof of the city’s cathedral - Catedral San Juan Bautista – is made entirely of this material. Sanctuary is at Avenida Granaderos, close to Plaza 23 de Marzo, the main square in the city. In the centre there is also the monument of a miner during work.

You can watch for yourself where copper is mined on a visit to mine Chuquicamata. The vast space, where every year around 600 tons of copper is mined, definitely makes impression. Trips are organized by local tour operator, entrance to the mine is free, but you will have to pay for getting there and also it is possible that someone will ask you to donate money to foundation.

From the city you can go for a trip to San Pedro de Atacama, a small town that attracts a lot of tourists. It is situated 100 kilometres from Calama, but the place is worth a journey. It is called the gate to Atacama, one of the biggest and the most dry desert in the world. San Pedro de Atacama is also referred to as the archaeological capital of the country, as you can see there traits of Incan culture. Majority of buildings were built with brown brick, most of them back in the ancient times.

Do you fancy some Chilean cuisine? Go to one of restaurants. Locals and tourists alike recommend among others Patagonia by Avenida Granaderos 2549, where you can get barbecued dishes. Other place worth visiting, that offers similar, simple cuisine, is Rustico at Avenida Huaytiquina 2091.