UNMISSABLES OF THE NORTH: 4 Places You Must Visit on Your Next Trip to Antofagasta

Antofagasta, also known as the “Pearl of the North,” is one of the largest regions in the country, filled with tourist spots rich in history that will make your next visit one of the best. Here are 4 unmissable outings:

1- Visit the Natural Monument La Portada

Yes, just like it looks! Visiting this place is definitely a must. The rocks are geomorphological formations, with La Portada standing out for its rock arch and the cliff, which serves as the perfect viewpoint. To access it, you must purchase your ticket in advance at pasesparques.cl.

2- Antofagasta Beaches: Enjoy the Sand and Sea

Take a break at some of the most beautiful beaches in the region, like Hornitos Beach, the Municipal Spa, or Juan López Spa. The latter is farther from the city, but trust me, the journey will amaze you as you enter the majestic Atacama Desert.

3- Travel Back in Time at the Huanchaca Ruins

This site houses the remains of an old silver smelter from 1850. Its structures resemble a castle, mainly due to the neo-Gothic construction style. All this in the middle of the desert, where at night, the atmosphere becomes more cosmic and romantic with a sea of stars in the sky.

4- Discover a Historic Neighborhood Full of Flavor

The streets of Simón Bolívar and José Manuel Balmaceda Avenue are key to providing cultural and gastronomic value. Walking along the Muelle Salitrero after enjoying a local dish like “chupé de locos” or fish is definitely a great outing.

We welcome you to Holiday Inn Express Antofagasta with our doors open, so you can enjoy an essential stay during your visit. Check in for your next adventure in this beautiful city, and don’t forget to make your reservation with us. We look forward to seeing you.

Express Getaways at Holiday Inn Express Iquique

The Tarapacá Region’s capital is Iquique, a unique destination that surprises with its historical sites as well as its beautiful lagoons and natural attractions, which range from the beach to the Andes Mountains. We invite you to discover a region full of surprises with Holiday Inn Express, the best choice for your express getaways in Iquique.

1. Visit the Tierra de Campeones Stadium:

tierra de campeones iquique

Only 8 minutes by car from our Holiday Inn Express Iquique, you’ll find one of the most iconic and modern stadiums in Chile, the Tierra de Campeones. Renovated in 2009 for the 2010 Women’s World Cup, this venue is a must-see for soccer fans and also those who appreciate modern architecture.

2. Dive into the History of the Humberstone and Santa Laura Nitrates Works:

humberstone y santa laura

A destination you definitely must visit during your stay in Iquique is the historic Humberstone and Santa Laura nitrate works. Located just over 50 km from our hotel, these nitrate offices date back to the late 1800s, preserving their architecture despite the passage of time. Since 2005, they have been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making them an essential historical destination.

3. Check In to the Waves and Sun of Iquique:

sol y playa iquique

Relax under the sun, enjoy the white sand, and immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Cavancha Beach, just steps away from the hotel. Here, the tranquility, scenery, and climate invite you to unwind and enjoy every moment by the sea at the city’s main tourist beach.

4. Slide into Adventure: Discover a Mountain of Dunes:

dunas iquique

Let yourself be carried away by the serenity of the Iquique dunes. Enjoy unparalleled landscapes and sunsets, where the Chilean desert meets the sea. Embark on exciting activities like sandboarding, paragliding, and trekking, feeling the adrenaline as you explore the warmth and beauty of northern Chile.

5. Take Home What You’ve Always Wanted at the Best Price in Zofri:

zofri iquique

Iquique is known not only for its beautiful beaches and lagoons but also for Zofri, a free trade zone. Just 15 minutes from Holiday Inn Express, you’ll have access to a wide range of products, from perfumes to luxury vehicles. The best part? At a very affordable price. If you enjoy shopping, don’t miss this place.

Remember, if you’re looking for a stay with free parking and excellent connectivity for your itinerary, book your stay at Holiday Inn Express and make your next trip an unforgettable experience.

Exploring the Vineyards in Santiago, Chile: A Journey through the Maipo Valley

Santiago, Chile, a city surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains, is an ideal destination for wine lovers. Just a few kilometers from the capital, the Maipo Valley offers vineyards with tradition and renowned wines, where various tour and wine tasting options are available for a complete immersion in the world of Chilean wine.

Viña Cousiño Macul:

Founded in 1856, Viña Cousiño Macul is one of the oldest wineries in Chile. Located in the foothills of the Andes, this winery stands out for its focus on producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. Its iconic wine “Antiguas Reservas” is a must for any wine enthusiast visiting Santiago. The winery also offers guided tours, including tastings in a fascinating setting full of history.

Viña Undurraga:

Since 1885, Viña Undurraga has been synonymous with innovation and quality in Chilean winemaking. With vineyards located in the heart of the Maipo Valley, the winery is known for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay varietals, which capture the essence of the Chilean climate. The winery tours not only allow visitors to taste excellent wines but also offer an educational journey through the winemaking process and the winery’s history.

Wine Tour through the Maipo Valley:

A journey through the Maipo Valley would not be complete without exploring its various vineyards. In addition to Cousiño Macul and Undurraga, Viña Santa Rita can be included, known for its award-winning wines, beautiful architecture, and 19th-century historical mansion, along with its gardens. Throughout this tour, visitors can enjoy tastings, learn about viticulture, and appreciate the landscapes surrounding each vineyard.

Isla de Maipo and Other Hidden Wine Gems:

Isla de Maipo is also a hidden destination worth exploring. This area is home to several boutique wineries that produce limited and high-quality wines. When visiting, guests can enjoy the cozy and personal atmosphere, where tastings are often held directly with the producers.

What to Do in Concepción? 5 Must-See Spots to Visit with Friends

A great long weekend with friends or a getaway to the city of Concepción is the perfect mix of culture, nature, and gastronomy. Here are the must-see spots in Concepción.

Ecuador Park:

This urban park is ideal for walks, bike rides, and relaxing outdoors, with green areas and a spectacular view of Concepción Bay. Opened in 1941, it is one of the oldest parks in the VII Region. Just five blocks away from this green lung, you’ll find the Bicentennial Park, famous for hosting the REC festival, the largest free festival in southern Chile.

Cerro Caracol:

Climbing Cerro Caracol is a classic activity in Concepción. From the top, you get an impressive panoramic view of the city and the bay. It’s perfect for a walk with friends and enjoying the fresh air. It also serves as another green lung for the city. Additionally, they offer free activities and workshops.

Concepción Market:

It’s undoubtedly a unique cultural experience. Here, you can indulge in various flavors of typical Chilean food, such as fresh seafood and empanadas.

Concepción Natural History Museum:

If you’re interested in history and science, this museum is an excellent option. It features a variety of exhibits about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology.

Concepción Waterfront:

To enjoy the coastal area, you can stroll along the waterfront and stop at Bicentennial Park or at one of the nearby beaches, such as Playa Blanca or Rocoto. It’s a perfect place to relax and spend the day.

Land of Champions! 5 Sports Activities to Do in Iquique

Located on the northern coast of Chile, Iquique is a city that combines history, natural beauty, and fun. Known for its golden sandy beaches, rich nitrate history, and relaxed atmosphere, Iquique is a popular tourist destination for those seeking sun, sea, and culture. Historical sites, free trade zones, culture, and entertainment are synonymous with this land of champions. Here are five sports activities you can’t miss:

1- Surfing at Cavancha

The beaches of Cavancha are well-known for their waves, ideal for surfing. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced surfer, you will find the excitement you seek in the waters of Iquique.

2- Sandboarding on the Dunes of Cerro Dragón

The giant dunes of Cerro Dragón provide the perfect terrain for sandboarding. It’s an exciting and unique experience you can’t miss in Iquique.

3- Beach Volleyball at Playa Brava

What’s more fun than playing beach volleyball with your friends or family? Playa Brava is the perfect place to enjoy this sport while soaking up the sun and feeling the sea breeze.

4- Sport Fishing Offshore

Are you a fishing enthusiast? Don’t miss the chance to practice sport fishing offshore in the waters off Iquique. With several local companies offering fishing excursions, there are plenty of options available.

5- Hiking in the Pampa del Tamarugal National Reserve

Although not located directly in Iquique, the Pampa del Tamarugal National Reserve is nearby and offers incredible hiking opportunities and a chance to connect with nature. It’s an excellent option for outdoor and adventure lovers.

Do you have your itinerary ready? Don’t wait any longer and start planning your getaway to Iquique!

No plans for Easter? Don’t worry! We’ve got 6 incredible getaways for you to relax with your family

We know that Easter is a time to rest and enjoy with family, and you’ve been looking forward to relaxing outdoors and escaping the noise of the city. That’s why, in this article, we’ll show you 6 fascinating destinations where you can relax, have fun, and create unforgettable memories. From golden beaches to vibrant cities, each place offers its unique charm so you can make the most of your vacation. Keep reading and discover how to surprise your family!

Iquique: Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works

Immerse yourself in the history of Chile with a visit to the Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works located near Iquique. These ancient mining camps are a testament to the golden age of saltpeter in the country. Stroll through the ruins and discover how miners lived and worked in the early 20th century. Additionally, you’ll learn about the importance of this industry in the region’s development. The best part is that it costs just $3,000 per person and is on the outskirts of the city. An educational and exciting experience for the whole family!

Antofagasta: Balneario Hornito

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the pristine nature of Cajón del Maipo. Just a few kilometers from Santiago, this stunning valley will surprise you with its majestic mountainous landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and fresh air. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, or simply relax by the river and admire the natural beauty surrounding you. An incredible experience to enjoy with family or friends.

Santiago: Cajón del Maipo

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the pristine nature of Cajón del Maipo. Just a few kilometers from Santiago, this stunning valley will surprise you with its majestic mountain landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and fresh air. Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting, or simply relax by the river and admire the natural beauty surrounding you. An incredible experience to enjoy with family or friends.

Concepción: Salto del Laja

Let yourself be amazed by the imposing beauty of Salto del Laja, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Chile. Located just a few kilometers from Concepción, this stunning waterfall is a treat for the senses. Enjoy a peaceful walk along the natural trails surrounding the waterfall, or if you prefer, have a picnic by the river and relax to the sound of the falling water. Whatever you choose, this outing is definitely just the beginning of a weekend full of adventures.

Temuco: Conguillío National Park

Explore the untamed beauty of Conguillío National Park, located near Temuco. This park is famous for its breathtaking landscapes of lakes, forests, and volcanoes, including the iconic Llaima Volcano. Enjoy activities like hiking, birdwatching, or simply relax in the tranquility of nature. A perfect destination for outdoor lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking for new challenges.

Buenos Aires

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Buenos Aires and discover everything this fascinating city has to offer. From iconic neighborhoods like La Boca and San Telmo to famous tango shows and delicious cuisine, Buenos Aires never stops surprising. Take a tour of major landmarks such as the Obelisco, Casa Rosada, and the Puente de la Mujer, or simply wander through the streets filled with history and charm. A cultural experience for the whole family!

Already know where to go this weekend? We hope our tips have given you ideas for enjoying time with your family and relaxing in different natural landscapes in each city. So pack your bags and start planning your next adventure. And of course, we look forward to welcoming you with open arms at any of our hotels across the country!

Weekend Trip in Santiago? Discover 6 Unmissable Places to Visit the Capital

Are you coming to the Chilean capital for a few days, but don’t know where to start your adventure? Then get ready for a weekend full of emotions and discoveries in this lively and cultural city. From breathtaking panoramic views to art-filled and entertaining walks, we invite you to discover 6 must-visit places that will make you want to return to Santiago time and time again.

1- Sky Costanera

Without a doubt, this experience is unique and takes you literally to new heights. At the highest observation deck in Latin America, you can enjoy incomparable panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, giving visitors the opportunity to see the vastness of Santiago from a privileged perspective. With its observation platform located more than 300 meters high, Sky Costanera is a must-see destination for anyone wanting to admire the beauty of Santiago de Chile.

2- Costanera Center

More than just a shopping mall, the famous Costanera Center is a symbol of Santiago’s dynamism and modernity. Located in the heart of the city, this imposing building is the ideal destination for shopping and entertainment lovers. With a wide variety of stores selling fashion, technology, home goods, and beauty products, as well as world-class restaurants and cinemas, Costanera Center offers an unparalleled shopping experience for all tastes and budgets. In addition, you can enjoy the surrounding area with various stores, green spaces, and iconic streets.

3- Mercado Urbano Tobalaba “MUT”

The Mercado Urbano Tobalaba is one of the newest and most attractive spots in Santiago, offering a unique experience for foodies and lovers of local culture. Located in the Providencia neighborhood, this market is known for its lively atmosphere and a wide variety of fresh and gourmet products. Visitors can enjoy a range of culinary options, from typical Chilean dishes to international cuisine. In addition to food, MUT also has spaces dedicated to art, crafts, and local shops, creating a welcoming atmosphere for the whole family.

4- Barrio Lastarria

Let yourself be enveloped by the bohemian and cultural atmosphere of Barrio Lastarria. Explore its charming streets and fall in love with the cozy cafes and restaurants that fill this picturesque corner of the city. In addition to its cultural charm, Barrio Lastarria also offers a variety of shopping options that attract visitors from all over. From designer boutiques to entrepreneurial galleries and local craft markets, you’ll find a wide variety of choices for shopping and souvenirs. Of course, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center (GAM), a meeting point for art and creativity that regularly offers art exhibitions, theater, dance, music, and more. Definitely a must-see in Santiago!

5- Barrio Isidora Goyenechea

Barrio Isidora Goyenechea is a vibrant, cosmopolitan destination that captivates visitors with its urban charm and diverse dining options. Known for its elegant tree-lined streets and modern architecture, this neighborhood is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon of shopping in designer boutiques, followed by a delicious dinner at one of its acclaimed restaurants. Additionally, the area hosts a variety of art galleries, cafés, and bars, making it a meeting point for both locals and tourists. You can’t miss it!

6- Casa Costanera

Located in the heart of Vitacura in Santiago, Casa Costanera is an exclusive shopping destination offering a luxury and sophisticated experience. This high-end shopping center features a carefully curated selection of fashion stores, jewelry shops, home decor, and top-tier restaurants, making it the ideal place for those who appreciate style and quality. With renowned national and international brands, this space stands out as a world-class shopping destination where visitors can enjoy a unique and elegant shopping experience. Moreover, its modern architectural design and exclusive atmosphere make Casa Costanera the perfect place for those seeking a distinguished and refined shopping experience in Santiago.

As you can see, Santiago offers a wide range of cultural, artistic, and natural experiences that make a weekend in the city an unforgettable adventure. Have you already prepared your itinerary? Don’t wait any longer—start planning your getaway to Santiago now!

Surprise your child! 7 panoramas in Santiago for this Children’s Day

Children’s Day is just around the corner and it’s time to enjoy it to the fullest with your family! If you’re looking for exciting ideas to celebrate this special day, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, you’ll discover 7 incredible panoramas in Santiago that will make this Children’s Day unforgettable. Get ready for new fun-filled adventures.

7 great places to visit in Santiago for Children’s Day 2023

1. Metropolitan Park:

Santiago’s Metropolitan Park is a perfect destination for Children’s Day. In this vast green lung of the city, you will find a wide variety of activities for the whole family. From enjoying a relaxing picnic to exploring nature trails that wind through the city, this park offers a unique experience. Also, don’t miss the famous cable car that will take you to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for a panoramic view of the entire capital.
Check out more information at https://parquemet.cl/.

2. Fantasilandia:

Fantasilandia is a classic for all children, this amusement park guarantees hours of entertainment for the whole family. With thrilling rides, roller coasters and mechanical games adapted for all ages, this place is a true paradise of fun. Don’t forget to visit its classic attractions, its children’s area and the different activities that take place every day!
Check out more information at https://www.fantasilandia.cl/.

3. Mirador Interactive Museum:

If you are looking for an educational and fun option, the Mirador Interactive Museum is the ideal place. Here, children can learn about science, technology and art while having fun playing as a family. From interactive experiments to exciting exhibits, this museum stimulates the curiosity and creativity of the little ones, giving them a unique experience in their development, a must visit for every science lover!
Check out more information at https://mim.cl/.

4. Santiago Planetarium:

A unique option in the capital! The Santiago Planetarium offers a fascinating experience for children and adults of all ages. Through projections in the dome, you can explore the mysteries of space and discover the wonders of the universe. The Planetarium also has interactive exhibits and special activities for the youngest, awakening their love for astronomy and science.
Check out more information at https://planetariochile.cl/.

5. Bicentennial Park:

The Bicentennial Park is a true oasis in the middle of the city. With extensive green spaces, lakes and playgrounds, it is the perfect place to spend Children’s Day in contact with nature. Your children can enjoy watching the animals, taking bike rides, skating or just running and playing outdoors. In addition, the park has picnic areas, ideal for sharing a delicious lunch with the family.
Check out more information at https://www.vitacura.cl/parque-bicentenario/conozca-el-parque-bicentenario.html.

6. Buin Zoo:

The Buin Zoo is a must-see zoological park in Santiago. In addition to the animals, it offers shows and plays for the whole family to enjoy. Your little ones will have the opportunity to interact with some animals, take marine tours, be surprised by the different species and have a magical day that they will surely remember for a long time. If you don’t have a car, we recommend you to take the train that leaves from the center of the capital and drops you off at the zoo’s door, this is the classic way to get there and we assure you that the trip will add points for the little ones.
Check out more information at https://www.buinzoo.cl/.

7. Kidzania:

Kidzania is a unique place in Santiago to celebrate Children’s Day. It is a city on a child’s scale where children experience being adults for a day. They can choose from a variety of professions and live the real experience of each one, they can also enjoy shows in the theater, participate in dance contests or sing karaoke. This mini-city has realistic buildings, streets and establishments where children will learn about teamwork and responsibility.
Check out more information at https://santiago.kidzania.com/es-cl.

Bonus! Because we want your children to have an unforgettable day, we have another option for you to save in your calendar.

8. Safari Park:

Safari Park is a perfect destination not only for animal lovers, but also for younger adventurers. Located on the outskirts of Santiago, this park offers the opportunity to get up close to various species in their natural habitat. Children will be able to enjoy tours, feed animals and learn about wildlife conservation by being front row spectators – an educational and exciting experience to celebrate this day!
Check out more information at https://www.parquesafari.cl/.

Do you already know how to surprise your child? With these 7 Santiago panoramas we hope we have helped you to have the perfect day. No matter which one you choose, each place offers unique experiences that will make this day an unforgettable memory for your little ones, so don’t wait any longer, prepare your itinerary and enjoy Children’s Day 2023 to the fullest!

La Tirana Festival: when, where and why to go

La Tirana Festival is a religious celebration that, year after year, takes place in the town of La Tirana, located in the commune of Pozo al Monte (Tarapacá region). This town, of no more than 560 inhabitants, receives more than 250,000 people during the week in which the festivity that honors the Virgin of Carmen takes place, becoming the most popular religious festival not only in the north, but also in the whole country.

When is the celebration of La Tirana?
The town of La Tirana -located in the middle of the Pampa del Tamarugal, about 80 kilometers from Iquique- begins to prepare for the celebration several months before the thousands of pilgrims arrive here both to thank and venerate the Virgin and to witness the various cultural manifestations. This anticipation is related to the making of the striking costumes that dress the dancers of La Tirana. We are talking about highly detailed clothing, which adorns those who -for hours- will dance to the rhythm of various dances, such as the popular diabladas or the caporales.

So, when is the festival of La Tirana celebrated? If you do not want to miss any milestone of the biggest festival in Chile, take note of the schedule of activities: July 10. This is the actual start of the La Tirana Iquique festival.

It should be noted that this is the second year that the professionals of our institution have the opportunity to improve their skills thanks to a strategic alliance with the University of Chile and the scholarship that Coanil Foundation grants to its collaborators.

The festival of La Tirana, being the largest religious festival in the country, is a spectacle that all Chileans -and foreign tourists- should witness. A celebration of faith, dance and songs in honor of the Virgen del Carmen that takes practically a whole week. Do you dare to be part of this event?

From Iquique, you can rent a car to move with more tranquility, or take a tour to go to Pozo al Monte and La Tirana. It is approximately 55 km. from the city to the town.
From Santiago, the most convenient way is to take a plane to Diego Aracena Airport – located about 45 km. south of Iquique (approximately 25 minutes by car) – and then continue to Pozo al Monte.

5 reasons to enjoy the snow in Chile with Holiday Inn Express Santiago

The Andes Mountains crown Santiago de Chile and offer travelers a great diversity of alternatives to enjoy all year round. However, winter has something special and it is noticeable when you get off the plane. Fluffy layers of snow decorate the peaks of the hills, a spectacular sight for those who love skiing or snowboarding.

What makes this city so ideal for enjoying a ski trip to Chile? Find out, below:

1. The snow is closer than you imagined
The main ski resorts in the capital are located less than 70 kilometers from the Holiday Inn Express Santiago. Among them, Valle Nevado stands out -the largest in South America- a luxury property where you can enjoy multiple snow activities. El Colorado, La Parva, Farellones and Portillo are other alternatives in the area.

2. You can visit a beautiful mountain village
If you plan to make your ski trip to Chile with your family, and you want a day of rest instead of hitting the slopes, you can visit Farellones, the beautiful mountain village near the resorts. In winter it is a magical place: its wooden houses covered with glittering snow look like something out of a movie. The best thing to do is to stay and watch the sun go down over Santiago: the colors are ideal for a good photo session.

3.Valle Nevado and Portillo organize dream events
These resorts are known for dedicating entire weeks to certain themes to entertain snow enthusiasts. Both have events for the whole family, with children’s entertainment, games and gourmet activities, such as wine festivals, cooking classes with renowned chefs and food tastings. The best part? All these activities are compatible with a fun day of skiing. For more details, you can check Valle Nevado’s calendar or Portillo’s list of activities.

4. Farellones offers fun activities
Not everything is skiing and snowboarding. In the Farellones mountain park you can enjoy activities for the whole family, such as canopy of 180 meters, tubing or tour the place in the panoramic chair. You can also get started in the white sport on the Magic Carpet, two 100-meter conveyor belts ideal for those who are just starting to experiment with snow.

5. Satisfy your desire for adrenaline
If you love extreme sports, maybe Heliskiing in Valle Nevado is the activity for you. A helicopter will drop you off in a totally virgin snow zone, where you will be the one in charge of tracing the routes you want. With the help of experienced mountain guides, special equipment and a safety protocol that meets the highest standards, it will be a day you won’t forget.

Did any of these alternatives catch your attention? You can access all of them from the Holiday Inn Express Santiago Hotel (Las Condes), a place that allows you to enjoy the best of the central area in winter.

Additionally, we invite you to enjoy the comforts of one of the best hotels in South America, we are located in:
Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Iquique, Chile.
Las Condes, Santiago de Chile.
Antofagasta, Chile.
Temuco, Chile.
Concepción, Chile.
Puerto Montt, Chile.
Aeropuerto Santiago de Chile.