Day 20 – Sunday, February 15, 2026

I promised to write about Antofagasta in the previous post.

Antofagasta, one if the largest cities in Chile, dramatically positioned between the Pacific and the vasst Atacama Desert Its origins trace back to the 19th century, when it grew rapidly as a mining town initially for nitrate, later copper and lithium. Despite its industrial roots, Antofagasta developed into a modern urban center with universities, cultural institutions, and a busy port. Antofagasta contributes to Chile’s mining economy while also evolving into a more diversified and livable city. Its blend of harsh desert surroundings, industrial heritage, and coastal beauty gives it a unique character.

Both yesterday and today afternoon, I ventured into the city. Buses are well marked and run frequently- and as far as I can tell - can be hailed from anywhere. On one of these lines, the wife of thr driver was counting the ticket fare (a ride costs €0.60), while her son was loitering around and her daughter sleeping peaxefully on the floor beside her feet (please see pictures of previous post). There is always sone sort of on-board entertainment - just watch the reels.

The beach front is rocky and the few artificial sand beaches are crowded - so I did not take a dip.. There are malls, historic, colonial-style buildings and a large park - which on this Sunday afternoon was completely deserted. Do bear in mind, we are in midst of a large desert, still, there are Oleanders, palm trees and (what I believe) are Norfolk Island pines How do they grow here?

At the south end of town was a massive fortress-like ruins, with the fancy name of Las Ruinas de Huanchac -I thought I was seeing some historic structure from 18th century, of a civilization called the Huanchacas (though it did not fit my knowledge of history). I was humbled to find out that these were 100-year old remains of a silver mine.

I also visited a church where a wedding had just taken place, Yesterday, it being Valentines' Day, everyone was carrying flowers, heart-shaped balloons and teddy bears.

Except for my afternoon expedition into town, I did nothing, was just relaxing at the hotel (plud nd enjoying a surprisingly good breakfas. Doing nothing felt great!

Thinking of the major incline leading out of town makes my stomach turn already now. Talking of stonach, I had a pretty good steak tonight. Let us see what happens with my bike tomorrow!