Sports and leisure activities Great North

The Very Large Telescope is probably the best in the field of sky observation, apart from space telescopes! Installed on the summit of Mount Paranal at an altitude of more than 2600 m, it is composed of 4 giant telescopes, each equipped with an 8.2 m mirror, operating separately or in concert depending on the needs and the types of objects to be studied. Mount Paranal enjoys ideal climatic conditions with more than 300 clear nights per year, low humidity and a very stable atmosphere. The VLT has made it possible to make important discoveries: in 2004, an extra-solar planet was photographed through its telescopes for the first time. During the visit, you can see the domes with their metallic shapes and colours, before discovering one of the telescopes used by professionals. It must be admitted that at this stage the most blasé of travellers remains amazed at the gigantic size of the telescope and its main mirror. The mirror is surprising because of its thin monolithic design, only 17.6 cm for 23 tons (!). If you are lucky enough to visit the observatory during a technical maintenance, you can admire the telescope turning on itself in a cathedral-like silence, hardly disturbed by the noise of the accessories working 24 hours a day. The visit also includes the observatory's control room, from which the astronomers and technicians control the telescope and prepare their manipulations.

The absolute reference for flying over Iquique and its surroundings! Even before paragliding was a must in Iquique, the Puro Vuelo team was already flying in its skies! The agency recruits the best instructors in the country, all of them are certified pilot instructors and have participated in championships. They are friendly and dynamic and will even let you maneuver if you feel comfortable. A unique experience to feel free as a bird, overlooking a breathtaking landscape.

This surf school, run by Alfredo, a real local character, will give you the opportunity to practice surfing in one of the most important spots in South America. Whatever your level, the courses are adapted and directed by professionals of the discipline. But beware, here we don't always take ourselves seriously and the fun atmosphere is also a must! The school also has its own youth hostel, but there is one condition for staying overnight: keep surfing! Equipment available for hire.

Established in Arica in 2010, this paragliding tour operator is sure to appeal to travelers with a taste for heights and a fear of heights! Managed by certified instructors and pilots, the company offers both flying lessons and tandem "sightseeing flights", enabling beginners to enjoy a 15-20 minute flight over the city's southern beaches. An unforgettable and safe experience! You can request a video recording of your flight.

The agency offers absolutely unique paragliding trips: try it at least once in your life, even for the most timid! Adrenaline guaranteed in all benevolence and safety. The guides are very professional and will put at ease the most beginners. The agency also has a small hostel at the top of the dunes of Iquique. The panorama is striking: you will overhang the Pacific Ocean and will benefit from small, but cosy rooms. The hostel runs on solar energy and is located 10 minutes from downtown Iquique.