Esmeralda Buoy
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Esmeralda Buoy

4.5
·50 reviews·Iquique, Chile

A poignant symbol of naval heroism, the Esmeralda Buoy stands as a testament to Chile's maritime history on Iquique's scenic promenade.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Beautiful night views

CrowdMedium
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Esmeralda Buoy

Esmeralda Buoy

Best Time

Evenings

Beautiful night views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A poignant symbol of naval heroism, the Esmeralda Buoy stands as a testament to Chile's maritime history on Iquique's scenic promenade.

4.5
(50 reviews)

"Thinking about the story behind it was inspiring for me."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Enjoy the Night View

The buoy offers a beautiful night view, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

🤔 Reflect on History

Thinking about the story behind the buoy is inspiring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Esmeralda Buoy

The Esmeralda Buoy

Baquedano Promenade, Iquique

A powerful symbol of naval history, this buoy honors the heroic defense of Iquique.

Nighttime Ambiance

Nighttime Ambiance

Baquedano Promenade

Experience a beautiful and inspiring night view of the buoy and its surroundings.

Historical Context

Historical Context

Near the buoy

Reflect on the bravery and sacrifice associated with the naval battle of Iquique.

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Planning Your Visit

Understand the Esmeralda's Significance

The Esmeralda Buoy commemorates a pivotal naval battle. Visiting offers a tangible connection to Chilean history and heroism. Plan your visit around understanding its story.

Location and Accessibility

Situated on the Baquedano promenade, the Esmeralda Buoy is easily accessible. Consider the time of day for the best experience, as it can be a popular spot.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Beautiful night views
Crowd
Medium
When
Daytime
Why
Understand historical context
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Napa subterráneo al sur de Caleta Los Verdes, Iquique 📍🇨🇱. . . . . . #boya #trail #senderismo #esmeralda #tik_tok #Running #aventura #tirolesa #escalada #aucanquilchas_iqq #cavancha #altohospicio #tarapaca #chile #caleta #caletalosverdes #napa #playa #agua #vida #salud
@ranger_ch
8.3K likes • 130.9K views

🌅 Enjoy the Night View

The buoy offers a beautiful night view, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Reddit

🤔 Reflect on History

Thinking about the story behind the buoy is inspiring. Reddit

A las 12:10 la Esmeralda desaparecio bajo las aguas de Iquique. Combate Naval de Iquique y Punta Gruesa y Día de las Glorias Navales #elmaresfuturo #armadadechile
@armadadechile
7.4K likes • 120.2K views
Hola Iquique 🙌🏾 #iquique #iquiqueglorioso #playa #iquiquechile🇨🇱 #verano #beach #esmeralda
@angelokafloressot
5K likes • 168.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Promenade Walk

Located at the end of Baquedano and start of Cavancha promenade. Reddit

🚢 Naval History Symbol

Commemorates the heroic defense of Iquique. TikTok

21 de Mayo Día de las Glorias Navales que recuerda y conmemora el Combate Naval de Iquique #iquique #iquiquechile #barcoesmeralda⚓
@natybarrientos
3.6K likes • 120K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Enjoy the Night View

The buoy offers a beautiful night view, perfect for a peaceful stroll. Reddit

🤔 Reflect on History

Thinking about the story behind the buoy is inspiring. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Promenade Walk

Located at the end of Baquedano and start of Cavancha promenade. Reddit

🚢 Naval History Symbol

Commemorates the heroic defense of Iquique. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(50 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the Esmeralda Buoy to be an inspiring historical landmark, particularly beautiful when viewed at night. Its location on the promenade is appreciated for leisurely strolls, though some reviews mention concerns about homeless individuals in the vicinity.

"Homeless people are surrounding this monument or even sleeping on it."

Christine Kohout

"It is the same buoy that was anchored in the sea, when it was removed to change it, it was restored and left as a tourist attraction, it is located at the end of the Baquedano promenade and at the beginning of the Cavancha promenade"

Miguel Sepulveda

"I loved the place.... super quiet"

Liz Montecinos

What People Like

Inspiring historical significance
Beautiful night views
Great promenade location

What People Dislike

Homeless presence

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Esmeralda Buoy is located on the Baquedano promenade, at the beginning of the Cavancha promenade in Iquique. It's easily accessible by foot if you are in the city center or along the coast. Reddit

Street parking is generally available along the Baquedano promenade, but it can be competitive, especially during peak hours. Consider public transport or walking if possible. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Esmeralda Buoy is an outdoor monument located on the promenade and is free to view. Reddit

As it's an outdoor monument, it's accessible 24/7. However, the best experience for views and atmosphere is typically during daylight hours or in the evening. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Esmeralda Buoy is a monument commemorating the naval battle of Iquique, where the Chilean corvette Esmeralda bravely fought. It serves as a symbol of Chilean naval history and heroism. TikTok+1

Many visitors enjoy the beautiful night views of the buoy and the promenade. Daytime visits allow for a better appreciation of its historical context. Reddit

The buoy is located on the popular Cavancha and Baquedano promenades, offering opportunities for walking, enjoying the beach, and nearby dining options. Reddit

Yes, the Esmeralda Buoy and its surroundings offer great photo opportunities, especially during sunset or at night. Reddit

Yes, the promenade is a pleasant area for families to walk and enjoy the coastal scenery. The historical significance can also be a learning opportunity. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hour before sunset and the blue hour after sunset offer beautiful lighting. The buoy is also illuminated at night, providing a different photographic perspective. Reddit

You can capture wide shots of the buoy with the ocean and promenade, close-ups of its details, and scenic views of the Iquique coastline. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Esmeralda Buoy and its surrounding promenades offer a pleasant and safe environment for families. Children can enjoy the open space for walking and running, and the proximity to the beach provides opportunities for play. TikTok

While the historical significance might be more for adults, the visual presence of the buoy and the coastal scenery can still capture a child's imagination. It's a good spot for a family outing that combines a bit of history with outdoor enjoyment.

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Visiting the Esmeralda Buoy is a fantastic free activity for budget travelers. As it's an outdoor monument on a public promenade, there are no admission fees. Reddit

Combine your visit with a walk along the coast and enjoy the local atmosphere without spending a dime. It's a great way to experience a piece of Iquique's heritage and enjoy the seaside views.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historical Significance of the Esmeralda

The Esmeralda Buoy is more than just a marker; it's a profound symbol of Chilean national pride and naval history. It commemorates the Combate Naval de Iquique on May 21, 1879, a pivotal event during the War of the Pacific. On this day, the Chilean corvette Esmeralda, under the command of Captain Arturo Prat, bravely fought against Peruvian forces. Despite being outgunned and ultimately sinking, the Esmeralda's valiant defense became a legendary act of heroism. TikTok+2

While the original Esmeralda rests at the bottom of the sea, this buoy serves as a constant reminder of that sacrifice. It's a place where visitors can connect with the past and understand the courage that shaped Chile's maritime identity. The story behind the buoy is deeply inspiring for many who visit. Reddit

It's important to note that while the buoy is a prominent landmark, there are also discussions about the historical replica of the Esmeralda ship in Iquique, which offers a more immersive experience of naval history. TikTok

Experiencing the Iquique Coastline

The Esmeralda Buoy is strategically located along the vibrant Baquedano Promenade, which seamlessly transitions into the Cavancha Promenade. This coastal stretch is the heart of Iquique's seaside activity, offering a picturesque setting for both locals and tourists. Reddit

Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, feel the sea breeze, and take in the expansive ocean views. The promenades are often bustling with activity, providing a lively atmosphere. At night, the area transforms with beautiful lighting, making the Esmeralda Buoy a particularly scenic spot for an evening stroll. TikTokReddit

This location also serves as a gateway to other attractions. Nearby, you might find opportunities for activities like paragliding or sandboarding, as mentioned by some travelers, though these are separate experiences from visiting the buoy itself. TikTok

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