Located deep in the vast Atacama Desert, Diego de Almagro is one of Chile’s most intriguing northern cities, blending mining heritage, desert landscapes, and authentic Chilean culture. Often overlooked by mainstream tourists, Diego de Almagro offers a unique opportunity to explore the Atacama beyond San Pedro, giving travelers a raw and unfiltered desert experience. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the city’s history, attractions, logistics, climate, and travel tips—ensuring you have everything needed to plan an unforgettable journey.
The story of Diego de Almagro, Chile, is a fascinating blend of mining expansion, railway development, and the transformation of small desert settlements into thriving economic hubs. Founded originally under the name Potrerillos Station, the area developed rapidly in the early 20th century when copper mining in northern Chile surged. Over decades, the surrounding mines attracted workers from across the country, shaping a multicultural community that still defines the city today.
The region is also indirectly connected to the legacy of the Spanish conquistador Diego de Almagro, the first European to explore present-day Chile. Although the city is not the site of his expeditions, the name honors his role in early South American history. His name appears throughout Chile in streets, schools, and institutions, but the city of Diego de Almagro stands out as one of the most notable homages.
Mining remains the backbone of the local economy, with copper, gold, and other minerals contributing significantly to the region’s wealth. The now-closed Potrerillos Mine and the famous El Salvador Mine shaped generations of families and influenced local architecture, traditions, and employment patterns. Even today, mining companies play key roles in infrastructure development, community programs, and regional sustainability initiatives.
While not a typical bucket-list destination, Diego de Almagro offers something rare: immersion in the world’s driest desert far from crowds. Travelers seeking authenticity, geology, photography, and local culture will discover a rewarding environment. The surrounding landscape is shaped by rugged mountains, abandoned mining towns, wide salt flats, and vast plains that seem to stretch into infinity.
Despite its remote location, the city offers several attractions for visitors interested in culture, mining heritage, and outdoor exploration. Many sites are located in the surrounding desert and require transportation, making a car or guided tour essential.
The Desert Museum is one of Diego de Almagro’s cultural highlights, showcasing mining artifacts, historical tools, photographic archives, and geological specimens from the Atacama. Visitors gain insight into the region’s economic evolution and the life of mining communities across decades.
Once an important railway hub linking the Potrerillos mine to the port of Barquito, this abandoned station now stands as a haunting but beautiful reminder of early industrialization. Rusted trains, old buildings, and untouched desert sands make this a paradise for photographers and history lovers.
Located 26 km from Diego de Almagro, the small town of Inca de Oro is a living relic of Chile’s gold mining boom. Handmade houses, local workshops, and abandoned shafts tell the story of fortunes made and lost in the barren desert.
While not as developed as tourist hubs like San Pedro, the natural environment near Diego de Almagro features dramatic formations, mountain ranges, and surreal landscapes shaped by wind and volcanic activity.
The climate in Diego de Almagro is typical of the Atacama Desert: extremely dry, with minimal rainfall and significant temperature swings between day and night. Travelers must be prepared for intense sunlight, low humidity, and cool evenings.
| Month | Daytime Temperature (°C) | Night Temperature (°C) | Rainfall |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 26 | 13 | Very Low |
| April | 22 | 10 | Very Low |
| July | 17 | 4 | Very Low |
| October | 21 | 9 | Very Low |
Best time to visit: April to November, when temperatures are milder and more comfortable for outdoor exploration. Summer months (December to February) are hotter but still manageable.
Accommodation options in Diego de Almagro are primarily functional and aimed at business travelers and miners, but several comfortable hotels and guesthouses cater well to tourists. Rooms are typically clean, affordable, and equipped with essential amenities.
The cuisine of Diego de Almagro blends traditional Chilean dishes with hearty meals that reflect the needs of mining workers. While the city is not a culinary hotspot, visitors will enjoy homemade Chilean classics, fresh bread, meat dishes, and comforting soups.
Reaching Diego de Almagro is straightforward despite its remote location. Visitors typically travel from major northern cities such as Copiapó, Calama, or Antofagasta.
While many travelers pass through briefly, a two-day itinerary allows you to explore both the city and its remarkable surroundings.
A fascinating example of regional development can be seen in the transformation of Diego de Almagro over the past 50 years. According to government and mining data, employment growth, infrastructure investment, and public services expanded significantly as mining production increased.
For example, between 1980 and 2020:
This shift demonstrates how desert communities can evolve rapidly when supported by stable industry and government investment. Diego de Almagro is now considered one of the most developed small cities in the Atacama Region, with improving schools, hospitals, and public spaces.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, consider these essential tips before and during your visit.
Whether you’re a photographer, historian, adventure seeker, or traveler chasing solitude, Diego de Almagro offers something rare: authentic desert life far from tourist crowds. Its mining towns, landscapes, and cultural richness create an unforgettable northern Chile experience. While it may not have the fame of San Pedro de Atacama, it provides an equally compelling—yet far more intimate—window into the world’s driest desert.
For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path discoveries, Diego de Almagro should be at the top of your list in 2025.