The port city of Antofagasta is the capital of this 126,440 km2 region with a population of 493,984. With mining alone accounting for over 65% of regional GDP, Antofagasta is mining country. Some of the world’s principal mining companies operate vast copper mines, including the world’s largest open-pit mine. The region is also rich in silver, gold, lithium, iodine and quartz. The mining boom has attracted a thriving support industry providing worldclass goods and services to mining companies as well as high-quality, exportgrade mining supplies. A strong fi shing industry is also very important to the regional economy. A major regional feature is the Atacama Desert, the world’s driest and home to such unique landmarks as the Domeyko Mountain Range, a favorite with mountain climbers. The region is also known for its volcanoes, the Salt Mountain Range, the Valley of the Moon, and the Tatio Geysers. Antofagasta is also home to San Pedro de Atacama, the nerve centre of
tourist activity in the region. In spite of its aridness, the region is traversed eat-west by Chile’s longest river, the Loa, a 440 km long string of water fed by summer rains and the Andean snowmelt runoff. The region, and in particular San Pedro de Atacama, is fast becoming a favorite tourist destination. Local attractions include ghost nitrate mining towns and the region’s shoreline, with numerous secluded beaches full of perfect spots for water sports enthusiasts.