Mina Los Colorados

Mina Los Colorados is an iron ore open-pit mine in Huasco Province, located roughly 30 kilometers northwest of Vallenar. The facility uses magnetic concentration methods to process extracted ore and produce high-quality iron ore for export.

The mine began operations in 1992 and added a new processing plant in 1998 to expand its production capacity. This expansion allowed the facility to significantly increase its output of iron ore.

Mining activities at Los Colorados contribute to the regional identity of Huasco Province, where mineral extraction shapes local traditions and communities.

The site uses 15-meter-high mining benches and electric or hydraulic shovels to extract minerals efficiently. Keep in mind this is an active mining facility, so visitor access may be restricted or require special permission.

The mine uses advanced magnetic concentration technology that transforms raw ore into export-ready product directly on-site. This means only processed iron ore leaves the facility, not the original extracted material.