Calama

Calama is a city in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, sitting at an elevation of 2,260 meters (7,415 feet) with the Loa River running through it. The streets extend from the older quarters in the center to the newer housing estates on the outer edges, connected by wide avenues with few trees.

Control over the region shifted from Bolivia to Chile in the late 19th century after the conflict between the two countries ended. The discovery of large copper deposits in the nearby mountains transformed the place from a small trading post into a mining hub.

The name comes from the Quechua language and refers to the region of the Loa River that flows through what is now the urban area. Visitors notice the connection to mining culture in the residential neighborhoods and in the craft shops that sell copper souvenirs and local goods.

The airport sits about 5 kilometers (3 miles) south of the city center and offers direct connections to the capital and other cities in the north. Those traveling onward to San Pedro de Atacama can find buses and taxis at the central transport hubs.

Despite the extreme dryness, vegetation grows in gardens and parks thanks to the irrigation system drawing from the Loa River. Annual rainfall totals only about 5 millimeters, which is why most roofs are built flat and do not need rain gutters.