Mining legacy and gardens by the sea in Lota
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
A two-day trip to the mining history of Biobío
2 DAYS
A few kilometers south of Concepción is the coal basin, a territory that forged the industrial history of Chile. This trip invites you to explore the fascinating contrast of
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
ATRACTIVOS
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Isidora Cousiño Park and the Chiflón del Diablo
If you are in Concepción, you will have to travel about an hour to get to Lota. If you are traveling by public transport, buses are very frequent and leave every few minutes from the city center. Your first stop will be Isidora Cousiño Park, a spectacular French-style botanical garden designed in the 19th century, ideal for exploring its trails and enjoying unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean.
Afterwards, have lunch in the center of Lota and then dedicate the afternoon to an underground experience. You will go to the Chiflón del Diablo Mine, one of the most famous coal deposits in the world, immortalized by the writer Baldomero Lillo in his book “Subterra.”
Accompanied by former miners, you will descend in the original cage to tour the galleries and hear firsthand the incredible stories of work, sacrifice and camaraderie that defined life in the mine. The last guided tour ends at around 6:30 p.m., so you can return to Concepción or spend the night in Lota for your next day.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Isidora Cousiño Park and the Chiflón del Diablo
If you are in Concepción, you will have to travel about an hour to get to Lota. If you are traveling by public transport, buses are very frequent and leave every few minutes from the city center. Your first stop will be Isidora Cousiño Park, a spectacular French-style botanical garden designed in the 19th century, ideal for exploring its trails and enjoying unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean.
Afterwards, have lunch in the center of Lota and then dedicate the afternoon to an underground experience. You will go to the Chiflón del Diablo Mine, one of the most famous coal deposits in the world, immortalized by the writer Baldomero Lillo in his book “Subterra.”
Accompanied by former miners, you will descend in the original cage to tour the galleries and hear firsthand the incredible stories of work, sacrifice and camaraderie that defined life in the mine. The last guided tour ends at around 6:30 p.m., so you can return to Concepción or spend the night in Lota for your next day.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Lota Museum and nature in Jorge Alessandri Park
After breakfast, you will complement the previous day’s experience with a visit to the Lota Historical Museum. Through its collections and exhibitions, you will be able to understand in detail the history of the city, the power of the Cousiño family and the daily life of the mining community that shaped this area of the country.
In the afternoon, take a short 20-minute trip to reach the neighboring commune of Coronel. After lunch, your destination will be Jorge Alessandri Park, a beautiful natural and recreational space. It is the perfect place for an afternoon of relaxation and connection with the nature of the region.
Here you can take walks along educational trails of native forest, visit the Cultural Center or simply relax in its large green areas. Take the opportunity to dine in one of its exquisite restaurants to put the finishing touch to this itinerary.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Lota Museum and nature in Jorge Alessandri Park
After breakfast, you will complement the previous day’s experience with a visit to the Lota Historical Museum. Through its collections and exhibitions, you will be able to understand in detail the history of the city, the power of the Cousiño family and the daily life of the mining community that shaped this area of the country.
In the afternoon, take a short 20-minute trip to reach the neighboring commune of Coronel. After lunch, your destination will be Jorge Alessandri Park, a beautiful natural and recreational space. It is the perfect place for an afternoon of relaxation and connection with the nature of the region.
Here you can take walks along educational trails of native forest, visit the Cultural Center or simply relax in its large green areas. Take the opportunity to dine in one of its exquisite restaurants to put the finishing touch to this itinerary.
What you should know
How to get there by air
Carriel Sur Airport (CCP) in Talcahuano is the main air gateway. From there, you can rent a car or take ground transportation for a short 45-minute trip to Lota.
How to get there by land
From Concepción, the trip to Lota is 40 km and takes approximately one hour on Route 160. You can travel by private vehicle for greater flexibility or use the frequent public transport that connects Concepción, Lota and Coronel.
Climate and clothing
The area has a coastal climate, often humid and windy. Dress in layers, bring a windbreaker or light jacket and, very importantly, wear closed and comfortable shoes, especially for the visit to the mine.
Must-Know Tips
The visit to the Chiflón del Diablo Mine is not suitable for people with claustrophobia or reduced mobility. It is recommended to book tours in advance, especially in high season.
