Humberstone

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Lonely Planet review

The influence and wealth of the nitrate boom echo through the now deserted ghost town of Humberstone. Established in 1872, this mining town once fizzed with an energy, culture and ingenuity that peaked in the 1940s. However, the development of synthetic nitrates forced the closure of the oficina by 1960 - 3000 workers lost their jobs and the town dwindled to a forlorn shell of its former self.

Some buildings are restored, but others are crumbling. Luckily, Humberstone's 2005 Unesco World Heritage listing may give it a boost, and there are hopes that the old hotel and swimming pool will eventually reopen to guests.