This year's leading mining-energy exhibition announced a range of tourism experiences aimed at enhancing the stay of exhibitors and international delegations. The initiative seeks to combine business, innovation and tourism, encouraging visitors to enjoy the region beyond the event's programming.

The 21st edition expects the arrival of delegations from about 30 countries, with foreign exhibitors representing at least one third of the confirmed total, establishing EXPONOR as a global meeting point for the industry. This movement of people presents an undeniable opportunity to position it as a showcase of the tourism potential of northern Chile, involving local operators, municipalities, and communities.

Territorial and strategic vision

In this context, Mauricio Velásquez, PTI Coastal Tourism Manager of CODESER, highlighted the importance of linking the event to tourism in the region:

"The tourism opportunities associated with EXPONOR 2026 transform the event into a long-term showcase for the region. Integrated coastal experiences, natural heritage, local cuisine, nautical activities and cultural routes expand tourism opportunities for international delegations, encouraging longer stays and repeat visits.".

Andrea Moreno, the exhibition's manager, highlighted the importance that visitors plan their stay to make the most of their visit:

"Through EXPONOR 2026 we aim to connect industry and tourism, highlighting the region's attractions as a strategic complement for business tourism and the territory's international projection."

Experiences that complement business agendas

The tourism programmes, planned within the framework of EXPONOR, include tours of saltpetre offices and historical sites in the desert, astronomical observing under world-renowned skies, and activities on the coast, such as sailing and kayaking. Wellness and self-care tourism alternatives are also incorporated, especially aimed at delegations and corporate groups.

The programmes are complemented by logistics services, such as accommodation, restaurants, event rooms and specialized transfers to and from the airport and to the AIA EXPONOR grounds, in addition to the various tourism circuits in the region.

Heritage routes include the "Ruta del Salitre" (Saltpetre Route), with visits to Baquedano, María Elena, Pedro de Valdivia and Chacabuco, along with astronomy experiences in historical desert settings. There are also ecotourism options, such as kayak trips to Santa María island, bicycle circuits in the La Portada sector and heritage city tours in Antofagasta and Mejillones, with an emphasis on territorial identity.

How to access the experience

The complete programme of activities will be available on the EXPONOR 2026 official website, where those interested can check alternatives and coordinate their activities in advance. The organisers invite exhibitors and delegations to transform their visit to the exhibition into a comprehensive experience that combines business, innovation and tourism, showcasing the Antofagasta Region as an attractive and reliable destination beyond the event itself.