Colloquially known as Chuqui's hole, the Chuquimata Copper Mine is the largest open pit mine in the world. 8km long, 3km wide and 1km deep, that's quite a hole to behold!
Behold we did - on the Conelco Norte Red Cap Tour - and what an amazing place!
It's a working mine, with Monster Trucks constantly on the move - had to stay safe with Hard Hats and High Viz Jackets. First stop the Ghost Town of Chuquicamata where 20,000 miners used to live. Chile's Health & Safety laws changed in 2008 and the mine owners Conelco had to evacuate the town - not surprised - by the end of the tour our eyes were itchy and noses full of dust!
Next stop Chuqui's hole - after slaloming convoys of Monster Trucks we drove over the top and a couple of Ks into the pit where we de-bussed for viewing and photos! Awesome - truly awesome!!
