Natural Gate - is one of fifteen natural monuments, protected in Chile; located 18 kilometers north of Antofagasta.

National Monument La Portada rises 42 meters above the sea level. Its relief is formed by abrasion of volcanic rocks, sedimentary layers and layers of sandstone fossil shells (from 35 to 2 million years old), it covers an area of ​​31, 27 ha. This place, along with the moai stone statues of Easter Island - one of the most popular in Chile. Millions of tourists from around the world come to the country to see this amazing sight.

For thousands of years due to erosion of sediments by wind and sea water formed carved caves, cliffs and the arch of La Portada. Natural gate is surrounded by coastal cliffs with maximum height of 52 meters.

From afar, the arch looks like a large island with fluttering sea birds - gulls, pelicans and ducks. His projections resting sea lions and penguins, as can be seen in the sea shrimp, octopus, colorful jellyfish, sea turtles, dolphins and sharks, which is why this place is not suitable for swimming.

In 1990, it was announced the introduction of the arch of La Portada in the list of natural monuments of Chile. From 2003 to 2008, access to Review this natural monument remained closed due to the collapse of a large part of its rocks that blocked access to the beach. Currently, I enjoy this amazing spectacle possible, driving up to the top terrace on the highway Antofagasta, where are the parking, balconies, restaurant and exhibition halls.

This sector has two trails for hiking. The upper path - length of 70 m in the upper terrace (50 m above sea level) with access for people with disabilities and lasts 10 minutes. This way you can also go to the Museum of Biology Mirador. The second way - with a staircase that allows to pass on the seashore. This road does not have access for people with disabilities and has a duration of 40 minutes. But in August 2013 it has been closed due to the risk of falling rocks.