Plizio Visual Lab

Spence Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Spence Mine is a major open-pit copper mine located in the Atacama Desert in Chile's Antofagasta Region. Owned by the multinational mining company BHP, the mine commenced commercial production in 2006. Spence is known for employing advanced technologies in the extraction of copper cathodes and concentrates. A key capacity expansion project was the Spence Growth Option (SGO), which involved the construction of a new concentrator plant to significantly extend the mine's operational lifespan. The mine sits at approximately 1,700 meters above sea level near the Sierra Gorda district, benefiting from strategic proximity to regional mining infrastructure. A notable aspect of Spence is its commitment to sustainability, including the use of desalinated seawater and renewable energy for its operations. These initiatives aim to minimize the environmental footprint in one of the world's driest regions. The mine is a substantial contributor to Chile's national GDP and plays a vital role in meeting global copper demand.

Location: Chile
Top sights: Oficina Salitrera Piscina · Oficina Lina · Iglesia del Evangélico Cuadrangular

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	20	20	19	18	15	14	14	15	16	18	19	19
Rain mm	2	3	1	0	1	1	1	1	0	0	0	1

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Spence Mine is a major open-pit copper mine in the Antofagasta Region, Chile, operated by BHP. It is an integral part of Chile's copper mining sector and contributes substantially to the regional economy.

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Visiting

The active open-pit mine is generally not accessible to the public for safety reasons. From nearby Route 5, the vast mining area and characteristic waste dumps can be seen from a distance.

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Where to view it

A suitable viewpoint is at the mine road exit from Route 5, slightly elevated above the plain. From here, there is a wide view over the open pits and processing facilities of Spence Mine.

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Local products

The mine produces copper cathodes and concentrate, mainly exported to Asia and North America. In the region, travelers can find copper goods and minerals at the markets of Antofagasta.

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Active season

Operations at Spence Mine run continuously all year round with 24-hour shifts. Production is relatively steady without significant seasonal fluctuations, as desert conditions allow year-round work.

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Nearby

A visit to Spence Mine can be well combined with the nearby town of Sierra Gorda and other mining areas like Ministro Hales Mine. The coastal city of Antofagasta with its beaches and sea is also suitable for a combination.