The Coquimbo region in Chile boasts stunning coastal landscapes, beautiful valleys, world-class astronomical observatories, and a rich cultural heritage, making it a diverse and captivating destination for travelers.
Around 5 hours north of Santiago, you can reach the region’s capital, La Serena, and its historic centre with colonial architecture, churches and museums. The long sandy beach is ideal for sunbathing, water sports and enjoying the beauty of the Pacific. Other beautiful beaches along the coastline of this area can be found in the town of Coquimbo, Tongoy and Guanaqueros.
From La Serena, a drive to Pisco Elqui is a unique opportunity to explore the semi-desert scenery and culture of Chile. The route takes you from the lively coastal town deep into the picturesque Elqui Valley, known for its mountainous landscape, vineyards and the production of pisco, a traditional Chilean spirit. During a visit to a pisco distillery, you can taste the national brandy and learn more about its production.
While travelling through the valley, you will also come across charming villages. In Vicuña, the birthplace of Gabriela Mistral, you can learn more about the life and works of the poet and Nobel Prize winner. The region inspired her poetry and many monuments in the surrounding area commemorate her literary legacy.
The Elqui Valley, with the world’s first dark sky sanctuary, also offers the clearest skies with the best view of the Milky Way. It is no coincidence that most of the country’s observatories are located here, where astronomy enthusiasts can observe the stars.
Travelling to this area of Chile is also ideal for nature lovers. The Bosque Fray Jorge National Park with its hiking trails through the famous coastal cloud forest and the Pingüino de Humboldt national reserve with its colonies of Humboldt penguins are two outstanding treasures of the Coquimbo region.
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