Valle de Elqui elected by New York Times as one of the “Places to Go in 2019”

In June, the New York Times chose 52 destinations as “Places to Go in 2019“, including the Elqui Valley in Chile’s region of Coquimbo. This nomination coincided almost simultaneously with the eclipse on July 2, 2019, when the eyes of the world were directed to this area of Chile as the total solar eclipse could best be observed from this region.

This nomination could have a positive effect on tourism in general and Monica Zalaquett, Tourism State Secretary of Chile, took this opportunity to promote the professionalisation and digitalisation of tourism offers not only in the region of Coquimbo but also in other regions of the country, with the aim of making Chile a world-class tourist destination by 2022.

The Elqui Valley, one of the most visited places in the “little north” of Chile, is located near the coastal town of La Serena and is the centre of pisco production, a brandy and Chilean national drink. Besides wine and pisco lovers, stargazers and nature lovers are also attracted to this area. The exceptionally clear sky is ideal for observing the starry nights. So it’s not surprising that the Elqui Valley was declared the first “International Dark Sky Sanctuary”. The Elqui Valley is also the birthplace of Gabriela Mistral, the famous Chilean poet, diplomat, teacher, and pioneer in the fight for women’s rights. The museum of the same name is located in Vicuña, the biggest city of the Elqui Valley. Just before the village of Pisco Elqui you can visit the old house in Monte Grande where Gabriela Mistral spent part of her childhood.

If you are interested in a tour through the Elqui Valley and its hills planted with vineyards and small villages, please contact your travelArt representative or email info@travelart.com.