Discover the magic of northern Chile on your next trip to Chile. Indulge in the beauty of the Elqui Valley with this article written by a travel expert from Chile

Chile is a country of vast terrain from deserts to icy landscapes there are many sights to see. Most people go to the nation’s capital, Santiago, where museums, restaurants and shopping abound. Located about 470 km north of the capital, the hustle and bustle of the city can no longer be found in the Elqui Valley. You’re sure to experience breathtaking day and night views as you head north on your trip to Chile.

Guide to travel to Elqui Valley

Situated amidst towering mountains, the Elqui valley is lush and sunny and the green landscape contrasts sharply with its surroundings. The region is full of vineyards, fruit orchards, adobe houses, and handicrafts, and is known for its high energy flows and natural magnetic forces. Arguably the most seductive quality this northern region has, is its immaculate night sky, with three international observatories, you will admire the endless stars found in the black sky. Also home to the charming town of La Serena, rich in culture, history and natural beauty, Elqui Valley provides tourists with plenty to do and see.

Explore Chile’s second oldest city, La Serena. Admire the history and architecture with a stroll along the city’s picturesque streets. The city has 29 colonial churches, immaculate gardens and a vibrant marketplace, nothing to lose. The market is full of vendors selling a variety of products, from handicrafts and weaves to fresh fruit from the valley. The sight you must see on your way to La Serena is the city’s official symbol, the lighthouse. Accessible by Avenida del Mar, which stretches along the coast, the lighthouse and the port of Coquimbo are great places to visit. To the most beautiful beaches in the region go to La Herraqdura Bay where you can enjoy the beach or one of the region’s fantastic restaurants. The town of La Serena is the perfect place for tourists to stay while exploring the beauty of the Elqui Valley.

Elqui Valley & Atacama Desert

With a warm and sunny climate, Elqui Valley is the perfect destination for any vacation in Chile year-round. Discover picturesque landscapes, from green fields cultivated by lucuma, olives and apple orchards to numerous vineyards, all of which surround the dotted little villages. The daytime view isn’t the only reason to stop in the Elqui Valley, with some of the clearest skies in the southern hemisphere; this is the perfect place to view the infinite stars above. The valley’s climate and absence of light pollution provide ideal conditions for the eyes of the stars, which is why many observatories are located here, making it one of the most visited places in northern Chile.