A well known spot for stargazing, Elqui Valley has a dessert like climate, steep valleys, and dry rocky terrains all over. The valley is mostly sunny and receives very little annual rainfall of just 70 millimeters. A few astronomical observatories were established in the valley because of the clear climate year round. You are a professional astronomer or just a stargazer, it doesn’t matter, the valley is one of the best places to watch the nighttime sky. You can find an abundance of fruit (especially grapes) and vegetable cultivation around the area. The grapes produced are mainly for export and to make famous pisco, a special alcohol made from grapes.
The natural beauty and ambiance of the Elqui Valley make the visitors feel like they are entering a different world. There are several Vineyards in the valley which are primarily focusing on making special wines of the valley like Sauvignon Blanc. The valley offers an abundance of outdoor activities for its guests including mountain trekking and open air yoga classes. Visitors can have a tour to a pisco producers place (pisquerias) during the day time and enjoy stargazing at the night. You can also enjoy horseback riding through the verdant vineyards.
When it comes to accommodation, you can sleep at the private observatory while stargazing in the night. The private observatory has all the amenities of a luxury hotel along with its technological wonders. It is also possible to find a good hotel room easily where you can enjoy the clear sky and natural beauty.
From Santiago
By Bus
Direct bus to the valley. Can reach the valley in 7 hours and 17 minutes. Cost ranges from $ 19,851 to $ 34,866
Bus Via La Serena will reach the valley in 8 hours and 30 minutes. Cost ranges from $ 17,980 to $ 36,350
Drive
A 5 hours drive from Santiago will take you to the valley. Cost ranges from $ 44,000 to $ 65,000
Sunday: Open 24 hours
Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Waiting Time
No
Entrance Fee
Time you can spend
1 to 2 days
Weather
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