Elqui Valley Guide
Elqui Valley: Stargazing, Pisco, and Serene Beauty Guide
Escape to the enchanting Elqui Valley, a haven of clear skies, vineyards, and pisco distilleries nestled in the foothills of the Andes Mountains. This picturesque valley, known for its exceptional astronomical conditions, is a prime destination for stargazing and offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious local products. The Elqui Valley has a rich history rooted in agriculture and mining. The indigenous Diaguita people inhabited the valley for centuries before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. The valley's fertile lands and abundant sunshine made it ideal for grape cultivation, leading to the development of a thriving pisco industry. Today, the Elqui Valley is renowned as the heart of Chilean pisco production. The Elqui Valley offers a wide range of activities for tourists. Visit a pisco distillery to learn about the production process and sample different varieties of this iconic Chilean spirit. Explore the charming towns of Vicuña, Pisco Elqui, and Paihuano, each with its own unique character and attractions. Take a horseback riding tour through the vineyards, hike in the surrounding mountains, or simply relax and soak up the stunning scenery. At night, marvel at the breathtaking starry sky at one of the valley's many astronomical observatories. The Elqui Valley is also known for its delicious cuisine, featuring fresh local ingredients and traditional Chilean dishes. Be sure to try the local goat cheese, empanadas, and, of course, pisco-based cocktails.
Transportation
Buses are the most common way to travel to and around the Elqui Valley from La Serena. Several bus companies operate routes to Vicuña, Pisco Elqui, and other towns in the valley. You can catch a bus from the La Serena bus terminal. Some bus companies include Buses Serrena, and Buses Puclaro.