Culture and astronomy in Vicuña and the Elqui Valley
LANDSCAPES:
VALLEYS AND TOWNS
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
Discover the magic of the Coquimbo Region
2 DAYS
Explore Vicuña, the heart of the Elqui Valley, with an itinerary that combines culture, nature, and starry skies. Discover the legacy of Gabriela Mistral, learn about the tradition of Chilean pisco, go trekking in the Quebrada de Paihuano, and experience an astronomical night at the El Pangue Observatory.
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Trekking in Paihuano and starry skies
Start the day at the Gabriela Mistral Museum, open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Here you can see documents, personal items, and unpublished stories from the life of the Nobel Prize winner for Literature.
At lunchtime, enjoy the local cuisine and take the opportunity to browse the craft shops in the center of Vicuña. After lunch, visit the Pisco Museum, where you will discover the history and production process of this national drink.
The tour includes guided tours of the distillery, an exhibition of antique utensils, and, at the end, a tasting of world-class piscos. In summer, the museum is open until 7:30 PM, allowing you to make the most of the afternoon.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Trekking in Paihuano and starry skies
Start the day at the Gabriela Mistral Museum, open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Here you can see documents, personal items, and unpublished stories from the life of the Nobel Prize winner for Literature.
At lunchtime, enjoy the local cuisine and take the opportunity to browse the craft shops in the center of Vicuña. After lunch, visit the Pisco Museum, where you will discover the history and production process of this national drink.
The tour includes guided tours of the distillery, an exhibition of antique utensils, and, at the end, a tasting of world-class piscos. In summer, the museum is open until 7:30 PM, allowing you to make the most of the afternoon.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Trekking in Paihuano and starry skies
In the morning, head to the Quebrada de Paihuano, less than 40 minutes from Vicuña. Here you can go trekking, enjoy a picnic, and capture unforgettable photographs of the natural environment.
Bring your camera or use your phone to save postcards of the morning landscape. It is an ideal time to connect with the tranquility of the Elqui Valley and recharge your batteries with fresh air.
As night falls, visit the El Pangue Observatory, famous for its public telescopes. Their tours start at 9:00 PM and allow you to observe stars and planets with unique clarity. Bring warm clothes, as nighttime temperatures drop considerably.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Trekking in Paihuano and starry skies
In the morning, head to the Quebrada de Paihuano, less than 40 minutes from Vicuña. Here you can go trekking, enjoy a picnic, and capture unforgettable photographs of the natural environment.
Bring your camera or use your phone to save postcards of the morning landscape. It is an ideal time to connect with the tranquility of the Elqui Valley and recharge your batteries with fresh air.
As night falls, visit the El Pangue Observatory, famous for its public telescopes. Their tours start at 9:00 PM and allow you to observe stars and planets with unique clarity. Bring warm clothes, as nighttime temperatures drop considerably.
What you should know
How to get there by air
From Santiago (SCL) fly to La Florida Airport (LSC) in La Serena. Then drive 60 km by road to Vicuña in approximately one hour.
How to get there by land
From La Serena, take Route 41 towards the interior of the Elqui Valley. The journey to Vicuña is 60 km and can be done by private car, intercity bus, or private tour.
Climate and clothing
Semi-arid climate with sunny days and cold nights. Wear light clothing during the day and warm clothing at night. Comfortable shoes and sunscreen are essential.
Must-Know Tips
Plan schedules and reservations in advance, especially for observatories. Fill up with fuel in Vicuña before going to Paihuano, as there are no stations there. Bring water, a camera, and warm clothes for nighttime activities.
