Thanks to its clear skies and optimal conditions, Chile has established itself as one of the best places in the world for observatories.
Our country is home to international observatories that offer guided tours and first-class astrotourism experiences, where you can observe the night sky and its phenomena. Combine education and entertainment under the stars of the Atacama Desert and the Elqui Valley.
Destinations for astrotourism in Chile
The astrotourism offer in Chile is wide and is mainly concentrated in the north of the country.
It is important to differentiate between the large scientific observatories, which open their doors to the public for daytime visits (usually free), and the tourist observatories, 100% focused on the night observation experience. Here are four emblematic destinations.
ALMA Observatory
In Llano de Chajnantor, at 5,000 meters of altitude in the heart of the Atacama Desert, is the ALMA Observatory, one of the most powerful radio telescopes in the world.
With 66 high-precision antennas, it is used by astronomers to study the origin of stars, galaxies and planets. Public visits (which do not access the antenna field due to the altitude) are free, but must be booked months in advance.
Paranal Observatory
Operated by the European Southern Observatory (ESO) in the Atacama Desert, Paranal is one of the most advanced research centers in the world. It houses the famous Very Large Telescope (VLT), one of the most powerful optical instruments.
Although the VLT is for scientific use, the observatory offers free guided tours on weekends (with prior reservation) to see its facilities and telescope models.
Cerro Tololo Observatory
Located in the Coquimbo Region, 80 kilometers from La Serena, the Cerro Tololo Observatory is an icon of astronomy in the southern hemisphere.
Operated by NOIRLab, Tololo offers incredible opportunities for observation in one of the clearest skies on the planet. Its guided tours, also free and with reservation, allow you to learn about its domes and history, including the fundamental 4-meter Blanco Telescope.
Mamalluca Observatory
Unlike scientific observatories, Mamalluca is 100% designed for astrotourism and is one of the most popular and accessible in Chile.
Located near Vicuña, in the heart of the Elqui Valley, it offers a range of activities that include guided tours, educational talks and direct observation sessions with quality telescopes. It is recommended to bring a camera with good capacity to capture the starry sky and take away a memory for life.
- Websites: https://www.observatoriomamalluca.com
