Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz, magical towns of the Elqui Valley
LANDSCAPES:
VALLEYS AND TOWNS
Updated on 26 de November, 2025
Unique therapies and astrotourism
2 DAYS
Explore Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz, pre-Andean towns that combine nature, silence, and starry skies. This two-day itinerary invites you to enjoy alternative therapies, horseback riding, local cuisine and a unique experience at the Mamalluca Observatory.
TEMPORADA RECOMENDADA
ATRACTIVOS
ACTIVIDADES
Inicio del itinerario
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz, rest and flavors
Start your visit in the towns of Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz, surrounded by the Andes Mountains. Its tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those seeking disconnection and contact with nature.
In the morning, enjoy alternative therapies and massages that offer well-being and relaxation. These activities are ideal for releasing tension and starting your trip with renewed energy.
At noon, try the local cuisine and take a horseback ride through vineyards. Some tours include wine and pisco tasting, an opportunity to appreciate the productive tradition of the Elqui Valley.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 1
Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz, rest and flavors
Start your visit in the towns of Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz, surrounded by the Andes Mountains. Its tranquil atmosphere is perfect for those seeking disconnection and contact with nature.
In the morning, enjoy alternative therapies and massages that offer well-being and relaxation. These activities are ideal for releasing tension and starting your trip with renewed energy.
At noon, try the local cuisine and take a horseback ride through vineyards. Some tours include wine and pisco tasting, an opportunity to appreciate the productive tradition of the Elqui Valley.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Trekking and stargazing
If you enjoy physical activity, start the day with trekking in the pre-Andean valleys. It is an ideal space for photography thanks to its clear and peaceful landscapes.
Have lunch with typical dishes of the area and take advantage of the afternoon to rest. The night awaits you with a unique experience at the Mamalluca Observatory, just 30 km from Cochiguaz.
This observatory offers tours with talks about the universe and the possibility of observing constellations through high-tech telescopes. Bring warm clothes, as the night temperature drops considerably.
Atractivos incluidos en este día
Day 2
Trekking and stargazing
If you enjoy physical activity, start the day with trekking in the pre-Andean valleys. It is an ideal space for photography thanks to its clear and peaceful landscapes.
Have lunch with typical dishes of the area and take advantage of the afternoon to rest. The night awaits you with a unique experience at the Mamalluca Observatory, just 30 km from Cochiguaz.
This observatory offers tours with talks about the universe and the possibility of observing constellations through high-tech telescopes. Bring warm clothes, as the night temperature drops considerably.
What you should know
How to get there by air
From Santiago (SCL) fly to La Florida Airport (LSC) in La Serena. From there, drive along Route 41 to Vicuña and then advance into the Elqui Valley towards Alcohuaz or Cochiguaz.
How to get there by land
From La Serena it is 150 km to Alcohuaz and Cochiguaz. You can arrive by private car or local buses that connect La Serena with Vicuña and towns of the Elqui Valley.
Climate and clothing
Semi-arid climate with sunny days and cold nights. Wear light clothing during the day, warm clothing at night, and comfortable shoes.
Must-Know Tips
Book tours to the Mamalluca Observatory in advance, as places are limited. Bring water, sunscreen, a camera, and a full tank of fuel in Vicuña before continuing into the valley.
