Elqui Valley : Special for Cruises from Port in Coquimbo
Active
6h - 8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
The Elqui Valley, a resplendent cultural treasure in the heart of Chile, emerges majestically between mountains. Its roots sink into the memory of ancient indigenous peoples, custodians of ancestral secrets, surrounded by imposing pyramidal mountains that keep minerals and energy in their eternal embrace. The pisco wineries, relics of the past, keep within their walls the flavor of generations and the soul of Chilean viticulture. Here, in the Elqui Valley, the traces of the Diaguitas intermingle with the legacy of the Incas. In these dreamlike landscapes, the inspiring muse has embraced mystics and visionaries, being the cradle of the creativity that flourished in the mind of Gabriela Mistral, the award-winning writer and first Latin American woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature. It is a canvas where the past and present merge into a masterpiece, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in the most authentic and enriching essence of Chile.
Available options
Full Day Landscapes and History Tour in Elqui Valley
Pickup included
What's included
Tickets and Tastings
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
We will begin picking up passengers from the port of Coquimbo at the time stipulated previously.
2
We will visit the curtain of the Puclaro reservoir. The natural environment and scenic beauty of the reservoir and its surroundings attract tourists and local visitors. There are rest areas, viewpoints and tourist services in the area. The Puclaro Reservoir was built with the main purpose of storing water for irrigation and human supply in the area. It also regulates the flow of the Elqui River.
This stop can be modified depending on the time and interest of the passenger
3
We will visit CAPEL, which houses the first pisco museum in Chile, where it is possible to learn about the history of this noble product from the area. We will tour its facilities and learn about the process of making Chilean pisco, culminating in a delicious tasting.
4
Paihuano where we will stop to contemplate the nature and unique beauty of the Elqui Valley at one of its viewpoints. PHOTO STOP
5
(OPTIONAL, ONLY IF WE HAVE TIME)
Pioneers in Chile in the production of high-altitude wines, it is also notable for having organic production certification. We will tour the facilities, learn about the wine production process and culminate with a delicious tasting.
6
Arriving almost at the end of the tour, we will visit the city of Vicuña, nominated as the "capital" of the Elqui valley. Vicuña, in addition to being the birthplace of the Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral, winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1945 and where she received her first years of education. Here we will have free time to explore its main square, the Bauer tower or eat some delicious ice cream typical of the area.
7
From the last town visited, we go directly to the port of Coquimbo.
What's not included
Gratuities
Breakfast
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
4 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Tour subject to a minimum of 2 passengers for its realization
The stops can be modified en route by the guide depending on the weather
Lunch en route (PICK UP AND GO)
Some stops may be excluded during the tour, depending on the time we have left to return to the port.
Pickup time from port 07:00am or 08:00am
Return times at port 3:00pm or 4:00pm
Pick-up times from the port can be modified depending on the cruise stopover time
About Chile
Chile is a long, narrow country stretching along South America's western edge, with the Andes to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west. It's known for its diverse landscapes, including the Atacama Desert, the Lake District, and Patagonia. Chile offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, rich culture, and world-class wine.
Top Attractions
Torres del Paine National Park
One of the most famous national parks in Chile, Torres del Paine offers stunning landscapes, including granite towers, glaciers, and lakes. It's a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Nature
3-5 days for a full experience
Moderate (park entrance fee and camping/accommodation costs)
Atacama Desert
The Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on Earth, offering otherworldly landscapes, geysers, and stargazing opportunities.
Nature
3-5 days
Moderate to expensive (depending on tour and accommodation choices)
Easter Island (Rapa Nui)
Easter Island is famous for its nearly 1,000 extant monumental statues called moai, created by the early Rapa Nui people.
Historical/Cultural
3-5 days
Expensive (flight and accommodation costs)
Valparaíso
Valparaíso is a vibrant port city known for its colorful houses, street art, and historic funicular railways.
Cultural/Historical
1-2 days
Budget to moderate
Chiloé Island
Chiloé Island is known for its unique architecture, rich folklore, and lush landscapes. It's a great place to experience traditional Chilean culture.
Cultural/Nature
2-3 days
Budget to moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Empanadas de Pino
Empanadas filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, and olives. They are typically baked and served with a spicy tomato salsa.
Snack
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Cazuela
A hearty soup made with meat (beef, chicken, or pork), potatoes, corn, and squash. It's a comforting and filling dish.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Pastel de Choclo
A savory pie made with ground corn, beef, chicken, olives, and hard-boiled eggs. It's a traditional Chilean dish with a creamy texture.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Pebre
A spicy salsa made with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and chili peppers. It's often served with bread or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian, can contain allergens (chili peppers)
Popular Activities
Hiking in Torres del Paine National Park
Skiing in the Andes
Sandboarding in the Atacama Desert
Beach lounging in Viña del Mar
Wine tasting in the Maipo Valley
Spa treatments in Santiago
Exploring Valparaíso's street art and funiculars
Visiting Pablo Neruda's houses
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is summer in Chile, the best time for beach activities, hiking, and exploring the country's diverse landscapes. The weather is warm and dry, especially in the central and northern regions.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLT (UTC-4) or CLST (UTC-3, daylight saving time)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Chile is generally a safe country for travelers, with low levels of violent crime. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur in tourist areas and crowded places. Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Comodoro Arturo Benitez International Airport • 15 km from Santiago city center
- Diego Aracena International Airport • 10 km from Iquique city center
By train
Estación Central
By bus
Terminal Alameda, Terminal Sur
Getting around
Public transport
The metro is efficient, clean, and easy to use, with stations throughout the city. It's the fastest way to get around Santiago.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Cabify
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Providencia
Bellavista
Lastarria
Barrio Brasil
Day trips
Valparaíso
120 km from Santiago • Full day
Valparaíso is a vibrant port city known for its colorful houses, street art, and historic funicular railways. It's a great day trip from Santiago for those interested in culture, history, and architecture.
Viña del Mar and Reñaca
130 km from Santiago • Full day
Viña del Mar and Reñaca are popular beach destinations near Valparaíso, offering beautiful sandy beaches, parks, and a relaxed atmosphere. They are great for a day of sun, sand, and sea.
Cajón del Maipo
50 km from Santiago • Full day
Cajón del Maipo is a stunning valley near Santiago, offering breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. It's a great day trip for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Festivals
Fiestas Patrias • September 18-19
Viña del Mar International Song Festival • February
Temuco's We Tripantu • June/July (depending on the lunar calendar)
Pro tips
- Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals
- Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the region and time of year
- Try local specialties, such as empanadas, cazuela, and pastel de choclo, and don't forget to sample Chile's world-class wines
- Be prepared for altitude sickness if visiting high-altitude destinations, such as the Atacama Desert or Patagonia
- Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
