La Serena , Chile

Astronomy and Astrophotography Tour

Active

(10 reviews)

5h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In the Elqui Valley, in the IV Region, there is a privileged Astronomical Center with almost 300 days of clear skies a year. It offers advanced astronomy tours with specialized guides in Spanish, who explain everything about the universe in a clear and didactic way. High-quality telescopes are used, such as the 24-inch Hubble Optics, unique in Chile, the 20-inch Hubble Optics, and the 20-inch Meade, rotating between them for a varied observation experience. From the outdoor terrace, constellations, planets, nebulas, and more can be observed. Group astrophotography photos are captured on moonless nights, and visitors are allowed to photograph lunar craters with their own devices on moonlit nights.

Available options

Astronomy and Astrophotography Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Group Astrophotography

Soda/Pop

Air-conditioned vehicle

Telescopes

Coffee and/or Tea

Detailed itinerary

We begin collecting passengers from La Serena

Then we have a 1 hour and 30 minute drive to Vicuña, where we will have 10-15 minutes to stretch, go to the bathroom or buy some snacks at the nearby supermarket. Then we begin our last journey to the Astronomical Center located at the foot of Mamalluca Hill on a private plot of land in the area.

Upon arrival at the observation area, you will enjoy a welcome with a selection of drinks including coffee, tea, water, juice, pisco sour or mango sour. After these 15 minutes of relaxation, we will descend to the observation patio, where our fascinating advanced astronomy tour will begin.

At the astronomical center, you will be provided with expert astronomy guides who will guide you through the cosmos with simple and educational explanations, all in SPANISH. This tour will allow you to immerse yourself in the mysteries of the universe in an accessible and exciting way. The approximate duration of the tour is 2 hours.

The return journey begins towards La Serena, where we will drop off all passengers at their initial pick-up points.

What's not included

Gratuities

Tour only in SPANISH. A translator can be arranged. Cost: $20,000CLP

Personal Astrophotography

Dinner

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.9

10 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Tour subject to a minimum of 6 passengers for its realization

Tour subject to sky conditions

We will confirm your pick-up time on the same day of the activity. As it varies depending on the season

Consider the lunar cycle for better observation and prefer days without moon. When there is a crescent moon and a full moon, observation CAN be done, but astrophotography CANNOT.

Astrophotography only for moonless nights

Young children visiting the astronomical center should not wear shoes with lights

Meeting point

We are located next to the Toyota car dealership. From Route 5, cross the train line two blocks towards the coast. From the monumental lighthouse of La Serena it is approximately a 15-minute walk towards the mountain range.

About La Serena

La Serena is a coastal city in northern Chile known for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and clear night skies. It's a popular destination for both relaxation and stargazing, offering a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm.

Top Attractions

Elqui Valley

A picturesque valley known for its vineyards, pisco production, and clear night skies. It's a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Nature Full day Moderate

La Serena Beach

A popular beach with golden sand and clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Fuerte de La Serena

A historic fort built in the 17th century to protect the city from pirate attacks. It's now a museum showcasing the city's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pisco Sour

A traditional Chilean cocktail made with pisco, lemon juice, sugar, and egg white.

Drink Contains alcohol

Empanadas de Pino

Fried or baked pastries filled with a mixture of ground beef, onions, raisins, olives, and hard-boiled eggs.

Snack Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking in Elqui Valley Surfing at La Serena Beach Sunbathing at the beach Spa treatments Visiting museums Attending local festivals Swimming Snorkeling

Best Time to Visit

December to March (summer)

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long days, and the best conditions for beach activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.

18°C to 28°C 64°F to 82°F