Jump right into La Serena’s two standout day trips. The Elqui Valley tour checks all the boxes: you’ll sample local pisco (Chile’s beloved brandy), explore charming villages, and visit Nobel Prize winner Gabriela Mistral’s hometown. For nature lovers, the coastal combo of Humboldt Penguin Reserve and Damas Island delivers guaranteed wildlife sightings and dramatic Pacific views. Both tours include comfortable transportation, lunch, and expert guides who know their stuff. Let’s look at our favorite La Serena tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Elqui Valley Tour is a highly-recommended full-day excursion that offers a comprehensive experience, including transportation, lunch, tastings, and gratuities.
- The Humboldt Penguin National Reserve Tour provides an opportunity to spot diverse marine life, including penguins, dolphins, and sea lions, along with a seafood lunch on white sand beaches.
- The Damas Island Tour offers an immersive wildlife experience along Chile’s coastline, with hotel pickup/drop-off and a seafood lunch, though fitness level and medical conditions should be considered.
- The Elqui Valley Cultural Experience provides a deeper dive into the region’s pisco distilleries, wineries, and the home of poet Gabriela Mistral, with knowledgeable guides.
- All tours have positive reviews, with the Elqui Valley Tour and Damas Island Tour offering weather-related alternatives or refunds if canceled due to conditions.
Elqui Valley Tour: Full Day History and Flavors
Why visit the Elqui Valley on this full-day tour? With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic culinary experiences, this tour is a must-do for those visiting La Serena, Chile. Priced at just $50 per person, it’s an excellent value, providing an air-conditioned vehicle, lunch, tickets, and tastings, along with gratuities.
The tour starts with pickup within a designated radius and meets at Ecoturismo La Serena, returning to the same location at the end of the day. With a maximum of 30 travelers and a minimum of 4 required, it’s an intimate experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals.
Past travelers have praised the tour, with 98% recommending it and the company earning a Badge of Excellence. However, some noted language barriers during tastings, so non-Spanish speakers may prefer a private tour.
Read our full review: Elqui Valley Tour: Full Day History and Flavors Review
Book now: Check availability
Full Day to Isla Damas & Humboldt Penguin National Reserve
For those seeking a more wildlife-focused experience during their time in La Serena, the Humboldt Penguins National Reserve Tour offers an exceptional full-day excursion. Priced at Kč 3,486 per person, this 8-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a cruise around Gull, Choros, and Damas islands, and the chance to spot bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and, of course, the reserve’s namesake penguins in their natural habitat.
The tour also includes a seafood lunch on the islands’ white sand beaches, as well as the opportunity to relax and swim.
With Spanish as the primary language, the tour is flexible, allowing for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Whether you’re a family or an individual, the Humboldt Penguins National Reserve Tour provides an immersive wildlife experience along Chile’s picturesque coastline.
Read our full review: Full Day to Isla Damas & Humboldt Penguin National Reserve Review
Book now: Check availability
La Serena: Full Day to Damas Island & Humboldt Penguin National Reserve
Travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience along Chile’s picturesque coastline can embark on the Full Day to Damas Island & Humboldt Penguin National Reserve tour from La Serena.
This full-day excursion takes visitors to Damas Island and the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, where they’ll spot bottlenose dolphins, sea lions, and, of course, the iconic Humboldt penguins.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a seafood lunch, and navigation around several islands. Participants can relax on the white sand beaches and soak in the natural beauty of the region.
However, a moderate fitness level is required, and the tour may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.
Weather conditions are monitored, and alternatives or refunds are provided if the tour is canceled due to unfavorable weather.
Bookings must meet a minimum of 4 people, and the maximum group size is 14. Passport details are required at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: La Serena: Full Day to Damas Island & Humboldt Penguin National Reserve Review
Book now: Check availability
Elqui Valley Full Day Tour: Magical Towns, Pisco and Mountains
The Elqui Valley Full Day Tour from La Serena offers travelers an immersive experience through the region’s magical towns, pisco distilleries, and majestic mountain landscapes.
During this approximately 9-hour excursion, groups of up to 17 people will be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle to explore the highlights of the Elqui Valley.
Included in the $80 per person tour are visits to local wineries for pisco tastings, a solar-powered restaurant for lunch, and the home of renowned Chilean poet Gabriela Mistral.
Knowledgeable guides fluent in both English and Spanish provide cultural insights throughout the day. Participants can also capture photographs of the stunning scenery and historical sites.
While the tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its organization and guides, some guests have noted language barriers with the driver.
Read our full review: Elqui Valley Full Day Tour: Magical Towns, Pisco and Mountains Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, most tour companies in La Serena allow you to customize the itinerary to fit your interests. They’ll work with you to create a personalized tour that aligns with your preferences and ensures you get the most out of your experience.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for These Full-Day Tours?
The maximum group size for these full-day tours typically ranges from 8 to 15 people. This allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility to accommodate individual interests and needs within the group.
Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for These Tours?
Some full-day tour operators in the area may offer discounts for seniors, students, or groups. It’s best to check with each provider directly to inquire about any special offers or discounted rates that might be available.
How Do I Book These Tours, and What Is the Cancellation Policy?
To book the tours, you can check the tour operator’s website or contact them directly. Most offer flexible cancellation policies, typically allowing you to cancel for a full refund up to 24-48 hours before the tour.
Are There Any Physical Requirements or Restrictions for These Tours?
Most tours have some physical requirements, such as being able to walk moderate distances or navigate uneven terrain. Restrictions may apply for guests with mobility issues or other special needs. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific details.
Recap
The Elqui Valley, Isla Damas, and Humboldt Penguin National Reserve offer a diverse range of full-day tours from La Serena. Visitors can explore historical sites, sample local flavors, and witness the vibrant wildlife and natural beauty of the region. These tours provide a comprehensive glimpse into the rich cultural and natural heritage of the area, making them excellent choices for making the most of a day in La Serena.