The tours of La Serena and Elqui Valley deliver memorable experiences without the touristy hype. The standout day trips combine culture and nature, typically lasting 6-8 hours with convenient hotel pickups. I especially recommend the Elqui Valley cultural tours – they pack in visits to the excellent Gabriela Mistral Museum, ancient rock art sites, and authentic pisco distilleries where you’ll taste Chile’s national spirit. For nature lovers, the coastal tours showcase colonies of Humboldt penguins and playful marine otters in their natural habitat. These excursions work well with small groups and provide good value for money. Let’s explore the top tours that showcase the best of this fascinating Chilean region.
Key Points
- Elqui Valley tours offer diverse options, including private tours, full-day experiences, and culinary experiences with solar-cooked cuisine and pisco tastings.
- City tours of La Serena and Coquimbo provide overviews of historic attractions, museums, and natural landmarks, though some tours have received mixed reviews for organization and communication.
- Cultural heritage experiences highlight the legacy of renowned poet Gabriela Mistral, pre-Columbian wine traditions, and ancient petroglyphs, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the educational aspect.
- Wildlife and nature tours focus on the Humboldt Penguin Reserve, offering opportunities to spot marine wildlife, though the declining penguin population is a noted environmental concern.
- Tour operators provide flexible transportation, small-group sizes, and generous cancellation policies, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience for travelers.
Elqui Valley and Vicuna Private Tour Including Lunch
The Elqui Valley and Vicuña Private Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the region’s rich cultural heritage and renowned pisco production. Departing from La Serena, Chile, this private shore excursion takes guests on a journey through the picturesque Elqui Valley, known for its pisco distilleries.
Highlights include a visit to the Puclaro artificial reservoir for scenic views and a tour of a pisco factory, where travelers can learn about the distillation process and enjoy tastings.
The tour also includes a stop in Vicuña, the birthplace of renowned poet Gabriela Mistral, and a visit to her museum. Lunch at Villaseca, featuring solar-cooked cuisine, provides a unique culinary experience.
With an overall rating of 4.4 from 18 reviews, the tour is operated by Top Private Tours and is priced from $315.07 per person, including transportation, gratuities, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
While some travelers have reported communication issues and timing concerns, the tour generally receives positive feedback for its knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery.
Read our full review: Elqui Valley and Vicuna Private Tour Including Lunch Review
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The Magnificient Elqui Valley Grand Tour
Expanding on the previous in-depth exploration of the Elqui Valley, the Magnificent Elqui Valley Grand Tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience. Priced at €186.98 per person, this 10-hour tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the region’s cultural and scenic highlights.
The tour includes guided visits to key stops like the Casa Escuela Gabriela Mistral, Puclaro Dam, and the historic towns of Vicuña and Pisco Elqui. Travelers can expect a blend of activities, including sightseeing, wine tasting, and sampling local cuisine.
Complementing the cultural experience are the tour’s breathtaking vistas, featuring picturesque landscapes with pyramidal mountains, vineyards, and diverse crops. With a team of bilingual guides, air-conditioned transportation, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of the Elqui Valley.
Suitable for most travelers, it offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the region’s heritage and natural splendor.
Read our full review: The Magnificient Elqui Valley Grand Tour Review
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La Serena & Coquimbo City Tour – Short Cruise Excursion
Although the La Serena & Coquimbo City Tour – Short Cruise Excursion may not be the most extensive offering, it still provides cruise passengers with a comprehensive introduction to the region’s highlights.
Priced at €125.35 per person, the tour takes visitors to iconic sights like the Japanese Park and the Third Millennium Cross.
While the reviews are mixed, with some praising the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences, others have noted issues with poor organization and communication.
To enhance the tour, the company could focus on better training for guides, improving time management, and addressing food quality concerns.
With its mix of cultural attractions and scenic vistas, the La Serena & Coquimbo City Tour offers an accessible way for cruisers to discover the charm of this Chilean coastal region.
Read our full review: La Serena & Coquimbo City Tour – Short Cruise Excursion Review
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Elqui Valley Tour From La Serena
One of the most popular tours from La Serena is the Elqui Valley Tour, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage of this remarkable region.
Priced at Kč 2,892 per person, the 10-hour small-group tour takes participants on a journey to Cochiguaz, the world’s new geomagnetic center, and the charming town of Vicuña, the hometown of Nobel laureate Gabriela Mistral.
Along the way, the tour includes a visit to a Pisco production plant for a tasting, as well as a stop at the Baüer Tower, the main square, and the church in Vicuña.
Lunch at a traditional Chilean restaurant is also included. The tour concludes with a visit to Mistral’s tomb and childhood schoolhouse before returning to the hotel around 6:30 PM.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Elqui Valley Tour is a must-do for anyone visiting La Serena.
Read our full review: Elqui Valley Tour From La Serena Review
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Elqui Valley Full Day Tour: Magical Towns, Pisco and Mountains
The Elqui Valley Full Day Tour offers travelers an immersive experience in the stunning natural and cultural landscapes of this captivating region.
Departing from La Serena, the 9-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through the picturesque Elqui Valley, showcasing its charming towns, renowned pisco producers, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
Highlights include a visit to a pisco distillery and museum, where participants can learn about the history and production of this iconic Chilean spirit.
The tour also includes a lunch stop at a solar-powered restaurant, offering a unique and sustainable dining experience.
Throughout the day, travelers will have the opportunity to capture stunning photographs in the region’s picturesque landscapes and historical sites, including the home of renowned poet Gabriela Mistral.
With an air-conditioned vehicle, knowledgeable guides, and a maximum group size of 17, this tour provides a well-organized and immersive exploration of the Elqui Valley’s natural and cultural wonders, all for a starting price of $80 per person.
Read our full review: Elqui Valley Full Day Tour: Magical Towns, Pisco and Mountains Review
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La Serena and Coquimbo Guided City Tour
A guided city tour of La Serena and Coquimbo offers travelers an opportunity to enjoy the rich history and vibrant culture of these two captivating coastal cities.
Spanning 6 hours, the tour provides a rundown, including visits to archaeological museums, historic markets, and iconic landmarks. Participants can explore the Latin American capital for Architecture and Urbanism, as well as the cradle of viticulture in the Southern Cone.
The tour also highlights the cities’ role in supporting Santiago de Chile against the Mapuche uprising and their key contributions to the founding of Chile and Argentina’s first cities.
Throughout the journey, travelers will discover pre-Columbian cultures, architectural wonders, and the origins of Chilean wine.
With a live Spanish-speaking guide, free cancellation, and a reserve now & pay later option, this tour offers an exceptional value for those seeking to uncover the essence of La Serena and Coquimbo.
Read our full review: La Serena and Coquimbo Guided City Tour Review
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Tour to Valle Del Encanto Archeology, Petroglyphs, Flora, Fauna and Springs
Nestled in the picturesque La Serena region, the Valle del Encanto tour offers travelers an immersive experience into the area’s rich archaeological heritage, diverse flora and fauna, and natural wonders.
The 2-3 hour tour, which can be tailored to participants’ capacities, takes visitors to explore ancient petroglyphs, discover the unique local vegetation, and marvel at the region’s natural springs.
With a maximum of 40 travelers, the tour provides an intimate and educational adventure. Priced at $175 per person, the tour includes a restroom on board, a provided lunch, and tips.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals. Participants can meet at the recommended location near Hotel Costa Real and be picked up from the surroundings of old town La Serena and Avenida del Mar, with the tour returning to the starting point.
Bookings can be confirmed at the time of reservation, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Tour to Valle Del Encanto Archeology, Petroglyphs, Flora, Fauna and Springs Review
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La Serena and Coquimbo Private City Tour Including Lunch, Shore Excursion
Travelers seeking to discover the historic charm and picturesque landscapes of La Serena and Coquimbo can embark on a private city tour that showcases the region’s architectural gems, cultural heritage, and natural wonders.
This shore excursion from the Coquimbo port immerses visitors in the area’s storied past, visiting stone-built churches, the Archaeological Museum with Easter Island artifacts, and the iconic La Serena Lighthouse.
Adventurers will also explore Coquimbo’s English Quarter, known for its unique architecture. Complementing the cultural exploration is a delightful lunch at a yacht club or local restaurant.
With round-trip transportation and a knowledgeable private guide, this tour provides a comprehensive and enjoyable experience.
Operated by Top Private Tours, the excursion offers flexible pickup, a lowest price guarantee, and free cancellation up to three days in advance.
Reviewers praise the tour’s highlights, including breathtaking views and unique experiences, making it a highly recommended option for those seeking to make the most of their time in La Serena and Coquimbo.
Read our full review: La Serena and Coquimbo Private City Tour Including Lunch, Shore Excursion Review
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La Serena and Coquimbo City Tour (SIB)
This city tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the historic charm and natural beauty of La Serena and Coquimbo. Spanning 4 hours, the tour combines the highlights of both cities, including the Monumental Lighthouse, Archaeological Museum, and Recova Market.
Guests will also have the opportunity to stroll along Coquimbo’s seafront promenade and visit La Herradura beach.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an English or Spanish-speaking guide. Groups are limited to a maximum of 7 travelers, with a minimum of 2 people required per booking.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves some walking.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and the price starts from $66 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
While the overall rating of the tour is 3 out of 5, the neutral reviews suggest it provides a solid introduction to the region’s attractions.
Read our full review: La Serena and Coquimbo City Tour (SIB) Review
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Dama Island or Chañaral Navigation Tour Humboldt Penguin Reserve offers travelers a chance to witness the natural wonder of the Humboldt Penguin Reserve in northern Chile.
The tour starts at 8 AM and takes guests on an air-conditioned vehicle to the picturesque town of La Serena. During the excursion, they’ll enjoy a grilled fish lunch in a rustic town known for its olive oil production and spot bottle-nose dolphins, marine otters, sea lions, and various seabirds.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 40 travelers and includes the Humboldt Penguin boat and reservation ticket.
While the overall rating is 4.0 out of 7 reviews, guests have praised the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, particularly Natalie, who assisted non-Spanish speakers.
However, some travelers were disappointed in not seeing penguins due to a declining population affected by bird flu.
Travelers should be aware of seasonal variations and check availability before booking to ensure a fulfilling experience.
Read our full review: Dama Island or Chañaral Navigation Tour Humboldt Penguin Reserve Review
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Recap
La Serena offers a variety of captivating tours that showcase the region’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique attractions. From the breathtaking Elqui Valley to the historic cities of La Serena and Coquimbo, travelers can enjoy the area’s stunning landscapes, ancient sites, and local cuisine. Whether you’re interested in a private excursion or a shared group tour, there’s something to suit every preference and itinerary.