Escape La Serena for a full-day exploration of Elqui Valley—vineyards, pisco tasting, and Vicuña’s Gabriela Mistral sites. This guided small-group tour blends cultural stops with easy walks and a lunch in a valley restaurant.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A dry wind rolls down from the Andes as the tour bus eases out of La Serena and the coastal glare gives way to orchards and scrub. By mid-morning you’re driving into the Elqui Valley—long terraces, sun-bleached adobe, and a river that seems to cut a bright, living line through the golden slopes. The valley pushes warmth toward you like a hand, and at Cochiguaz local guides point out the places people visit for spiritual retreats and the valley’s reputation as a geomagnetic haven.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short periods of standing and walking on uneven ground.
Wildlife
History
Elqui Valley has pre-Hispanic roots and later became a regional agricultural corridor; Vicuña is known for producing poet Gabriela Mistral and for its colonial-era architecture.
Conservation
Water is scarce; favor local operators who practice water-wise agriculture and stick to marked paths to protect riparian vegetation.
Reserve your spot on the La Serena: Full day Tour to Elqui Valley today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive ready for sun
The valley gets intense UV; bring sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses for the pisco plant and plaza visits.
Hydrate on the bus
Carry a reusable water bottle—altitude and dry air make frequent sipping important during the 6-hour day.
Comfortable footwear
You’ll do short walks on uneven, sometimes dusty surfaces—sturdy closed-toe shoes make visits to historic sites easier.
Respect cultural sites
When visiting Gabriela Mistral’s tomb and the schoolhouse, follow guide instructions and photography restrictions out of respect.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated in the valley’s dry climate between stops.
Wide-brim hat and sunscreen
Protects from strong sun during midday visits and outdoor tastings.
summer
Comfortable walking shoes
Required for short walks around distilleries, plazas, and historic sites.
Light layer or windbreaker
Evenings and early mornings can be cool; a light jacket is handy for sunset drives back to La Serena.
spring