Elqui Valley (Valle del Elqui)

The Elqui Valley in Chile's Norte Chico boasts a distinct cultural identity, shaped by its geography and indigenous roots. From approximately the 10th to the 16th century, the Diaguita people lived here and in the valleys up to Choapa. In the middle sections of the valley, they cultivated quinoa, beans, and squash, while also utilizing coastal resources. They are primarily known for their red, black, and white painted pottery with geometric patterns. From around 1470, the area came under the influence of the Inca.With Spanish colonization, the valley became an agricultural center, primarily for viticulture, which forms the basis of regional Pisco production.Today, the Elqui Valley is also renowned for its connection to the night sky. Astrotourism and spiritually oriented visitors, particularly those settled in Cochiguaz, shape its image, as do the Pisco distilleries. The Nobel Prize-winning author Gabriela Mistral, born here, is present throughout the valley, with a museum in Vicuña and her tomb in Montegrande.

Getting ThereThe starting point is La Serena, home to La Florida Airport and long-distance bus connections to Santiago. From there, Ruta 41 leads about 60 kilometers through the valley to Vicuña; expect around an hour by bus or car. Buses run regularly from La Serena's bus terminal to Vicuña, with some continuing via Paihuano to Montegrande and Pisco Elqui.Getting Around the ValleyBus and Colectivo: Buses and shared taxis (colectivos) operate between Vicuña and the villages in the upper valley, though much less frequently in the evenings and to side valleys.Rental Car: A rental car is worthwhile if you plan to visit Puclaro Reservoir, Valle de Cochiguaz, or observatories outside the towns. The road to Cochiguaz is unpaved.Night Tours: For guided tours at observatories outside the towns, you'll need your own car or a transfer provided by the tour operator. Confirm this when booking, as places are limited.Night Drives: The road in the upper valley is winding and unlit. Plan return trips after stargazing to be appropriately slow.