”CITY TOUR COQUIMBO & LA SERENA” Tour

”CITY TOUR COQUIMBO & LA SERENA” Tour

COQUIMBO & LA SERENA IN CHILE. Coquimbo and La Serena form one of Chile’s most attractive coastal destinations, offering a unique combination of history, culture, seaside charm, and natural beauty. Located in the Coquimbo Region, approximately 470 kilometers north of Santiago, these neighboring cities complement each other and together provide a diverse and enriching travel experience along the Pacific coast. La Serena is one of Chile’s oldest cities, known for its elegant colonial and neo-colonial architecture, wide avenues, and relaxed atmosphere. Its historic center features beautiful stone churches, traditional plazas, and cultural landmarks that reflect the city’s rich heritage. La Serena is also famous for its long, golden beaches, which stretch for several kilometers and are ideal for walking, relaxing, and enjoying ocean views. The city’s coastal promenade, Avenida del Mar, is lined with restaurants, cafés, and hotels, making it a lively yet peaceful area both day and night.

In contrast, Coquimbo offers a more dynamic and colorful character, deeply connected to maritime traditions and port life. Its vibrant harbor is one of the most important in northern Chile and serves as a focal point for fishing, commerce, and tourism. One of Coquimbo’s most iconic landmarks is the Cruz del Tercer Milenio, a monumental cross that rises high above the city and offers panoramic views of the bay, La Serena, and the surrounding coastline.

The region is also renowned for its natural and astronomical attractions. Thanks to its clear skies and low light pollution, the area is considered one of the best places in the world for stargazing. Numerous observatories nearby offer nighttime tours that allow visitors to explore the southern skies. Additionally, the Elqui Valley, located just inland, is famous for its vineyards, pisco production, and scenic landscapes framed by mountains and rivers. Gastronomy is another highlight of Coquimbo and La Serena. Fresh seafood, traditional Chilean dishes, and local specialties are widely available, often paired with regional wines or pisco-based drinks. The coastal setting enhances the culinary experience, especially when enjoyed with ocean views.

Together, Coquimbo and La Serena offer a perfect balance between history and modern life, relaxation and activity, city culture and natural wonders. Whether exploring historic streets, enjoying the beaches, discovering local flavors, or gazing at the stars, this region stands out as one of Chile’s most appealing destinations for travelers seeking variety, beauty, and authenticity.

Itinerary

• We depart from the hotel to begin our exploration of the Port of Coquimbo, discovering emblematic sites such as the English Quarter, a neighborhood closely linked to the region’s mining past, and the historic downtown area, where streets like Aldunate reflect the city’s industrial heritage.
• From the La Herradura viewpoint, we enjoy sweeping views of the city and coastline while learning about the legends of pirates and corsairs that form part of Coquimbo’s rich maritime history.
• Our tour then continues toward La Serena, where we visit the Coquimbo Casino and the Plaza La Serena shopping center, offering time to enjoy the modern side of the region. We proceed along the iconic Avenida Francisco de Aguirre, a central avenue lined with historic landmarks, green spaces, and cultural attractions, including the charming Museum of Fine Arts.
• We also stop at the traditional La Recova Market, a lively place known for its selection of fresh fruits, local products, typical foods, and regional handicrafts. From this area, we can admire impressive panoramic views that connect La Serena and Coquimbo.
• At the conclusion of the tour, we return to the hotel, bringing the day to a close after a rich cultural and scenic experience.

Includes

• Guide service in Spanish and English.
• Private round-trip transportation.
• Entrance to the Third Millennium Cross (Third Level).
• Entrance to the Archaeological Museum.

Does not include

• Lunch is not included on this tour.
• Tips and gratuities.
• Professional guide in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese. If you would like a guide in these languages, please request one in advance and pay an extra fee, subject to availability.
• Other services not described in the program.

Notes:

• OPERATION: Departure every day.
• Level of difficulty: Low difficulty.