Chile - The Ultimate Astro-Tourism Destination

Chile is establishing itself as one of the world’s leading astro-tourism destinations. With over 300 clear nights a year, an extremely dry atmosphere, minimal light pollution and some of the most advanced observatories on the planet, the country offers exceptional conditions for observing the night sky. Currently, around 40 per cent of the world’s infrastructure dedicated to astronomical observation is located in Chile, a figure that is estimated to rise to approximately 60 per cent in the coming years. 

The north of the country, in particular, has established itself as an international centre for astronomy and stargazing. The unique combination of cutting-edge scientific research, spectacular landscapes and tourist experiences makes Chile an extraordinary destination for amateur astronomers, photographers and nature lovers. Whether in the silence of the Atacama Desert, amongst the vineyards of the Elqui Valley or in the Andean valleys near Santiago, the stars seem brighter, closer and more impressive than almost anywhere else in the world.

The Atacama Desert: A Window to the Universe 

The Atacama Desert is recognised as one of the best places on the planet for stargazing. In the area around San Pedro de Atacama, numerous tour operators offer guided excursions to gaze at the stars under a virtually perfect sky. Visitors can admire the night sky both with the naked eye and through powerful telescopes. 

One of the most iconic spots is the Valley of the Moon, whose surreal landscape takes on an almost otherworldly quality beneath the starry sky. 

Among the region’s main scientific attractions are the ALMA Observatory, situated at an altitude of 5,000 metres, and the Paranal Observatory, home to the famous Very Large Telescope (VLT), one of the world’s most powerful optical telescope systems. Both facilities offer guided tours by prior booking, allowing visitors to gain an up-close insight into the advances in modern astronomy. 

Another exceptional setting for astrophotography is the monumental sculpture ‘La Mano del Desierto’ (The Hand of the Desert), located south of Antofagasta. Against the backdrop of the Milky Way, this site creates a unique connection between art, science and nature.

Elqui Valley: Mysticism, Pisco and Starry Skies 

The Coquimbo Region, situated in northern Chile, accounts for approximately half of the country’s astro-tourism offerings and is known as the country’s ‘capital of the stars’. 

In the magical Elqui Valley, situated about five hours’ drive north of Santiago, visitors will find an extraordinary concentration of observatories and astronomical experiences. Among these, the Mamalluca Observatory, near Vicuña, stands out as a pioneer of astro-tourism in Chile. Its guided tours combine introductions to astronomy with observations through professional telescopes. 

Also worth noting are the Cerro Tololo Observatory, the Gemini Observatory, the La Silla Observatory and the modern Collowara Observatory, located near Andacollo. 

The Elqui Valley offers a unique combination of clear skies, wine culture and pisco-making traditions, alongside easily accessible observatories. During the day, visitors can tour the area’s famous pisco distilleries and vineyards, before rounding off the day by gazing at one of the world’s most spectacular night skies.

Stargazing near Santiago: Where Astro-Tourism Meets Wine, Culture and Nature 

The area surrounding the Chilean capital also offers excellent opportunities to explore the cosmos. In the Cajón del Maipo, located just a few kilometres from Santiago, various tour operators combine stargazing with nature and adventure experiences. During the day, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, rafting or zip-lining, whilst at night the focus shifts to observing planets, constellations and galaxies. Observatories such as Roan Jasé and Pailalén complement the experience with educational activities and insights into the ancestral worldview of the Mapuche people. 

Further south of Santiago, in the renowned Colchagua Valley, astro-tourism blends with the wine-making tradition. At the Cerro Chamán Observatory, situated within the Santa Cruz Vineyard, visitors can enjoy guided observations of the night sky accompanied by wine tastings and exhibitions related to astronomy.