Coastal Chilean city with colonial-era buildings and nearby Elqui Valley wineries. Known for beaches, stargazing, and proximity to astronomy observatories.
La Serena, Chile's second-oldest city, sits along the golden beaches of the Coquimbo Region. You can explore stone churches from the colonial era, taste fresh seafood at Caleta San Pedro, or gaze at stars in the nearby Elqui Valley. The city serves as a gateway to natural wonders like Isla Damas and Fray Jorge National Park.
La Serena's Beaches
La Serena's coastline stretches for miles along Avenida del Mar, the city's coastal promenade. You'll find twelve beaches, including El Faro, Cuatro Esquinas, and Las Gaviotas. These sandy shores are popular spots for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. The water here is generally warmer than in southern Chile, making for more comfortable swimming. For a panoramic view, climb the iconic lighthouse at El Faro beach.
The Historic Center
In La Serena's center, you'll encounter well-preserved colonial architecture and lively streets. The city earned the nickname "City of Churches" due to its many religious buildings. Iglesia San Francisco, dating back to the early 17th century, stands out with its ornate Baroque facade. Inside the neoclassical Iglesia Cathedral, you can visit a religious art museum to learn about the city's spiritual history. As you walk through the historic center, you'll come across the active Plaza de Armas, surrounded by elegant buildings and green gardens.
Stargazing in the Elqui Valley
An hour's drive from La Serena takes you to the Elqui Valley, known for its exceptional stargazing conditions. The valley's clear skies and minimal light pollution make it ideal for observing celestial bodies. You can join guided tours and stargazing sessions at several observatories in the area. During the day, you can explore the valley's vineyards and pisco distilleries, learning about the production of Chile's national spirit. This combination of astronomy and viticulture makes the Elqui Valley a unique destination.
Local Cuisine
La Serena's culinary scene centers around fresh seafood and regional specialties. At Caleta San Pedro, you'll find ten restaurants specializing in seafood dishes. Try local favorites like crab pie, razor clams with parmesan cheese, and seafood empanadas. For a taste of the region's agriculture, sample papaya juice, made from fruit grown in nearby valleys. Don't miss the chance to taste pisco, the grape brandy produced in the Elqui Valley, available in styles ranging from clear to deep amber.
Day Trips from La Serena
Several exciting destinations are within easy reach of La Serena. You can take a boat trip to Isla Damas, part of the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve, to see penguins, sea lions, and various marine birds in their natural habitat. Two hours south of La Serena, you'll find Fray Jorge National Park. This unique ecosystem features a patch of temperate rainforest in the midst of an arid region, with hiking trails and views of the surrounding landscape.
Cultural Attractions
Delve into the region's history and culture at La Serena's museums. The Archaeological Museum houses over 12,000 pre-Columbian artifacts, including a moai from Easter Island. For a more recent historical perspective, visit the Gabriel González Videla Museum, named after Chile's former president and La Serena resident. Here, you'll find historical artifacts and modern art. You can also explore the city's galleries and attend cultural events that showcase local and international talent.
Planning Your Visit
You can reach La Serena by air through La Florida Airport, with regular flights to Santiago and other Chilean cities. Alternatively, long-distance buses connect La Serena to major cities throughout Chile. The best time to visit depends on your preferences. Summer (December to February) is ideal for beach activities but can get crowded. Spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) have mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Winter (June to August) can be cool and cloudy but is perfect for exploring the city's indoor attractions and enjoying hearty local cuisine.
