Astronomical Tourism in Chile - Elqui Valley and San Pedro de Atacama

Juan López Beach

This is another beautiful beach located 38 kms. north of the capital of the Second Region. Its fine, sandy beach is 1 km. long and protected from the wind. It is located at the foot of Cerro Moreno and its calm and warm waters make it ideal for swimming and various water sports.

Hornito Beach

This place is located 90 kms. north of Antofagasta and is 5 kms. long. Its beach is known for having fine sand and warm and quiet waters. It is surrounded by cliffs which provide protection for the summer houses. The temperature in summer is usually very high.

Punta de Choros - Isla Damas

Punta de Choros 120 kms north of La Serena (75 kms. on the Panamericana Freeway and 45 kms. on an innner dirt road) is one of the newest natural reserves of Chile. It receives the name of Humboldt penguin and it is formed by 3 small islands: Chañaral, Choros and Damas.

We must sail from Caleta Punta Choros, a tiny fishing village where we can hire the services to take us by boat to the islands. The best one is Damas and it is the only one where we can disembark. We are welcomed by two beautiful white, sandy beaches, La Poza and Tijeral, picturesque Humboldt and Magellanic penguins and the company of dolphins while crossing by boat. As activities, trekking in the area of Tijeral is recommended. Camping areas can also be found, since it is the only way to stay overnight. From this island, you can take excursions to Choros, where we can see the only colony of the "nose- bottle dolphin”.

Guanaqueros - Tongoy

Guanaqueros These two beaches of Coquimbo are presented separately from the others. Both have become fishermen's coves and beaches which get pretty crowded during the summer.

The first one corresponds to 10 kms. of fine, white sandy beach, warm waters and great for supporters of water sports and fishing. Somewhat further south, Tongoy has become a major resort with an approximate area of 18 kms. of beaches in Playa Grande and Playa Socos. It has great hotels, camping sites, fine summer houses, an active yachting port and fine restaurants which include the best seafood and fried empanadas.

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