The north of Chile is renowned for its incredibly clear skies and unpolluted atmosphere that draw astronomers from all over the world. Verdant valleys lie between the coastal town of La Serena and the Andes and contrast with the arid brown of the mountains. Astronomical observatories like Mamalluca and La Silla are open for visitors to gaze at the wonders of the skies and the region is also reputed for its mysterious energies. The local drink, pisco is produced in the Elqui valley and visits to a distillery and picturesque villages can also be arranged.
Destination
Tailor-made tours and holidays in La Serena & Elqui Valley
Latest from Compass
Discover the magic of Peru by rail
There is no better way to explore Peru than from the refined comfort of a luxury train.
10 best places to visit in Ecuador
Ecuador: northernmost outpost of the Inca empire, inventor of the Panama hat, and gateway to the Galápagos Islands.
Coffee tasting in Colombia's coffee triangle
Colombia’s Coffee Triangle (known locally as Eje Cafetero) is a region of remarkable ecological beauty, renowned for growing some of the world’s sweetest, most aromatic coffee beans.
Chile vs Argentina... where to go
We help you decide on which destination is best, depending on what kind of experience you're after.
Salt & Stars in Bolivia
Bolivia’s salt flats are a wonder – all the better experienced from a luxury camper van, writes Georgie Lane-Godfrey.
South America's wild west...Chile, Bolivia & Peru
Malcolm and Sarah Noble took a tailor-made trip with Cox & Kings along the west side of South America, journeying north from Chile through Bolivia to Peru.
The Grand Tour...of South America
We approached our much-needed holiday with both excitement and a little apprehension: we were new to Cox & Kings group tours and South America
A Q&A with… Iguazú Falls’ biodiversity expert
We’ve teamed up with Awasi Iguazú – a secluded, boutique lodge in the jungle on the Argentinian side of the Iguazú Falls – to interview their extremely knowledgeable biodiversity expert, Carlos Barros
Make an enquiry
Inspired to visit South America? Enquire online or contact one of our experienced South America specialists.
Order a brochure
For more travel inspiration, request a copy of the latest Cox & Kings brochure – a comprehensive collection of our group tours.