Mamalluca Observatory Tour

From La Serena, we will journey to the Cerro Mamalluca Tourist Observatory, one of the many
renowned astronomical observatories in the Coquimbo Region. Observing the night sky in the Elqui
Valley is an unparalleled experience, offering stunning views both through telescopes and with the
naked eye.
Our visit begins in the city of Vicuña, where we will manage the tickets for Mamalluca before heading
to the observatory, located approximately 9 kilometers northeast of the city.

At the observatory, the experience begins with an engaging presentation about the universe,
delivered by a specialized guide in Mamalluca’s projection room. This introductory talk provides
fascinating insights into the stars and constellations visible in the Southern Hemisphere’s night sky.

Next, we step out onto the open-air terraces, where mechanical telescopes allow us to explore
celestial wonders such as stars, constellations, and the famous Magellanic Clouds—two satellite
galaxies of the Milky Way that are only visible from the Southern Hemisphere.
The highlight of the evening takes place in the observatory’s dome, where we’ll use an advanced
electronic telescope to observe the deep sky. Nebulae, star clusters, and other mesmerizing celestial
objects will take center stage, offering a truly unforgettable stargazing experience.

What is included:

• • Transfer from and to accommodation in La Serena (Beach area or downtown).
  • Transport in a tourist minibus
  • Mamalluca observatory ticket (entrance and tour)
  • Guide specialized in astronomy (guide is from observatory, they only do the tour in spanish)

  Itinerary

  • • Departure from La Serena
    • Stop in the city of Vicuña to get the entrance tickets
    • Transport from Vicuña to Mamalluca observatory
    • Entrance to Mamalluca observatory and its facilities with a guide
    • Beginning of the guided tour, 2 duration approximately
    • End of the tour at the observatory
    • Return to La Serena

  • Schedule

    • • Summer schedule: We start picking up passengers from 18:00, return at 00:00
      • Winter schedule: We start picking up passengers from 17:30 and return at 11:30PM
        *Times may be different depending on the traffic

       

      This schedule depends exclusively on the quotes granted by the observatory. Therefore, we suggest
      asking the availability for the dates you would like to take the tour. Mamalluca observatory is
      administered by the Municipality of Vicuña.

      Periodo de realización

      All year round, subject to confirmation due to weather conditions. Specifically cloudy skies over the
      city of Vicuña and the Mamalluca observatory.

      Detailed Route

      La Serena

      Our tour begins with passenger pickups along Avenida del Mar, starting at Enjoy Casino and
      continuing to El Faro. From there, we head along Francisco de Aguirre Avenue and proceed to
      downtown La Serena. Once all passengers are on board, we set off toward Vicuña.

      Vicuña

      Upon arriving in the charming city of Vicuña, the driver/coordinator will collect the entrance tickets
      for the Mamalluca Observatory. During this brief stop, you’ll have 5–10 minutes to stretch your legs
      and explore the main square, a perfect opportunity to take in the local atmosphere. Afterward, we’ll
      continue our journey to the observatory, located approximately 20 minutes away on Cerro
      Mamalluca.

      Observatorio Mamalluca

      At the observatory, our group will be welcomed by an astronomy specialist who will guide us through
      a captivating two-hour experience. The tour begins with an introductory audiovisual presentation,
      offering a fascinating overview of the universe. Next, we move to the open-air terraces, where
      manual telescopes provide an excellent opportunity to observe stars, constellations, and other
      celestial wonders. The experience concludes with a visit to the dome, where you’ll use an advanced
      electronic telescope to explore deep-sky objects like nebulae and star clusters.

      Regreso a La Serena

      After the tour, our driver/coordinator will be ready to take you back to La Serena, bringing our
      stargazing adventure to a close.