Welcome to Coquimbo, a vibrant port city on Chile's sun-drenched coast and a gateway to celestial wonders. Frequently visited by premier cruise lines such as Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line, this destination offers a unique blend of coastal charm and mystical inland beauty.
Passengers are drawn to Coquimbo for its proximity to the famed Elqui Valley, the heart of Chilean pisco production and home to some of the world's clearest skies for stargazing. It’s a port that promises both relaxation on its golden beaches and unforgettable adventures under the southern stars.
Dominating the skyline is the monumental Cruz del Tercer Milenio (Third Millennium Cross), a towering religious structure offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and bay from its observation decks. It's a short taxi ride from the port and is Coquimbo's most iconic landmark.
A popular shore excursion takes visitors into the picturesque Elqui Valley. Here, you can tour a traditional distillery to learn about and sample pisco, Chile's national spirit. The valley's clear skies also make it a global hub for astronomy, with several observatories offering daytime tours.
Explore the historic Barrio Inglés (English Quarter), a revitalized district near the waterfront known for its 19th-century wooden architecture, charming pubs, and artisan shops. For a glimpse into the area's maritime past, visit the Fuerte Coquimbo (Coquimbo Fort), which provides a historical perspective and more great views of the harbor.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The charming colonial city of La Serena is Coquimbo's immediate neighbor, located just a 15-20 minute drive north. It is known for its beautiful neocolonial architecture, long sandy beaches, and the bustling Mercado La Recova, a market perfect for finding local crafts and delicacies.
A must-do day trip is to the Elqui Valley, a stunning river valley famous for its pisco distilleries and world-renowned astronomical observatories. The main town of Vicuña is about an hour's drive from the port and serves as a hub for pisco tasting tours and visits to observatories.
For wildlife enthusiasts, a longer excursion to the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve offers the chance to see penguins, sea lions, and diverse marine birds via a boat tour to Isla Damas. This trip requires several hours and is best arranged through a pre-booked tour.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The cruise port in Coquimbo is an industrial and commercial port, with a dedicated pier for cruise ships. Ships typically dock, allowing for easy walk-off access, although tendering may be used if the main berth is occupied by other traffic.
The port is located approximately 2-3 kilometers (about 1.5 miles) from the main city center and attractions like the Plaza de Armas. While it is technically walkable, most passengers prefer to take a short taxi ride or a shuttle bus, which are often provided by cruise lines. The immediate port area has limited amenities, so transportation is necessary to reach shops, restaurants, and sights.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The official currency is the Chilean Peso (CLP). While some larger tourist-oriented shops in the nearby city of La Serena might accept US dollars, it is not common practice, and the exchange rate will not be favorable.
It is highly recommended to use local currency for all transactions. ATMs (cajeros automáticos) are widely available in the city center, shopping malls, and banks. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but carrying some cash is essential for taxis, small vendors, and market purchases.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Coquimbo is generally considered a safe destination for tourists, and visitors can feel comfortable exploring the main areas during the day. As in any port city, it is wise to practice standard safety precautions. Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded places like markets and bus terminals, to avoid pickpocketing.
Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash. While independent exploration of the city center and the nearby city of La Serena is common, it is best to stick to well-lit, populated areas. For trips further afield, such as into the Elqui Valley, a guided tour is recommended for both safety and convenience.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Coquimbo enjoys a semi-arid desert climate, ensuring mild and pleasant weather for most of the year. During the main cruise season, from November to March (the Southern Hemisphere's summer), you can expect warm, dry, and sunny conditions.
Daytime temperatures typically range from 18°C to 25°C (65°F to 77°F), with cooler evenings due to the coastal breeze. Rainfall is extremely rare during this period. Visitors should pack light clothing, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and strong sunscreen, as the sun can be intense. A light jacket or sweater is recommended for evenings or for boat tours on the water.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
Upon arrival, cruise passengers will find taxis readily available just outside the port terminal. These are the most convenient way to get to the city center or nearby attractions. Always confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey or ensure the meter is running.
For more local travel, 'colectivos' (shared taxis running on fixed routes) are a popular and inexpensive option, though they can be confusing for non-Spanish speakers. Public buses are also available but are generally not recommended for tourists on a tight schedule. To explore the Elqui Valley, booking a shore excursion or hiring a private taxi for the day is the most efficient and enjoyable method.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The best shopping for local crafts and souvenirs can be found along the Avenida Costanera waterfront and in the historic Barrio Inglés, where small boutiques offer artisan goods. For a wider selection, many visitors take a short trip to the neighboring city of La Serena to visit the Mercado La Recova.
Look for unique items such as crafts made from lapis lazuli, Chile's national stone, as well as copper jewelry, alpaca wool textiles, and leather goods. Local delicacies, especially papaya products and bottles of artisanal pisco, make excellent souvenirs. Prices in formal shops are typically fixed, but polite bargaining may be possible at outdoor market stalls.
Last updated on June 29, 2025
The Elqui Valley is a must-see for its stunning landscapes and a tour of a pisco distillery to sample Chile's national spirit. The journey into this fertile valley reveals charming villages and vineyards set against arid mountains.
For a day of relaxation, the region's long sandy beaches and spas offer a perfect escape. You can unwind on the shores of nearby La Serena or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment with ocean views.
Venture to the charming fishing peninsula of Tongoy, renowned for its fresh seafood and tranquil atmosphere. Visitors savor local delicacies like oysters while enjoying the views from its two beautiful crescent beaches.
Just next to the port lies La Herradura, a picturesque horseshoe-shaped bay with calm, clear waters. Its protected beach is ideal for a relaxing swim or enjoying a meal at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Visit some of the most prominent beaches and spas in the region. This tour is perfect for those seeking a quiet and refreshing day. Enjoy your time relaxing by the beautiful sea.
This service provides a convenient one-way transfer within the city of La Serena. You can select the option that best suits your travel needs. Choose between an arrival service or a departure service for a seamless journey.
Journey to a privileged Astronomical Center in the Elqui Valley, a region boasting nearly 300 clear nights per year. Specialized guides lead an advanced tour in Spanish, using high-quality telescopes like the 24-inch Hubble Optics, unique in Chile. Observe constellations from the outdoor terrace and capture group astrophotography on moonless nights.
Explore the Valley of Enchantment, once the most important artistic, astronomical, and ceremonial center of Chilean prehistory. This beautiful natural space was settled by the ancient Molle culture. Discover their legacy through the large stones featuring surprising engravings, paintings, and mortars that reveal their art and worldview.
Journey into the majestic Andes mountains, starting with breakfast in the remote town of Huanta. You will then ascend to 3,300 meters to relax in natural thermal baths, accompanied by a local wine tasting. The experience also includes an optional trek to a hidden waterfall and concludes with craft beer and pizza in Vicuña.
Enjoy spectacular views of Coquimbo Bay, the city of La Serena, and its bustling port from an unforgettable lookout point. This scenic spot offers a memorable perspective of your stay in the region. Admire the beautiful gardens filled with an abundance of trees like hibiscus, bougainvillea, and corona del inca.
Discover the unique Fray Jorge National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where a Valdivian forest thrives in a semi-arid climate. This incredible oasis of biodiversity is sustained by the mysterious coastal fog known as "camanchaca." After walking nature trails and marveling at the views, you'll enjoy a seafront lunch in Tongoy featuring the best local cuisine.
Embark on a journey to the Elqui Valley, a cultural treasure where history and nature intertwine among majestic mountains. You will discover the ancestral secrets of ancient indigenous peoples and visit historic pisco and wine cellars. Follow in the footsteps of Gabriela Mistral, the first Latin American woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, in the valley that inspired her.
Discover the mystical Elqui Valley on a full-day, small-group guided tour from La Serena. You will get a glimpse into the new-age lifestyles found in Cochiguaz and enjoy a pisco tasting at a local production plant. The tour also includes a visit to Vicuña, the hometown of Nobel laureate Gabriela Mistral.
Explore the picturesque Elqui Valley, visiting the Puclaro Reservoir, the town of Vicuña, and a pisco factory to learn about the distillation process. After lunch at a typical restaurant, the tour continues to Paihuano, Monte Grande, and the charming town of Pisco Elqui. Discover Pisco Elqui's narrow streets, adobe houses, and local craft centers to complete your journey.
On this seven-hour tour, explore La Serena, Chile's second-oldest city, known for its colonial architecture, historic churches, and iconic lighthouse. You will also visit the famous port city of Coquimbo, which is steeped in maritime stories and traditions. This journey covers the region's rich history, from the Incas and Diaguitas to the era of pirates and corsairs.
Discover Chile's valuable cultural destination, the Elqui Valley, known for its inspiring atmosphere and cosmic connection. Explore the legacy of ancient peoples like the Diaguitas and Incas, visit the country's oldest wine and pisco cellars, and see advanced astronomical observatories. This tour also highlights the places that inspired Nobel laureate Gabriela Mistral.
Travel from La Serena to the coast of the Atacama, one of the most arid and beautiful deserts on the planet. Explore incredible geological formations, ancient ravines, and picturesque settlements of miners, farmers, and fishermen. Discover the region's prehistoric vestiges, unique fauna, and the amazing seasonal flora that revives after the rains.
Observe the cosmos with the support of electronic telescopes on this captivating astrotourism experience. View deep-sky objects like nebulae and star clusters, as well as planets, and enjoy a guided naked-eye tour of the constellations. To remember your evening, a photograph will be taken of you against the backdrop of one of the cleanest skies in the world.
Embark on a night trek near the Puclaro reservoir, using headlamps and canes to reach a strategic viewpoint with little light pollution. From here, you will observe the stars with the naked eye and receive a fascinating astronomical talk. The experience culminates in an astrophotography session, capturing images with one of the world's cleanest skies as the protagonist.
This six-hour tour takes you through the great Elqui Valley, past vineyards, fruit trees, and pisco factories. In the city of Vicuña, you will visit the main square, the Gabriela Mistral museum, and a salesroom for papaya, the typical local fruit. For a truly unique experience, you will enjoy lunch at a restaurant where all the food is cooked using only sunlight.
Journey north along the famous Pan-American Highway, traveling through a unique, semi-desert landscape. The route continues along sloping ground, offering excellent vantage points along the way. Have your camera ready to capture the several stunning views of the rocky coast.
Travel to the Collowara Observatory, a scientific, tourist, and educational complex located 1,300 meters above sea level on El Churqui Hill. Its name appropriately means "Hill of Stars" in the Aymara language. Here you will enjoy a wonderful night observing the cosmos from this ideal vantage point.
Discover one of the areas with the greatest diversity of marine species at the Humboldt Penguin National Reserve. Navigate to three magical islands—Gaviotas, Choros, and Damas—to see their incomparable geography and beaches. Look for attractive fauna including penguins, dolphins, sea otters, and sea lions, and enjoy a walk on the beautiful Isla Damas.
Experience two different ecosystems with this tour to Fray Jorge National Park and the Valley of Enchantment. You will tour a unique Valdivian forest that thrives in the otherwise semi-arid climate of the IV Region. The tour then continues to the historical Valley of Enchantment, allowing you to see two of the area's top sites.
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Overall Coquimbo is rather inexpensive as a port of call. The illustration below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises visiting Coquimbo. Prices are approximately equal throughout the year.
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