La Serena - Discovering Chile

Travelling to La Serena

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in La Serena, a pretty good destination in Chile (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to La Serena and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around La Serena, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Chile, here's everything to know about La Serena for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to La Serena

La Serena is a city located in the north of Chile, about 470km north of Santiago. It is the capital of the Coquimbo Region and has a population of about 220,000 people. The city is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and clear skies, which make it a popular destination for stargazing. La Serena also has several museums, art galleries, and parks for visitors to explore. Additionally, it is a gateway to other popular tourist destinations in the area, such as the Elqui Valley and the town of Vicuña.

What to visit in La Serena

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in La Serena, Chile along with some information about them: 1. El Faro Monumental: This is one of the most iconic landmarks of La Serena. The El Faro Monumental is a lighthouse that has been converted into a beautiful public space. From the top of the lighthouse, you can get a stunning view of La Serena and the Pacific Ocean.
2. La Recova Market: This is a traditional Chilean market that sells various goods, such as handicrafts, Chilean wine, fresh fruits, and local food. The market has a vibrant atmosphere with many stalls selling unique souvenirs for visitors.
3. Museo Arqueológico: This museum showcases the archaeological history of La Serena and its surrounding region. The museum features an extensive collection of objects, including pottery, textiles, and tools from various pre-Hispanic cultures.
4. Jardin Japones: This is a beautiful Japanese garden that is located in the heart of La Serena. The garden features traditional Japanese architecture, koi ponds, and beautiful landscaping. This is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
5. Observatorio Cerro Tololo: This is an astronomical observatory located in the Andes mountains near La Serena. The observatory is open to the public for guided tours where visitors can learn about research being conducted on the universe.
6. Valle del Elqui: This is a beautiful valley located on the outskirts of La Serena. The valley is known for its natural beauty, vineyards, and clear skies that make it an ideal stargazing destination. The Pisco Route, which is a tour of local distilleries that produce Chile's national liquor, is also one of the highlights of the trip.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that La Serena has to offer. Hopefully, this will help visitors plan their trip to the city.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Chile, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in La Serena.

When to go on holiday to La Serena

The best time to visit La Serena is during the summer months, from December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny with low chances of rainfall. However, if you prefer a quieter and more relaxed trip, you may also consider visiting during the shoulder seasons, from September to November or from March to May when the weather is mild and the crowds are fewer. Keep in mind that La Serena can be quite crowded during Chilean public holidays and school vacations, so it is advisable to book your accommodation well in advance during these periods.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to La Serena

La Serena is a city located in the Coquimbo Region of Chile. There are a few ways to get there, depending on your starting point.
If you are flying from outside of Chile, the nearest international airport is Santiago International Airport (SCL). From there, you can catch a domestic flight to La Serena's La Florida Airport (LSC), which takes about 1 hour.
If you are already in Chile, you can also take a bus to La Serena from major cities such as Santiago, Valparaiso, or Antofagasta. The trip from Santiago takes approximately 6 hours, and there are several bus companies that offer services to La Serena.
Finally, you can also rent a car and drive to La Serena, which is about 470 km (292 miles) from Santiago. The drive takes approximately 5 and a half hours, and there are several routes you can take, including Route 5 or the coastal Route 68.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit La Serena, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in La Serena

Sure, La Serena is a lovely city in the Coquimbo region of Chile, with delicious and unique cuisine. Here are some typical foods of La Serena with a short description: 1. Papayas con Crema: This is a delicious dessert that consists of ripe papayas cut into small pieces and covered with fresh cream.
2. Pastel de Jaiba: This is a traditional Chilean crab cake that is made with crab, onions, garlic, bread crumbs, and a mixture of herbs and spices.
3. Cazuela: This is a classic Chilean soup that includes beef, potatoes, pumpkin, corn on the cob, and green beans.
4. Empanadas de Pino: This is a savory pastry that is filled with ground beef, onions, raisins, and olives.
5. Churrascas: This is a bread roll that is made with pork fat, flour, and yeast. It is typically served with butter and cheese.
6. Chupe de Mariscos: This is a seafood stew that includes shellfish, fish, and potatoes in a creamy broth.
7. Sopaipillas: These are fried dough balls made from pumpkin, flour, and salt. They are often served with pebre, a traditional Chilean salsa.
8. Mote con Huesillo: This is a refreshing summer drink that consists of dried peaches, cooked wheat kernels, cinnamon sticks, and sugar syrup.
You can find general info about typical foods in Chile here.

Is La Serena an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Chile, La Serena is slightly more expensive due to its popularity as a tourist destination. However, it can still be a fairly affordable destination if you plan your trip wisely. Accommodation and transportation costs can be managed by comparing prices and choosing options that fit your budget. Food and drink prices are comparable to other cities in Chile. The entrance fees to parks and some attractions can be a bit high, but there are free options as well. Overall, La Serena can be enjoyed on a variety of budgets depending on your preferences and priorities.

Where to find accomodation in La Serena

La Serena's main tourist attractions are located in the historic center and along the coastline. Therefore, it is best to find accommodation in or near these areas. The neighborhoods of El Faro, Avenida del Mar, and La Recova are popular options for visitors as they are close to the beach and have many restaurants and shops. Also, the city center offers a wide range of options, including hotels, backpackers, and apartments, all within walking distance of the main attractions, such as the Cathedral, the Archaeological Museum, and the Plaza de Armas.
You can check hotel prices at La Serena here:
Booking.com

Is La Serena a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, La Serena is considered a safe place for tourists. However, travelers should always take general safety precautions when visiting any location, such as being aware of their surroundings, not carrying valuables in plain sight, and avoiding traveling alone at night. It is also advisable to take extra precautions during events with large crowds or in areas known for pickpocketing or theft.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Chile here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting La Serena.

What type of travelers will enjoy La Serena the most?

La Serena is a destination that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. It is particularly appealing to travelers who are looking for a combination of natural beauty, history and culture.
Couples, in particular, will find La Serena to be a romantic destination. The city's colonial architecture, quaint cafes and restaurants, and nearby beaches provide a perfect setting for romantic getaways.
Young people looking for fun can also enjoy La Serena as the city boasts a vibrant nightlife with lots of bars and clubs. The nearby Elqui Valley is also known for its array of adventure sports like horseback riding, hiking, and zip-lining.
Families will find La Serena to be a great place to explore. The city is known for its museums and cultural attractions, such as the Archaeological Museum and The Gabriela Mistral Cultural Center. The nearby beaches also provide a great place for families to relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
In summary, La Serena caters to different travel styles and preferences, making it a great destination for everyone.

How to get around La Serena

There are several types of transportation available to move around La Serena, Chile. Some common options are: 1. Taxis: Taxis are easily available in La Serena and offer a convenient way to travel around the city. They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance through a mobile app.
2. Colectivos: These are shared taxis that follow a specific route and pick up passengers along the way. They are a cheaper option than regular taxis and can take you to popular destinations in La Serena.
3. Buses: There are several bus companies that operate in La Serena, connecting the city to other destinations in the region. You can find buses at the bus terminals or on the street.
4. Bicycle: La Serena has a bike-friendly culture, and renting a bike can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city. There are several bike rental shops throughout the city.
5. Walking: La Serena is a compact city, and many of the popular tourist attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking can be a great way to discover the city's hidden gems, and it's free!

What to see around La Serena

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from La Serena: 1. Valle del Elqui: This beautiful valley is famous among tourists for its stunning natural landscapes, vineyards, pisco factories, and crystal-clear skies for stargazing.
2. Isla Damas: This small island is home to various marine and bird species, and you can take a boat tour to explore the coastline and see the wildlife.
3. Punta de Choros: It is a peaceful coastal village and an excellent destination for marine life lovers. From here, boat tours to nearby Isla Damas and Pingüino de Humboldt National Reserve are available.
4. Punta de Teatinos: It is a rocky coastal area that promises a stunning sunset view over the Pacific Ocean. It attracts tourists who love nature, hiking and who seek tranquility.
5. Fray Jorge National Park: A unique ecosystem of mist forest in the midst of arid desert lands, surrounded by the striking natural landscapes of Chañaral Island.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you need any further assistance.
For every travel information about Chile you can click here.

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