Extraordinary Journeys has unveiled an eight-night “Stargazing in Chile” itinerary. This journey takes travelers to some of the world’s most dark sky destinations, offering opportunities to observe the cosmos.
Extraordinary Journeys is giving travelers the chance to take an astrophotography class with photographer Yuri Beletsky. A professional astronomer and nightscape photographer, Beletsky works with advanced astronomical instruments at one of the largest optical telescopes in the Atacama Desert. With expert guidance from Beletsky, guests receive detailed instructions on planning, composing and capturing images of the stars and the Milky Way. They will also have the opportunity to take portraits under the starry sky.
The adventure begins in the Chilean capital of Santiago, where travelers will be introduced to South America’s rich culture and flavors. From there, guests will fly to Calama and transfer to Explora Atacama, a 50-room lodge in a private 42-acre oasis near San Pedro de Atacama.
At Explora Atacama, the night sky takes center stage. A trip highlight is the guided stargazing session at the lodge’s on-site Observatory, which houses one of Chile’s finest private telescopes. For the best experience, a South America destination specialist will carefully time the visit to coincide with the new moon, ensuring optimal visibility of the Milky Way and other celestial wonders.
By day, guests can explore the Atacama Desert and its "otherworldly" landscapes. From geysers and crooked canyons to milky lagoons, volcanoes and hot springs, the desert offers various activities, including hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. After a day of adventure, guests can unwind in the lodge’s heated outdoor pools, steam room, sauna or hot tubs.
The journey continues with a flight from Calama to La Serena, leading travelers to Elqui Valley, renowned for its year-round sunny days and minimal light pollution. Named the world’s first International Dark Sky Sanctuary in 2015, it is the perfect second stop on this stargazing odyssey.
Guests will check into CasaMolle, a 24-room retreat set on 42 private acres, designed to blend with the desert landscape. They can relax in one of six cedar barrel hot tubs, participate in a Quartz Circle meditation to open their chakras or enjoy a spa treatment.
After dark, the celestial exploration continues with a visit to El Pangue Observatory, where guides will help travelers observe star clusters, nebulae and distant galaxies. Another evening will be dedicated to stargazing alongside CasaMolle’s expert guides.
The Elqui Valley offers more than just stargazing; it’s a gateway to the Andes and its many adventures. Guests can hike or ride horseback through the landscapes and visit high-altitude vineyards to savor the region’s wines and pisco. For those drawn to the coast, a guided excursion to the Humboldt Penguin Reserve offers a chance to see these creatures up close on Isla Damas and Punta de Choros.
The celestial journey concludes with a visit to Chile’s Casablanca Wine Valley, where guests will enjoy a wine-tasting experience. This region’s proximity to the ocean imparts a refreshing maritime influence on the wines, making it ideal for sampling crisp, coastal whites and lighter reds.
Guests will stay at La Casona Matetic, a boutique hotel with over 100 years of history, surrounded by vineyards. The relaxed pace of the Casablanca Valley offers the perfect ending to this adventure, with opportunities for vineyard tours, winemaker meetings and hikes.
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