Chile is well-known for its beautiful landscapes. The Copiapó Valley, one of the most popular travel destinations in the country, is no exception. Located between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes Mountains, this unique location is beloved for its salt flats, beaches, archaeological sites, national reserves, volcanoes and unique museums.
What makes Copiapó Valley so magical? You can discover how the Atacama Desert, the driest on the planet, dives right into beaches with turquoise waters. Or witness unforgettable climatological phenomena, like the Camanchaca -a mist that arises from the coast at night- or the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of seeing rainfall in the desert.
An added bonus: astronomers say that the skies in Copiapó Valley are some of the best in the world for stargazing, which makes it an ideal location to observe the night sky and its countless stars and planets.
Read on to enjoy this ultimate guide of places you cannot miss in Copiapó Valley:
Bahía Inglesa
Located 45 miles West of Copiapó Valley, this beach is the epitome of “paradise”. In the area you can find great bars and restaurants as well as see some of the amazing landscapes that the bay offers. And make sure you don’t miss out on some of the most breathtaking beach sunsets!
San José Mine
This is the iconic place where 33 miners were trapped 2,300 feet underground for 69 days before being rescued by an international team of professionals. This world-famous site is located 30 miles North West Copiapó Valley.
Desierto Florido
Nature at its best, but only if you’re lucky. 60 miles South of Copiapó Valley, near the coast of Atacama Region, between Huasco and Chañaral, you can watch every other year how the driest desert in the world is filled with a multitude of colorful flowers. The best time to visit is September, but you may be able to catch a glimpse of the wild flower field in November.
Laguna Verde
Located 2,000 feet above sea level and surrounded by volcanoes, Laguna Verde and its emerald waters are ideal for hiking lovers. Located only 3 miles East of Copiapó Valley.
Parque Nacional Nevado Tres Cruces
Located 120 miles North East of Copiapó Valley, this national park is visited by travelers from around the world because of its flamingo reserve, located in the Laguna del Negro Francisco and Laguna Santa Rosa complex.
Volcán Ojos del Salado
This area is located 70 miles West of Copiapó Valley. Here, the Andes Mountains reach 20,000 feet at the dramatic Ojos del Salado Volcano. Passionate mountaineers and trekking lovers will never forget the experiences they create here.
Puerto Viejo
Puerto Viejo’s beach is famous for its peculiar topography: sedimentary sand walls create striking eroded cliffs. A day trip is enough to enjoy this natural marvel.
Museo Regional de Atacama
This Museum offers a comprehensive look at the cultural heritage of local ancestral communities. It is located only 1 mile from Copiapó Valley.
Camino del Inca
This archaeological site is one of the main vestiges of the pre-Inca culture in Chile. It owes its name to the Spanish conquerors. This site was a commercial route that allowed the exchange between the Spanish and indigenous population.
Santuario Granito Orbicular
You’ll believe it when you see it. These strange and uncommon geological structures are located 7 miles North West of Copiapó and are unique to Chile in South America. The site was declared a Nature Sanctuary in 1981.
When is the best time to visit Copiapo Valley?
The best time to visit Copiapó Valley is from April to December. Why? As well as being low season, you would also be avoiding the driest months of the year.
Do you feel like planning a getaway to Copiapó Valley to enjoy its contrasting landscapes? Contact us and we’ll make it happen! We’ll make sure you have the time of your life.