Coquimbo Region, Administrative region in northern Chile
Description
The Coquimbo Region is an administrative territory in northern Chile extending from the Pacific coast to the Andes and covering several valleys. The landscape shifts between coastal plains, dry mountain slopes, and green river valleys, while peaks reaching over 19,000 feet rise to the east.
History
The area was home to the Diaguita people before Spanish colonization, who lived in small communities across the valleys. Mining activities in the 19th century encouraged settlement, and the territory was later organized as a separate administrative unit within Chile.
Culture
The Elqui Valley within the region produces grapes for pisco production, representing a significant element of Chilean agricultural and culinary traditions.
Practical
Travelers crossing the territory by car should keep in mind that distances between valleys are considerable and roads run through mountain passes. Fuel stations are found mainly in larger towns, so it helps to refill before heading into remote stretches.
Did you know?
Several international observatories take advantage of the clear air and low light pollution to study celestial objects barely visible in other parts of the world. Some facilities offer guided visits where travelers can peer through modern telescopes.
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Vera C. Rubin Observatory
61.4 km
Giant Magellan Telescope
110.5 km
La Silla Observatory
88 km
Cruz del Tercer Milenio
10.2 km
Lighthouse of La Serena
2 km
Bosque Fray Jorge National Park
93.6 km
Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory
52.1 km
Puclaro Reservoir
40.7 km
Estadio Francisco Sánchez Rumoroso
10.3 km
Cerro Mercedario
255 km
Estadio La Portada
429 m
TRAPPIST
88.1 km
Coquimbo Mosque
10 km
New Technology Telescope
88.1 km
Pingüino de Humboldt National Reserve
78 km
Tumba de Gabriela Mistral
76.1 km
Encaint valle
89.4 km
Mall Plaza La Serena
659 m
Southern Astrophysical Research Telescope
62.2 km
Fort Lambert
8.4 km
Monumento natural Pichasca
64.8 km
Guayacán
11.2 km
Iglesia grande de Andacollo
39.5 km
Our Lady of Mercy Cathedral, La Serena
615 m
Los cafes del Diego
225.7 km
Cerro Pachón
62.1 km
ESO 3.6 m Telescope
88 km
Museo-Biblioteca Gabriela Mistral
54.6 km
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