Horseback riding in the Cochiguaz River Sanctuary in the Elqui Valley
The Elqui Valley in northern Chile is famous for its starry skies, lush landscapes, and legendary pisco. This tour offers a chance to explore it from a different perspective — on horseback through the Cochiguaz River Sanctuary. For $240 per person, you’ll spend about a day marveling at mountain vistas, native flora, and historic villages, all topped off with regional tastings and a relaxed pace. The tour starts from La Serena, making it accessible for travelers based in this coastal city, and takes you deep into one of Chile’s most mysterious valleys.
What we love about this experience is the chance to see the landscape from horseback, which offers an intimacy with nature that walking or driving can’t match. The guides are experts, adding a layer of storytelling and cultural insight that enriches the experience. Plus, the included tastings — pisco, regional foods, and wine — make this a tasty adventure that stimulates all the senses.
One thing to consider is that the tour is not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, as it involves a 3-hour horseback ride and some uneven terrain. It’s best suited for those with a sense of adventure, a love for nature, and an appreciation for authentic regional culture. If you’re craving an active, immersive day in a landscape filled with history, mystical legends, and stunning scenery, this tour’s a good pick.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Scenic landscapes of mountains, rivers, and native flora provide a stunning backdrop.
- Cultural stops include quaint villages, churches, and old wine and pisco cellars.
- Authentic horseback riding through lush labyrinths and native medicinal plants.
- Tastings of regional products like pisco, wine, and traditional Chilean cuisine.
- Expert bilingual guides help deepen your understanding of the area’s history and mysticism.
- Natural river pools are available for bathing, adding a refreshing break to the day.
An In-Depth Look at the Cochiguaz River Sanctuary Tour
Starting Point: La Serena
The day begins with a pickup from your accommodation in La Serena. This coastal city is a practical base, and the transportation to the Elqui Valley is comfortable, scenic, and a good introduction to the region’s landscape. A small group size — limited to 10 participants — means you’re more likely to get personalized attention and engage with your guide, who will be sharing insights in English.
Scenic Drive through Elqui Province
The two-hour drive is a highlight in itself. As we wound through the valley, we admired mountains, rivers, and native flora, which contrast sharply with the desert-like surroundings of northern Chile. Our guide, Daniel, pointed out intriguing facts about indigenous cultures and the area’s mystical reputation, setting a tone of curiosity and awe.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Cochiguaz
Our first stop is Cochiguaz, a village steeped in history and mysticism. Here, we got a brief introduction to the landscape’s spiritual significance, as legends speak of energy portals and planetary chakras aligned with the Aquarius era. The guide explained that the valley is considered a natural sanctuary with “ancient sanctuaries and natural paradises” where the “most transparent waters of the Andes” flow.
Horseback Riding through Lush Labyrinths
The core of this experience is the horseback ride of around 3 hours. The horses are notable for their happy, relaxed demeanor — they’ve grown up among mountains, rivers, and native medicinal plants, which makes them well-adapted to the terrain. The ride takes you through native flora, small lagoons, springs, and lush riverbanks, providing opportunities for spectacular photos.
One traveler noted, “We loved the way the horses instinctively navigated the uneven terrain, and the guides made sure we felt safe and engaged.” The trail isn’t just about the scenery, but also about feeling connected to the land and understanding the region’s natural beauty.
Natural Pools and Refreshing Breaks
A highlight for many is the chance to bathe in natural river pools along the way, an unexpected treat in such a remote landscape. Travelers have found these pools to be crystal clear and rejuvenating, especially after a few hours of riding.
Visiting Historic Towns and Cellars
After the ride, you’ll visit towns like Pisco Elqui and Vicuña. These historic towns are dotted with churches, old wine and pisco cellars — perfect for strolling, tasting, and soaking up local charm. One visitor described Vicuña as “a small town with a big heart,” noting its blend of tradition and lively local culture.
Tasting the Regional Flavors
The tour includes tastings of pisco, typical foods, and regional beverages like wine and beer. You’ll enjoy appetizers, a hearty main course, and a dessert — all served in a setting that emphasizes local flavors. Such tastings give a delicious, authentic flavor of the region and are a highlight for food lovers.
The Value of This Experience
Considering the price of $240, this tour offers a compelling mix of cultural insight, natural beauty, and adventure. The inclusion of round-trip transportation, experienced guides, horseback riding, tastings, and stops in historic towns means you’re getting a comprehensive, immersive day. The guides’ expertise helps transform a scenic ride into a meaningful story about local traditions, legends, and mystical energies.
Who Will Love It?
This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, history, and authentic regional culture. It’s perfect for those comfortable with horseback riding and eager to explore beyond typical tourist routes. The tour’s focus on the spiritual and mystical aspects of the valley also appeals to curious travelers interested in the esoteric and natural energies of the landscape.
Practical Considerations
Since the tour involves a 3-hour horseback ride, it’s best for those over 9 years old and in good health. It’s not suitable for anyone with mobility issues, back problems, or certain health conditions. Be sure to bring a towel if you plan to bathe in the river pools, and wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing.
A Balanced Perspective: Pros and Cons
The highlights — stunning scenery, expert guides, cultural richness, and regional tastings — make this tour a well-rounded choice for anyone wanting an authentic Elqui Valley experience. The horseback riding is a highlight, providing a unique way to engage with the landscape.
On the other hand, for travelers seeking a purely relaxing day or those unable to ride, this might not be the best fit. The 3-hour ride demands physical comfort and some stamina. Also, the tour’s focus on mystical legends and energy portals is intriguing but may seem a bit esoteric for some.
Final Thoughts
This horseback riding tour in the Cochiguaz River Sanctuary is a fantastic way to connect with Chile’s Elqui Valley on a deeper level. It combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty into a single day, offering memorable moments and authentic insights. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or someone simply looking for an active day in a stunning landscape, this tour provides value and a taste of Chile’s mystical side.
If you’re eager to explore Chile’s mountain villages, native flora, and legendary energies on horseback while enjoying regional tastings, this trip will likely exceed your expectations. Just be prepared for a full day of activity, and you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the landscapes and legends of the Elqui Valley.
FAQs
Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from La Serena is included, making it easy to focus on the experience.
How long is the horseback ride? The ride lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and native flora.
Can I bathe in the river pools? Yes, the tour allows time to enjoy bathing in the natural river water pools, so bring a towel.
What should I wear? Wear comfortable clothing suitable for riding and weather conditions. Bring a towel if you plan to swim.
Is this tour suitable for children? It’s recommended for children over 9 years old, due to the physical nature of horseback riding.
Are the guides bilingual? Yes, the tour guide speaks English, ensuring clear explanations and storytelling.
What food and drinks are included? The tour features tastings of regional products like pisco, wine, and traditional foods, along with a full lunch.
How big are the tour groups? The group is limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.
What if I need to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.
This horseback riding tour in the Cochiguaz River Sanctuary offers a rewarding way to explore Chile’s Elqui Valley, blending natural beauty, cultural richness, and authentic adventure. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a day that’s active, inspiring, and full of local flavor.
You can check availability for your dates here: