Centro Astronomico Alfa Aldea

Camping among the Vineyards is lovely. There's a nice pool too, and you can join a stargazing tour.

We parked our camper van on a pitch among the vineyard for two nights. There was electricity and water, plus a decent toilet block and a swimming pool. The astronomy tour was personal and relaxed, and we learned a lot.

Seeing Saturn and Jupiter so clearly through the telescope, along with so many other stars, made for an unforgettable evening. It was just my partner and me on the night we visited, so we could spend as long as we liked looking. Hugo, the astronomer, knows the solar system extremely well and is passionate about it. He answered all our questions in detail. Alfa Aldea isn't the same kind of experience as one of the big observatories, as other reviewers have said. It's a much more intimate visit on the grounds of a family home. I'd highly recommend booking a tour here if you're visiting Vicuña.

We came with my family after someone recommended it. It's easy to find and not far from the main town. The staff were super friendly and knowledgeable, and explained everything in an entertaining, easy-to-follow way. A great activity if you're staying around Valle del Elqui. I'd suggest going on a night without the Moon to see more stars and constellations. Still, seeing the moon through the telescope was incredible too.