Chile is world-renowned for having some of the clearest skies on the planet. From the Atacama Desert to the inland valleys of the center and south of the country, its privileged geography and low light pollution make the country a true paradise for astrotourism. If you're thinking about camping under a starry sky, here we tell you the best places, when to go, and how to make the most of this experience.
You can find more articles about tourism and nature at CalendarioChile.com/blog .
Best areas in Chile for camping and stargazing
Atacama Desert, the clearest sky in the world
Northern Chile is a dream for astronomy lovers. San Pedro de Atacama and its surrounding areas are renowned for having more than 300 clear nights a year. Places like the Valley of the Moon , Laguna Cejar , and the Tara Plateau are ideal for camping and observing the Milky Way in all its splendor.
Ideal altitude: between 2,400 and 4,000 meters.
Recommended season: from April to November.
Tip: Avoid a full moon if you're looking to see more stars.
📸 Image suggestion 1:
Photograph of the starry sky over the Atacama Desert, with an illuminated tent in the foreground.
Alt text: Starry sky over the Atacama Desert in Chile, ideal for camping and stargazing.
Elqui Valley, the cradle of Chilean astrotourism
The Elqui Valley , in the Coquimbo Region, is famous for combining energy, wine, and stars. Tourist observatories such as Mamalluca, Collowara, and Alfa Aldea are located here, offering night tours and camping areas with basic services.
Best places: Pisco Elqui, Cochiguaz and Alcohuaz.
Additional attraction: artisanal pisco tastings and astronomy workshops.
Fun fact: It was the first place in the world to be certified as a “Starlight Tourist Destination.”
Atacama Region and its desert coast
If you prefer camping by the sea, the Atacama Region's coast combines pristine beaches with stunning skies.
Recommended destinations: Pan de Azúcar National Park, Caleta Obispito and Bahía Inglesa.
Tip: The contrast between the ocean and the starry sky is perfect for night photography.
Temperature: mild even at night, although windy.
Cajón del Maipo near Santiago but with clear skies
Less than two hours from Santiago, the Cajón del Maipo is an ideal option for a weekend getaway.
Suggested locations: El Yeso Reservoir, Las Melosas and Baños Morales.
Ideal time: spring and summer, when the weather is more stable.
Recommendation: Bring red light flashlights to avoid affecting the visibility of the sky.
La Araucanía Region: forests, volcanoes, and clear nights
In the south of the country, the Araucanía region offers an incomparable natural setting for camping among ancient forests and volcanic lakes.
Recommended places: Conguillío National Park, Lican Ray and Pucón.
Attraction: star reflections on lakes such as Caburgua or Villarrica.
Climate: Wetter, but with clear nights between January and March.
Tips for camping under the stars in Chile
Wear thermal clothing: even in summer, nights can be cold at high altitudes.
Avoid artificial lights: turn off spotlights and use red-light flashlights.
Download star maps: Apps like Stellarium or Sky Guide help you identify constellations.
Take care of the environment: don't leave trash, use portable stoves, and avoid lighting fires.
Check the lunar phases: the new moon is the best time to observe the Milky Way.
Ideal dates for skywatching in Chile in 2026
January and February: Clear skies throughout the north and center of the country.
July and August: Delta Aquariids and Perseid meteor showers.
December: Geminid meteor shower and excellent visibility in desert areas.
Astronomical tourism on the rise
Astrotourism in Chile attracts not only domestic travelers but also tourists from around the world. The combination of infrastructure, safety, and local hospitality has allowed this type of tourism to grow each year. From simple family campsites to premium experiences with professional telescopes, the Chilean sky remains one of the most prized gems on the planet.