Coquimbo and La Serena

We will leave the pier to drive to La Herradura Bay ('Horseshoe Bay' due to its shape) in Coquimbo, a place where stories are told about the pirates & corsairs who explored and plundered the coast, especially Francis Drake, giving rise to the legend of buried treasure near the Herradura. Continue driving north towards the city of La Serena, along the coast with 4.4 miles (7.08 kilometres) of nice beaches that makes this city one of the most popular ones during summer vacations.  

We will continue driving north towards the city of La Serena, along the coast with 4.4 miles (7.08 kilometers) of nice beaches that makes this city one of the most popular ones during summer vacations. The first stop will be made near the Lighthouse, a 28-metre-high (91-foot-high) structure built in 1951 as a symbol of the city and one of the most emblematic points of the city, to have the opportunity to take some photos of the beaches and the Lighthouse.  

At the Main Plaza, the place where the city was re-founded in 1549, we will start a little walk (about 3 blocks) through downtown commercial streets to visit the Archaeological Museum. This museum is located in a building from 1945 but the stone portal dates back to 1820. It houses a genuine moai statue from Easter Island, the most complete collection of artefacts of pre-Spanish cultures of the region and also an extensive display of artefacts from the Diaguita and Molle cultures. Located only one block away is the La Recova Market, set in a picturesque patio, this market offers numerous interesting shopping opportunities including handicrafts such as lapis lazuli (Chile's famous semi-precious blue stone), pottery and ceramic with Diaguita motifs, as well as alpaca wool articles. We will walk up 150 meters to join the tour bus and drive to a view point of the city & bay where some time at leisure will be given to enjoy the view and take some photos. We will return drive to the pier in order to re-join the ship. 

Practical information: 

• Language: English.

• Remarks/requirements: Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing, hiking shoes, and bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. 

• Walking information: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) over dirt pathways and uneven surfaces in spots, with some steps to negotiate at the museum. 

• Wheelchair accessible: No.