How to Plan Your Multi-Adventure Tour in Cochiguaz: Trekking Plus Downhill Bike

Are you looking for an adventurous and authentic experience in Chile’s stunning Elqui Province? Look no further than the Multi-Adventure Cochiguaz tour! With a combination of trekking and downhill biking, this tour is a great choice for anyone who wants to enjoy the Andean nature and immerse themselves in traditional culture.

Experience

The Multi-Adventure Cochiguaz tour is a unique opportunity to explore the Cochiguaz river valley guided by knowledgeable and experienced locals. You’ll learn about the local water resource system that supports small-scale agriculture and livestock in the area, observe natural cycles like thaws, springs, and wetlands, and experience the Andean nature in all its beauty.

Highlights

The tour includes plenty of highlights to make your experience unforgettable, including:

– The Buddhist illumination stupa
– “La piedra del guanaco” (a magnetic center)
– A natural water spring
– Trekking through a multi-trail loaded with attributes such as: spring water source, semi-arid forest, rocky terrain, and fertile green mantle
– A basic level downhill bike route of 7 kms with 200 meters of unevenness

Full Description

Let yourself be captivated by the magic of traditional culture and the Andean nature! The trekking portion of the tour takes you through a multi-trail starting at 1800 meters above sea level. With a distance of 7 kms and 200 meters of unevenness, this basic level route is suitable for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. Along the way, you’ll encounter a natural water spring and observe the semi-arid forest, rocky terrain, and fertile green mantle of the area.

Cochiguaz, which comes from the mapudungun language meaning “water house,” is the perfect place to learn about the local water resource system that supports small-scale agriculture and livestock in the area. The tour guide will explain the natural cycle of thaws, springs, and wetlands, and how they contribute to the local ecosystem.

After trekking, it’s time for some downhill biking! With a distance of 7 kms and an unevenness of 200 meters, this basic level route is great for beginners as well as experienced bikers. You’ll enjoy the stunning Andean scenery while feeling the rush of adrenaline as you descend.

If you’re interested in traditional culture, you’ll love the highlights included in the tour. The Buddhist illumination stupa is a significant spiritual landmark that stands out in the region. “La piedra del guanaco” is a magnetic center with a unique energy that’s said to provide balance and harmony to people who visit it. And the natural water spring is the perfect place to rest and relax while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Booking

Ready to book your Multi-Adventure Cochiguaz tour? Simply follow this link to book the tour and enjoy all the amazing experiences that Cochiguaz has to offer.

In summary, the Multi-Adventure Cochiguaz tour is the perfect way to experience the natural beauty and traditional culture of Chile’s Elqui Province. With a combination of trekking and downhill biking, you’ll enjoy stunning scenery, observe natural cycles, and learn about the local water resource system. And with highlights like the Buddhist illumination stupa, “La piedra del guanaco,” and natural water springs, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable adventure.

The Insider’s Guide to Cochiguaz: Discover the Hidden Gems of Chile’s Elqui Valley

If you’re an adventure seeker looking for your next multi-adventure tour, Cochiguaz in the Elqui Valley of Chile is the perfect destination. From desert treks to downhill biking, this small town is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. But your trip to Cochiguaz doesn’t end there. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you discover the hidden gems of this beautiful city.

Local Attractions: Discover the Off-the-Beaten-Path Wonders

While popular tourist spots like the Mamalluca Observatory and Pisco companies are must-visits, make sure to also explore the lesser-known places that are beloved by the locals. Visit the beautiful Rio Claro, a crystal-clear river that’s perfect for a refreshing swim. Hike up to the Cochiguaz waterfalls, hidden among the hills and prime for a picnic outing. And, don’t miss out on the Off-road Desert Safari, a unique and thrilling experience where you can explore the vast desert on four wheels.

Dining Spots: Savor the Local Cuisine

Cochiguaz has a small but thriving food scene that’s dedicated to traditional Chilean cuisine. Try the classic asado barbecue in one of the many family-run parrillas (steakhouses). Pair your meal with a glass of Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon or Carmenere, a Chilean specialty. For something sweeter, head to the local heladería or ice cream shop. Here, you can indulge in flavors you’ve never tried before, such as lucuma, a fruit native to Chile, or soursop.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Local Traditions

Cochiguaz is a town rich in culture and tradition. Visit the picturesque church, Our Lady of Carmen, where the locals hold their yearly festival, Carnaval del Sol, that celebrates the sun. You can also catch a performance of the Cueca, Chile’s national dance, which originated in the Elqui Valley. If you’re interested in learning about the pre-Hispanic history of the region, the museum of Gabriela Mistral, the famous Chilean poet, is an excellent place to start.

Local History: Explore Cochiguaz’s Fascinating Past

Cochiguaz has a rich history, much of which remains unknown to most visitors. One fascinating story is the legend of the lonely and mysterious Hermanos Vilches, two brothers who lived as hermits in the Elqui Valley’s mountains. Or visit the ruins of the San Bartolomé de Cunco, a colonial-era church that lays abandoned in the surrounding desert. A visit to Cochiguaz’s cemetery will also reveal its history, with gravestones featuring death dates from as far back as the early 1800s.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Add a Unique Touch to your Adventure Tour

For something completely different, visit the local art galleries and meet the artists behind the work. You could try your hand at making your own pottery or learning how to weave a poncho. Take a stargazing tour with a local guide and appreciate the clearest night sky you’ve ever seen. Or sign up for a multi-day rafting trip down the well-known rapids on the Cochiguaz river.

In summary, Cochiguaz has so much more to offer than meets the eye. Explore the hidden gems of the Elqui Valley and break away from the typical tourist trail, armed with this insider’s guide. With adventure, delicious food, rich history, and unique cultural experiences, Cochiguaz promises to be a vacation you’ll never forget.