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Travelquest Travelquest

September 22 - October 5, 2024

Atacama Desert & Easter Island Annular Eclipse

In the Atacama Desert of northern Chile, an arid expanse stretching from the Andes to the Pacific coast, the vast night skies offer some of the clearest stargazing on Earth. And a few thousand miles to the west on Easter Island, the massive stone statues that dot the rugged landscape provide an evocative backdrop for viewing an annular eclipse and the memorable “Ring of Fire” created when sunlight flares around the Moon.

TravelQuest has woven these two remarkable experiences into a single, a ...Show more

Highlights

  • Experience three nights of superb stargazing in the remote desert community of San Pedro de Atacama.
  • Visit Paranal Observatory, the largest optical-infrared astronomical observatory in the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Discover the geothermal fields around the Tatio Geysers, watching powerful jets of steam emerge from the desert floor.
  • Enjoy five days of exploring among the mysterious stone figures of Easter Island (Rapa Nui), a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Take advantage of a spectacular Easter Island setting — and the best weather prospects — for viewing the annular solar eclipse on October 2, 2024.

Explore these upcoming tours

Itinerary

Landing in Chile’s capital, Santiago (airport code: SCL), you’re met by our TravelQuest representative, who arranges the easy transfer to our hotel. Knowing that most flights arrive early in the morning, we’ve arranged a city tour for your first day, visiting Plaza de Armas, the historic central square with its impressive 18th-century cathedral, as well as La Moneda, the government palace that houses the offices of Chile’s president and key cabinet ministers. Next, we explore the bohemian Bellavista neighborhood, renowned for its galleries, artisanal shops and cafés, then head up San Cristobal Hill for panoramic views of the city and the Andes beyond. After lunch at a classic Chilean restaurant, we head back to our hotel to officially check in and then enjoy some post-travel rest and relaxation. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner.

DATE(S): Sunday, September 22, 2024

MEALS: Lunch/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: DoubleTree by Hilton Vitacura or similar

This morning we head west toward the Pacific coast, stopping in the Casablanca Valley to enjoy a tasting at Veramonte, whose organically cultivated vineyards are part of a family winemaking dynasty dating back five generations. Then we continue on to the scenic coastal city of Valparaíso, founded in the 16th century, whose Historic Quarter is now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to exploring the Muelle Prat oceanfront promenade and Plaza Sotomayor, the historic central square, you can ride one of the oldest open-air elevators that locals use to get up and down the steep hills that ring the city. After a traditional lunch overlooking the sea, we head to Viña del Mar, famed for its beautiful beaches, parks and gardens — which include attractions like the famed “flower clock,” an emblem of this rightly named “Garden City.” After a great day of coastal exploring, we return to Santiago in time to unwind a little before dinner at the hotel.

DATE(S): Monday, September 23, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch

ACCOMMODATION: DoubleTree by Hilton Vitacura or similar

After breakfast, it’s a quick transfer to the airport for our flight to Calama, in the heart of the Atacama Desert. Venturing into the arid wilderness, we visit the Atacama Salt Flat, the most extensive in Chile and among the largest in the world. Next stop is the Indigenous village of Toconao, whose landmark colonial church has a bell tower in the distinctive regional style. After an open-air lunch of hearty local fare, we arrive at San Pedro de Atacama, our desert home base located 2,500 m (8,202 feet) above sea level for the astronomical adventures ahead. After dinner, your stargazing begins (weather permitting) with a tour of the southern sky guided by our TravelQuest trip astronomer.

 

The Atacama Night Sky By TravelQuest Astronomer Paul Deans

For Northern Hemisphere stargazers visiting Chile, the southern night sky is a treasure trove of bright stars, dazzling star clusters and lovely nebulae. But in late September, the showstopper is the Milky Way. Shortly after sunset, our magnificent galaxy arcs across the zenith, stretching from horizon to horizon. High overhead, the brilliant galactic core is an amazing sight, with its millions of stars interspersed by dark dust lanes and flecked with nebulae and star clusters. Rising out of the southeast are the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, while sinking into the southwest are the Southern Cross and Omega Centauri. From our hotel grounds on the outskirts of San Pedro de Atacama, this is a celestial spectacle not to be missed.

DATE(S): Tuesday, September 24, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Cumbres or similar

Today’s explorations begin with a visit to the Aldea de Tulor, one of the oldest archaeological sites in northern Chile. About 3,000 years old, the community is significant as an early site of agricultural production and therefore the beginnings of commitment to longer-term settlement. Next we visit the indigenous fortress of Quitor, built more than 700 years ago by Atacameños anxious to defend themselves from other inhabitants of South America. After returning to the hotel, where you’re free to enjoy lunch on your own, we head out through the Salt Mountain range to Mars Valley (also known as Death Valley, in the same spirit as its California namesake). The sunsets here are spectacular, as the dying rays hit the desert sands in a surreal natural light show. Then it’s back to the hotel for an aperitivo and dinner before heading out into the silent dark for our second night of stargazing.

DATE(S): Wednesday, September 25, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Cumbres or similar

An early start today. We depart at dawn for the Tatio Geysers located at an elevation of 4,320 m (14,170 ft) above sea level, where your picnic breakfast is followed by a guided walk around the geothermal fields as these spectacular jets of steam shoot up out of the desert floor. Our journey then leads up into the Andes, where you can take in impressive views of Putama Volcano and the Tocorpuri range, along with the beauty of the unique flora that have adapted to these high altitudes. Winding our way back toward San Pedro, we stop in the desert village of Machuca, known for its distinct terraced farms, straw-roofed mud homes and simple church — plus plenty of llamas, alpacas and flamingos. In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time in the hotel and environs. Then after dinner, we gather outside (as always, assuming the weather cooperates) for our final night of expert-guided stargazing.

DATE(S): Thursday, September 26, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Cumbres or similar

This morning we journey northward along what many feel is the most magnificent stretch of Chile’s Pacific coastline, sampling highlights along the way. After a stop to see Capricorn Arch, the 11 m (36 ft) monument marking the Tropic of Capricorn, we arrive at the port city of Antofagasta and our hotel for the next two nights.

DATE(S): Friday, September 27, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel NH Antofagasta

Today we make our way up to Cerro Paranal, a flattened peak 2,635 m (8,645 ft) above sea level that’s the site of the Paranal Observatory — the largest optical-infrared observatory in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the best astronomical observation sites on Earth. To get the most from our guided tour, be sure to wear sun protection during the daylight hours, pack some warm layers of clothing (the desert winds can get chilly) and drink plenty of water all day. After a memorable visit to this one-of-a-kind site, we return to Antofagasta for dinner at the hotel.

DATE(S): Saturday, September 28, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel NH Antofagasta

After breakfast, we head to the airport for our flight back to Santiago. TravelQuest has arranged a convenient airport hotel so we’ll be ideally positioned for tomorrow’s flight to Easter Island. This afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your leisure, exploring more of Santiago’s vibrant culture and excellent restaurants.

DATE(S): Sunday, September 29, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast

ACCOMMODATION: Santiago Holiday Inn International Airport or similar

This morning we board our westward flight across the Pacific and arrive in the early afternoon on remote Easter Island — Rapa Nui to its original inhabitants — where our TravelQuest representative arranges the quick transfer to the accommodations we will call home. Our family-run hotel is centrally located in the coastal town of Hanga Roa and offers a quaint and cozy tropical atmosphere. After a late lunch, we head out to discover the mysterious moai: the monolithic stone figures that dot the island, their carved faces staring impassively as they have for centuries. At the ceremonial site of Tahai, you can walk among some of the best-preserved statues. We also visit the village of Hanga Roa, with its historic colonial church, then gather in a restaurant to celebrate our arrival with local friends.

DATE(S): Monday, September 30, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Gomero or similar

After breakfast, enjoy a guided excursion to Rapa Nui’s major archaeological sites. At Vaihu, you can see evidence of the tribal wars that resulted in many moai being toppled from their sacred platform or ahu. At Rano Raraku, we walk to the quarry where nearly 1,000 of the massive figures were carved using simple stone tools — and where nearly 400 are still lying or standing on the slopes of this extinct volcano. Today you’ll also be treated to Tongariki, Ahu Akivi, and the quarry at Puna Pau, source of the reddish-hued topknot hats, or pukaos, found on many of the moai. And of course we’ll call on Ahu Huri a Urenga, important for its position looking into the rising sun of Winter Solstice – the only Moai with 4 hands, as well as the Anthropological Museum which provides an overview of Rapa Nui’s geology, geography and human history. After this full day of exploring, we return to the hotel for dinner, followed by our TravelQuest astronomer’s pre-eclipse lecture and weather briefing.

DATE(S): Tuesday, October 1, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Gomero or similar

Today we come to the astronomical focal point of our Chilean adventure: gathering at our special viewing site among the moai to experience the annular eclipse and the spectacle of the “Ring of Fire.”

What is an Annular Eclipse?
An annular eclipse occurs when the new Moon passes across the face of the Sun but never completely hides it; at mid-eclipse, there is a ring of brilliant sunlight around the Moon’s circumference. Indeed, the word annular derives from the medieval Latin annularis, meaning “pertaining to a ring.” When the Earth is closest to the Sun, and the Moon is at a distant point in its orbit, the latter appears too small to completely cover the solar disk (as it would during a total solar eclipse) and so the Moon is surrounded by the breathtaking “Ring of Fire.”

 

October 2024 Easter Island Annular Eclipse Viewing Prospects by TravelQuest eclipse meteorologist Jay Anderson

The 2024 annular eclipse takes TravelQuest to mysterious Rapa Nui — Easter Island — and its stoic moai, gazing eternally across the subtropical Pacific Island. Easter Island is not noted for its sunny weather, yet for this eclipse, it provides the best viewing anywhere along the track. Overcast cloud is relatively uncommon, and so a sunny spot is usually available between the cumulus buildups, much of which may disappear as the shadow approaches. Twenty-one years of satellite data show that October 2 skies would have easily shown the eclipse on 12 days, an average of just under 60 percent. With a little movement, as many as 15 days would be “eclipse-worthy,” especially as the Sun will be nearly 70 degrees high in the sky. For this eclipse, Rapa Nui offers Mother Nature’s best vantage point.

DATE(S): Wednesday, October 2, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Snack/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Gomero or similar

Today we venture to more remote parts of the island, often driving on rutted mud tracks, to explore caves and lava tubes and take in spectacular views of the Pacific from outlooks along the rocky coast. At the village of Orongo, set on a ridge between a deep crater and a 300 m (1,000 ft) drop to the ocean, we learn about a birdman cult that once flourished here. After lunch at the hotel, we visit the home of a family that produces exceptional honey from Rapa Nui bees — unique in the world because they are not infected with any bacteria. Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own at the hotel or in a village restaurant.

DATE(S): Thursday, October 3, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Lunch

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Gomero or similar

It’s another full morning of fascinating explorations. Te Pito Kura,” the Navel of Light,” is home to the largest moved and erected moai (now partly demolished) brought from the Rano Raraku quarry. At Papa Vaka, there are impressive petroglyphs depicting ocean life. And the moai of Ahu Nau-Nau and Ature Huki overlook beautiful Anakena, the island’s only natural sand beach. Spend the rest of your day relaxing at the beach, exploring the main village of Hanga Roa, or enjoying horseback riding, diving, snorkeling and bike riding — or strolling to the artisanal market. And at sunset, join us for a farewell dinner at the hotel.

DATE(S): Friday, October 4, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast/Dinner

ACCOMMODATION: Hotel Gomero or similar

After a leisurely morning and checkout, we fly back to Santiago, arriving in time to make evening connections onward or spend more time in Chile — carrying memories of two extraordinary weeks exploring the Atacama and Easter Island.

DATE(S): Saturday, October 5, 2024

MEALS: Breakfast

ACCOMMODATION: N/A

Optional Add-ons

If you’d like to arrive in Santiago a night ahead of our eclipse adventure, TravelQuest has reserved a limited number of rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton Vitacura (or similar). The cost per night, including room, airport arrival transfer and tax: $105 USD per person based on two people sharing one room; $195 USD for single occupancy.

TRIP LEVEL

Easy/Moderate: short to medium walks over occasionally uneven hilly terrain, with sometimes rugged travel conditions. While this trip is designed to set an easy pace, please note that we will be traveling as high as 4,320 m (14,170 ft) above sea level. Due to the high elevations of some of our locations, this tour is not appropriate for travelers with high blood pressure or cardiac issues.

At TravelQuest we want to be sure you find the trip that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Please email or call if you have any questions regarding the itinerary.

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Pricing & Terms

Prices are per person in US Dollars based on the number of people in a room.

Double

$9,640

Single

$10,980

IMPORTANT

  • TravelQuest, working with our partners, makes every effort to follow the published itinerary. However, please keep in mind that it is subject to change depending on weather and other local conditions.
  • TravelQuest creates and markets tours many months or years in advance of departure. Tour prices, taxes and airfares quoted in this brochure are based on tariffs, costs and US dollar exchange rates that were in effect at the time of publication. However, due to fluctuations in global oil prices, and other services associated with this tour, a surcharge may be applied to your final invoice.
  • It is important to note that stargazing and viewing the annular solar eclipse are weather dependent, and TravelQuest can make no guarantees that the weather will cooperate.

Room Sharing Program

If you’re traveling solo, you can save significantly by taking advantage of TravelQuest’s Room Sharing Program, in which travelers of the same gender can share twin-bedded accommodations. Contact us for details.

Includes

  • 13 nights’ accommodation at select hotels
  • Arrival/departure transfers per the dates of the tour
  • All ground transportation
  • Services of your TravelQuest Trip Leader/Astronomer
  • Local English-speaking guides throughout your journey
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary, including coffee, tea and water
  • Sightseeing admissions as noted in the itinerary
  • Eclipse viewing safety glasses
  • Custom 2024 eclipse e-sourcebook
  • Special October 2 eclipse day activities

Not Included

  • Air transportation to and from Santiago, Chile (airport code: SCL)
  • On-tour flights Santiago-Calama, Chile on September 24, and Antofagasta-Santiago, Chile on September 29. The additional cost for these flights will be added to each invoice in 2024
  • On-tour flights Santiago (SCL) to Rapa Nui (IPC) on September 30 and from Rapa Nui (IPC) to Santiago (SCL) on October 5
  • Luggage handling
  • Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
  • Beverages at meals (other than coffee, tea and water)
  • Expenses of a personal nature, including spa services, laundry, souvenirs, etc.
  • Passport and visa fees if applicable, along with any required immunizations
  • Gratuities for drivers and local guides
  • Highly recommended travel cancellation insurance

Payments & Terms

  • An advance payment of $2,000 USD per person, along with the completed reservation form, are required to secure your reservation
  • A second advance payment of $1,500 USD per person, payable by check, bank wire, or credit card (with an additional 3.5% processing fee), is due by February 28, 2024
  • Final payment, payable by check, bank wire, or credit card (with an additional 3.5% processing fee), is due by June 21, 2024

Cancellation Terms

  • Cancellations must be made in writing via email, fax or mail
  • All advance payments, less a $700 USD per person cancellation fee, are refundable until February 28, 2024
  • Cancellations made between February 29 to May 1, 2024 will incur a $2000 per person fee
  • All advance payments become non-refundable after May 1, 2024
  • Airline cancellation terms & conditions are the responsibility of the traveler

TRAVELER HEALTH

At TravelQuest we want to be sure you choose a trip that best suits your interests and level of fitness. Prior to making a booking, it is the responsibility of each traveler to thoroughly read the itinerary, and to acquire and understand all pertinent medical advice to determine whether they are in an appropriate state of physical health to undertake the trip. At a minimum, participants must be able to climb into and out of buses, vans, and trains without assistance; to carry their own luggage; and to generally keep up with the pace of the trip. If you have any questions about your trip’s itinerary or its level of difficulty, please contact us prior to booking.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance protects you from unexpected “what ifs”: What if your bags go missing? What if you must cancel? What if you need medical assistance? TravelQuest highly recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help secure you and your trip investment against the unexpected. You can purchase this insurance on your own or contact our friends at Travelex, who are familiar with our trips and offer a selection of coverage options to suit your needs. To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, Travelex plans must be purchased within 15 days from the time you make your initial deposit to TravelQuest. ALL Travelex policies must be purchased at least 14 days prior to your departure date.

For more information on these plans or to enroll, click on the link below or contact Travelex Insurance Services directly at 1-800-228-9792 and reference location number 03-6043.

TravelEx Insurance

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