La Serena

La Serena is a beautiful coastal city in Chile, perfect for a family getaway, and it’s also quite pet-friendly. Let’s dive into a fun-filled 4-day itinerary that everyone, including your furry friend, can enjoy!

Day 1: Arrival and Beach Day

Morning:

• Arrive in La Serena and check into a pet-friendly hotel or rental. Look for places that welcome pets, like Hotel La Serena or some Airbnb options.
• After settling in, grab a hearty breakfast at a local café. Try Café de la Plaza for some delicious pastries and coffee.

Afternoon:

• Head to Playa La Serena. This beach is spacious and perfect for families. Let your kids build sandcastles while your pet enjoys the sun and sand. Don’t forget to bring some water and snacks for your furry friend!
• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the beach. There are plenty of grassy areas where you can relax.

Evening:

• Stroll along the Avenida del Mar, where you can find various restaurants with outdoor seating that welcomes pets. Enjoy a family dinner at a place like El Faro, known for its seafood and stunning ocean views.

Day 2: Nature and Culture

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a trip to the Fray Jorge National Park. It’s about an hour’s drive from La Serena, but the unique coastal fog forest is worth it! Bring your pet along for a hike on the trails. Just make sure to keep them on a leash and bring water for both your pet and the family.

Afternoon:

• Pack a lunch to enjoy in the park or head back to La Serena for a meal. If you return, try La Casa de la Cultura for a local experience.
• After lunch, visit the Japanese Garden in La Serena. It’s a lovely, serene spot where kids can run around, and pets are welcome on leashes.

Evening:

• Head back to your accommodation to freshen up, then enjoy dinner at Restaurant La Serena, which has a great outdoor area for pets.

Day 3: Historical Exploration

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Café del Mar. They have a lovely outdoor area where pets are welcome.
• Visit the La Serena Archaeological Museum. It’s a great way to learn about the region’s history, and while pets may not be allowed inside, you can take turns exploring while one adult stays outside with your furry friend.

Afternoon:

• After the museum, take a leisurely walk to the Plaza de Armas. This is a great spot for the kids to play and for you to enjoy the local atmosphere. There are often street performers and vendors.
• Grab lunch at a nearby café, like Café La Plaza, which has outdoor seating.

Evening:

• For dinner, try La Marea, a family-friendly restaurant with a pet-friendly patio. Enjoy some local dishes while the kids can play nearby.

Day 4: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning:

• Have breakfast at your accommodation or a local café. Then, head to Elqui Valley for a day of adventure! It’s about an hour’s drive, and the scenery is breathtaking.
• Many places in Elqui Valley are pet-friendly, so you can explore vineyards and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Some vineyards even allow pets in outdoor areas.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic spots in the valley. Bring along some local treats and let the kids and pets enjoy the open space.
• After lunch, consider visiting a local craft market or a small town like Vicuña, where you can explore shops and enjoy the local culture.

Evening:

• Head back to La Serena for your final dinner. Celebrate your trip at Restaurant El Cielo, which has a lovely outdoor area for pets.

Tips for Traveling with Pets:

• Always check in advance if places are pet-friendly.
• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a leash for your pet.
• Make sure your pet is comfortable with travel and new environments.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family and pet-friendly adventure in La Serena! Enjoy your trip! 🐾🌊🌞