9 Best Hotels in El Norte Chico, Chile

Though the walls of these modern pods are made from heavy, translucent material, this is far from camping; each dome has a skylight so you can gaze at the stars from the comfort of your bed on the loftlike second floor. On ground level is a modern-minimalist sitting room, complete with minibar, as well as a private bath. Additional activities are oriented to relaxation, including meditation, Reiki, and massage. There are also telescopes on-site for studying the starry skies. A hearty, healthy breakfast is included in the rate and served in the complex's restaurant where you can enjoy a great view of the Elqui Valley as you eat. 

Centrally located and replete with all the modern touches you might expect from an executive-class hotel—business center, meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi access throughout—Costa Real is an eminently efficient, practical option for any visit to La Serena. The rooms are impeccably clean with an understated minimalist design that fits the professional atmosphere. Outside, an attractive terrace and pool area provide welcome opportunities to relax and escape from the heat. The staff is friendly and attentive. The restaurant lacks soul but serves good food if you are in a fix. 

Every room has a sea view at this hotel that towers over the far end of the Avenida del Mar. Part of the exclusive Enjoy Casino & Resort chain, it also sits head and shoulders above its competition in every way, from its imposing modern lobby to five-star accommodations and service. Decor is minimalist, with bamboo and candles giving the rooms a Zen tinge. On-site are a gym, a casino, a bar, several restaurants, and a well-praised spa.

Located half a block from the Copiapó's central plaza, this well-equipped business hotel has clean, modern, and spacious rooms, with colorful woven comforters in local designs. Ask for a room that looks over the swimming pool. The imposing lobby, and indeed the rest of the hotel, reflects the mining history of the city, with copper artwork and doorknobs.

Defining itself in opposition to its more luxurious, high-end rivals, this hotel offers a professional but somewhat understated, four-star setting for business delegations in the off-season before letting its hair down for a few months each summer to cater to the die-hard beachcombers who descend on the conveniently located complex. Brightly colored comforters add cheer to the smallish rooms, and some of the top-story suites have views of the ocean. There is a large pool with a fountain for kids, while the setting at the quieter end of Avenida del Mar means this is a good bet for those looking to relax.

Enjoying a privileged spot on the city's main square, this hotel has comfortable and elegantly decorated rooms. The smart lobby, a bit dark with rather stately marble accents, instantly cocoons you from the hustle and bustle of the center of Copiapó outside. Fare at the restaurant is international and good, although the cavelike lack of natural light and canteen-style seating make dining less than ideal. 

This ranch-style hotel with only two floors opened at the forefront of a renewed effort to attract tourists to the area. Stone pillars stand tall outside the welcoming lobby, which reflects the ancient cultures for which the area is famous. The rooms, however, are modern and comfortable, with stained wooden headboards, dazzling white linens, and touches of color from soft wool and suede cushions and throws. The staff is very helpful and the on-site restaurant tends toward using local ingredients, such as olive oil and goat cheese.

This sprawling modern hotel has Southwest style rooms with large beds and huge windows facing the sea. Staff can be rude; however, this is the main hotel in the town and is right opposite the glistening waters of the bay.

Surrounded by the imposing "Sugar Loaf" mountain range to the rear and the crashing waves of the Pacific in front, you'd be hard-pressed to find a more remote location to stay. But isolation is exactly what makes these cabañas so appealing. Brightly painted adobe walls and colorful furnishings complement the arid desert setting outside your window, while on your spacious terrace you can cook up some local seafood. Each cabin runs entirely off solar power and has a fully equipped kitchen, which means you can be entirely self-reliant. Those without a car can take the bus to Chañarcillo and get a taxi for the final 30 km (19 miles) to the lodge. Note that credit card payments must be done in advance via online booking; otherwise, be prepared to pay in cash.