explora Atacama's observatory in Chile is now one of the top 'wish list' travel experiences with the launch of the world's largest astronomical project just kilometres away. ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array) - a collaboration between Europe, North America, Japan and Chile - began operation in March 2013 as the largest radio astronomy observatory and, the world's most expensive ground based telescope.

The explora team has long been captured by the allure of the Atacama Desert since opening the landmark lodge 14
years ago and more recently its own observatory, providing guests with an incredible opportunity to view the universe. The area's minimal light pollution and radio interference, the high altitude and an almost cloudless climate make the Atacama Desert one of the best locations for astronomy in the southern hemisphere. The hotel's 5m dome-shaped observatory features a powerful Meade 16" f/10 LX200R Advanced RD telescope* enabling guests to experience a once-in-a-lifetime view of the moon, stars, constellations and galaxies.

It is just such experiences that set explora apart. The company's ethos is to offer travellers luxury in experience - to provide inspiring, unforgettable, authentic and sustainable adventures in some of the world's most beautiful and protected environments. Based at explora Atacama's Hotel de Larache, guests can embark on journeys - whether it be from the saddle of a horse or from the vantage point of simply walking - to discover the region's lunar landscapes by day, and the clearest night skies on earth by night.

*The largest 'aficionado-level' telescope in Chile; accessorised with premium-grade optical glass, super wide-angle eyepiece and 'piggyback bracket' enabling the mounting of a digital camera for spectacular astrophotography.

Rates at explora's Hotel de Larache for a three-night stay start at US$1,980 (HK$15,363) per person, double occupancy for a standard room and US$3,090 (HK$23,976) per person, double occupancy for a suite.  Included in this rate are airport transfers, accommodations, all meals, drinks and daily explorations on foot, bike, boat and horse with bilingual guides.

For reservations email reserve@explora.com

Hong Kong / Santiago de Chile return economy flights with CX and LAN via Auckland are from HK$35,525 (US$ 4,574) per person, including taxes. www.cathaypacific.com and www.lan.com

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About explora

explora is not so much a hotel group as a travel experience.  Founded in 1989, it is an enterprise whose principal aim is to encourage a new attitude towards travel for those who have a passion for discovering new places and new people, in remote and relatively unexplored regions of the southern tip of South America.  For fifteen years, explora has enhanced the travel experience within South America; firstly, at explora Patagonia in the Torres del Paine National Park, then at explora Atacama in an oasis in the heart of the Atacama desert and most recently at explora Rapa Nui
on Easter Island. Travesias explora inspired by the ancient ideal of the "journey" and the freedom of discovery it affords, offers more awe-inspiring expeditions that are an indispensable complement to a journey to South America.

                                                                         www.explora.com