Discover the best of South America's Pacific coast on this exceptional expedition cruise exploring the fascinating countries of Chile and Peru.
Join your ship in the lively Chilean city of Valparaiso which is home to extraordinary street art and a bustling nightlife, then set sail to La Serena, known for its churches which can be distinguished by their different styles of belfries.
Chanaral is your gateway to the Pan de Azucar National Park, a coastal desert home to marine otters, South American sea lions and Peruvian pelicans. Continue to Antofagasta, nicknamed 'The Pearl of the North', and admire its spectacular Victorian and Georgian buildings, before enjoying a slice of paradise in Iquique, Chile's premier beach resort. Close by is the Atacama Desert and the UNESCO-listed ghost town of Humberstone.
Explore the Peruvian capital of Lima with its UNESCO-listed centre and colonial cathedrals, then cruise to Salaverry, just a stone's throw from UNESCO-listed Chan Chan, and the Mochican temples of the Sun and Moon.
NE515 Operated by Hurtigruten Expeditions
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Treasures of Chile and Peru
Day 1 - Valparaiso (Chile)
Arrive in Chile and embark your ship in the charming city of Valparaiso.
Day 2 - La Serena
La Serena is Chile’s second-oldest city, blessed with beautiful sandy beaches along Avenida del Mar. Stroll through manicured public gardens or shop for arts and crafts at Recova Market. The city’s many churches can be distinguished by their different styles of belfries, giving rise to La Serena’s nickname as ‘The City of Church Belfries’.
Day 3 - Chanaral
Rarely visited by tourists, this is a more traditional Chilean city with no highrise buildings. Next door is Pan de Azucar National Park, a coastal desert home to animals such as the marine otter, South American sea lion, and Peruvian pelican. Nearby Isla Pan dé Azúcar is a breeding ground for Humbolt penguins, which we hope to observe from the ship.
Day 4 - Antofagasta
Antofagasta has grown into Chile’s third largest city, earning its credit as ‘The Pearl of the North’. Sit back in the old-fashioned plaza or admire the Victorian and Georgian buildings of Barrio Histórico. Join an optional excursion to see La Portada, a natural white arch off the coast, or visit one of the small fishing towns.
Day 5 - Iquique
Welcome to a slice of paradise by the Pacific, complete with palm trees and promenades. Walk along the beachfront boardwalk, shop in the duty-free zone, or sip on traditional mango sours in the many restaurants and chic cafés. We also offer excursions to the Atacama Desert and the UNESCO-listed ghost town of Humberstone.
Days 6-7 - At sea
Spend time on deck and enjoy the serenity of sea days. Our experienced lecturers share their extensive knowledge and lead you on deck to help spot marine wildlife and sea birds.
Day 8 - Callao (Peru)
We dock in Callao and travel a short distance to Lima, Peru’s vibrant capital. From Plaza Mayor, stroll around the UNESCO-listed Historic Center, admiring the architecture of colonial cathedrals and Baroque buildings. Whether walking the spacious parks or enjoying top cuisine, you’ll understand why the city was once known as ‘The City of Kings’.
Day 9 - Salaverry
Next is the port of Salaverry, the starting point for two optional excursions. Visit the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site of Chan Chan (`Sun Sun´) to see the mud-brick ruins of the ancient Chimú kingdom. Or tour the Mochican temples of the Sun and Moon, the former being the largest adobe pyramid in Peru.
Day 10 - At sea
Enjoy your last sea day and spend it at your leisure. Take advantage of the many onboard facilities, relax, or join in on lectures as we recap our voyage.
Day 11 - Guayaquil (Ecuador)
Disembark the ship in Guayaquil.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.
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