Andean Coast - Expedition from Jungle to Desert

Description

A Complete South American Odyssey
Join us as we sail from the warm waters of the Caribbean, through the Panama Canal, and along the western coast of south America to Valparaiso, Chile on this exploration of South America.

The Famed Transit
Starting out from Costa Rica, we sail south to Panama´s Bocas del Toro before we enter the Panama Canal to start our transit. Watch MS Fram maneuver through a series of locks and artificial canals interconnecting natural lakes. We cross the continent at 25 metres above sea level!

Ecuador, Peru and Chile
In Ecuador we will explore some of colourful Guayaquil’s historic sites. Peru provides amazing opportunities for wildlife watching, exploring historical sights and learning about its ancient civilizations. In Chile, we visit colorful colonial towns and enjoy the Mediterranean climate.

Ocean Serenity and Wildlife
This is a vast voyage and offers relaxing days at sea to spend at your leisure. Join in on lectures or other activities or simply relax and enjoy the ship´s facilities. All along the way, the Expedition Team will share their knowledge and inspire your curiosity and wonder.

At times our expedition ship will be escorted by seabirds, other times playful dolphins may appear. We will cross the equator, which will be celebrated with a visit from King Neptune.

Absolutely Unforgettable
The mix of exceptional nature, fascinating cities, vibrant South American culture and captivating lectures make this a voyage of unforgettable discovery.

Trip Name

Andean Coast - Expedition from Jungle to Desert

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 114m Passenger Capacity: 276 Built: 2007 MS Fram is designed for sailing in polar waters, holds the highest safety standards and is the perfect size for optimum nautical manoeuverability and guests' comfort. With space for only 276 guests, you are sure to get to know many of your fellow travellers. You will share stunning sights and memories of a lifetime long after returning home. The Norwegian word Fram means ‘forward’ – lifting expectations of the voyage at hand. MS Fram was built in 2007 with one mission in mind - to bring her guests closer to nature, wildlife and unforgettable experiences. As well as offering numerous lounges in which to relax, our more active guests can use our well-equipped gym. Meanwhile, on deck, our Jacuzzis guarantee you surreal memories when passing the towering icebergs of Antarctica or Greenland.

Itinerary

Day 1 - DAY 1: SAN JOSÉ, COSTA RICA

Grand San JoséEmbarkationAfter your arrival in the Costa Rican capital, San José, stroll the streets and discover the neo-classical grandeur of this unique Central American metropolis.We recommend enhancing your stay by adding a Pre-Programme to the impressive Manual Antonio National Park.

Day 2 - DAY 2: SAN JOSÉ / PUERTO LIMÓN

Caribbean Coast of Costa RicaWe head towards the Caribbean coast on a boat tour along the canals of Tortuguero, before we embark on MS Fram in Puerto Limón, one of the oldest cities on the continent. The port was established in 1502 when Christopher Columbus landed here during his exploration of the New World.

Day 3 - DAY 3: BOCAS DEL TORO

Island StyleWe begin our journey along the Caribbean coast of Panama, setting our course for Bocas del Toro, an archipelago of islands, cays, and thousands of islets.Bocas is brimming with sandy beaches and is called the `Galápagos of the Caribbean´. Bocas is also one of the most biologically diverse places on earth.

Day 4 - DAY 4: PANAMA CANAL

Connecting Two OceansWe enter the Panama Canal near the city of Colón. Experience the thrill of canal transit and the intricacy of the locks system firsthand, as MS Fram is lifted more than 26 metres (85 ft) above sea level, from one body of water to the next. We enter the Pacific Ocean near the town of Balboa.

Day 5 - DAY 5-6: AT SEA

Crossing the EquatorAt SeaSpend time on deck fully enjoying the serenity of sea days. Listen in as our experienced lecturers share their extensive knowledge and meet our Expedition Team outside on deck to spot marine wildlife and sea birds. As we are crossing the Equator, we need to ask King Neptun for approval and invite him onboard. Join us for a proper baptism!

Day 6 - DAY 7: GUAYAQUIL

Ecuador’s MetropolisHalf dayWelcome to Ecuador! Guayaquil was founded in 1538 and quickly became the largest shipyard in South America, often being attacked by pirates. Stroll through the historic centre with parks and colonial mansions, visit the Mercado Artesanal, the largest artisan market in the city or walk along the riverfront at Malecon 2000.

Day 7 - DAY 8: AT SEA

Serenity at SeaAt SeaOur Expedition Team continues its lecture programme, sharing their extensive knowledge and experience, as well as summarizing the voyage so far and letting you know about plans for the exciting days ahead.

Day 8 - DAY 9: SALAVERRY, PERU

Temple of the Sun and MoonHalf dayThe small port of Salaverry is the starting point for the optional excursion to the ancient Chimu kingdom (700-1400 A.D.). The ancient city of Chan Chan (Sun- Sun) is considered the largest mud-brick citadel of the Americas in pre-Hispanic times and was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 1986.

Day 9 - DAY 10: CALLAO / LIMA, PERU

Docked - Full dayWe will be docked in the seaside city Callao, which is located approx. 15 km from the historic centre of Lima, the capital of Peru. Discover the so-called “City of Kings” and stand in its historic heart, Plaza de Armas, were Francisco Pizarro founded the city in 1535. The historic center of Lima was awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1988.

Day 10 - DAY 11: PARACAS, PERU

The Nazca LinesParacas is the gateway to the quiet colonial town of Pisco and its fertile coastal valley with the famous and mysterious Nazca lines and geoglyphs. These lines were scratched on the surface of the ground between 500 B.C. and 500 A.D.

Day 11 - DAY 12: AT SEA

At your LeisureJoin the Expedition Team for interesting lectures, learn the basics of expedition photography, and spend time out on deck enjoying the fresh salt air as you scout for wildlife.

Day 12 - DAY 13: ARICA

Adventure and ArchaeologyDocked - Full dayArica is blessed with a warm climate all year round, and we will spend a full day here. History, archaeology, and adventure are waiting on shore. Explore the city, walk up the El Morro cliff to get a panoramic view, see the beaches or visit the archaeological sites with some of the world's oldest known mummies.

Day 13 - DAY 14-15: AT SEA

Serenity at SeaAt SeaEnjoy two peaceful days at sea as we make our way south to Valparaíso. The Expedition Team recaps our voyage, continues their lecture programme.

Day 14 - DAY 16: LA SERENA, CHILE

Seaside LivingLa Serena, a seaside town, is one of the oldest cities in Chile. The town is overflowing with colorful gardens and beautiful churches. In the Archaeological Museum, you can learn about the ancient Diaguita culture that thrived here before the Incan conquest.

Day 15 - DAY 17: VALPARAÍSO, CHILE

The `Jewel of the Pacific´Our expedition ends in the wonderful, colourful and poetic city of Valparaíso. After disembarking MS Fram, take some time to stroll the UNESCO-listed Historic Quarter, or ride a funicular to one of the many hilltops for a citywide panorama.

Day 16 - Please Note:

Hurtigruten offers unique expedition cruises to some of the most remote and pristine waters of the world. As with all expeditions; nature prevails. Weather, ice and sea conditions set the final framework for all Hurtigruten’s operations. Safety and unparalleled guest experiences are at all times our top priorities. All our indicative itineraries are continuously evaluated for adaptions, whether this is due to constraints the elements unexpectedly present – or exciting possibilities nature and wildlife offer. That is why we call it an expedition.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Explore the best of Central and South America on an expedition cruise to remember
Transit the legendary Panama Canal
Chance to discover fascinating archaeological sites such as Chan-Chan and the Nazca Lines
Experience rich wildlife above and below the water