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Peregrine Travel Centre

Pacific Latin America — Ancient Wonders and National Parks Small Ship Cruise

Pacific Latin America — Ancient Wonders and National Parks Small Ship Cruise

From AUD $10,213

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Description

From Chile to Peru – treasures old and new 
Setting out from UNESCO-listed Valparaíso in Chile, we journey to beautiful La Serena and Iquique, the gateway to the Atacama Desert. From sunny Arica, we head to Paracas, stopping at the Ballestas Islands – Peru’s answer to Galápagos. After exploring Lima – a South American culinary destination – we plan to land at Salaverry and tour the remains of ancient civilizations around Trujillo including Chan Chan, the largest adobe city in the Americas. 
Natural parks of South and Central America 
Our voyage continues to Puerto López where we explore the biodiversity hotspot of Parque National Machalilla, and while in Manta we’ll visit Montecristi, the home of the Panama hat. Cébaco Island in Panama is a hidden gem, and the national parks near Golfito and Quepos in Costa Rica are packed with stunning scenery and wildlife such as toucans, iguanas, sloths and monkeys. A visit to Curú Wildlife Refuge on Costa Rica’s lush Nicoya Peninsula gives an insight into conservation in this beautiful region.  

Trip Name
Pacific Latin America — Ancient Wonders and National Parks Small Ship Cruise
Days
18
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship Length: 140 metres Passenger Capacity: 530 Built: 2019 In 2019, Hurtigruten adds a brand new ship to its fleet: the MS Roald Amundsen. The state of the art vessel features new and environmentally sustainable hybrid technology that will reduce fuel consumption and show the world that hybrid propulsion on large ships is possible. MS Roald Amundsen is the first of two hybrid ships Hurtigruten will add to its fleet over the next few years, cutting emissions by sailing with electrical propulsion. Hybrid technology, combined with the advanced construction of the hull and effective use of electricity on board will reduce fuel consumption and CO2-emissions on the ships by 20 percent. The build of these two ships represents the largest single investment in the history of Hurtigruten.  The future of shipping will be silent and emission free. MS Roald Amundsen will lead the way towards an even more sustainable way of traveling. Sailing on electrical power is not only a great benefit for the environment, but it will also enhance the impact of experiencing nature for the guests. The ship will be specially constructed for voyages in polar waters and serve as a comfortable basecamp at sea – bringing adventurers from all over the world to the most spectacular destinations in the most sustainable way. Facilities on board One of the most eye-catching exterior design features of the ships will be the two-level indoor/outdoor Observation Deck wrapped around the top of the ships’ raked bow. In a vast area behind it, you’ll find the core of the onboard experience: Amundsen Science Center.   Packed with state of the art technology and high tech gadgets such as touch screens and science equipment, the immersive edutainment area will be the place guests and staff/crew meet, mingle and create a deeper understanding for the areas they explore. The flexible venue will feature lecture spaces, a small library, and speciality areas for workshops in photography, biology, and more. The area, featuring large windows, will also be the onboard HQ for Hurtigruten’s hand picked Expedition Team.   The stunning scenery will be reflected in a rich and comfortable interior design. Scandinavian materials from nature, such as granite, oak, birch and wool will be used to create relaxed and stylish cabins and public areas. All cabins are outside, 50 % will have private balconies, aft suites will feature private outdoor Jacuzzis with spectacular views.  MS Roald Amundsen will feature three restaurants inspired by Nordic and Norwegian heritage: Aune Main Dining, named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune. Fredheim - the ships’ informal and social meeting place – named after a 1900s hunting station on Svalbard. Lindstrøm, a speciality restaurant named after Adolf Lindstrøm, the favorite chef of the Norwegian polar heroes. Artwork on board When the world’s first hybrid powered expedition ship embarks on her maiden voyage, every piece of art on board will be handpicked by HM Queen Sonja of Norway’s art foundation - the Queen Sonja Print Award. Read more about the exciting collaboration here.  

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 Valparaíso, a UNESCO gem
 Begin your adventure in this vibrant hilltop city Your expedition ship awaits you in Valparaíso, the 'Jewel of the Pacific'. Built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean, it's well worth spending time in this UNESCO-listed city.  Filled with attractions, the city is an exhilarating maze of winding alleyways, colourful houses, and mercados packed with local produce. Why not take it all in on a funicular ride up to Cerro Alegre and Concepción.   If you’d like to explore more of Valparaíso, you can join one of our optional Pre-Programmes.  After picking up your expedition jacket and meeting your Expedition Team, find your cabin and explore the ship, before enjoying the first of many delicious meals on board as we set sail. 
Day 2 - DAY 2 Stunning La Serena
 Explore the 'City of Churches' and Serena Beach     Docking at the port of Coquimbo, we’ll head to Chile’s second oldest city, La Serena.  La Serena is blessed with beautiful sandy beaches all along Avenida del Mar and beyond. Bursting with Neo-colonial architecture, there are around 30 carefully restored stone churches to discover, and you can visit the Archaeological Museum to marvel at the pre-Columbian artifacts.  Take a stroll through the city's manicured public gardens, like the Japanese-inspired Jardín del Corazón, or shop for handicrafts at La Recova market. Down the discreet lane of Patio Colonial near Balmaceda you’ll find relaxed cafés and eateries. Before boarding the ship, leave some time to explore Coquimbo.
Day 3 - DAY 3 Relax at sea
 Relax and get ready for adventureEnjoy the serenity of this day at sea. Relax and admire the scenery from the Observation Deck or inside in the Explorer Lounge & Bar.  Throughout your journey, your Expedition Team will share their extensive knowledge of the region with you. Join them in the Science Centre for lectures on topics like pre-Columbian history, the geology of the surrounding mountains and islands, and local folklore. Out on deck, they can help you spot seabirds and identify their species. 
Day 4 - DAY 4 Iquique and the Atacama
 Discover the history of UNESCO-listed saltpetre mining towns Our cruise continues to bustling Iquique, a flat city of promenades lined with palm trees.  We’ll visit the abandoned, UNESCO-listed saltpetre mining towns of Santa Laura or Humberstone in the arid Atacama Desert. Back in Iquique, explore this smart ocean-side city on foot, or just pull up a chair in a café and watch the people.   While you’re there, enjoy a delicious coffee or a traditional mango sour and chumbeque, a beloved regional sweet. Pay a visit to La Esmeralda, a 19th century four-masted corvette that has historical significance. 
Day 5 - DAY 5 Sunny Arica
 Get to know Arica's history and try some local foodArica experiences a constant desert climate and is classed as one of the driest cities in the world. No wonder the city is popular with sunbathers and surfers.  On the lively streets Calle 21 de Mayo and Bolognesi you can try local treats and visit the El Agro market. Take a 15-minute hike up the remarkable El Morro cliff for glorious views, or visit San Marcos Cathedral, designed by Gustave Eiffel. You can see mummies and learn about Chinchorro culture at the archaeological museum, or stretch your legs on a trek along Playa Corazones or while exploring the caves of Anzota. 
Day 6 - DAY 6 Clear skies, cool climate
 Go with the flow ... the Humboldt Current     As we head further north towards Peru, we'll sail through an area of the ocean dominated by the Humboldt Current. The cold-water flow creates conditions that sustain an incredible abundance of marine life, including vast shoals of anchovies, mackerel and sardines. Your Expedition Team will tell you more about the Humboldt Current’s importance to the marine ecosystem. You’ll have plenty of time for leisure as we spend the day at sea. You could relax in the heated infinity pool, go for a run on the outdoor track while taking in the stunning views and stimulating breeze out on deck. 
Day 7 - DAY 7 Ballestas and Nazca
 Discover extraordinary wildlife and ancient mysteries Among Peru's most notable attractions are the Nazca Lines and the Ballestas Islands, and both are accessible from Paracas.  Known as El Chaco, the town has an array of restaurants along the main shorefront where you can enjoy traditional jalea – fried seafood with salsa criolla and yuca root. Just offshore are the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands. On a boat tour there you can look out for Humboldt Penguins, turtles, pelicans, sea lions, Inca Terns and humpback whales.   Otherwise, explore the Paracas National Reserve, with its otherworldly yellow sand dunes and red beaches, or fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines etched into the Peruvian coastal desert – an experience that’s on many people’s bucket list. 
Day 8 - DAY 8 Ancient and modern Lima
 Explore Peru’s historic capital  Lima's historic centre is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a jewel of Spanish-era architecture, from colonial churches and monasteries to elegant mansions. Going further back in time, you can learn more about the city’s pre-Hispanic heritage at the ruins of the pyramid Huaca Pucllana.  Known as the food capital of South America, Lima has everything from gourmet restaurants to unmissable street food. We recommend trying Peru's national dish ceviche, which is fish marinated in lime juice, onion and chilli. 
Day 9 - DAY 9 Trujillo and Chan Chan
 Be awed by Trujillo's ancient kingdoms  Salaverry is the gateway port to Peru’s third largest city, and some fascinating archaeological sites. Colourful Trujillo boasts a Baroque cathedral, colonial churches and Neoclassical mansions, as well as one of the longest mosaic murals in the world. Nearby, the vast ancient ruins of the Chimú city of Chan Chan date back to at least 900 CE. On the other side of Trujillo, the mysterious Moche pyramids of the Sun and the Moon predate even that. 
Day 10 - DAY 10 Science and leisure
 Enjoy some relaxation, research – or a bit of both      Your Pacific coast cruise continues towards Ecuador. As we sail, you might want to soak up the scenery from the hot tubs or panoramic sauna, or indulge yourself in a spa treatment in the onboard wellness centre.   By this stage of your journey, you’ll have made friends with your fellow explorers, finding that you have interests and a passion for nature in common. You can spend time chatting with them in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, perhaps recalling the best bits of your expedition cruise so far.  Of course, the Expedition Team will continue to deliver insightful lectures in the Science Centre, and you can delve into the books in the onboard library if you want to learn more about a particular subject.   
Day 11 - DAY 11 Machalilla National Park
 Go wild in MachalillaMachalilla National Park is a truly special place. With its beautiful dry forests and protected wetlands, this stretch of coastline is home to more than 270 bird and 81 mammal species.  If conditions allow, we’ll anchor off the long sandy beach at the fishing village of Puerto López, using our small expedition boats to land. The park is also something of an outdoor museum of pre-Columbian history, thanks to the ancient Machalilla culture that used to thrive here. We'll visit the Agua Blanca archaeological site, taking in spectacular scenery along the way. 
Day 12 - DAY 12 Made in Montecristi
 Discover the birthplace of Panama hats ... in Ecuador Manta is a lively port city with a long history of fishing that has brought the city prosperity. You'll find wild shrimp, black clams, and red snapper at many local restaurants. Manta is most famous for its tuna, which we recommend trying in the encebollado broth. Head to lively Playa el Murciélago for the shops and eateries of Malecón Escénico, or learn about pre-Columbian civilisation at the Museo Municipal Etnográfico Cancebí. Montecristi is also nearby. Known for its handicrafts, you can buy a stylish genuine Panama hat here, expertly handwoven using the leaves of the jipijapa tree. 
Day 13 - DAY 13 Crossing the Equator
 Enjoy a quirky seafaring traditionAs our expedition cruise continues towards Panama, you'll have time to enjoy more lectures from the Expedition Team and brush up on your photography or art skills. You can also take samples gathered on our cruise to analyse under the microscope in the Science Centre. As we cross the Equator, you can seek Neptune's blessing in a short ceremony. Don't be shy, it's an old seafaring tradition! 
Day 14 - DAY 14 Island of Cébaco
 Experience nature pure and wild Our adventure continues to Cébaco, a hidden gem of an island. The only way to get to this island is by sea, but with no regular ferries, it's almost untouched and the only human settlement is the small village of El Jobo in the north. Wind your way around miles of pristine beaches, like Playa Grande to the south, with its soft white sands and coconut trees. Or hike through rainforest trails and enjoy the peace while looking out for wildlife.  The Gulf of Montijo, surrounding the island, is a nationally protected marine zone. You can enjoy exceptional snorkelling here, spotting colourful fish among the coral reefs. 
Day 15 - DAY 15 Wildlife of Golfito
 Go on a rainforest adventureToday, we reach Costa Rica. Relaxed and blissful Golfito is the gateway to Piedras Blancas National Park, with its roaring waterfalls. Follow the rainforest trails through the wildlife refuge to the park. Look out toucans, macaws, blue morpho butterflies, anteaters, sloths and mantled howler monkeys. The calm waters here are perfect for kayaking through the mangroves towards isolated beaches, or you can join a walk through the town. Enjoy views from the marinas and see anglers heading out in pursuit of the prized Pacific sailfish. 
Day 16 - DAY 16 Stunning Quepos
 Discover beautiful Manuel Antonio National Park Further up the coast, our next port of call is Quepos. Visit pretty Marina Pez Vela, and there are various water sports available at the mile-long Playa Espadilla.   Quepos is something of a paradise for people who love nature and the ocean. Many come here to enjoy marine pursuits, trek in the nearby rainforest, or just to laze on the mile-long beach Playa Espadilla. The port is the gateway to nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, ranked one of the most beautiful national parks in the world by Forbes magazine. The park boasts impressive views of mountains, mangroves, lagoons, beaches, and tropical forest, and is home to a plethora of wildlife.   Following the breathtaking Perezoso trail, you can hope to spot Scarlet Macaws, toucans, hawks, sloths, iguanas, armadillos and up to four species of monkey.  
Day 17 - DAY 17 Colourful Curú
 Visit a wildlife refuge in a paradise setting Today, we sail to the southern Nicoya Peninsula, where monkeys, exotic birds, deer, iguanas and more thrive in the lush green forests and mangroves.  On our small expedition boats, you’ll head ashore to visit the Curú Wildlife Refuge. Set amongst tropical forest, white sand beaches and protected bays, you can wander the meandering trails and learn more about local conservation. A successful sustainable development programme, the refuge works to reintroduce key species and preserve fragile habitats like coral reefs.  Get out on the water to fully appreciate this breathtaking setting. Explore the turquoise sea by kayak or SUP, or simply jump in for a swim.  
Day 18 - DAY 18 Arrival in Puntarenas
 Onwards from PuntarenasYour expedition cruise comes to an end in Puntarenas, a thin strip of land jutting into the Pacific.  If you have time before your onward journey, the palm-tree-lined Paseo de los Turistas makes for a pleasant stroll. There are also restaurants, food stalls and vendors for any last-minute souvenir shopping. And if you’d like to indulge your sweet tooth, we recommend batidos fruit smoothies or churchills which is a combination of fruit, shaved ice, syrup and ice cream. If you're not ready to end your adventures just yet, why not join one of our optional Post-Programmes.  
Day 19 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
04-04-202521-04-2025AUD $10,213Polar Outside. From
04-04-202521-04-2025AUD $11,336Arctic Superior. From
04-04-202521-04-2025AUD $14,503Expedition Suite. From

Inclusions

    • Join this action-packed expedition cruise along Latin America’s Pacific coast from Chile to Costa Rica via Peru, Ecuador and Panama.
    • Exploring five distinct countries, you’ll experience diverse cultures and sample some of the best food Latin America has to offer.
    • Discover vibrant cities, ancient pyramids, stunning national parks and off-the-beaten-track islands.

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