Reasons to Cruise to South America
Few places on Earth provide the rich diversity of South...
Reasons to Cruise to South America
Few places on Earth provide the rich diversity of South America. Visit the archaeological treasures of great ancient civilisations — most notably the Inca. Discover incredible biodiversity in the rainforests, mangroves and coastal plains. Relax on idyllic beaches and experience the fascinating melting pot of cultures that influence its vibrant towns and cities. Choose from a wide range of itineraries that take you to destinations in Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Panama and Peru. Several expedition cruises also allow you to choose one of these iconic highlights – the ‘Lost City’ of Machu Picchu, the unique wildlife of the Galápagos Islands, the cultures of Lake Titicaca, or that marvel of modern engineering, the Panama Canal.
Stunning Andean Scenery
Depending on your itinerary, you’ll explore the Pacific coastal plains, mangroves and tropical forests of the northern Latin American countries or head down to the glacial landscapes of Torres del Paine National Park and the Chilean fjords of Patagonia. Visit nature reserves like Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica, or rich archipelagos like the Ballestas Islands in Peru, Isla de la Plata in Ecuador, and the famed Galápagos Islands.
Vast Biodiversity
South America is the world’s most biodiverse region with an unparalleled number of plant and animal species, many native to South America. The Galápagos Islands alone are a treasure trove of rare and endemic wildlife. Spot the Andean condor, blue-footed boobies, green turtles, iguanas, giant tortoises, guanacos, squirrel monkeys, sloths, and many more.
A cultural kaleidoscope
South America enjoys a fascinating melting pot of cultures. See authentic Panama hats still being handwoven in Ecuador. Visit the Afro-Colombian community at Bahía Solano, meet indigenous Embera in the jungle of Darien National Park, or go aboard the floating reed islands of the unique Uru people in Lake Titicaca.
Lost Empires
Long before Latin colonial powers, great Pre-Columbian indigenous civilisations — the Moche, Chimu, Quechua, and the most famous of all, the Incas — ruled the region. There are ancient ruins of city complexes, sun-worshipping pyramid temples, and imposing fortresses to discover. The area around Pisco near Nazca is well known for its mysterious geoglyphs while few sites are as iconic or as impressive as Machu Picchu high above the Sacred Valley.
Age of Discovery
Spanish conquistadors arrived on the continent in the late 1400s and 1500s, bringing colonial influences, which inspired the architecture that continues to charm so many today. You’ll see some of the best examples of the neo-colonial style in UNESCO-listed Valparaíso, La Serena, the ‘City of Churches’ in Chile, and the World Heritage historic centre in Lima, Peru.
Culinary Delights
Lima sits at the gastronomic heart of South America’s culinary renaissance, serving up a feast of street food and fine dining. For lovers of fresh fish, ceviche and tiradito are a must. Enjoy Chinese-Peruvian style cooking, Chifa, and try picarones, an African-fusion dessert made from pumpkin dough and sugar cane. Then finish with a Pisco sour, made from the local brandy.