Valparaíso, a UNESCO gem

Valparaíso truly is the 'Jewel of the Pacific'

Your South American Pacific Coast expedition cruise begins in Valparaíso, known as the 'Jewel of the Pacific'. Built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean, you'll love discovering this UNESCO-listed city.

Filled with exciting smells, sounds and people, it’s an exhilarating maze of alleyways and barrios, colorful houses, and mercados packed with local produce. Take it all in on a funicular ride up to Cerro Alegre and Concepción. You can explore more of the region on one of our optional Pre-Programmes. Visit the Atacama Desert, Santiago de Chile or the Maipo Valley vineyards before joining your expedition ship.

Stunning La Serena

Explore the 'City of Churches' and Serena Beach

Perched on ocean terraces, La Serena is blessed with beautiful sandy beaches all along Avenida del Mar and beyond. Chile’s second oldest city is full of classical architecture; discover some of the 30 or so carefully restored stone churches.

Visit the Archaeological Museum which houses pre-colonial artefacts. Then head down the discreet lane of Patio Colonial near Balmaceda to find relaxed cafés and eateries.

You can also take a stroll through the city's manicured public gardens, like the Japanese-inspired Jardín del Corazón, or shop for crafts at Recova Market.

Relax on board

Relax and unwind with a day at sea

We have a packed agenda for the days ahead, so it's the perfect time to explore the ship and make use of the many facilities.

Your Expedition Team will be in the Science Center, sharing their expertise on the region with you. They might discuss pre-Colombian history, the geology and wildlife of the surrounding areas or maybe local folklore.

If seabirds follow us, we may venture out on deck to spot and identify them. Our photographer will also be on hand to help you capture the best images as our adventure continues.

Visit the Atacama Desert

Discover the history of UNESCO-listed Humberstone

Your South American expedition cruise reaches bustling Iquique, one of Chile's premier beach resorts, lined with palm trees. Visit the abandoned saltpetre mining town of Humberstone in the Atacama Desert, a UNESCO site with history you can literally walk through.

Back in Iquique, head to the boardwalk along Playa Cavancha. Admire the city skyline on one side of Iquique Beach and the surfers on the other. Baquedano Street showcases 19th century Georgian architecture. In the centre of old town at Plaza Arturo Prat, admire historical monuments like Astoreca Palace and Torre del Reloj.

Sunny Arica

Enjoy Arica's hikes, history and local caves

Arica enjoys a constant desert climate and is classed as one of the driest cities in the world, unusual for a place by the sea. No wonder the city is popular with sunbathers and surfers.

Lively Calles 21 de Mayo and Bolognesi are fun to explore, and you can try local treats at El Agro market. Take a 15-minute hike up El Morro cliff for glorious views, or visit San Marcos Cathedral, designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Visit mummies and learn about Chinchorro culture at the archeological museum, stretch your legs on a trek of Playa Corazones or explore the Caves of Anzota.

Fresh sea air

Sailing along the Humboldt Current

As we sail north towards Peru, make sure you take full advantage of MS Roald Amundsen's fantastic facilities. The expert Expedition Team will continue their lecture programme, which will be sure to inspire you for the days ahead.

If you're feeling active, you can enjoy great views from the well-equipped gym and outdoor running track, while those looking for some relaxation will find it in the heated infinity pool.

Be sure to keep a watchful eye on the rich waters we sail through. They are part of the Humboldt Current, a cold water climate which is home to vast shoals of sardines, anchovies and mackerel.

Ballestas and Nazca

Wildlife and mysterious geoglyphs around Paracas

Today, you'll be able to join optional excursions from Paracas to two of Peru's most famous attractions–the mysterious Nazca Lines and wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands.

It's an incredible opportunity to see the amazing geoglyphs and animal etchings at Nazca in Pisco Valley for yourself. And a boat tour of the Ballestas Islands is a must for wildlife lovers–you may spot Humboldt penguins, turtles, pelicans, humpback whales, and so much more.

At the nearby Paracas National Reserve, walk among archaelogical cultural sites along the Martian-like yellow dunes and red beaches, and look out for Andean condors and Chilean flamingos.

From Callao to Juliaca

On the shores of the world's highest navigable lake

As you disembark at Callao, the cruise part of your expedition is over, but there are still adventures ahead at Lake Titicaca. We'll transfer you to Lima airport, and from here, you'll fly to Juliaca, where a local guide will meet you.

On the way to your hotel, you may glimpse Santa Catalina Church, the Romanesque Franciscan Convent atop Cerro Santa Bárbara, or the White Christ effigy gazing out over the city from Waynaruqi Hill.

You'll spend two nights in the city of Puno, on the tranquil shores of Lake Titicaca. Explore the area as excitement builds for the last leg of your journey.

The Uros of Lake Titicaca

See hand woven islands in South America's largest lake

At 920 feet deep and 89,340 square feet in size, Lake Titicaca is a true marvel. We'll reach the floating islands of the Uros on our small expedition boats, shimmering golden in the sun. These incredible islands are handmade and woven from the reeds that grow in the lake.

Next you'll visit the rural community of Llachón, with spectacular views over the lake. Your included activity is a guided kayaking tour of the peaceful, deep blue waters. Try to spot some of the 60 species of bird, 14 native fish species and 18 types of amphibian. You’ll also join a guided walk before joining a local family for a typical lunch.

Chucuito and Aramu Muru

Visit the mysterious 'Gate of the Gods'

Our first stop today is the quiet village of Chucuito, with its attractive 16th century colonial churches, ancient solar clock and wonderful views of the surrounding landscape. We may also see the 86 phallic granite statues of ancient fertility temple Inca Uyo. Authentic or not, it’s certainly a sight to behold.

Next we’ll visit mysterious Aramu Muru, or the Gate of the Gods, the site of extraterrestrial or paranormal activity, according to many locals. Then it's time to head to the airport, but not before visiting the Sillustani tombs, a pre-Incan cemetery with towering structures as tall as 39 feet.

Lima's UNESCO treasures

Your expedition ends in Peru's historic capital

Our expedition ends in Lima, once known as 'The City of Kings'. It's well worth taking a day or two to explore this exciting city.

Lima's historical centre is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a jewel of Spanish architecture, from colonial churches and monasteries to elegant mansions. You can also see Lima's Incan heritage in the ruins of ceremonial pyramids Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca.

Known as the food capital of South America, choose from gourmet restaurants to unmissable street food. We recommend trying Peru's national dish ceviche, fish marinated in lime juice, onion and chilli, before you leave.