Embarking at Colón

Explore Colón and Panama's rainforests

Your cultural expedition cruise begins in the vibrant city of Colón, at the entrance to the Panama Canal on the Atlantic coast.

You may want to arrive a few days early to join one of our two fantastic Pre-Programmes before your expedition. Either unwind in a beautiful jungle lodge by the Chagres River, or visit a sloth sanctuary and farm dedicated to reforestation.

In Colón, you'll board your hybrid-powered expedition ship, perfect for exploring remote coastal communities. Take time to settle into your cabin, get to know the ship and meet the Expedition Team as we set sail.

Through the Panama Canal

Navigate one of the world's greatest engineering feats

Early in the morning, we'll enter the Panama Canal, a complex network of huge, ingenious locks stretching 80 km through natural and man-made waterways. If weather allows, our Expedition Team will invite you on deck and tell the story of this ambitious project.

Halfway through our transit of the canal, we'll enter the Gatun Lake section, one of the world's largest artificial lakes. The surrounding verdant rainforest flourishes here undisturbed. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, alligators, monkeys and even sloths.

After 12 hours, we'll emerge into the Pacific, passing from one great ocean to another in just a day.

Relax at sea

Unwind and make new discoveries at sea

You'll be spoilt for choice during a day on board as our expedition cruise continues to Ecuador. Soak in the pool or outdoor hot tubs, and scan the incredible seascapes for marine wildlife like whales, dolphins and sea birds.

The Expedition Team will be on hand in the Science Center to share their deep knowledge of the region. You can also support global research and conservation by getting involved in one of our Citizen Science projects.

End the day stargazing out on deck with the Expedition Team, or settle comfortably in the Explorer Lounge & Bar over drinks with fellow explorers.

Made in Montecristi

Discover the birthplace of Panama hats... in Ecuador

It's not every day that you get the chance to seek King Neptune's blessing, yet that's what we'll do in a traditional ceremony as we cross the Equator early in the morning.

Later, we'll visit the handicrafts town of Montecristi on an included tour, where you can buy a genuine Panama hat, expertly handwoven from the leaves of the jipijapa tree. You'll be able to buy the hats from local artisans and see their workshops.

You can browse the stalls in the pretty plaza, admire the architecture of the church, or take in the colorful street art and murals. We'll also visit the archaelogical museum in Manta.

Bountiful Puerto Bolivar

A bustling port with a charming atmosphere

We have a colorful day ahead, exploring Puerto Bolivar, a port in the city of Machala that exports coffee, cocoa, shrimp and bountiful bananas.

Feast on delicious fresh seafood at a harbour restaurant, taking in views of the mangrove swamps of Isla Jambeli–and discover Machala's markets, plazas and Casa de la Cultura Museum on our included tour.

As an optional excursion, you can visit a banana plantation and try to spot hummingbirds, parakeets and howler monkeys in Buenaventura Nature Reserve. Nearby Puyango Petrified Forest is one of the largest areas of fossilised trees in the world.

Science and leisure

Relaxation, research–or a bit of both

Enjoy the serenity of a day at sea as we cruise towards Peru. You can relax and admire the scenery from the outdoor hot tubs, pool or the comfort of the Explorer Lounge & Bar. Dine on delicious, locally-sourced food in one of our three restaurants.

Throughout your journey, the Expedition Team will run lectures in the Science Center and share fascinating regional insights with you. Topics might include pre-Colombian history, local geology, and the folklore of native communities.

Friendly seabirds often follow the ship. If they do, the Expedition Team will help you identify them. Our onboard photographer will also be on hand to give pointers.

Trujillo and Chan Chan

Explore Trujillo's ancient kingdoms

Salaverry is the gateway port to discover Peru’s third largest city, Trujillo and the nearby fascinating archaeological sites. If the weather conditions allow, you'll be in for some fantastic experiences today!

Colorful Trujillo boasts a Baroque cathedral, colonial churches and neoclassical mansions, as well as one of the longest mosaic murals in the world.

Nearby are the vast ancient ruins of the Chimu city of Chan Chan, dating back to 900 CE. On the other side of Trujillo, you'll find the Mochican pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, that pre-date Chan Chan.

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'll 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.