South & Central America, South America
South America Explorer – Ocean Cruise and Mountain Views
Highlights of the Altiplano
See the pre-Inca tombs of Sillustani before embarking on your journey from spectacular Lake Titicaca, the largest high-altitude lake on Earth. You’ll across the Altiplano to the ancient Inca city of Cusco, then board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to the famous ruins of mysterious Machu Picchu.
From the modern to the ancient
Enjoy a tour of Lima and discover its UNESCO-listed centre. Then visit the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands or see the enigmatic Nazca Lines. In Chile, you’ll discover the deserts near Arica and Iquique, the classic architecture of La Serena, and the colourful 'Jewel of the Pacific', Valparaíso.
• Cross the Altiplano from Lake Titicaca to Machu Picchu and the old Inca capital of Cusco, before cruising along the desert coast of Peru and Chile.
See the pre-Inca tombs of Sillustani before embarking on your journey from spectacular Lake Titicaca, the largest high-altitude lake on Earth. You’ll across the Altiplano to the ancient Inca city of Cusco, then board the luxurious Hiram Bingham train to the famous ruins of mysterious Machu Picchu.
From the modern to the ancient
Enjoy a tour of Lima and discover its UNESCO-listed centre. Then visit the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands or see the enigmatic Nazca Lines. In Chile, you’ll discover the deserts near Arica and Iquique, the classic architecture of La Serena, and the colourful 'Jewel of the Pacific', Valparaíso.
Highlights
• Cross the Altiplano from Lake Titicaca to Machu Picchu and the old Inca capital of Cusco, before cruising along the desert coast of Peru and Chile.
Start your adventure in Lima, 'The City of Kings'
An exciting cocktail of cosmopolitan cool and ancient heritage, Lima is the perfect city to begin your adventure. See colourful murals, bustling cafés and contemporary art museums in the bright, bohemian area of Barranco.
Lima's historical centre is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's a jewel of Spanish architecture, from colonial-era churches and monasteries to elegant mansions. You'll also see Lima's Inca heritage in the ruins of ceremonial pyramids Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca.
Known as the food capital of South America, you can choose from gourmet restaurants to unmissable street food. We recommend trying Peru's national dish ceviche, fish marinated in lime juice, onion and chilli.
Fly to Juliaca and visit the Sillustani tombs
Your day starts with a flight to Juliaca. Once you arrive, we’ll take you to the Sillustani tombs, a pre-Inca burial place that’s surrounded by Lake Umayo, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour.
The tombs or chullas are tower-like structures built above ground by the ancient Colla people, some as tall as 39 feet and big enough to hold entire families. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the shores of the lake in this peaceful and enigmatic place.
After exploring this archaeological marvel, you’ll continue on to your hotel in Puno on the banks for Lake Titicaca - your home for the next two nights.
See handwoven islands in South America's largest lake
The sheer beauty of Lake Titicaca will amaze you. You'll visit the rural community of Llachón, which has spectacular views over the lake. Your included activity is a guided kayaking tour on the peaceful, deep blue waters. You’ll also join a guided walk before joining a local family for a typical lunch.
Next, we'll go on a boat tour to reach the Uro people on their floating islands, shimmering golden in the sun. These otherworldly islands are woven from the reeds that grow in the lake.
At the end of the day, relax and reflect back at your hotel in Puno.
Cross the awe-inspiring Andean Plateau
Enjoy an unforgettable journey across the Northern Andean Plateau, or the Altiplano as it's known to the locals.
The Altiplano is one of the world’s largest high plateaus and it sits at over 12,000 ft above sea level. The vast plateau extends into Bolivia, northern Peru and southern Chile. During this full day of adventure, you’ll pass through breathtaking scenery and be awed by the imposing Andes.
You’ll see the famous Pucara bulls perched on rooftops, enjoy lunch by the ancient rock formations of Tinajani, watch for wild llamas and alpacas on La Raya Pass, and marvel at the 15th century archaeological complex of Raqch'i.
Your journey ends with a comfortable overnight stay in Cusco.
Discover the Lost City of the Incas
You’ll start your day with a transfer to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Then we’ll board the deluxe Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu, enjoying brunch while the breathtaking Andean scenery rolls past.
Estimated to have been built around 1450, Machu Picchu was abandoned during the Spanish conquest. It was hidden by jungle for centuries, and only rediscovered in 1911. The Incas left no written records, so mystery surrounds this magnificent stronghold. Enjoy the trails around the ruins, admire the precision Inca stonework and maybe meet some of the friendly resident llamas.
After your day’s adventure, we’ll head to Cusco for relaxing overnight stay.
Explore the centre of the Inca Empire
Enjoy a guided tour of Cusco, the Imperial City and archaeological capital of South America.
Admire some of the finest examples of Inca history and architecture, like the Santo Domingo church, which was built on the Inca temple of Koricancha, and the Sacsayhuamán fortress, a 15th century ceremonial compound that boasts panoramic views of the city. Other tour highlights include a visit to the Museo Sulca Textiles museum and a stop at the main square to admire the stunning cathedral that dates back to Spanish colonial times.
You’ll then transfer to the airport and fly to Lima where you’ll enjoy a relaxing overnight stay.
Discover Lima before greeting your ship
We’ll cover Lima’s extraordinary blend of ancient and modern on today’s guided panoramic bus tour.
As well as the colonial architecture of the UNESCO-listed historic centre, we’ll visit the sacred Inca pyramid of Huaca Pucllana in Miraflores and some of Lima’s most beautiful parks, like El Parque del Amor, the Park of Love. We’ll also visit the fascinating Museo Larco museum which holds the best private collection of Pre-Columbian art in the country.
Late afternoon, you’ll transfer to Callao where your expedition ship will be ready and waiting. Take time to locate your cabin, explore the ship and meet your Expedition Team.
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 today’s boat tour, look out for Humboldt Penguins, turtles, pelicans, sea lions, Inca Terns and humpback whales as you cruise around the islands.
Otherwise, explore the Paracas National Reserve, with its otherworldly yellow sand dunes and red beaches, or fly over the mysterious Nazca Lines etched in the Peruvian coastal desert – an experience that’s on many people’s bucket list.
Rich marine life produced by the Humboldt Current
As we cruise towards Chile, we'll sail through the Humboldt Current. The cold-water climate here 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.
Visit the Science Center to find out more. Your Expedition Team will tell you more about its importance and impact on the marine ecosystem.
You’ll also have plenty of time to relax in the heated infinity pool, go for a run on the outdoor running track, and take in the stunning views and stimulating breezes you’ll find on deck.
Enjoy Arica's hikes, history and local food
Arica experiences 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.
On the lively streets Calle 21 de Mayo and Bolognesi you can try local treats and peruse 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 exploring the Caves of Anzota.
Discover the history of UNESCO-listed Humberstone
Our cruise continues to bustling Iquique, a flat city of promenades lined with palm trees.
We’ll visit the abandoned saltpetre mining towns of Santa Laura and UNESCO-listed 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. Or pay a visit to La Esmeralda, a 19th century four-masted, corvette that has historical significance.
Pamper yourself on this final day at sea
Your expedition cruise down South America's Pacific coast today sails towards La Serena in Chile.
Take time to enjoy one of your final days at sea with a little pampering at the wellness area. Choose a massage or a skin-scrubbing treatment to feel fully revitalised for the final leg of your adventure.
Of course, the Expedition Team will continue to deliver insightful lectures in the Science Center, and you can delve into the books in the onboard library if you want to learn more about a particular subject.
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 classical architecture, there are around 30 carefully restored stone churches to discover, and you can visit the Archaeological Museum to marvel at pre-colonial 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.
Valparaíso is the glorious finale to your expedition
Your South American Pacific coast expedition cruise ends in Valparaíso. Known as the 'Jewel of the Pacific', this UNESCO-listed city is built on steep hillsides overlooking the ocean. It's well worth spending time exploring before you fly home.
Filled with intriguing, impressions, it’s an exhilarating maze of winding alleyways and barrios, colourful houses, and mercados packed with local produce. Take it all in on a funicular ride up to Cerro Alegre and Concepción.
Although your cruise has come to an end, if you're up for more adventures you can join an optional Post-Programme.
Itineraries are subject to change.
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Polar Outside. From
$11,222 AUD pp
The Polar Outside cabins are primarily on the middle decks with windows, most are spacious, have flexible sleeping arrangements and TV for excellent and high standard accommodation. Can accommodate two to four passengers.
Arctic Superior. From
$11,740 AUD pp
Arctic Superior class cabins are comfortable and roomy accommodation and most have balconies. Flexible sleeping arrangements, sofa beds, TV and other features make this one of our most popular categories. Our Arctic Superior concept includes a kettle, tea and coffee. Can accommodate two to four passengers.
Expedition Suite. From
$13,437 AUD pp
These suites are large, well-appointed cabins with expansive windows and most have balconies. Some have a private outdoor hot tub. The suites feature flexible sleeping arrangements with comfortable sofas, sitting areas and TV. They can accommodate up to four passengers.
Expedition suites are exclusively in upper and mid-deck locations. Our Expedition Suite concept includes a bathrobe, espresso maker, and more. An exciting welcome gift awaits all suite guests in their cabin.
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.
Inclusions
HX Expedition voyages include
• Voyage on board in selected cabin category
• On board lectures
• Daily expeditions and activities such as hikes, community visits, talks and more
• Full board dining, including breakfast, lunch and dinner with house wine and beer
• Wine, beer, spirits and cocktails available across the day and evening
• All-day coffee, tea & soft drinks
• Free Wi-Fi
• Gratuities
• Our interactive science programme, Science Centre and activities both on and off the ships
• Access to sauna, hot tubs, fitness room and more
• Professional photos from the onboard photographer
• Opportunities to engage with and support local communities and environmental initiatives through Hurtigruten
Foundation.
• Take home expedition jacket and reusable water bottle
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
Coastal Voyages include
• Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) from Norway's Coastal Kitchen
• Norwegian- and English-speaking Coastal Experience Team on board
• Engaging onboard activities and lectures:
• Onboard lectures and presentations on Norway’s history, biology, geography, geology, and culture
• Introductory photo presentation, camera adjustment and tips and tricks, photo and film footage from the voyage
• A welcome event, and daily gatherings to recap the day and prepare for the day to come
• Presentations about the ports we visit
• Presentation of excursion programmes
• Point of interest presentations out on deck
• Captain’s dinner and a farewell event
Exclusions
• International and domestic flights unless otherwise stated
• Passport and visa costs where applicable
• Travel insurance
• Transfers unless otherwise stated
• Optional Excursions
• Pre and Post voyage accommodation
• Beverages on board unless otherwise stated (Premium drinks (top shelf spirits, vintage wines, champagne, etc.)
• Meals while ashore
• Optional treatments in the onboard wellness and spa area
• Some specialist excursions and experiences with limited capacity
• Fine dining in our Lindstrøm restaurant
• For those who want to set sail in style for a little bit extra, our Expedition Suites offer a complimentary bottle of champagne, unlimited access to our Lindstrøm fine dining restaurant, laundry and turn-down service and more.
Notes
• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet your entry and boarding requirements
Expedition
14 Days from
$11,222 AUD pp
Our Associates Include
