Lake Titicaca & National Parks of South America

Description

Discover the marvels of South America’s Pacific Coast
Your expedition cruise starts in Lima before taking you through coastal cities, islands, cultures and wildlife of Peru, Ecuador, Panama and Costa Rica. You’ll experience Incan and pre-Incan cultures through the marvels they left behind, and contemporary cultures in vibrant cities and ports, finishing your adventure in Puntarenas.

Wildlife like nowhere else
South America’s rainforests, rich waters and islands are teeming with wildlife. You’ll watch for whales, turtles and dolphins, an astonishing variety of birds and jungle creatures like sloths, monkeys and macaws. This is an experience you’ll never forget.

Trip Name

Lake Titicaca & National Parks of South America

Days

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 Lima's UNESCO treasures

Your South American adventure beginsYour expedition cruise starts on land in Peru, one of the most fascinating countries in South America. Landing at Jorge Chávez International Airport, your transfer will be waiting to whisk you to your hotel in Lima.Lima's historical centre is a jewel of Spanish architecture, from colonial churches and monasteries to elegant mansions. You'll quickly see why it's been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.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.

Day 2 - DAY 2 Chucuito and Aramu Muru

Visit the mysterious 'Gate of the Gods'Our day begins with a flight from Lima to Juliaca. From here it's a scenic one-hour drive to Puno. Your hotel for the next two days is located right on the shore of lovely Lake Titicaca. You'll enjoy lunch here before we visit Chucuito and Amaru Muru.See Chucuito's 16th century colonial churches, Santo Domingo and Nuestra Señora de la Asunción and the ancient solar clock. When here, check out the Inca Uyo, with its 86 phallic granite statues, the remains of an ancient fertility temple.Mysterious Aramu Muru, or the Gate of the Gods, is an ancient T-shaped doorway carved into solid rock. According to locals also a site for extra-terrestrial or paranormal activity.

Day 3 - DAY 3 The Uros of Lake Titicaca

See hand woven islands in South America's largest lakeAt 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.

Day 4 - DAY 4 Heading back to Lima

Your expedition ship awaits you in historic LimaWe'll say goodbye to Puno and head back to the airport, but not before stopping at Sillustani tombs, a pre-Incan cemetery. These tombs or chullas were built as tall as 39 feet, to hold the entire families of its society's elite.On arrival in Lima, it's time to board your hybrid-powered expedition ship. Settle in and explore the ship. Later, you'll meet the Expedition Team who'll be your expert guides on this trip, as we set sail for more historical and cultural adventures.

Day 5 - DAY 5 Trujillo and Chan Chan

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

Day 6 - DAY 6 A leisurely day at sea

Relax and unwind as we cruise towards EcuadorAs we leave Peru, you'll have the chance to enjoy the many onboard facilities, visit the Science Center and join the Expedition Team for lectures on the sights you'll be seeing next.If you want to unwind, head to the Wellness Centre and indulge in a soothing treatment. If the warm breeze hasn't opened your pores, take some time to enjoy the sauna and outdoor hot tubs. You can even take part in a guided meditation class.However you choose to spend your day, you'll be rested and ready for the adventures ahead.

Day 7 - DAY 7 Bountiful Puerto Bolivar

A bustling port with a charming atmosphereWe have a colourful 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.

Day 8 - DAY 8 Machalilla National Park

Dry forests, wonderful wildlife and archeological sitesMachalilla 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.We plan to 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. On our included excursion, we'll visit the Agua Blanca archeological site, taking in spectactular wildlife and scenery along the way.

Day 9 - DAY 9 Manta and Montecristi

Discover the birthplace of Panama hats... in EcuadorYour expedition cruise stops at Manta – 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. Manta is most famous for its tuna, which we recommend trying in the encebollado broth.Head to Playa el Murcielago for the lively shops and eateries of Malencón Escénico, or learn about pre-Colombian civilisation at the Museo Municipal Etnografico Cancebi.The handicraft centre of Montecristi is also nearby. Perhaps surprisingly, this Ecuadorian town where the Panama hat was first created, and is still hand woven here to this day.

Day 10 - DAY 10 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 our Science Center microscopes.As we cross the Equator, you can seek Neptune's blessing in a short ceremony. Don't be shy, it's a Norwegian sailors’ tradition.After spending time out on deck, you can join fellow explorers, bonding over common interests and a passion for nature in the Explorer Lounge & Bar, or enjoy some fine dining in our onboard restaurants.

Day 11 - DAY 11 Island idyll of Cebaco

Traditional island life off the beaten trackWe continue our cruise to Cebaco, a hidden gem of an island. The only way here is by sea, but with no regular ferries, it's untouched by development or mass tourism. The only human settlement is the small village of El Jobo in the north.Wind your way round 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 12 - DAY 12 Wildlife of Golfito

Abundant nature in Piedras Blancas National ParkOur expedition cruise reaches Costa Rica. Here in relaxed, blissful Golfito is the gateway to Piedras Blancas National Park. Follow the rainforest trails through the wildlife refuge to the park. Among the lush rainforest, you’ll discover waterfalls, and spy toucans, macaws, blue morpho butterflies, anteaters, sloths and mantled howler monkeys.The calm waters here are perfect for a kayaking tour, exploring local mangroves and isolated beaches as part of an optional excursion. Or go shopping in the town's duty-free centre. Then enjoy views from the marinas, where anglers head out in pursuit of the prized Pacific Sailfish.

Day 13 - DAY 13 Quepos and Manuel Antonio

Explore the beautiful Manuel Antonio National ParkQuepos is popular with visitors, offering everything from water sports and big game fishing to eateries and shopping. Its biggest attraction by far is the nearby Manuel Antonio National Park, where you'll visit today.One of Costa Rica’s most popular parks, it ranks 12 in the Forbes list of most beautiful national parks in the world. With spectacular views of mountains, mangroves, lagoons, beaches, and forest, the park is home to 350 bird and 109 mammal species.Follow the breathtaking Perezoso trail to spot Scarlet Macaws, toucans, hawks, four species of monkey, sloths, iguanas and armadillos.

Day 14 - DAY 14 Arrival in Puntarenas

Enjoy Costa Rican coastal life before heading homeYour South American expedition cruise concludes in Puntarenas, a Costa Rican city on a needle of land jutting into the Pacific Ocean. If you have time, stroll down the palm-lined Paseo de los Turistas and soak up the sights and sounds of the promenade.Before returning home, why not join one of our Post-Programmes. You can visit the magnificent Arenal Volcano Area where you’ll see more of Costa Rica’s beautiful flora and fauna. Or enjoy a jungle boat tour and discover the Costa Rican capital of San José.

Day 15 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

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Inclusions

A magical exploration of ancient cultures and natural wonders