Hurtigruten Expeditions Highlights of South America - Land and Sea Expedition

14-day itinerary

Day 1: Embarking in Colon

Standing at the entrance to the Panama Canal on the Atlantic Coast, Colon will be the first destination on your exhilarating South American expedition. There’s so much to see in this bustling city. Whether you want to experience the hot springs, the thriving handicraft scene or wonderful restaurants, Colon is the perfect place to start your exciting journey.

There are a selection of pre-programme packages available if you wish to explore more of what Panama has to offer, before boarding your state-of-the-art expedition cruise ship. Once you’re onboard, get acquainted with the ship’s layout and facilities as you settle into your surroundings.

Day 2: Through the Panama Canal

In the early morning of day two, the expedition will be entering the Panama Canal. The impressive canal is made up of a complex, network of massive locks which stretch 50 miles through natural and man-made waterways. Weather permitting, the Expedition Team will invite you on deck and tell the story of this ambitious project.

As the cruise enters the halfway stage of the transit through the canal, you’ll be detouring to the Gatun Lake section – one of the world’s largest artificial lakes. Surrounded by verdant rainforest, keep your eyes peeled for the teeming wildlife in the area, including crocodiles, alligators, monkeys, and even sloths.

After approximately twelve hours, the cruise will emerge into the Pacific as you journey towards Ecuador.

Day 3: Towards Ecuador

The next leg of your journey will be spent at sea, as you head onwards to Ecuador. This is an excellent opportunity for you to enjoy the ship’s amenities and facilities, including luxurious bars and restaurants, sauna, gym, as well as the onboard Science Centre. Visit the centre to take in lectures from the Expedition Team about topics such as the history and geology of the places you are soon to visit.

There are plenty of Citizen Science projects available for travellers to participate in, but if you’re looking for something more relaxing, why not indulge in one of the many spa treatments available.

Day 4: Made in Montecristi

As you journey past the equator in the early morning of the fourth day, prepare for the unique culture of Montecristi. Recognised for its handicrafts, Montecristi is the birthplace of Panama hats, despite being in Ecuador, and you can buy a stylish genuine Panama hat here, expertly handwoven from the leaves of the jipijapa tree.

Take a leisurely stroll round this charming town and witness the impressive white church, or alternatively immerse yourself in the vibrant street art and murals. You’ll then be returning to Manta, paying a visit to the local Archaeological museum.

Day 5: Bountiful Puerto Lopez

A small town which represents a typical Pacific Coast fishing village, Puerto Lopez is a popular destination for tourists, with many visiting to go whale-spotting and to also experience the nearby Machalilla National Park.

Puerto Lopez is the perfect place to sit back and disconnect from the stresses of everyday life on one of the pristine beaches. Alternatively, take a stroll along the street that runs beside the beach and discover its low-key restaurants and cafes.

Day 6: Another day at sea

Whether you wish to relax and unwind on this stage in the journey, or take part in research and lecture programmes onboard, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. As you head towards Peru, the Expedition Team will share insights on a wide array of topics in the Science Centre. You may learn about Indigenous communities and cultures, local geology and pre-Columbian history, among other things.

The onboard photographer will be on hand to shar their tips and tricks for improving the quality of your photos, and be sure to put this into practice as you can capture the many intriguing seabirds that will follow your ship.

Day 7: Salaverry and Trujillo

As the expedition cruise journeys on towards Trujillo on day seven, you will pass Salaverry which is the gateway port to Trujillo. The third biggest city in Peru, Trujillo boasts a Baroque cathedral, colonial churches and Neoclassical mansions, as well as one of the longest mosaic murals in the world.

Close by, you’ll be able to see the incredibly vast ancient ruins of the Chimú city of Chan Chan date back to at least 900 CE. Astonishingly, these are not even the oldest ruins that remain in the region. On the other side of Trujillo, the mysterious Mochican pyramids of the Sun and the Moon pre-date the Chimu city of Chan Chan.

Once you have re-boarded your cruise ship, there will be performances of traditional Peruvian dances for you to enjoy.

Day 8: Lima – Intriguing blend of ancient and modern

With its historical centre listed as a UNESCO Heritage Site, the city of Lima is considered to be a jewel of Spanish-era architecture. From colonial churches and monasteries to elegant mansions, you can also go even further back in time to gain insights into the pre-Hispanic heritage at the ruins of the pyramid Huaca Pucllana.

Recognised by many as being the food capital of South America, Lima has everything from gourmet restaurants to tasty street food. Be sure to indulge in the wonderful cuisines on offer at this stage in you journey.

Day 9: Imperial Cusco

After exploring the wondrous city of Lima, you will then be transferring to Lima airport to catch your flight to Cusco. Known as being the Imperial City and archaeological capital of South America, as well as the ‘navel of the universe’ by the Incas, Cusco’s ancient cultural influences are still plain to see to this day.

Home to some of the best examples of Inca history like the Santo Domingo church, built on the Inca temple of Koricancha, Cusco is a must-see destination on your expedition cruise. You will also be able to witness the Sacsayhuamán fortress, a 15th century ceremonial compound that boasts panoramic views of the city. Other highlights include a visit to the Sulca Textiles museum, along with the city’s main square where travellers can immerse themselves in the beauty of the remarkable Cathedral, dating back to Spanish colonial times.

Day 10: Marvelous Macha Picchu

You’ll commence your tenth day of expedition with a transfer to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. After this, you will then board the Hiram Bingham train to Macha Picchu, immersing yourself in the breathtaking Andean scenery as you journey past.

Located in Peru’s Cusco region and dating back to the 15^th century, Macha Picchu is considered to be one of planet Earth’s most fascinating attractions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ‘The Lost City of The Incas’, was only rediscovered back in 1911 after being abandoned following the Spanish conquest, with great mystery and intrigue still surrounding the majestic stronghold. Experience the trails around the ruins, admire the precise Inca stonework and even potentially meet some of the indigenous local llamas in the region.

Day 11: The Altiplano Path   

Following the exhilarating experience in Macha Picchu, you will then be enjoying a crossing of the awe-inspiring North Andean Plateau. Also known as the Altiplano, it is one of the world’s largest high plateau’s, sitting at over 12,000 ft above sea level. Extending into Bolivia, northern Peru and southern Chile, this vast plateau is home to gorgeous scenery and incredible viewpoints, with there being an ample amount of opportunities to test your photography skills by capture the landscape’s natural beauty.

At the end of your journey, reflect on your experiences so far and get ready for your trip to Lake Titicaca.

Day 12: The Uro people of Lake Titicaca 

Lake Titicaca’s sheer natural beauty will leave you spellbound. Upon visiting the rural community of Llachon, witness the spectacular views across the lake and enjoy a guide kayaking tour in the serene, blue waters. The Expedition Team will also take you on a guided walk before joining a local family for an authentic lunch.

After this, you will then take part in a boat tour to reach the Uro people on their floating islands, with these islands being woven from the reeds that grow in the lake.

Day 13: Sillustani tombs   

Before heading back to the historic city of Lima, there will still be time to stop off at the Sillustani tombs, a pre-Inca burial place which is surrounded by Lake Umayo.

The tombs, also known as chullas, are huge tower-like structures built on the surface by the ancient Colla people, with some of them being up to a staggering 39 feet tall. Drink the region’s peace and serenity as you indulge in a lunch by the shores of the lake.

Following your exploration of the archaeological beauty within the area, you will be heading to the local airport prior to your flight to Lima. Upon arriving in Lima, the local guide will take you to your designated hotel and you will then have time to enjoy the evening at your own leisure.

Day 14: Back in Lima

Your expedition ends in what has been previously referred to as the ‘City of Kings’. While here, why not catch up on some of the places you missed earlier on in your journey? Visit Lima’s historical centre, a jewel of Spanish architecture, from colonial-era churches to elegant mansions.

Indulge in the excellent selection of local cuisines on offer, including Peru’s national dish, ‘Ceviche’, which is a fish marinated in lime juice, onion and chilli. It’s the ideal way to conclude your unforgettable adventure.

Expedition Cruise

• A stay in a cabin of your choice
• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Wine, beer and spirits available at meals and throughout the day and evening (subject to licensing laws, excludes premium drinks)
• All day coffee, tea and soft drinks
• Fine dining in restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests
• A complimentary water bottle to refill on board and take home
• A polar expedition jacket, a backpack, or another piece of HX kit
• Professional photos from your trip taken by our onboard photographer
• Complimentary Wi-Fi. Please note, streaming is not supported
• Use of sauna, hot tubs, fitness room, lounges and more
• Gratuities included. Fantastic service is standard at HX – though if you’d like to leave something extra, it’s always appreciated
• Range of included activities

Onboard Activities

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team
• Full access to the ship’s Science Centre
• Citizen Science Programme allows guests to assist with ongoing scientific research
• Professional onboard photographer gives tips and tricks for the best landscape and wildlife photos
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings

Activities

• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you

Notes

• All planned activities are subject to weather conditions
• Excursions and activities are subject to change
• Please make sure you meet all entry and boarding requirements
• No gratuities expected
• The land programme in Peru takes place at high altitudes. Lake Titicaca´s altitude is approximately 12,500 feet and the city of Cuzco’s altitude is approximately 11,100 feet and may require a certain level of physical fitness. The order of sights may vary

Land –Programme: Peru/Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca (after the cruise)

• Two nights at a hotel in Lima, including breakfast
• Two nights at a hotel in Cusco and two nights at a hotel in Puno, including half board
• Set lunch on Days 8-10 and 12. Picnic lunch on Days 11 and 13.
• Flight in economy class from Lima to Cusco and Juliaca to Lima
• All transfers, excursions and train rides as described, including English-speaking guides
• Entrance fees according to the programme

What’s not included

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Luggage handling
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

MS Fram