Hurtigruten Expedition : 13D12N South America Explorer

Your South American expedition cruise begins in Colón, which stands at the entrance to the Panama Canal on the Atlantic coast. Explore more of Panama you can join one of our optional Pre-Programmes. Embarkation begin here.

Navigate one of the world's greatest engineering marvels Early in the morning, we'll enter the Panama Canal, a complex network of huge, ingenious locks stretching 50 miles through natural and man-made waterways. After around twelve hours, we'll emerge into the Pacific, passing from one great ocean to another.

As we sail towards Ecuador take time to relax and get to know the ship better. Go out on deck and look out for wildlife – whales can often be seen in these waters

Dock at the port of Manta and set foot on South American soil as we visit the town of Montecristi. Known for its handicrafts, you can buy a stylish genuine Panama hat here, expertly handwoven from the leaves of the jipijapa tree.

Explore Puerto Bolívar, a port in the city of Machala that exports coffee, cocoa, shrimp and masses of bananas. Shipping more of Ecuador’s ‘green gold’ than anywhere else in the country, Puerto Bolívar is dubbed ‘Banana Capital of the World’.

The cruise continues as we head towards Peru. As we sail, you might want to soak up the scenery on deck, dine on delicious food or just enjoy the onboard facilities.

Salaverry is the gateway port to Peru’s third largest city, Trujillo, and some fascinating archaeological sites. Colourful Trujillo boasts a Baroque cathedral, colonial churches and Neoclassical mansions, as well as one of the longest mosaic murals in the world.

After a week cruising the Pacific coast, we will arrive in Callao around noon. We will say goodbye to the expedition ship here and embark on the next exciting stage of our South American adventure.

Start your day with a transfer to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley. Then we board the deluxe Hiram Bingham train to Machu Picchu, enjoying brunch while the breathtaking Andean scenery rolls past.

Enjoy an unforgettable journey by bus across the Northern Andean Plateau – or the Altiplano, as it’s known.

The sheer beauty of Lake Titicaca will amaze you. Visit the rural community of Llachón, which has spectacular views over the lake. Enjoy a guided kayaking tour on the peaceful, deep blue waters. You will also join a guided walk before joining a local family for a traditional lunch

Before heading to the airport to catch your flight to Lima, we will take time to stop at the Sillustani tombs, a pre-Inca burial place overlooking Lake Umayo.

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.