Compare Exploring the Land of the Inca by Hurtigruten
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| Trip |
3.5 | Average
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| Duration | 17 days |
| Price From | $ 8,232 |
| Price Per Day | $ 484 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small ship cruise |
| Lodging Level | Premium |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | |
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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| Meals Included | N/A |
| Description |
Sail along the west coast of South America and experience fascinating archaeological sites and the mysteries of lost cultures. The Inca Empire was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America. We will sail along the coastline of this ancient empire from Chile to Colombia via Peru and Ecuador. Starting inValparaíso, Chile, we sail north and visit the stunning Luaca National Park, home to some breathtaking scenery with snow-sprinkled volcanoes, sparkling lakes and isolated hot springs. |
Day 1: Valparaíso, Chile
This expedition starts in the wonderfully, colourful and poetic city of Valparaíso. Before embarking MS Fram, we recommend a visit to the UNESCO-listed Historic Quarter of Valparaíso.
Day 2: La Serena, Chile
La Serena is a seaside town and the capital of Coquimbo Region in Elqui Province. It is one of the oldest cities in the area and it has a marked neo-colonial architectural style and its own undeniable image. It abounds with multi-coloured gardens and many beautiful churches with bells that trace the passage of time. In the Archaeological museum, learn about the ancient Diaguita culture that originated in this province before being conquered by the Incas. You should also visit La Recova, a popular market where you can buy handicrafts and typical products from the region, such as pisco and papaws in all their varieties.
Day 3: At sea
A day at sea means you can join the Expedition Team for lectures or spend the day on deck.
Day 4: At sea
Enjoy another relaxing but exciting day at sea.
Day 5: Arica, Chile
Arica is blessed with a warm and sunny climate all year round. While we are here, you can either spend a day at the beach or join the Expedition Team and visit the nearby Lauca National Park. This amazing national park is home to some breathtaking scenery: snow-sprinkled volcanoes, sparkling lakes and isolated hot springs. It also shelters pretty highland villages and a huge variety of wildlife. Numerous sites and paths found in this region are associated with the Chilean Inca trail.
Day 6: At sea
Join the Expedition Team for more fascinating lectures or relax on deck.
Day 7: Puerto General San Martin, Peru
Puerto General San Martin is the gateway to the famous and mysterious Nazca lines and geoglyphs. These lines were scratched on the surface of the ground between 500 B.C. and 500 A.D. They are among archaeology's greatest enigmas because of their quantity, nature, size and continuity. The geoglyphs are several miles long and illustrate living creatures, stylised plants and imaginary beings, as well as geometric figures. Join the excursion to see just how impressive and mysterious these lines actually are.
Day 8: Callao, Peru
Callao is situated just outside Lima and is a vital route for trade both into and out of Peru. It is home to charming mansions with pretty balconies, museums, churches and the fortress of King Felipe.
Day 9: Salaverry, Peru
The small port of Salaverry is the starting point for the excursion to the ancient Chimu kingdom (700–1400 A.D.). They founded their capital by the banks of the Moche River and called it Chan Chan ("sun-sun"). Chan Chan covers an area of eight square miles. It was built using clay, mud, pebbles, straw and cane, which makes it the largest mudbrick citadel of the Americas in pre-Hispanic times. It is a remarkable place that was listed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1986.
Day 10: At sea
Enjoy another relaxing but exciting day at sea.
Day 11: Manta, Ecuador
Manta is a bustling and prosperous port town, graced with high-rises and a few beaches. We recommend the trip to Montecristi, where the real Panama hats are made. These traditional brimmed straw hats are hand woven, and it can take several months to make the finest ones. A "superfino" Panama hat can, according to popular rumour, hold water, and when rolled for storage, pass through a wedding ring.
Day 12: At sea
Spend another relaxing and interesting day at sea.
Day 13: Fuerte Amador
Fuerte Amador is located right at the Pacific entrance of the Panama Canal. The port is only 20 miles away from Panama City, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Central America and home to incredible architectural and ethnic diversity. Join tours in the city, enjoy a day at the beach or come with us to explore the lush rainforest.
Day 14: Panama Canal
We enter the Panama Canal close to Balboa. Experience the thrill of canal transit and the intricacy of the lock's system first-hand, as MS Fram is lifted over 85 feet above sea level from one body of water to the next.
Day 15: Leaving Panama Canal at Cristobal
The Panama Canal is one of the largest and most difficult engineering projects ever undertaken. It had an enormous impact on shipping between the two oceans, replacing the long and treacherous route via the Drake Passage and Cape Horn.
Day 16: Puerto Limón/San José
Puerto Limón on Costa Rica is a compelling destination for adventurous explorers.
After disembarking, we transfer you to your hotel in San José, the capital of Costa Rica.
Day 17: San José
After breakfast in your hotel, your South American expedition comes to an end.
