Highlights of South America and Chilean Fjords Cruise

33 days, 68 meals. This is the ultimate way to cover South America. From Chile’s glaciers to Rio’s beaches and Iguazu Falls to Machu Picchu, this continent’s wow-factor is evident wherever you go.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Santiago

Arrive in Santiago, the Chilean capital. Situated in the Santiago basin and flanked by the Andes, this metropolis enjoys one of the most stunning settings of any city in the world. On arrival, be met and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy a Welcome Reception this evening.

Day 2: Santiago, Valparaiso

After breakfast, head off to explore the port city of Valparaiso, one of the South Pacific’s most important seaports. On arrival, set out on a tour of the World Heritage-listed town centre. Then take a drive into the surrounding hills to absorb the vistas of the bay and the colourful city below. Later, return to Santiago for your evening at leisure.

Day 3: Santiago, Embark Holland America Line Cruise

This morning, see Santiago’s modern and historic sites on a guided tour. Rich in history, walk around the Plaza de Aromas before transferring to the port to board your cruise ship, Holland America Line’s MS Oosterdam for a cruise through the South American passage.

Day 4: Chilean Coast

Take in the views of the ever-changing Chilean coastline from one of the many vantage points on board.

Day 5: Puerto Montt

Arrive in the Chilean port city of Puerto Montt, considered the gateway to the region’s lakes, volcanic landscapes and national parks. While ashore, among other excursions available, you might like to visit a unique 100-year-old German settlement or meet the Indigenous communities of Mapuche people. As part of your Holland America Line cruise, an extensive range of activities and excursions are on offer at every port (own expense).

Day 6: Puerto Chacabuco

This tiny port town offers a chance to discover some of the natural wonders of this part of Chilean Patagonia, from on the water kayaking, to on foot along walking trails to waterfalls and stunning rainforests.

Day 7: Chilean Fjords

Chile’s fjord region sprawls some 1,500 kilometres. Today, your ship will not sail in a straight line, it will meander along the jagged coastline, through fjords and iceberg-strewn bays fringed by mountains.

Day 8: Canal Sarmiento, Amalia Glacier

Cruise the Canal Sarmiento today, one of the main channels in Patagonia, where glaciers descend into turquoise waters. With the Chilean mainland to the east and the islands of Esperanza, Vancouver and Piazzi flanking the channel to the west, the scenery is spectacular.

Day 9: Strait of Magellan, Punta Arenas

Before the Panama Canal, only the Strait of Magellan linked the Atlantic and Pacific oceans by boat. This important route was first traversed by Portuguese sailor Ferdinand Magellan in 1520 during a Spanish expedition to the East Indies. Today, it’s your turn to cruise this stunning stretch of water. At Punta Arenas there are many options to explore. Perhaps discover the glaciers and peaks of World Heritage-listed Torres del Paine National Park. Alternatively, go sea kayaking, take a heritage walking tour or set off on a wildlife tour on Magdalena Island.

Day 10: Glacier Alley, Ushuaia

Experience the stunning natural beauty as you sail through the spectacular Glacier Alley.

Day 11: Cape Horn

Sail around the infamous southern-most point of South America and enjoy stunning views of the rugged, rocky coastline and surrounding islands.

Day 12: Port Stanley, Falkland Islands, Islas Malvinas

Disembark in Port Stanley today, the Falkland Islands’ remote capital. The Falklands were first colonised by the British in 1765, a history that is evident in everything from the scarlet phone boxes to the pubs. Perhaps take a historical tour or join one of the many wildlife activities available. You might like to see a range of penguins, including Magellanic, gentoo and king penguins, at home in one of the world’s largest rookeries.

Day 13: At Sea

Relax on board the MS Oosterdam. Perhaps take in a thrilling show in the lounge or drop by the Greenhouse Spa and Salon.

Day 14: At Sea

Enjoy another relaxing day cruising aboard your ship, taking in the scenery and making the most of the onboard facilities and dining.

Day 15: Montevideo

Wake to views of Uruguay’s capital Montevideo. Here, perhaps take a tour of the city’s Old Town or explore the quaint streets of World Heritage-listed Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay’s oldest town. Alternatives include lunch and wine-tasting at Juanico Winery or a trip down the coast to explore Punta del Este, known as the Saint-Tropez of Uruguay.

Day 16: Buenos Aires

Enjoy free time today in Buenos Aires. You may choose to relax on board or perhaps set off to explore this vibrant city further.

Day 17: Buenos Aires, Disembark Holland America Line Cruise

Disembark your cruise this morning and enjoy a guided city tour, including a visit to the colourful La Boca region and the neighbourhood of Palermo.

Day 18: Buenos Aires

Armed with the insight and advice provided by your knowledgeable Travelmarvel Tour Director, today is yours to either relax or further explore this fascinating city.

Day 19: Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls

Fly to Iguazu Falls, a system of 275 falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil. On the Brazilian side, experience the majesty of World Heritage-listed Iguacu National Park during a half-day tour. Walk through spectacular subtropical rainforest and take in breathtaking panoramic views of the falls.

Day 20: Iguazu Falls

On the Argentinian side, ride the Rainforest Ecological Train to a series of walkways and viewing points. This narrow-gauge train stops at several locations including one that leads to the 82-metre-high Devil’s Throat, one of the most spectacular falls of the region.

Day 21: Iguazu Falls, Rio de Janeiro

Later today, fly to beautiful Rio de Janeiro, also known as ‘Cidade Maravilhosa’ – Portuguese for the Marvellous City. After checking in, enjoy time to recharge or stroll along the stunning Copacabana beachfront.

Day 22: Rio de Janeiro

Today, head to Corcovado Mountain and visit the incredible statue of Christ the Redeemer, the world’s largest art deco sculpture. Admire the breathtaking views of Rio de Janeiro and its stunning surroundings. See the sunset this evening on a cable car ride to the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Day 23: Rio de Janeiro

In a capital city as dynamic as Rio de Janeiro, there’s always something around the corner to discover. Today you have a full day set aside to relax or explore, from beautiful, landscaped parks and botanical gardens to bohemian neighbourhoods and long stretches of sandy beaches.

Day 24: Rio de Janeiro, Lima

Early this morning fly to Lima and visit Larco Museum, a privately owned collection of pre-Columbian art, ceramics, and numerous artefacts from across Peru.

Day 25: Lima, Cusco, Chinchero, Sacred Valley

Wake early this morning and fly to the World Heritage-listed city of Cusco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Travel through Cusco to Chinchero, a city located in the stunning Andean highlands. See how the colourful fabrics of Peru are created during a traditional weaving demonstration.

Day 26: Sacred Valley

Today explore the Pisac Ruins, a unique Inca archaeological site before visiting a local family home for lunch.

Day 27: Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu

Farewell the Sacred Valley this morning bound for Machu Picchu aboard your train. On arrival, you’ll set off to join a guided walking tour of the Lost City of the Incas, Machu Picchu, which is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

Day 28: Machu Picchu, Cusco

With the morning free, you might like to step out and wander around the colourful stalls of the Mercado de Artesanias craft market in Aguas Calientes. Later today, you will reboard your train for a wonderful journey to Ollantaytambo station before a coach returns you to Cusco. Enjoy a delicious Peruvian dinner and traditional folklore show at a local restaurant this evening.

Day 29: Cusco

A guided walking tour through Cusco today will take you to the city’s historic heart, the Plaza de Armas. During your tour you will visit the sacred site of Koricancha, the Inca Temple of the Sun, thought to be the most important temple of the Inca Empire. Ruined during the 16th century, today its stonework forms the foundations of the baroque Church and Convent of Santo Domingo. Following the tour, the afternoon is yours to absorb the atmosphere of this city at your own leisure.

Day 30: Puno, Lake Titicaca

Take a coach to the city of Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Along the way, you’ll stop at the small town of Andahuaylillas to visit San Pedro Apostol, a small Baroque chapel built in the 16th century that is called the Sistine Chapel of the Andes owing to a dazzlingly ornate interior of murals and decorations. You will also stop for a hearty buffet lunch. Later, on arrival in Puno, this evening is at your leisure.

Day 31: Puno, Lake Titicaca

Your Lake Titicaca excursion starts with a visit to one of the forty floating Uros islands, Titino before reaching the unspoiled community of Luquina. Locals in this lesser-known area are not visited by mass tourism yet. The locals will introduce you to the daily activities and customs of a Quechua community. A simple but fresh Andean lunch is served then in the community’s restaurant, Luquina, on the shores of Lake Titicaca and providing some of the best views of the lake.

Day 32: Lake Titicaca, Lima

Fly from Puno to Lima this morning and undertake a tour of Lima’s historic centre, admire the Iglesia de Santo Domingo. Built in the 16th century, this pink convent is also the resting place for three Peruvian saints. Tonight, enjoy a delicious Farewell Dinner.

Day 33: Depart Lima

This morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.