Latin America Delights with Wild Landscapes of Atacama

Welcome to Callao – a seaside city on the Pacific Ocean, and one of Peru’s chief seaports, where a world of wonder awaits as you step on board and raise your glass to toast the start of your luxurious cruise. (D)

Paracas is a town on Peru’s west coast. It’s known for its idyllic beaches, rich heritage, and an abundance of wildlife, so much so that Paracas Peninsula has been declared a national reserve spanning desert, ocean, and islands. This town is a launch point for the uninhabited Ballestas Islands, home to sea lions, pelicans and Humboldt penguins. Tonight, enjoy the ‘Somos Ebano’ group as they join us in the theatre. Formed by young people from the district of El Carmen, they demonstrate the rescue of Afro-Peruvian culture through the practice and experience of their dance and music. Discovery: Kayak or stand up paddleboard in the wildlife rich waters of Paracas Bay. (B/L/D)

Acquaint yourself with the exceptional range of facilities on board your ultra-luxurious Discovery Yacht. Join a class in one of the fitness spaces or relax in one of the many therapy lounges in the Spa Sanctuary. Tempt your palate at one of the outstanding dining venues on board or delight in the excellent selection of fine wines created by a Master of Wine. (B/L/D)

Located on the southern coast of Peru, Matarani provides access to some of Peru's best attractions such as the historical centre of Arequipa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover why Arequipa is often called 'Ciudad Blanca' (White City) as this charming town showcases the finest of Mestizo Baroque architecture. (B/L/D)

Chile’s northernmost city is known as the ‘driest city in the world’, although this doesn’t distract from Arica’s world-famous surfing beaches, delicious seafood and national parks located close to the port. Morro de Arica is the perfect location to take in great views of the city and Pacific Ocean and learn about the War of the Pacific that took place on Morro de Arica in 1880. Freechoice: Learn of the history of humankind in this desert region including a visit to an archaeological museum that claims to have the world’s oldest mummies. Alternatively, visit a village that dates to the pre-Hispanic era and retains some of its mystical allure. (B/L/D)

Iquique is a coastal city in northern Chile, to the west of the Atacama Desert and home to UNESCO World Heritage landmarks such as Humberstone and Santa Laura Saltpeter Works, once used for creating fertilisers and fireworks. Take a stroll through Baquedano Street towards the centre of town and soak in its Texas-esque vibe. The street’s faded wooden buildings with window shutters and grand doors will have you expecting to see a cowboy pushing through a saloon door at any moment. Freechoice: Take a panoramic drive to fully appreciate the town’s peculiar beauty or visit a ghost town that was abandoned after mining operations ceased on your way to the Pintados Geoglyphs. Alternatively, visit the Huasco Salt Flat National Park. (B/L/D)

Continue to relax on board today. Try a game of bridge or canasta in the Observatory Lounge or take in the sea views from your luxurious suite’s verandah. (B/L/D)

Coquimbo is the gateway to La Serena, once known for its fine jewellery and ceramics and home to the pre-Columbian Diaguita and El Molle cultures. Some of the region's most beautiful architecture from both the colonial and neo-colonial can be found at central Plaza de Armas and La Recova. Freechoice: Embark on a guided tour at the Cerro Tololo Inter-American Observatory and learn of the astronomical discoveries, or venture to the Elqui Valley and follow in the footsteps of ancient astronomers. Alternatively visit a Pisco distillery and sample the flavours of Chile. (B/L/D)

Your cruise ends this morning in Valparaiso as you farewell your crew. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Santiago the quirky Chilean capital. Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel, located in the cultural and historical hub of Santiago. (B)

Welcome to the Atacama region, the perfect base from which to explore the many wonders of the Atacama Desert, the driest desert on Earth. Reach your luxurious retreat, set in the heart of the desert, the perfect base for a four night Special Stay. Explore the facilities of this boutique lodge and take a dip in the hot spring pools. Tonight sample delicious Chilean food and wine and discuss the activities available for the following days with the expedition team. (B/D)

Soak up the majesty of the desert and choose from a variety of activities each day to enjoy at your own pace. You will discover the ancient culture of Atacama, its wildlife, and the amazing natural landscapes of this vast terrain, from the brown of the Andean mountains and volcanoes, to the white of the salt flats and the green of the oases. Each evening the expedition team will share with you the excursions available for the following day during pre-dinner drinks. (B/L/D)

Continue to explore Atacama. Soak up the majesty of the desert and choose from a variety of activities each day to enjoy at your own pace. (B/L/D)

Continue to explore Atacama. Soak up the majesty of the desert and choose from a variety of activities each day to enjoy at your own pace. (B/L/D)

Savour the last excursions before flying to the Chilean capital of Santiago for a two-night stay (B)

A land of surprises, worldly sophistication and excitement, uncover the cosmopolitan city of Santiago on a guided tour. Every neighbourhood is unique and there is plenty to discover. Experience the spectacular sights and colourful culture of Chile’s capital city on your tour this morning and see the city’s legendary landmarks as you stroll through Santiago’s streets, visiting the picturesque Moneda Palace and the neoclassical Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral. Board the funicular to San Cristobal Hill and enjoy a panoramic view of the city below. Join your Tour Director for a delicious farewell dinner this evening. (B/D)

Say farewell as you transfer to the airport, taking away a lifetime of wonderful memories with you. The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)