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Design by Charmer
All pictures and videos of wildlife were taken with a professional zoom lens from a distance required under environmental laws, ensuring the safety of both the wildlife and the environment. The website (www.swanhellenic.com) is owned and operated by Swan Hellenic Travel Limited (20, Themistokli Dervi, Flat/Office 301, 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus)
© 2025 Swan Hellenic. All Rights Reserved
AECO
USTOA
CLI
ACTA
ACTA 2
IAATO
Cousteau
Virtuoso

Sign up for our newsletter

FOLLOW US
InstagramYouTubeFacebookTikTokLinkedIn

Swan Hellenic
Design by Charmer
AECO
USTOA
CLI
ACTA
ACTA 2
IAATO
Virtuoso
Cousteau
All pictures and videos of wildlife were taken with a professional zoom lens from a distance required under environmental laws, ensuring the safety of both the wildlife and the environment. The website (www.swanhellenic.com) is owned and operated by Swan Hellenic Travel Limited (20, Themistokli Dervi, Flat/Office 301, 1066, Nicosia, Cyprus)
© 2025 Swan Hellenic. All Rights Reserved
Last Minute

Cruise from Chile to Peru

Valparaiso→Callao (Lima)
30.03.26 - 08.04.26
Last Minute

Cruise from Chile to Peru

Valparaiso→Callao (Lima)
30.03.26 - 08.04.26
Book now
V0826033009SH VEGA
Ports7
Countries2
Nights9

Embark on a captivating journey on the luxury cruise "Cruise from Chile to Peru," starting in the vibrant city of Valparaíso, Chile, and concluding in the bustling port of Callao, Lima. This enchanting voyage will take you along the stunning coasts of South America, allowing you to explore the rich cultural tapestries and breathtaking landscapes of the region

Cruise Only

Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

Price on request
Cruise

Embark on a captivating journey on the luxury cruise "Cruise from Chile to Peru," starting in the vibrant city of Valparaíso, Chile, and concluding in the bustling port of Callao, Lima. This enchanting voyage will take you along the stunning coasts of South America, allowing you to explore the rich cultural tapestries and breathtaking landscapes of the region

V0826033009SH VEGA
Ports7
Countries2
Nights9

Cruise Only

Perfect for travellers who like peace of mind that everything is taken care of

Price on request
Cruise
Your selected stateroom
All meals onboard
Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
24-hour room service
Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
One selected shore excursion per port of call
All expedition landings
Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Gym, sauna, pool
24/7 self service laundry
Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep
In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot
Memory Package
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Charter flights
Group transfers
One night pre-cruise accommodation

Day-by-Day Itinerary

As you sail, you'll have the opportunity to visit several intriguing locations such as Coquimbo with its ancient petroglyphs, and the historic city of Antofagasta. Discover the Chili-Peruvian gateway, Matarani, for a taste of Arequipa's colonial elegance. Moreover, explore the remarkable Paracas Peninsula, where the mysterious Nazca Lines and vibrant Ballestas Islands await your discovery. During this luxury cruise, indulge in a variety of exciting activities. Unwind with a spa treatment on sea days, or refine your photography skills with expert guidance on board. Relish the breathtaking landscapes as you engage in shore excursions, from stargazing in the Atacama Desert to savoring the rich flavors of Arequipa in local vineyards. These experiences promise to enrich your journey from Chile to Peru, providing memories to treasure for a lifetime

Itinerary route map

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Day 1. Valparaiso

Day image 1
One of Chile’s oldest cities, Valparaíso is known for its steep hillsides overlooking the ocean as well as its historical funicular. UNESCO-listed, it's a maze of monuments, wonderful architecture, churches, cobblestone alleys, colourful houses and bustling plazas. The former home of Chile's most famous poet, Pablo Neruda, is open to the public in Isla Negra. Leaving Valparaiso, the fertile Casablanca Valley is known for Chilean white wines

Day 2. Coquimbo

Day image 1
Once Chile's gold and copper hub, colourful harbour town Coquimbo sits on the rocky Península Coquimbo hills. On top of the town is the Cross of the Third Millennium. The main square, La Serena lighthouse and views from La Serena viewpoint are among highlights. Ancient petroglyphs are found in the Limari Valley's Enchanted Valley park. The fertile Elqui Valley produces papayas, wine grapes for Chile's famed Pisco

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Taste Of Coquimbo

4 hrs 10 min
This tour seamlessly blends regional history, iconic architecture, and authentic local flavours. Leaving the port along the costal road, our first stop is the Monumental Lighthouse of La Serena (Faro Monumental de La Serena). This magnificent structure, built between 1950 and 1951 as a key part of the "Plan Serena" initiative, stands as an architectural symbol and a significant landmark on the Chilean National Heritage List. It provides a stunning, picture-perfect backdrop as we drive past. Next, we dive into the region's agricultural heart with a visit to a renowned local facility specializing in Chilean Papaya production. Here, you will gain comprehensive knowledge of the fruit's entire process, from cultivation and harvesting to the sophisticated processing techniques. The visit culminates in a delightful tasting experience featuring a variety of high-quality, artisanal products derived from the papaya. Our cultural immersion continues at Pueblito Peñuelas, a vibrant, architecturally traditional marketplace that serves as a bustling hub for local artisans and regional entrepreneurship. We will celebrate the local spirit here with an exclusive tasting of handcrafted Pisco, the traditional regional spirit. The tour concludes with an exploration of history at Fuerte Lambert, a significant coastal fortification. Situated atop Castillo del Carmen Hill in the area known as Punta Pelícanos, the fort's origins trace back to 1865, with a major reconstruction in 1879 to defend the port during the War of the Pacific. Now beautifully restored, this key historical and cultural site offers a truly panoramic viewpoint over Coquimbo Bay and the vast Pacific Ocean, named for the pelican-inhabited islet just offshore.

Day 3. Day at sea

Day image 1
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 4. Antofagasta

Day image 1
Steeped in culture on Chile's pristine Pacific coast, Antofagasta has a turbulent history. It was once part of Bolivia until Chile's 1883 War of the Pacific victory reshaped borders, giving Chile the city's horseshoe bay while landlocked Bolivia. Initially a prosperous mining hub, today Antofagasta draws visitors to its coastal beauty and proximity to Atacama Desert highlights like moonscape salt flats, lagoons and vast deserts

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Highlights of Antofagasta

4 hours
Tour Antofagasta, a mining town that rose from the desert through nitrate industries. Visit the 1888 Huanchaca Ruins, a former silver smeltery, and the historic district with Victorian buildings and a Big Ben-replica clock tower. Enjoy the Plaza de Armas, then take in stunning views of the Trópico de Capricornio Monument and La Portada natural arch. End at the fishing wharf, watching for sea lions and pelicans, and browse the fishing market.
Activity image 1
Optional

Sight in the Atacama Desert with Pachamama Ceremony

14 hrs 45 min
Immerse yourself in the Atacama Desert, the world’s driest desert. Begin in San Pedro de Atacama picturesque adobe village. Continue to Atacama Salt Flat and Chaxa Lagoon, with stark desert landscape and pink flamingos. At Valle de la Luna, marvel at its otherworldly landscapes before enjoying wine and cheese at Kari Viewpoint, with an indigenous ritual to Pachamama. End with stargazing under the vast Atacama sky, guided by an expert astronomer.
Activity image 1
Optional

Sunset and Stars

4 hours
Experience a mesmerising sunset and starry night sky in the Atacama Desert, the driest in the world. Head south along the coast offering a view of Antofagasta, before ascending to the desert plateau. Pause at the Caleta del Cobre viewpoint for a potential Pacific sunset. Engage in stargazing under clear skies with an expert, identifying constellations and celestial bodies. End the evening with warm wine, music and appetisers around the fire.
Activity image 1
Optional

Nitrate and Desert

6 hours
Travel back in time at Baquedano railway village exploring its charming streets and historic train station with vintage machinery and steam wagons. Continue to Chile's largest ghost town, Oficina Chacabuco, witnessing the deserted streets and abandoned buildings of the nitrate industry's golden era. Experience the Tropic of Capricorn and stop for breathtaking views of La Portada, an island with unique arch-like rock formations, before returning.

Day 5. Iquique

Day image 1
Iquique, a former saltpetre mining town, has become a premier Chilean beach resort with excellent surf, long sandy beaches, and favourable weather. The town's impressive 19th-century Georgian architecture includes Astoreca Palace, now a hotel. Chic street-side cafes, bars, and restaurants enhance the dining scene. Nearby, Humberstone, a nitrate town, is now a ghost town, a remnant of the once-prosperous saltpetre mining industry in the region

Day 6. Arica

Day image 1
Bordering the Atacama, the world’s driest desert, Arica – Chile’s northernmost city – features an elegant cathedral designed by Gustave Eiffel and an archaeological museum showcasing some of the world’s oldest mummies. Nearby, the Atacama boasts the planet’s tallest sand dunes. Birds like the Chilean flamingo and Andean condor inhabit the stark yet beautiful desert landscape. The picturesque Pomerape and Parinacota volcanoes rise majestically across the shimmering waters of Chungara Lake

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Valley Explorer – Arica To Poconchile By Train

5 hours
Enjoy unforgettable joorney on The Arica – La Paz railway that was inaugurated in 1913. We will go from the Chinchorro station in Arica to the town of Poconchile in the Lluta Valley, 40 km from Arica and at an altitude of 540 meters above sea level. The train consists of 1 diesel locomotive in exclusive service and 1 or 2 passenger cars. You can admire a folk dances, traditional music, songs and handicrafts in the esplanade of the church of Poconchile. Also taste a Welcome cocktail (pisco sour).
Activity image 1
Optional

Arica & Ancient cultures

6.5 hours
Trace ancient footsteps and explore Chilean ancestry in some of Arica's most beautiful sites. Visit Lluta Valley’s geoglyphs, the 17th-century town of Poconchile, and ascend to the Altiplano for a Pachamama Ceremony and Yatiri ritual. At the museum, learn about Chinchorro culture and unique burial practices, including mummification dating back to 5000 BC, with Chinchorro mummies older than Egyptian ones offering insights into ancient society.
Activity image 1
Optional

LLuta River Wetland & Local Culture

3.5 hours
Stroll sandy paths through Lluta River Wetland, an ecosystem home to 130 bird species, including the rare Peruvian thick-knee and white-backed stilt. Travel the scenic Coastal Road before visiting El Morro de Arica, a historic Pacific War site and Chilean National Monument, for stunning city, ocean and port views with a Mango Sour in hand. Explore the lively fruit and veg market, known for fresh Azapa and Lluta Valley produce, before returning

Day 7. Matarani

Day image 1
The port of Matarani is the gateway to Arequipa, Peru's White City, with the still-active El Misti volcano looming. Arequipa's colonial buildings carved from white volcanic sillar rock reflect the influence of volcanism on the landscape. Other landmarks include Inca ceremonial sites and the Museo Santuarios displaying the famous mummy of a girl, Juanita. Santa Catalina Convent, guarded by high walls, is a 16th century citadel within the city

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

A Day Exploring Arequipa

10.5 hours
Explore Arequipa, the ‘White City’ of Peru, a UNESCO gem famed for its white lava sillar stone architecture. Begin with stunning views at Carmen Alto and Yanahuara, then explore the Main Square and its 19th-century Cathedral, rich with gold and silver treasures. Visit La Compañía Church, showcasing Jesuit art, and the historic Santa Catalina Convent, a serene cloister frozen in time. Enjoy a folkloric lunch before the 2.5-hour return to Matarani.
Activity image 1
Optional

Mejia Lagoons

4 hours
Keep your binoculars handy on this trip to the Mejia Lagoons National Sanctuary on Arequipa’s coast, separated from the ocean by a large fringe of beaches and sandy pits. A birdwatcher’s paradise, these lagoons offer a unique habitat of varying salinity, salt marshes, hidden salt mines and swaying reeds. Witness 210 bird species - 72 permanent residents, 62 regular visitors and 24 sporadic guests from elegant herons to colourful flamingos.
Activity image 1
Optional

Mollendo & Cooking demonstration

5 hrs 35 min
Discover Peru's coastal charm in Mollendo with an entertaining cooking lesson on two classic dishes - pisco sours and ceviche. After mastering the preparations and flavours, take a scenic stroll around this charming small city overlooking the Pacific. Admire the ocean views and hidden beaches that make Mollendo so alluring. Cap off your visit with a delicious local lunch at a restaurant accompanied by dances that capture the city's spirit.

Day 8. Day at sea

Day image 1
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers

Day 9. General San Martin

Day image 1
The port of General San Martin serves as a gateway to the wonders of Peru's Paracas Peninsula. From here, guests can take flights over the Nazca Lines to witness geometric designs and mysterious geoglyphs. Nearby Paracas and Pisco offer speedboat excursions to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and vineyard visits discovering the Pisco-making process. In Tambo Colorado, well-preserved Inca ruins offer a glimpse into the lives of Inca nobility

Activities:

Activity image 1
Included

Ballestas Island

3 hrs 50 min
Feel the wind in your hair on this 2-hour speedboat tour circling the Ballestas Islands. These three rocky islands are a wildlife haven teeming with diverse species, such as Humboldt penguins, Guanay cormorants and sea lions. Learn about guano, or “white gold," harvested for fertiliser. Sit back and enjoy views of Paracas Bay and the Peninsula, and photograph the Paracas Candelabra Geoglyph, a centuries-old mystery etched into the landscape
Activity image 1
Optional

Flying Over Nazca Lines

4 hrs 10 min
Soar over the Peruvian desert and experience one of the world’s greatest archaeological mysteries. Join an unforgettable 90-minute flight from Pisco Port to the Nazca Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Witness the breathtaking, unexplained earth art creations sprawling across the desert floor and marvel at the breathtaking, unexplained geoglyphs, from animal shapes like dogs and monkeys to intricate geometric designs. Advance booking required.
Activity image 1
Optional

Paracas National Reserve

2.5 hours
Reveal the ancient heart and timeless stories of Peru's coast at Paracas National Reserve. Start at the Interpretation Center, where prehistoric species, geological evolution and cultural history come to life through visuals and interactive exhibits. Then embark on a desert odyssey to Red Beach, with its striking sands, and Yumaque Beach, a tranquil haven, culminating at the once-majestic "La Catedral" rock formation shaped by time.

Day 10. Callao (Lima)

Day image 1
Lima, Peru's capital, sits between the Pacific Ocean and Andes Mountains with the seaport of Callao. The bustling city’s enowned culinary scene features a local favourite, ceviche. The UNESCO World Heritage historic centre features colonial-era architecture including Plaza Mayor and San Francisco Monastery. Nearby, the clay ruins of ceremonial pyramids, Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca, offer a glimpse of the Inca civilization's history

Endless ways to spend your day

There’s no such thing as a typical day with Swan Hellenic. We bring you endless possibilities to tailor every moment to your interests and mood, so you’ll always have your dream day on board.

Staterooms

Bright and spacious staterooms — your cozy home away from home.

Oceanview - 1
Oceanview - 2
Oceanview - 3
Oceanview - 4

Oceanview

20 m²
Price on request

Features

  • Two single beds or a double bed
  • Bedroom with living room area
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious bathroom
Book now
Balcony - 1
Balcony - 2
Balcony - 3
Balcony - 4
Balcony - 5

Balcony

25 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 5 m² private balcony
  • Two single beds or a double bed
  • Bedroom with living room area
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious bathroom
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Junior Suite - 1
Junior Suite - 2
Junior Suite - 3

Junior Suite

32-36 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 6 m² private balcony
  • King size bed
  • Separate living room area
  • Luxurious en-suite bathroom
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Suite - 1
Suite - 2
Suite - 3
Suite - 4
Suite - 5
Suite - 6
Suite - 7

Suite

41 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 5-10 m² private balcony
  • King size bed
  • Separate living room
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Book now
Premium Suite - 1
Premium Suite - 2
Premium Suite - 3
Premium Suite - 4
Premium Suite - 5
Premium Suite - 6

Premium Suite

41 m²
Price on request

Features

  • 8-12 m² private balcony
  • King size bed
  • Separate living room
  • Flame-effect fireplace
  • Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
  • Walk-in wardrobe
Book now

Expedition Highlights

A destination of big nature and strong stories, from remote wildlife coasts to landmark landscapes and cultures shaped by ocean routes.

The Nazca Mystery 1

The Nazca Mystery

Fly over the Nazca Lines, one of the most mysterious shapes and lines on earth.

Atacama Desert 1

Atacama Desert

Visit the high-altitude Atacama Desert plateau filled with turquoise lagoons, llama-filled plains and sizzling salt flats.

The White City of Arequipa 1
Arequipa

The White City of Arequipa

Explore Peru’s white city of Arequipa and its renowned colonial architectural masterpiece, the Santa Catalina Convent.

Expert-led Talks 1

Expert-led Talks

Learn more about this isolated polar region from our on board team of experts.

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Onboard Experts & Lecturers

Ralf Klug

With a degree in Hotel Management alongside a wealth of first-hand hotel and hospitality experience, Ralf is a highly accomplished dive instructor, Zodiac driver and Antarctica field guide. Originally from Germany, his career has taken him the world over, from luxury resorts across Europe and the Caribbean to the wilds of Antarctica and many more in between. His unique skillset has since led him to life as an experienced, passionate and knowledgeable cruise expedition guide

Sue Walsh

Sue has travelled widely watching wildlife from the poles to the equator on all seven continents. She has been fascinated by all aspects of the natural world since studying geology back in the seventies. She is also an accredited bird ringer/bander which has allowed her to travel and ring birds in different countries. She has been lecturing on cruise ships since 2014, offering a range of informative talks on regional wildlife.

Juan Jose Apestegui

Born in the coffee country of Costa Rica, Juan José “JJ” Apéstegui turned a fascination with nature into a lifelong calling. With over 30 years of experience as a naturalist and Expedition Leader, JJ has travelled extensively through the Americas, Europe, Africa, the polar regions and beyond, broadening his expertise across ecosystems and continents. A passionate natural historian with a particular fondness for birds, he brings deep insight into both environmental and cultural encounters. Fluent in Spanish, English and French, JJ’s storytelling style is as engaging as the landscapes he explores

SH Vega at a glance

Boutique Cruising 1

Boutique Cruising

SH Vega’s bespoke interiors are spacious and tasteful, with plush furnishing, and floor-toceiling windows that give you unobstructed views of some of the world’s most incredible landscapes. Bold clean lines blend with wood, metal and natural fabrics to create welcoming spaces.

Culinary Excellence 1

Culinary Excellence

Our top chefs have come together to create a unique gastronomic experience, with creative Italian and Asian fusion dishes, and diverse menus of exceptional quality.

Beauty & Spa 1

Beauty & Spa

Choose from one of the many beauty and wellness treatments at our Balinese spa, including hot stone and bamboo massages, and pampering body care.

Fitness & Sauna 1

Fitness & Sauna

Our state-of-the-art gym has everything you’ll need for an invigorating workout, from cardio machines to stretch bands and free weights. Enjoy sessions with personal trainers and relax in sauna with a view.

Onboard Discoveries 1

Onboard Discoveries

Immerse yourself in the nature, history and culture of every locale you visit on your cruise with special briefings, lectures and presentations. Our experienced expedition guides are sure to make your time on board both fascinating and informative.

Heated Outdoor Pool 1

Heated Outdoor Pool

Our heated infinity pool was designed for you to unwind after a busy day, and immerse yourself in the inspiring scenery.

Personal Service 1

Personal Service

Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality. Our warm and welcoming crew aim to please, and nothing more than to give you the best experience possible.

Your Home Away from Home 1

Your Home Away from Home

Relax in the understated elegance of your stateroom or suite. A sophisticated blend of muted tones, natural textures and intuitive technology, the Scandi-inspired design seamlessly blends the natural world with exceptional comforts.