Best of South America with Amazon Cruise

Glamorous and gritty, Buenos Aires is two cities in one. What makes Argentina’s capital so fascinating is its dual heritage—part European, part Latin American. Plaza de Mayo resembles a grand square in Madrid, and the ornate Teatro Colón would not be out of place in Vienna. But you’ll know you’re in South America by the leather shoes for sale on cobbled streets and impromptu parades of triumphant soccer fans. Limited-production wines, juicy steaks, and ice cream in countless flavors are among the old-world imports the city has perfected.

Fly to Santiago, wedged between the snow-capped Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. On arrival, we’ll transfer you to your hotel. Tonight, delight in a delicious dinner.

This morning, you’ll set off on a guided discovery of the bustling Chilean capital. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before choosing where to dine this evening.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Liguria Lastarria

Dive into rich Chilean flavours at Liguria Lastarria. Experience tantalising flavours with a wide array of dishes on the menu, including traditional empanadas, Chilean-style tuna tartare, and pichanga, accompanied by cocktails, wine and beer.

Freedom of Choice Dining – Ambrosia

Chef Carolina Bazán brings dishes to life with a menu that blends the delectable flavours of Chilean and French cuisine, including a sumptuous ceviche. Enjoy the perfect fusion of elegant comfort food and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.

Valparaíso’s dramatic topography—45 cerros, or hills, overlooking the ocean—requires the use of winding pathways and wooden ascensores (funiculars) to get up many of the grades. The slopes are covered by candy-color houses—there are almost no apartments in the city—most of which have exteriors of corrugated metal peeled from shipping containers decades ago. Valparaíso has served as Santiago’s port for centuries. Before the Panama Canal opened, Valparaíso was the busiest port in South America. Harsh realities—changing trade routes, industrial decline—have diminished its importance, but it remains Chile’s principal port. Most shops, banks, restaurants, bars, and other businesses cluster along the handful of streets called El Plan (the flat area) that are closest to the shoreline. Porteños (which means “the residents of the port”) live in the surrounding hills in an undulating array of colorful abodes. At the top of any of the dozens of stairways, the paseos (promenades) have spectacular views; many are named after prominent Yugoslavian, Basque, and German immigrants. Neighborhoods are named for the hills they cover. With the jumble of power lines overhead and the hundreds of buses that slow down—but never completely stop—to pick up agile riders, it’s hard to forget you’re in a city. Still, walking is the best way to experience Valparaíso. Be careful where you step, though—locals aren’t very conscientious about curbing their dogs.

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores’ upscale vibe to Barranco’s bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima’s bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

Lima, Peru, the vibrant capital, blends colonial charm with modern dynamism. Known for its rich history, the city showcases splendid architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled along the Pacific coast, Lima boasts scenic ocean views, exquisite cuisine, and lively cultural scenes. Its diverse neighborhoods, from Miraflores’ upscale vibe to Barranco’s bohemian allure, offer unique experiences. Renowned museums, bustling markets, and the iconic Huaca Pucllana ruins highlight its heritage. Lima’s bustling streets and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it a captivating destination for travelers.

After breakfast today, be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Cusco, the pre-Columbian Inca capital of Peru. From here, travel to the heart of the Sacred Valley for your Signature Experience before arriving at your hotel.

Signature Experience – Hacienda Sarapampa Lunch

Visit a working corn farm and savour a delicious farm-to-table lunch, immersing yourself in the heart of local life and the rich traditions of Andean cuisine.

Travel to a small community tucked away in the Sacred Valley hillside, where you’ll enjoy a Signature Experience. Continue exploring the Sacred Valley with a guide, including another Signature Experience which takes you to the Salt Mines of Maras and Moray terraces. In the evening, savour a delectable dinner at your hotel.

Signature Experience – Traditional Weaving Demonstration

Be welcomed by the local Misminay community before watching a traditional weaving demonstration. Discover how Peru’s colourful textiles are created by hand as you learn about the craft, which has been passed down through generations. Then, enjoy a traditional lunch with views of the Andes mountains and surrounding valleys.

Signature Experience – Salt Mines of Maras and Moray Terraces

See the glistening salt pools spill over the terraced slopes at the World Heritage-listed Salt Mines of Maras. Afterwards, visit the fascinating Incan circular terraces at the Moray archaeological site. 

Today, embark on an incredible rail journey to Aguas Calientes during your Signature Experience. Upon arrival, enjoy a full immersion into the natural setting and incredible heritage of Machu Picchu as you set off on a locally guided exploration of the Lost City of the Incas, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. This evening, enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Signature Experience – Inca Rail First Class Machu Picchu Train

Travel on Inca Rail’s First Class Machu Picchu Train and journey through forested landscapes to the township of Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Savour a gourmet Andean-inspired lunch on board while taking in the magnificent views that unfold before you.

This morning, enjoy free time to explore the town of Aguas Calientes. Later, board the PeruRail Vistadome train for your return trip to the Sacred Valley, where you’ll savour lunch at a local restaurant on arrival. Afterwards, transfer by coach to Cusco and settle into your hotel, primely located in the heart of this historic city.

A guided discovery of Cusco takes you to Plaza de Armas, situated in the historic centre of the city. This afternoon, delve into Peruvian culture with an included Freedom of Choice activity. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at MAP Café, located in the central courtyard of the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art.

Freedom of Choice – Peruvian Cooking Class

Indulge in the vibrant flavours of Peru with a hands-on cooking class, discovering traditional dishes and ingredients.

Freedom of Choice – Sacsayhuamán Citadel Visit

Explore the 15th‑century Incan citadel of Sacsayhuamán, famed for its dry‑stone walls.

Board an early flight via Lima to Iquitos, gateway to the Peruvian Amazon. On arrival, you’ll be met by crew from Delfin III and travel by coach deeper into the rainforest towards the river. Along the way, enjoy insightful commentary on the region, accompanied by a boxed lunch. Reaching Nauta, a small tender boat will take you to your boutique vessel. Once on board, meet the rest of your crew, including the experienced naturalist guides who will reveal the secrets of the rainforest and its inhabitants during your daily activities. After time to settle into your cabin, set out late this afternoon on a skiff exploration along the Marañón River, keeping watch for forest wildlife as dusk descends. Back on board, savour a delicious three-course dinner, expertly prepared by the ship’s chefs.

This morning, gain insight into life in the rainforest as you meet a local shaman and discover how communities use native plants for traditional medicine. Learn about the path to becoming a shaman and how they draw their knowledge from the rainforest.

After lunch, unwind on board before setting out by kayak along a calmer tributary, offering a different perspective of the river and its lush surrounds. As you paddle past small riverside communities nestled within the forest, keep watch for birdlife overhead, monkeys in the canopy, and perhaps even the elusive pink river dolphin gliding through nearby waters.

Join your naturalist guide for a skiff excursion along Nauta Caño, with the chance to fish and spot wildlife, including piranhas. Later, visit a local community and meet residents who will share insights into daily life, demonstrating how forest resources are used for food and household items — from bananas transformed into a sweet, nourishing drink to palm stems woven into baskets and bags.

This afternoon, set out on a rainforest trail walk at Nauta Caño, gaining a closer understanding of the Amazon’s intricate ecosystem. Keep watch for frogs, snakes and a fascinating array of insects that thrive in this unique environment. Nearby lies the confluence of the Marañón and Ucayali rivers. On your skiff, pause to take in this remarkable meeting of waters, widely regarded as the birthplace of the mighty Amazon River.

Iquitos, Peru, the largest city in the Amazon rainforest, is a vibrant gateway to lush jungles and winding rivers. Accessible only by boat or air, it offers unique Amazonian experiences, from wildlife tours to river cruises. The city’s bustling markets, such as Belén Market, showcase exotic produce and local crafts. Iquitos blends colonial architecture with colorful street life, reflecting its rich history and culture. Surrounded by dense rainforest, it is a hub for eco-tourism and adventure, making Iquitos a captivating destination for explorers.