Inca History, Colonial Highlights & the Panama Canal

14 nights from £2,881pp departing Tuesday 3rd Oct 2023

Your journey begins in Colón with an exciting transit of the famous Panama Canal from the Atlantic to the Pacific. From Panama City, we head south along the Pacific coast, visiting cities and resort towns in Ecuador, Peru and Chile. You’ll discover archaeological mysteries, Inca history, UNESCO sites, beautiful beaches, colourful wildlife and sumptuous cuisine.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	3rd03	OctOct	202323	Colón, Panama, embark on the MS Roald Amundsen		23:00
The provincial capital of Colón, beside the canal's Atlantic entrance, is named for the Spanish-language surname of Christopher Columbus, though the Americans called it Aspinwall in the 19th century.. The city was founded in 1850 by Americans working on the Panama railroad and named Aspinwall for one of the railway engineers. Following completion in 1855, Colon gained in importance, which was furthered by the plans for an isthmian canal. During the time of the French canal attempt, a fire in 1885 burned the city nearly to the ground and left thousands of people homeless. Colon was rebuilt in the architectural style then popular in France. Buildings from that era plus the ones constructed by Americans between 1904 and 1914 are still in use today, although the majority is on the verge of collapse. In addition to its importance as a port, Colon boasts the world’s second largest duty-free zone, known as Zona Libre, which is contained in a huge fortress like, walled-off area with giant international stores. However, most of the merchandise is sold in bulk to commercial businesses throughout the country.
	4th04	OctOct	202323	At Sea	05:00	17:00
	5th05	OctOct	202323	At Sea
	6th06	OctOct	202323	Manta, Ecuador	14:00	19:00
	7th07	OctOct	202323	Puerto Bolívar, Ecuador	10:00	21:00
	8th08	OctOct	202323	At Sea
	9th09	OctOct	202323	Salaverry, Peru	07:00	14:00
Located about nine hours north of Lima, Trujillo was founded in 1534 by the Spanish conquistador Pizarro. The attractive, colonial city retains much of its original charm with elegant casonas, or mansions, lining the streets. Nearby is Chan Chan, the ancient capital of the Chimú, a local Indian tribe who came under the rule of the Incas. The area has several other Chimú sites, some dating back about 1500 years. The region is also famous as the home of the Peruvian Paso horses, as well as excellent beaches offering world-class surfing and other water sports.
	10th10	OctOct	202323	Callao, Peru	11:00	22:00
When people discuss great South American cities, Lima is often overlooked. But Peru's capital can hold its own against its neighbors. It has an oceanfront setting, colonial-era splendor, sophisticated dining, and nonstop nightlife.It's true that the city—clogged with traffic and choked with fumes—doesn't make a good first impression, especially since the airport is in an industrial neighborhood. But wander around the regal edifices surrounding the Plaza de Armas, among the gnarled olive trees of San Isidro's Parque El Olivar, or along the winding lanes in the coastal community of Barranco, and you'll find yourself charmed.In 1535 Francisco Pizarro found the perfect place for the capital of Spain's colonial empire. On a natural port, the so-called Ciudad de los Reyes (City of Kings) allowed Spain to ship home all the gold the conquistador plundered from the Inca. Lima served as the capital of Spain's South American empire for 300 years, and it's safe to say that no other colonial city enjoyed such power and prestige during this period.When Peru declared its independence from Spain in 1821, the declaration was read in the square that Pizarro had so carefully designed. Many of the colonial-era buildings around the Plaza de Armas are standing today. Walk a few blocks in any direction for churches and elegant houses that reveal just how wealthy this city once was. But the poor state of most buildings attests to the fact that the country's wealthy families have moved to neighborhoods to the south over the past century.The walls that surrounded the city were demolished in 1870, making way for unprecedented growth. A former hacienda became the graceful residential neighborhood of San Isidro. In the early 1920s the construction of tree-lined Avenida Arequipa heralded the development of neighborhoods such as bustling Miraflores and bohemian Barranco.Almost a third of the country's population of 29 million lives in the metropolitan area, many of them in relatively poor conos: newer neighborhoods on the outskirts of the city. Most residents of those neighborhoods moved there from mountain villages during the political violence and poverty that marked the 1980s and ’90s, when crime increased dramatically. During the past decade the country has enjoyed peace and steady economic growth, which have been accompanied by many improvements and refurbishment in the city. Residents who used to steer clear of the historic center now stroll along its streets. And many travelers who once would have avoided the city altogether now plan to spend a day here and end up staying two or three.
	11th11	OctOct	202323	Paracas, Peru	08:00	17:00
The port city of Paracas is blessed with magnificent natural beauty and rich historical importance, offerings inviting beaches, ideal weather and pleasant scenery — a combination that draws visitors throughout the year. The shores of the Paracas Peninsula and waters of the bay teem with wildlife and have been declared a national reserve. Condors frequently can be seen gliding on the sea winds or perched on the cliffs; pink flamingos often rest here on their migratory flights. The complex interaction between wind and ocean, sun and land has transformed this region into a kind of lunarscape under an equatorial sun. Another reason for travellers to come to this area is its proximity to the famous and mysterious Nazca Lines. Visible from the air, these strange markings stretch for miles on a large barren plain and have bewildered archaeologists, historians and mathematicians since their discovery over a century ago. The earliest Andean people found shelter here. The Paracas culture was known for fine weavings in geometrical designs and vibrant colours, which have been preserved for thousands of years by the dry climate. Some of the finest examples are in museums in Lima. The town of Ica is Peru’s finest wine centre, as well as home to the fiery brandy-derived beverage known as Pisco. The surrounding area features oases with springs considered to have medicinal cures. Pier Information The ship is scheduled to dock at Port of Paracas, about a 45-minute drive from Ica. There are no passenger facilities at the pier. Shopping Shopping opportunities are limited; some souvenirs can be found at the museum in Ica. A bottle of Peruvian Pisco (grape brandy) makes a nice memento. The local currency is the nuevo sol. Cuisine Seafood is highly recommended, however, we recommend you dine only in the hotel restaurants in Peru’s southern region. Be sure to sample the national drink pisco sour and the area’s excellent wines. Always drink bottled water and avoid ice cubes. Other Sites The Bay of Paracas is sheltered by the Paracas peninsula, noted as one of the best marine reserves in the world. This is also a popular resort area thanks to its beautiful bay, beaches and dependable warm weather. Facilities include swimming pools, tennis courts, miniature golf and a good restaurant. For those who are looking for a little adventure dune buggies are available. Local boat trips can be booked to the Ballestas Islands but be aware that commentary is given in Spanish. Private arrangements for independent sightseeing are limited in this port as cars have to come from Lima. Please submit your request to the Tour Office early in the cruise.
	12th12	OctOct	202323	At Sea
	13th13	OctOct	202323	Arica, Chile	09:00	20:00
Arica boasts that it is "the land of the eternal spring," but its temperate climate and beaches are not the only reason to visit this small city. Relax for an hour or two on the Plaza 21 de Mayo. Walk to the pier and watch the pelicans and sea lions trail the fishing boats as the afternoon's catch comes in. Walk to the top of the Morro and imagine battles of days gone by, or wonder at the magnitude of modern shipping as Chilean goods leave the port below by container ship.Arica is gaining notice for its great surfing conditions, and in 2009 hosted the Rusty Arica Pro Surf Challenge, a qualifying event to the world series of surf.
	14th14	OctOct	202323	Iquique, Chile	07:00	13:00
	15th15	OctOct	202323	At Sea
	16th16	OctOct	202323	Coquimbo, Chile	13:00	18:00
The name Coquimbo is derived from a native Diaguita word meaning 'place of calm waters'. In fact, Charles Darwin had noted that the town was 'remarkable for nothing but its extreme quietness'. Since then, Coquimbo has developed into a bustling port and the region's major commercial and industrial centre from which minerals, fish products and fruits are exported. Used during the colonial period as a port for La Serena, Coquimbo attracted attention from English pirates, including Sir Francis Drake, who visited in 1578. Visitors enjoy strolling around the town, admiring some of the elaborate woodwork handcrafted on buildings by early British and American settlers. These wooden buildings are among Chile's most interesting historical structures. Out of town, the area offers some fine beaches in a desert-like setting. Coquimbo serves as a gateway to the popular resort town of La Serena and trips farther into the Elqui Valley, known as the production centre for Chile's national drink, pisco sour. The valley is also home to several international observatories that take advantage of the region's exceptional atmospheric conditions.
	17th17	OctOct	202323	Valparaiso, Chile, disembark the MS Roald Amundsen	10:00
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.

MS Roald Amundsen

Launch Year

2019

Tonnage

20,889

Capacity

530

Cabins

265

Accessible

Deck 3

Deck 4

Deck 5

Deck 6

Deck 7

Deck 8

Deck 9

Deck 10

Deck 11

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Arctic Superior - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
TY	Arctic Superior Cabin (Lower/middle decks)	£3,198	£3,198

Large accessible cabins without balcony. Lower/middle decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.

Arctic Superior - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
TT	Arctic Superior Cabin (Lower/middle decks)	£3,198	£3,198

Large cabins without balcony. Lower/middle decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.

Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
XTJ	Arctic Superior Cabin (with Balcony)	£3,428	£3,428

High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee. With limited view.

Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
XY	Arctic Superior Cabin (with Balcony)	£3,544	£3,544

Accessible cabin with balcony. High deck, broad balcony, double bed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.

Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
XTD	Arctic Superior Cabin (with Balcony)	£3,544	£3,544

Cabins on a high deck with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, double bed, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.

Arctic Superior - Outside cabin with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
XT	Arctic Superior Cabin (with Balcony)	£3,544	£3,544

High deck cabins with balcony. Spacious cabins, different sizes, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, kettle, tea and coffee.

Expedition Suite - Corner suite

Corner suite with large windows. Corner suite with large windows. Flexible sleeping arrangements, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker. Without balcony.

Expedition Suite - Corner suite with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
MC	Expedition Suites: Corner Suite (with Balcony)	£5,877	£5,877

Aft Corner Suite with private balcony and hot tub. Various sizes, large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofa, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker

Expedition Suite - Large suite with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
MD	Expedition Suites: Large Suite (with Balcony)	£4,811	£4,811

Large Corner Suite with private balcony, flexible sleeping arrangements∘, sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, espresso maker. Adapted for guests with wheelchair.

Expedition Suite - Suite with balcony

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
ME	Expedition Suite (with Balcony)	£4,235	£4,235

Suites with private balcony, different sizes, top-high decks, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.

Expedition Suite - XL suite

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
MB	Expedition Suites: XL Suite	£5,704	£5,704

Extra Large Corner Suite∘ without balcony. Aft corner suite with sofabed, flexible sleeping arrangements, large windows, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.

Expedition Suite - XL suite with balcony

Extra Large Corner Suite∘ with private balcony. Ship’s most spacious cabins with large windows, flexible sleeping arrangements, sofabed, TV, minibar, bathrobe, kettle, tea and coffee, espresso maker.

Polar Outside - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks

Cabins on middle decks. Double bed, TV.

Polar Outside - Outside cabin on lower/middle decks

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
RR	Polar Outside Cabin (Lower/middle deck)	£2,881	£2,881

Larger cabins on middle∘ decks. Most 20 square meters, flexible sleeping arrangements, some with sofabed, TV. Please note: This cabin is automatically made with a double bed. To order twin beds, please notify us at time of booking.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Aune Main Dining

Aune Main Dining, named after the Norwegian ship chandler and polar expedition supplier Tinus Aune.

Fredheim Restaurant

Based on the season's best ingredients, the chefs create either three-course dinners or lavish buffets. Being a coastal voyage, seafood dominates the menu, accompanied with fresh vegetables and delicately flavoured sauces. Each dinner ends with traditional desserts, like home-made cakes, puddings, berries or sorbet. Breakfast and lunch is served buffet style, while dinner is a set dinner.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Observation Deck

The ship has spacious outdoor areas. They are perfect vantage points to sit back, relax and watch the world go by. The observation deck is located on deck 11, where you will also find the outdoor gym and running track.

Explorer Lounge & Bar

After a day of exploring new destinations, guests can relax and rejuvenate in the elegant Explorer Lounge, located on deck 10.

Library

The ship has a small selection of books on different topics that is available to guests while on board. The library is located on deck 6.

Reception

The reception is located on deck 6.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Young Explorers’ Programme

Young Explorer is a complimentary, year-round programme on selected Hurtigruten ships for curious and active youth aged 7-13 years of age.

The children will learn about other cultures, the importance of nature in our daily lives, and the impact humans have on our delicate and beautiful planet. The Young Explorers’ Programme makes it easier to meet other children on board, bond over common activities and form lasting friendships.

A dedicated Young Explorer host and daily on-board activities

A dedicated host will plan and organise all the activities, which focus on fun and eco-friendly learning events, tailor-made to awaken a sense of adventure. All Young Explorers will get a starter pack containing a t-shirt and activity book at the beginning of their voyage. Activity book assignments are related to the different exploration topics.

There will be daily on-board activities related to different Young Explorers’ topics. Through the Young Explorers’ Programme, children will get a deeper understanding of nature, climate and culture. Depending on seasons and destinations, they will also be introduced to topics like wildlife, local food, environmental protection and famous explorers. This will give the children a sense of what it is like to be a real explorer in beautiful, untouched surroundings.

Beach clean-ups

During each Classic Round Voyage in the summer on the Norwegian Coast, we will do a beach clean-up, teach the kids about the fragile balance that exists in the natural environment, and what we can do to protect it. This is done in cooperation with the Hurtigruten Foundation and Keep Norway Beautiful. Please note that beach clean-ups can’t be conducted if it’s snowy or icy.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

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Holiday Summary

	14 nights aboard the MS Roald Amundsen
	Full-board dining included
	Wine, beer & soft drinks included with lunch & dinner
	Complimentary tea and coffee
	Range of included excursions
	No gratuities
	Complimentary Wi-Fi on board
	Engaging onboard activities and lectures
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*

	Oceanview	Balcony	Suite
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Mon 7th Oct 202407 Oct 24	3,346	3,981	4,918