CHILE SHORE EXCURSIONS

1.-Arica city tour (4 Hrs.)Visiting this historic and cultural city, you start in the center of town to see interesting architecture and national monuments such as the St. Mark’s Cathedral and the ex Customs Building, both built by Eiffel.

Then travel along the southern coast to see the traditional beaches of El Laucho and La Lisera. In La Lisera, surrounded by palm trees, you can enjoy a synthesis of the evolutionary history of Arica, displayed in painted panels that reveal our past. Continue on to the site of the fishing industry, the driving force of the local economy, before heading towards the Azapa Valley. In the valley you will see the beautiful panels of Geoglyphs of Cerro Sombrero and Cerro Sagrado.

Visit the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum to see a synthesized display of the socio-cultural development of the central southern area of the Andes. The museum’s main feature the display of the Mummies of the Chinchorro culture, examples of a complex mummification process dating back as much as 10,000 years, making them the world’s oldest. We’ll visit the local Artisan’s Village (souvenir) and finally visit the top of the historic Morro de Arica, for a beautiful view over the city and your ship before returning to port.

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2.- Arica and Ancient Cultures (7 Hrs.)Begin your circuit with a brief visit to the town center, then on to the Lluta River estuary and a visit to an area declared a nature sanctuary due to the large number and variety of birds to be found there.

Enter the Lluta Valley, following the international highway that leads to La Paz, Bolivia. A stop will be made along the way to see examples of Geoglyphs, made hundreds of years ago by the native people. On arrival at the village of Poconchile, an interesting settlement from the 8th century and where you’ll visit the church, the village’s main attraction. On descending into the Azapa Valley, the contrast between the desert and the fertile valley stands out in all its beauty.

You’ll visit the village of San Miguel where the main attractions are its church and cemetery, and the San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological Museum, an amazing and synthesized display of the socio-cultural development of the central southern area of the Andes. The museum’s main attractions are the World’s Oldest Examples of Mummification, the Chinchorro people.

After lunch (box-lunch) you’ll visit the local artisans village for souvenirs and the Fruit Markets with a chance to see the fruit and vegetables of the area as well as trying the traditional Azapa olives before returning to the port.

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COQUIMBO (LA SERENA) SHORE EXCURSIONS

1.-Coquimbo and La Serena city tour (4 Hrs.)Driving through downtown Coquimbo, you will pass the Plaza de Armas or main square, where you will see a mix of colonial and modern architecture. Continue on to La Herradura. During a brief stop at this seaside resort, your guide will regale you with legends of pirates and corsairs. Along the coast, you will see the old lighthouse, symbol of La Serena.

Then make your way down the lovely tree-lined Francisco de Aguirre Avenue, stopping at the Archaeological Museum, which houses the most complete collection of pre-colonial artifacts from this region.

There is a splendid display of Diaguita pottery as well as an original Moai from Easter Island. A short walk from the museum brings you to La Recova Market, where you will have some free time to browse among handicrafts, pottery, papaya products, semi-precious stones and alpaca wool handicrafts. Your next stop is La Serena University. Enjoy a panoramic view of the city and Coquimbo Bay before returning to the pier.

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2.-Vicuña & Elqui Valley (7 Hrs)Journey to Elqui Valley, whose geography is unique in all the world. This narrow valley is a fertile strip of land in the middle of a desert plateau, irrigated by Elqui River. Typical Andean villages such as Algarrobito, El Molle and El Tambo line your route. You'll see the grapes that are cultivated to produce a typical Chilean liquor called "Pisco". You'll stop in the picturesque Vicuña, just 40 miles from La Serena, where literary Nobel Prize-winner Gabriela Mistral was born.

Sights of interest include the main square, Bauer Tower (old city hall), Vicuña's church and the Gabriela Mistral Museum. Finally, you'll visit a National Drink Distillery Factory to learn about the making of Pisco.

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3. Isla Damas

This place is located in the section of Chañaral de Aceituno, with a surface area that covers 859 Hectares, spread over three islands: Chañaral de Aceituno, Isla Damas and Isla Choros.

This is a natural reserve for bottle-necked dolphins that swim around the formation of islands. It is an area of extreme natural beauty – thanks to the presence of these wonderful creatures.

These islands are also noted for other species of flora and fauna found there, among them, those native to the flowering desert that also covers this zone, and the Humboldt Penguin, that gives its name to this place. At the reserve you can take part in activities such as excursions, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and beach activities.

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SANTIAGO SHORE EXCURSIONS

1.- Full day Santiago, Viña del Mar and Valparaíso (7 Hrs.)Transfer from Santiago to the ship

This tour is ideal for passengers starting their cruise in this port and who want a a transfer from their Santiago hotel/airport to the ship, plus an overview tour of all major attractions -- Santiago, Vina del Mar, and Valparaiso.

Your guide will pick you up at your Santiago hotel or airport to begin the tour of the capital city. Visit the downtown area, including the Plaza de Armas, the Cathedral, the Presidential House "La Moneda" and Constitution Square. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant (at own expense).

Continue with a panoramic journey through Vina del Mar, also known as the Garden City. Pass by the floral clock, Libertad Avenue, Las Salinas and several hilltop palaces -- the Brunet Castle (now in the possession of the Chilean police force) and the Palacio Presidencial, the Chilean President's summer residence, perched on top of Castillo Hill with its magnificent hillside gardens.

In Valparaiso, you’ll pass through the National Congress building, located in the main commercial Avenue “Pedro Montt”; you also go through the city parks and plazas, such as Italia, De La Victoria, and Sotomayor. We make a stop at Paseo 21 de Mayo, where we take a stroll through what is known as one of the most beautiful view points and promenades of the city. Another great part of the tour is the walk through the “Pleasant Hill Historical District”, which we access via Funicular Lift (This is not a very long walk).

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2.-Full day Santiago, Viña del Mar, Valparaiso and wine tasting in Casablanca Valley (8 Hrs.)Transfer from Santiago to the Ship

This tour is ideal for passengers beginning their journey in the port of Valparaíso, and who want a transfer to the ship from their Santiago hotel or to the airport, plus an overview tour of all major attractions – Santiago, Valparaiso, Viña del Mar and the Casablanca Valley.

In Santiago, you will visit the historical downtown area, where you’ll see the Presidential Palace "La Moneda", as well as the Constitutional Square. Here, you’ll also see the former National Congress building, along with the Justice Palace, en route to the impressive Plaza de Armas (Main Square). At this square, you can find the Cathedral; the former Governor’s Palace, which is now the Main Post Office; the National History Museum, and the former prison, now the city hall.

After driving out of Santiago, you’ll be taken to a winery in Casablanca, which is a cool climate valley, known for their great Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah (They do, however, add other red varieties of their wine tastings, which come from warm climates, like Maule, Colchagua, Cachapoal, Curicó, Limarí, Aconcagua and Maipo).

You are then taken through Viña del Mar, where you’ll see the famous “Garden Clock”, along with the Municipal Casino, Quinta Vergara, and the gorgeous coastal views that the city has to offer.

In Valparaiso, you’ll pass through the National Congress building, located in the main commercial Avenue “Pedro Montt”; you also go through the city parks and plazas, such as Italia, De La Victoria, and Sotomayor. We make a stop at Paseo 21 de Mayo, where we take a stroll through what is known as one of the most beautiful view points and promenades of the city. Another great part of the tour is the walk through the “Pleasant Hill Historical District”, which we access via Funicular Lift (This is not a very long walk). The full day tour ends with the drop off at the ship or Valparaiso/Vina del Mar hotel.

* This tour includes a funicular ride and an hour and a half walking tour through the hills of Valparaíso.

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For wine tours in Santiago please click in the following link: SANTIAGO WINE TOURS

For more tours in Santiago please click in the following link: SANTIAGO TOURS

VALPARAÍSO SHORE EXCURSIONS

1.-Full day Valparaiso, Viña del Mar and Santiago (8 Hrs.)Transfer from Ship to Santiago

This tour is ideal for passengers ending their journey in the port of Valparaíso, and who want a transfer from the ship to their Santiago hotel or to the airport, plus an overview tour of all major attractions – Valparaiso and Vina del Mar.

The tour begins with a drive through Valparaiso, passing the National Congress building, located in the main commercial Avenue “Pedro Montt”; you also go through the city parks and plazas, such as Italia, De La Victoria, and Sotomayor. After a funicular ride you will be taken to Cerro Alegre, and Cerro Concepción, two of the main touristic hills in the city.

We then make our way to Viña del Mar, you’ll see the famous “Garden Clock”, as well as the Municipal Casino, the “Quinta Vergara” (where the city’s founding family had their Estate), and the gorgeous coastal views that the city has to offer.

After an optional stop for lunch, you’ll be taken to Santiago.

In Santiago, you will visit the historical downtown area, where you’ll see the Presidential Palace "La Moneda", as well as the Constitutional Square. Here, you’ll also see the former National Congress building, along with the Justice Palace, en route to the impressive Plaza de Armas (Main Square). At this square, you can find the Cathedral; the former Governor’s Palace, which is now the Main Post Office; the National History Museum, and the former prison, now the city hall. We will continue, in order to see the “Mercado Central”, followed by Parque Forestal; Barrio Bellas Artes; the Santa Lucia Hill, which is where Santiago was founded in 1541 If time allows, you’ll also see Barrio Bellavista, which is a cheek, colorful artist colony.

* This tour includes a funicular ride and an hour and a half walking tour through the hills of Valparaíso.

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2.-Full day Valparaiso, Viña del Mar, Santiago and wine tasting in Casablanca (8 Hrs.)Transfer from Ship to Santiago

This tour is ideal for passengers ending their journey in the port of Valparaíso, and who want a transfer from the ship to their Santiago hotel or to the airport, plus an overview tour of all major attractions – Valparaiso, Vina del Mar, the Casablanca Valley, and Santiago.

The tour begins with a drive through Valparaiso, passing the National Congress building, located in the main commercial Avenue “Pedro Montt”; you also go through the city parks and plazas, such as Italia, De La Victoria, and Sotomayor. After a funicular ride you will be taken to Cerro Alegre, and Cerro Concepción, two of the main touristic hills in the city.

We then make our way to Viña del Mar, you’ll see the famous “Garden Clock”, as well as the Municipal Casino, the “Quinta Vergara” (where the city’s founding family had their Estate), and the gorgeous coastal views that the city has to offer.

After an optional stop for lunch, you’ll be taken to a winery in Casablanca, which is a cool climate valley, known for their great Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah.

In Santiago, you will visit the historical downtown area, where you’ll see the Presidential Palace "La Moneda", as well as the Constitutional Square. Here, you’ll also see the former National Congress building, along with the Justice Palace, en route to the impressive Plaza de Armas (Main Square). At this square, you can find the Cathedral; the former Governor’s Palace, which is now the Main Post Office; the National History Museum, and the former prison, now the city hall. We will continue, in order to see the “Mercado Central”, followed by Parque Forestal; Barrio Bellas Artes; the Santa Lucia Hill, which is where Santiago was founded in 1541 If time allows, you’ll also see Barrio Bellavista, which is a cheek, colorful artist colony.

* This tour includes a funicular ride and an hour and a half walking tour through the hills of Valparaíso.

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3.-Highlights of Valparaiso and Viña del Mar (4 Hrs.)

Valparaiso is truly a wonderful city. If you’re an active person who likes to walk around and/or take a great deal of pictures, then this is the perfect place for you.

There are many activities you can carry out; there are all types of fun cultural centers, museums, and parks where you can sit and watch people carry out their everyday activities – even just walking through the hills is a fantastic experience.

In this tour, we start out by visiting the most important view points and promenades of the city, such as 21 De Mayo, Gervasoni, Atkinson & Yugoslavo, where you’ll hear the history of this great city. We will also drive through main avenues such as Gran Bretaña and Alemania, which allow us to see just how important the foreign influence was in this city.

We will also walk through the Concepcion and Alegre Historical Districts, where you’ll hear the history of how this city became the center of Chile, as well as one of the main ports in Latin America in the XIX Century.

Viña del Mar is a beautiful place. When you arrive from Santiago, you can appreciate it the most, due to the view that “Agua Santa” Road provides. The fast growth in this city is astounding, and the beautiful parks and beaches give it the reputation it’s had since the late 1800’s. The places we visit here are “Avenida San Martin”, and the “Avenida Peru” coast line; Quinta Vergara (Vergara Estate), where you’ll see trees, plants & flowers that were imported over a century ago by one of the Vergaras, which still stand majestically in this park. From there, we’ll see an original “Mohai”, brought from Easter Island; the palaces and museums in the area, and of course, several shopping areas for handcrafts and souvenirs.

* This tour includes a funicular ride and an hour and a half walking tour through the hills of Valparaíso.

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4.-Full Day Beach Resorts Of Chile's Central Coastline (7 Hrs)

This tour is ideal for those who are extending their stay in the area and want to explore less-travelled routes. Starting from the ship or your Valparaiso/Viña/Santiago hotel, head towards the famed beach resorts lining the coastline.

On this tour, you will visit Maitencillo, Cachagua and Zapallar.

Maitencillo, a traditional fisherman village an hour and a half from Valparaiso, is known for its peaceful and laid back style of life. Stroll along the solitary 5km beach known for body boarding, surfing, parasailing and fishing.

Cachagua has a riding club with a polo field and clubhouse. At the northern end of the beach is an island, a sanctuary for pelicans, cormorants, sea otters, Humboldt and Magellan penguins that are unique in this part of the Chilean coast.

Zapallar is situated on a small, north-facing enclosed bay. Protected from the southern winds, it has its own microclimate resulting in luxuriant vegetation. This is, without doubt, the most stylish and exclusive spot on the Chilean coast.

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SAN ANTONIO SHORE EXCURSIONS

San Antonio coastal tour (6 hrs)

Available from San Antonio and Santiago

This tour is ideal for those who are extending their stay in the area and want to explore less-travelled routes.

Starting from the cruise terminal in San Anotnio, you’ll head towards the beach towns along the coastline of the San Antonio province: Algarrobo, El Quisco, Quintay.

Situated just 110 km west of Santiago in the northernmost part of the coastal tour circuit,Algarrobo is one of the main resort towns on Chile’s central coast and home to some of its most beautiful scenery. Come enjoy its beaches and experience its unique blend of colonial architecture and sophisticated modern high rises. Those who visit the town will be treated to some of the best beaches on the coast all are famous for their sunsets. South America’s largest swimming pool is located on the waterfront in a prominent hotel complex.

El Quisco serves as a popular summer resort for the population of Santiago and forms part of the Coast of Poets, a cultural space named for four Chilean poets of world renown: Pablo Neruda, Vicente Huidobro, Violeta Parra and Nicanor Parra. A place of interest is La Casa de Isla Negra*, the former house of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, now his burial place and a museum.

Quintay is a discreet Chilean village located near Valparaiso, 120 kilometres from Santiago. Whaling was its economical mainstay for many years, until the industry was banned in 1967. A museum** tells the story of this port, now reconverted to accommodate diving enthusiasts. It has a variety of restaurants on the beach where you can enjoy the local cuisine.

This tour ends in your accommodation in Santiago.

PUERTO MONTT SHORE EXCURSIONS

1.-Puerto Montt, Puerto Varas and Frutillar (7 1/2 Hrs)

This tour is ideal for passengers who want to get the best of Puerto Montt and nearby cities.

Enjoy of a trip that takes you from the ship to the city center of Puerto Montt, with its picturesque fishing wharf and seafood market, as well as a visit to the main square of Puerto Varas, “City of Roses,” known for its alpine and traditional German-style architecture.

The excursion continues to Frutillar, one of Chile’s most captivating and popular summer resorts located by the Llanquihue Lake. Admire the eternally snow capped Osorno volcano and take advantage of fabulous photo opportunities.

Frutillar is a very scenic village full of nice European architecture, pleasant gardens, tasty pasties, and a museum that will teleport us to the 19th century, before returning to Puerto Montt.

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2.-Puerto Montt and Petrohue Falls (7 Hrs)

This tour is ideal for passengers who want to get the best of Puerto Montt and its marvelous surroundings.

Enjoy of a trip that takes you from the ship to the city center of Puerto Montt, with its picturesque fishing wharf and seafood market, as well as a visit to the main square of Puerto Varas, “City of Roses,” known for its alpine and traditional German-style architecture.

After this, a lakeside drive leads you to the impressive Petrohue River Falls, a gleaming succession of azure blue rapids, against a back drop of mountains and the emerald green “Todos Los Santos” Lake. Here, a breathtaking view of the snow capped “Volcan Osorno” can be admired. A lunch stop will allow for you to get a feel of the local cuisine.

Upon your return to Puerto Montt (if time allows), a stop will be made at the Angelmo market before returning to the pier.

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3. Puerto Montt & Puerto Varas city tour (4 Hrs.)

This tour is ideal for passengers who want to get the best of Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas.

Enjoy of a trip that takes you from the ship to the city center of Puerto Montt, with its picturesque fishing wharf and seafood market, as well as a visit to the main square of Puerto Varas, “City of Roses,” known for its alpine and traditional German-style architecture.

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CHILOE ISLAND SHORE EXCURSIONS

Chiloé Island Tour (6-7 hrs)

We will start this excursion with a visit to Castro, capital of Chiloé Island, where you’ll have the chance to see the famous “palafitos” - colorful houses built on stilts above the water - and the local church. Then we will head to Dalcahue, one of the most touristic places of Chiloe Island. This town is best known for its arts and crafts fair, and Nuestra Señora de Los Dolores Church built in 1849, which is one of the 16 Chilote churches declared as World Heritage Sites.

After Dalcahue we’ll make a visit to Tocoihue Waterfalls, a must in this trip to Chiloé. At the end of this excursion we will make a stop in Aucar Island. After a short walk across a wooden bridge you’ll find yourself in this islet, where you will find a chapel, a cemetery and a viewpoint, where you can enjoy the landscape and a wide variety of local birds.

PUERTO CHACABUCO (AYSEN)

1.-Puerto Aysen and surroundings (4 Hrs.)

The wild and beautiful Aysen District of Chile lies south of Chiloe and Puerto Montt. As we leave Puerto Chacabuco, on the east coast of the fiord, a small bay is full of activities such as salmon farming--one of the main economic activities of the region. The mountainous landscape offers us a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains and glaciers that adorn this part of the Patagonia.

Next, we will encounter the Presidente Ibañez Hanging Bridge, the second longest of its kind in South America, which connects to Puerto Aysén. The city is surrounded by mountains and forests, and crossed by a river.

We will make a small stop in an interesting handcraft gallery, and then proceed towards the center of the city to visit one of the sides of the rivers in port Río Los Palos. As we cross the river, you will be able to observe the beautiful native forest and varied species of wildlife that dresses the way up to lake Los Palos. Here, we will do a short trek before returning to the city. The excursion ends after we return to the port.

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2.-Coyhaique and Simpson ValleyDuring this 6 hour trip we will get a complete image of the geography, nature, people and activities from this part of the Patagonia.

After leaving Puerto Chacabuco and the city of Puerto Aysen, we will make our first stop at the Simpson River National for a 30 minute visit to the park and the Natural Resources Museum.

As we continue with our route, we will stop at the Mirador Alto Baguales, from where we will be able to observe a panoramic view of Coyhaique and its surroundings. After our arrival to the city, we will visit the monument to the shepherd, the Regional Museum of Patagonia, the main square and the handcraft market.

After that, we will take a short 500 ft. walk to see the Vírgen waterfall and lastly we will make our way back to Puerto Chacabuco.

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PUNTA ARENAS SHORE EXCURSIONS

1.-Punta Arenas panoramic city tour & Fort Bulnes (6 Hrs.)

Depart from the pier to gain a panoramic view of the city and the Magellan Strait from the La Cruz Hill viewpoint, where a brief but informative lecture of the city and the region is given. Proceed towards the Salesian Museum, driving through the main avenues of the city.

You will also see the Patagonia Institute, boasting a collection of old local cars and machinery. Proceed to the cemetery where the tombs of those pioneers have been exceptionally preserved among well-kept gardens and cypress stands. End your tour with a visit to one of the most southern forts in the world Fort Bulnes.

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2.-Magdalena Island and Marta Island Navigation (5-6 hrs)

This navigation starts at the pier with a panoramic tour of the coast of Punta Arenas.

To protect wildlife, Marta Island is only circumnavigated to admire and photograph the Colony and the diversity of marine birds that live there. However in Magdalena Island it is possible to disembark for about one hour, to walk and to interact with the colony.

This tour includes a tour guide, transportation to the pier, a cold snack and the entry fee to the Island.

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