17-night Panama & Scenic South America Cruise

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Pacoche Forest Trek - 4.5 hours

Our adventure commences as we depart from the bustling quayside, tracing the picturesque coastal route that leads us to the trailhead of Pacoche Forest. En route, marvel at the prevailing dry forest that dominates the landscape, its arid charm contrasting starkly with the vibrant hues of the adjacent wet forest areas. Observe this intriguing natural boundary, where two contrasting ecosystems merge, creating a visual spectacle that epitomizes the intricate tapestry of coastal Ecuador's biodiversity.
 
Venturing into the heart of Pacoche Forest, we unveil its secrets away from the well-trodden tourist paths. This carefully selected route is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness. Prepare to be captivated as our specialist nature guide leads the way, sharing profound insights into the forest's delicate equilibrium and unveiling the hidden treasures that lie within.
 
Enveloped by the emerald canopy, Pacoche Forest reveals its true essence as a haven for avian enthusiasts. Witness a mesmerizing array of winged wonders, as hundreds of bird species gracefully inhabit the treetops, their vibrant plumage creating a kaleidoscope of colors against the verdant backdrop. Delight in the melodic symphony of their calls, a testament to the biodiversity that thrives within this precious ecosystem.
 
As we delve deeper into the forest's mysteries, encounter a remarkable endemic howler monkey. Be enchanted by their distinctive calls, reverberating through the trees as they swing gracefully from branch to branch. Observe their playful interactions and marvel at the unique adaptations that have allowed them to thrive in this sanctuary of biodiversity. (Sightings are not guaranteed)
 
After an exhilarating hike, we embark on our return journey to the Cruise Terminal.

DURATION
4 ¾ Hours
 
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
 
WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
• Naturalist English-speaking tour guide & Local tour guide
• 1 bottle of water per person on board the touring vehicle

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

• Any other services not mentioned above

 IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

• This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
• Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything.  In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
• All timings are approximate and subject to change. 

It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes (no sandals), and a camera.

Cerro Jaboncillo - Discovering the Ancient Cultures of Manabi - 5 hours

Long before the Spaniards or the Incas set foot on what is now Ecuadorian land, there were highly developed cultures whose traditions and inventions inspired the later civilizations and still amaze us to the day. From having created the precious so-called Panama Hat to sea trading and navigating skills that allowed them to extend their influence as far south as Chile and as far north as the California Gulf! This is how ancient and important the Manteños are to yesterdays and today’s global culture.
 
Let us take you on a journey along some of Ecuador’s most beautiful beaches, where the golden sand and the orange-colored skies will make for a dream-like scenery. On the road you will discover and embrace the very spots motivated the ancient inhabitants in developing societies and sacred places, inspired by their study and knowledge of the elements. Cerro Jaboncillo (Jaboncillo Hill) is a ceremonial place where a wide array of archeological sites and native flora and fauna coexist in a unique ecosystem dependent on water cycles.
 
The adventure here begins at the foot of the hill, where you will learn about the area’s proud legacy by visiting the Interpretation Center that showcases the ancient ceremonial halls and recreates the meetings between Chiefs!
 
The next step is heading towards the archaeological site and find yourself before the ancient U-shaped stoned seats of power, where only the chiefs could sit and make important decisions for their people.
 
Without a doubt, this experience will be an excellent opportunity to dive into the past, and understand how the early civilizations functioned, and how their understanding of the elements and commerce influenced the later inhabitants. This, while sharing a word with the actual proud descendants of the Manteño peoples and supporting their efforts to show the world the developments, knowledge, and importance of their ancestors.

DURATION
5 Hours
 
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Strenuous (walking over 1 km over uneven terrain with many steps)
 
WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
• 1 Bottle of water per person
• Local English-speaking tour guide
• Box Lunch per person 

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

• Any other services not mentioned above.

IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

• This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
• Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything.  In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
• All timings are approximate and subject to change. 
• It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes (no sandals), and a camera.

Puerto Cayo | Castro-Organic Experience- 6.5 hours

A day to learn about self-sustainable and healthy eating habits, today, all the food we’ll eat will be organic and have been picked the same day by ourselves, it will be complimented with seafood delivered by local fishermen that are caught sustainably in the neighboring beaches.
 
Oceanside Farms is an eco-conscious residential community and private co-op farm in Puerto Cayo, Ecuador.  It is a 25-acre, low-density community dedicated to exploring a contemporary approach to healthful living. Situated along Ecuador’s Pacific Riviera in the town of Puerto Cayo and designed with a private vegetable patch, the development is founded on the belief that clean air, fresh and sustainably harvested food, and a diverse and open-minded community are essential to cultivating health and wellness.
 
At Oceanside Farms one is always literally surrounded by the highest quality ingredients available, hence the common reference that residents live a “farm-to-table & dock-to-dish” lifestyle. 
 
A recognized chef from Ecuador will accompany us as we pick fresh products from the patch which will be part of our lunch menu.  The chef will describe the different products and their qualities and properties. All these products are cultivated upholding simple, time-tested farming practices while also pioneering innovative methods of growing and harvesting food. Eschewing the monoculture approach to cultivating land, the farm takes the shape of a landscaped garden, an evolving vista of edible and medicinal plants and fruit tree orchards embedded with a nursery, stations of raised planting beds, dedicated zones for hydroponics and microgreens, beekeeping, and a central greenhouse. Using leading practices in permaculture we designed our farm to promote the natural richness of the land and to avoid the use of chemicals and genetic modification.
 
Once we’ve collected our bounty, we head towards the kitchen to see the chef in action creating delicious dishes using the harvest.  It will be a hands-on experience as we interact with the chef and learn the techniques and secrets to turn the products into a delicious meal.
 
Once it’s prepared, we enjoy a magnificent lunch surrounded by nature and a beautiful view. 
 
Return to the Cruise terminal building.

DURATION
6 ½ Hours
 
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate (Moderate walking – 500 m to 1 km – over moderate terrain with steps)
 
WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
• 1 Bottle of water per person
• Local English-speaking tour guide
• 3 course lunch including soft drinks and 2 local beers or glasses of house wine per person

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

• Any other services not mentioned above.

IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

• This tour is not suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.

Cerro Jaboncillo - Discovering the Ancient Cultures of Manabi - 5 hours

We invite you to be part of the gastronomic epicenter of the country and to live a sensory experience that will make you discover Ecuadorian gastronomy; an unrivaled arena of talent from all over Ecuador that mix tradition with innovation using products and supplies from our land.
 
First walk in one of the busiest markets of the city and explore its surroundings while observing the wide variety of produce that can be found inside: fruits, vegetables, and herbs from all over the country are showcased in each stall creating a beautiful display of colors and shapes that invite visitors to try them.
Our next stop is a visit to the Cacao Museum.  Cacao is one of the most important products of Ecuador and is deep-rooted in the culture of the country. Fine aroma cacao has been tied to Ecuadorian history for millenniums. Recent scientific studies show evidence not only of its early presence, but of its cultivation and consumption by the inhabitants of the Southeast of what is now Ecuador over 5.000 years ago.
 
Continuing our experience, we head towards a restaurant where you will be able to enjoy typical Ecuadorian cuisine, where the local chef will delight your senses with delicious and tempting Ecuadorian dishes. Afterwards, drive back to the pier.

DURATION
6 ½ Hours
 
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Moderate (Moderate walking – 500 m to 1 km – over moderate terrain with steps)
 
WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Touring in luxury private vehicles with A/C & PA-system
• 1 Bottle of water per person
• Local English-speaking tour guide
• 3 course lunch including soft drinks and 2 local beers or glasses of house wine per person

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED?

• Any other services not mentioned above.

IMPORTANT NOTES, OBSERVATIONS & RECOMMENDATIONS

• This tour is suitable for guests in wheelchairs or those with mobility issues.
• Few vendors accept credit cards; we recommend that guests bring cash (USD) if they wish to purchase anything.  In Ecuador $50 or $100 notes are not easily accepted, so guests should try to bring small change. Travelers’ checks are not accepted.
• All timings are approximate and subject to change. 
• It is recommended guests wear lightweight clothing, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, along with sunblock, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent (it is a must) and flat, comfortable walking shoes and a camera.

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Interactive Culinary Experience (5 hours)

Learn how to prepare Peruvian dishes in a simple and fun way!
 
First you will enjoy a visit to a local market, where you will see first-hand the immense diversity of the country. Here you will meet your expert Chef.  The chef will show you our amazing variety of vegetables and fruits: many kinds of potatoes, corn of different colors, herbs, lucuma, cherimoya, mangos, etc. Your senses will experience many colors and smells for the first time
 
After this interesting visit, transfer to the cooking class venue. Besides teaching you how to cook Peruvian dishes, your Chef will tell you all about Peruvian gastronomy, its influences of other countries and how we have now one of the most important kitchens of the world. After the class, you will enjoy the dishes you prepared. 
 
Finally, as the Peruvians say, with the belly full and the heart happy, you will return to the ship. 
 
ACTIVITY LEVEL Moderate level of activity (easy walking for short distances)

DURATION: 5 Hours (Suggested) Departure Time(s) 10:00 am.

Note : A&K has to be informed in advance in case a guest has a special diet requirement or allergy

 

Lima - City of the Kings (4 hours)

WHAT YOU'LL VISIT
Depart the pier to Lima's main square where the Spanish conqueror, Francisco Pizarro, founded the "City of Kings" in 1535. The Government Palace, Lima City Hall, Archbishop's Palace, and the Lima Cathedral surround the square.
Visit Santo Domingo Convent, the oldest church and convent in Lima. The foundation of the city of Santo Domingo was conceived by a friar named Tomas de San Martin, who later served as the Preceptor Prior to the Dominican Order. As in all convents located between the jirones of Lima and Camana, Santo Domingo is sort of a city within a city and is comprised of a succession of cloisters and yards surrounded by service areas and communal rooms. Both Saint Rose and Saint Martin de Porres are buried in Lima, as is the Spanish Saint San Juan Masias. Construction of the Santo Domingo Convent began in 1540, but it was later modernized into its present neo-classical style in the 18th century. In 1730, the greater, or general, hall was built - a work of art that later became a part of the city's more unified ornamental groups.
The visit Casa Aliaga, the oldest house in the Americas, which has been continuously occupied by 18 generations of the Aliaga family; tour the impressive colonial residence, containing valuable Peruvian art and artifacts.
 
After you leave colonial Lima, you will drive through the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores. Both are suburbs where the rich and intelligentsia live. There are many large mansions, colonial buildings and fine hotels. Finally, you'll stop at El Parque del Amor for a great ocean view before finishing your tour. After this stop reboard the motor-coach to return to the pier.

WHAT YOU'LL SEE ALONG THE WAY
To truly feel the spirit of the city, your tour begins with the Colonial sites of Lima, passing by the Plaza San Martin, the Plaza Mayor with its Cathedral, and the Government Palace. From the historic center, we travel to the Lima of today, including a drive-by of the residential districts of San Isidro and Miraflores.

ACTIVITY LEVEL 
Moderate level of activity (easy walking for short distances)

DURATION: 5 Hours
(Suggested) Departure Time(s) 09:00 and/or 14:00
Note: The Cathedral and Santo Domingo are open daily; except on Sunday mornings only. Flash photography is not permitted in the Cathedral or the Monastery.

Includes:

• Pick up/drop off at the Port of Callao. 
• Touring in a private vehicle with air-conditioning. All vehicles are fitted with cellular phones.
• Qualified, registered English-speaking tour guide.
• Entrance fees.
• Bottled Mineral Water and Tissues and hand wipes provided to all guests.

Excludes:

• Tips to drivers and guides.
• Any services not mentioned above.

Barranco : Art and Culture (7.5 hours)

Transfer from the port to the bohemian district of Barranco. Your first stop will be the Osma Museum. The Pedro de Osma Museum exhibits Peruvian artistic pieces from the fifth to the eighteenth century. The artworks from Ancient Peru correspond to the geographic area of the south Andes and belong to the Mr. José Ignacio Lambarri collection. Tiahuanaco and Inca cultures were developed on this territory. The works from the vice regal period consist of paintings, sculptures, furniture and silver works that belonged to the Pedro de Osma Gildemeister collection (1901-1967). Paintings from the eighteenth-century Cuzco school are among the highlighted pieces of the vice regal art collection. This valuable artistic heritage is currently exhibited in the Pedro de Osma house, built in 1906 by his father, the politician and notary Pedro de Osma y Pardo.
 
Then visit Dedalo, a shop and gallery of handcrafted goods and contemporary pieces. You could find some exclusive pieces and handcrafts, accessories, jewelry, furniture, and other whimsical items. Then walk to the wonderful Hotel B to enjoy an afternoon tea. Originally built in the style of the Belle Époque, the mansion served as a seaside retreat during the presidency of Augusto Leguia in the 1920’s.
Then return to the port.

ACTIVITY LEVEL Moderate level of activity (easy walking for short distances)

DURATION: 7 Hours 30 minutes (Suggested). This excursion is available depending on the time of arrival.

Note : Flash photography is not permitted in the Osma Museum. 

Pachacamac and the Paso Horses (8 hours)

An awesome journey into the past, today's tour starts with a visit to the archaeological ruins of Pachacamac. This fascinating site takes its name from the Quechua words 'pacha' and 'camac' meaning 'Lord of the World'. It was predominantly a religious place throughout Peru's history and contains a great number of adobe structures that remain today. The most significant of these are the Old Temple, the Temple of the Sun, and the Temple of the Moon. From Ancient Peru we then enjoy an experience from the Peru of today, by lunching at one of the nearby haciendas. For lunch the owners of the hacienda join us. They will present an exhibition of their Paso, or Stepping horses, unique to Peru, before returning to Lima.

LUNCH
Pachamanca lunch is served at the Hacienda. Pachamanca is a sort of meat along with potatoes, set potatoes, corn, and fava beans cooked under the ground. The pachamanca is the epitome of the Andean banquet par excellence. Andean cultures tend to mix their worship of nature with social events. Salads are offered as appetizers and typical desserts.

ACTIVITY LEVEL
Tours require more substantial level of activity (walking for moderate distances and stair/incline climbing)

DURATION: 8 Hours

Note: This tour is available depending on the time of arrival and departure of the ship.

Lima - Magic Fountains (4 hours)

WHAT YOU'LL VISIT
From the port of Callao you head to Lima for a short panoramic drive at night before you reach the Parque de la Reserva. The Parque was originally opened in 1929 to commemorate all the civilian reservists who fought in defence of Lima during the War of the Pacific. It is now one of Lima’s most visited attractions because in 2007 the Magic Water Circuit was inaugurated. The Circuit has the largest fountain complex in the world, displaying 13 distinct fountains which are illuminated at night, with changing colour schemes. A colourful light show, synchronised with Peruvian music makes the fountains sparkle and shine as the water flows in unique patterns and shapes.
 
ACTIVITY LEVEL
 
Easy level of activity (easy walking for short distances)

DURATION: 4 hours
(Suggested) Departure Time(s) 09:00 and/or 14:00

Optional Private Excursions

Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!

Valparaiso: Encounter with the Art - 4 hours

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS EXCURSION

• La Sebastiana –  Pablo Neruda Museum
• A local artist’s studio

 
DESCRIPTION
 
Picturesque Valparaiso was one of the first Chilean cities founded by the Spanish in 1536.
 
A thriving port for centuries, modern Valparaiso remains Chile’s primary outlet to the sea. In 1906, a vicious earthquake struck the city, toppling hundreds of the city's priceless monuments. This earthquake, however, would be a portent of things to come: The truly fatal blow to Valparaiso would come 8 years later. In 1914, the first international ship crossed the Panama Canal. The golden age of Valparaiso had come to an end. After years of gloom and decay, the historic port and university town is now living something of a revival. The Chilean government has pledged both economic and structural support to the city, and private entities are implementing projects that seek to trigger an urban renaissance in Valparaiso as a world heritage city and Chile's cultural capital. Among the priorities are culture, heritage preservation, and economic development via tourism. This effort culminated in UNESCO naming Valparaiso’s Historic Quarter a World Heritage Site in 2003.
 
Immigrants from all over the world have chosen to stay and leave their mark on this peculiar city.
Since over 450 years, this strategic port in the western coast of the South American continent has been the subject of interest for many renamed visitor. First visited by Drake and later on by Dutch pirates, left in ruins by Spanish cannons’ fire and reconstructed many times after numerous earthquakes, Valparaíso is a handmade city, a result of human intervention and an example of urban resilience.
 
During your 4-hour tour you will have the chance to see Valparaíso distinctively spontaneous hill neighbourhoods and their vernacular architecture, including more than a dozen ascensores (funicular cable cars) that connect the port with its surrounding heights.  This is a great city to explore on foot so that you can grasp its beauty.
 
One of the highlights of the tour will surely be Chilean Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda’s Valparaiso residence, “La Sebastiana”. The house is full to the brim with the eccentric genius’ keepsakes from his many trips abroad, as well as an extensive library.
 
Also during your visit you will get the opportunity to visit the studio/gallery of a local artist who will be pleased to meet you and sharing with you his passion for art and his life experience in this bohemian city in front of the Pacific Ocean, a constant source of inspiration for many other artists

OBSERVATIONS

1. Includes the services of an English-speaking guide.
2. Bottled mineral water included.
3. Entrance fee to the museums are included. 
4. Museums are closed on Mondays.

*Travellers will be transferred from the pier to the excursion sites by car
 

Valparaiso - Wines of the Casablanca Valley

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS EXCURSION
 

• Tour and Tasting at two emblematic vineyards of the Casablanca valley

  
DESCRIPTION
 
This morning you will be welcomed at the Valparaíso pier by your guide who will escort you on your private tour to the Casablanca valley.
 
The Casablanca Valley is a sub-region of the Aconcagua Valley, but its vineyards – first planted in the early 1980s – have earned worldwide recognition in a relatively short space of time. The warm, temperate climate of the area is greatly influenced by the coastal sea breezes, which in combination with a perfect terroir in a valley situated on the coastal plane, with distant hills and slopes rising no more than 400 meters above sea level provide ideal conditions for certain varieties of grape. It is not unlike Santa Barbara and portions of Sonoma, and fittingly, the grapes that have done best over the past half-decade or so have been Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. While the area is best known for its crisp white wines, in particular Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, varieties such as Gewürtztraminer and certain lighter reds such as Pinot Noir are fast becoming the varieties du jour.
 
The first visit will be made at the Casas del Bosque vineyard where the visit will commence with a tour of the winery and cellars. Continue with a tasting focussing on their superb, award-winning red and white wines including their award-winning Sauvignon Blanc Reserve 2004. A selection of dried fruits and cheeses will be served to accompany the wines during the tastings.
 
Then continue to the Matetic winery.
 
The new Matetic vineyard, designed by the Viña Matetic team in cooperation with architect Lawrence Odfjell, is a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, constructed so as to complement its glorious setting. In other words, harmony has been reached between the winery´s organic agricultural practices and the natural landscape of the valley.
 
Upon arrival to the vineyard you will be greeted and invited to listen to a brief introductory speech about the vineyard history and the different phases of wine production while appreciating stunning views of the vineyards and the beautiful Rosario Valley. Then you will proceed to the tasting room where you will sample the high quality Matetic wines.
 
Lunch today will be served at excellent Matetic Winery’s restaurant.


Notes:

1. Includes the services of an English-speaking guide.
2. Bottled mineral water available in the vehicle

*Travelers will be transferred from the pier to the excursion sites by car