Beyond the Galápagos, the journey through South America offers a diverse array of experiences. Ports along the coasts of Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, for example, blend scenic beauty with fascinating history. One day you might be exploring ancient Inca ruins or visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while the next, you’re sailing past glaciers and fjords along Patagonia’s rugged coastline. The Andes provide a breathtaking backdrop as you approach many of these ports, creating picture-perfect moments that make you feel a part of the natural world.
The cruise vessels that explore these regions tend to be smaller than traditional cruise ships, typically carrying fewer than 100 passengers. This intimate setting creates a more personalized experience, where you can interact closely with the crew, naturalists, and fellow travelers. Onboard, the atmosphere is often educational, with lectures and briefings on local wildlife, geology, and cultural history. This focus on learning deepens the sense of discovery and exploration as you travel through these remote and often untouched areas.
The varied climates and ecosystems of South America keep the journey diverse. From the arid deserts of northern Chile to the humid rainforests of Ecuador, each region presents a different landscape to explore. Depending on the season, you might witness migrating whales, rare bird species, or even the mystical glow of bioluminescent plankton in the water at night. Off-ship excursions include zodiac trips to isolated coves, hikes through jungles, or paddling through mangroves, offering a mix of adventure and serenity.
Culturally, visiting ports in South America adds another dimension to the expedition. Whether you’re sampling fresh ceviche in Ecuador or visiting local markets in Chilean fishing villages, there’s an opportunity to connect with the rich and diverse cultures of the continent. Each port tells its own story, shaped by a blend of indigenous traditions and European influences, making the journey as culturally enriching as it is naturally stunning.
Blue-footed Booby
Capybara
Condor
Tortoise
Iguana
Jaguar
Magellanic Penguin
Pink Dolphin
Poison Dart Frog
Sloth
An expedition cruise around the Galápagos Islands and South America offers the chance to encounter some of the most diverse and unique wildlife on the planet. In the Galápagos, you’ll be immersed in a living museum of evolution, where species have adapted in isolation. One of the highlights is the giant tortoise, the iconic symbol of the islands. You’ll also see marine iguanas, the world’s only sea-going lizards, basking on rocky shores. Blue-footed boobies and frigatebirds soar overhead, while playful sea lions swim alongside you as you snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The Galápagos penguin, a rare sight near the equator, is another unique resident, often spotted darting through the water.
In the waters surrounding the Galápagos, you may encounter schools of hammerhead sharks, manta rays, and even sea turtles. The underwater world is just as vibrant as the terrestrial, with colorful fish and coral reefs providing endless opportunities for exploration. The ecosystem of the Galápagos is highly protected, and every encounter feels intimate, as expedition cruises operate under strict environmental regulations to minimize their impact on the fragile environment.
As your expedition cruise ventures to other parts of South America, the wildlife diversity continues to amaze. In the rainforests of Ecuador and Peru, you can expect to see exotic birds like toucans, macaws, and possibly even the elusive jaguar. The Amazon River is home to pink river dolphins and giant river otters, while caimans and piranhas lurk beneath the surface. In the coastal areas of Chile and Argentina, marine wildlife flourishes, including colonies of Magellanic penguins, elephant seals, and whales that migrate through the region.
Patagonia’s vast wilderness offers a completely different set of wildlife encounters. Guanacos, a wild relative of the llama, roam the plains, while Andean condors glide over the mountains. The remote fjords are home to sea lions, dolphins, and humpback whales. As you travel along the rugged coastlines of South America, each ecosystem presents its own fascinating array of species, with every stop along the expedition bringing new surprises.
Glass-Bottom Boat Exploring
Exploring the marine life around South America aboard a glass-bottom boat offers a unique, immersive experience. As the boat glides over vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems, you can observe colorful fish, sea turtles, and even playful dolphins without getting wet. In regions like the Galapagos or the coastlines of Chile and Brazil, the clear waters reveal stunning underwater landscapes, teeming with life. This type of excursion allows you to connect with the ocean’s natural wonders in a comfortable, intimate setting, making it perfect for all ages and nature enthusiasts.
Guided Hikes
Taking a guided hike during an expedition cruise in South America and the Galapagos offers an extraordinary opportunity to explore untouched landscapes and encounter unique wildlife up close. Expert naturalists lead you through diverse environments, from the dense rainforests of Ecuador to the volcanic trails of the Galapagos Islands. Along the way, you might spot exotic birds, giant tortoises, and native plants, all while learning about the region’s rich biodiversity and ecological significance. These hikes provide a deeper connection to nature, enhancing your appreciation for these remarkable destinations.
Scuba Diving
A scuba diving excursion off South America and the Galapagos during an expedition cruise is an unforgettable underwater adventure. These pristine waters are home to a breathtaking array of marine life, from hammerhead sharks and manta rays to playful sea lions and vibrant schools of tropical fish. The Galapagos Islands, in particular, offer world-renowned diving spots where you can swim alongside unique species found nowhere else on earth. Diving here not only showcases the incredible biodiversity of the region but also provides a rare glimpse into the delicate ecosystems that thrive beneath the ocean’s surface.
Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
Trying sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding while visiting South America offers a thrilling way to experience its stunning coastlines and tranquil waters. Whether paddling through the serene fjords of Patagonia or along the vibrant shores of Brazil, you’ll have an intimate encounter with nature. These activities allow you to explore hidden coves, spot wildlife like sea birds and marine mammals, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Both kayaking and paddleboarding provide a peaceful, low-impact way to immerse yourself in South America’s diverse ecosystems while adding an adventurous twist to your trip.
Snorkeling
Snorkeling in the Galapagos Islands is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings you face-to-face with some of the most unique marine life on the planet. As you float above crystal-clear waters, you’ll encounter colorful schools of fish, graceful sea turtles, and playful sea lions swimming right alongside you. The islands’ volcanic formations create fascinating underwater landscapes, teeming with species found nowhere else in the world, including the famous Galapagos penguins and marine iguanas. Whether you’re an experienced snorkeler or a beginner, the calm, sheltered waters of the Galapagos provide an extraordinary glimpse into this remarkable ecosystem.
Cruising and Wildlife Watching
Taking a whale-watching cruise off the coast of South America and the Galapagos is an awe-inspiring adventure, offering the chance to witness some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures up close. The nutrient-rich waters around the continent attract various species, including humpback, blue, and sperm whales, particularly in areas like Ecuador’s Pacific coast or Chile’s fjords. In the Galapagos, whale sightings are equally breathtaking, with the possibility of observing these giants as they breach or spout. Along with the whales, you might spot dolphins and other marine life, making this cruise a thrilling and memorable journey into the heart of the ocean’s wild beauty.
Zodiac Cruising
A Zodiac outing in the Galapagos during an expedition cruise offers an exciting and close-up exploration of the islands’ pristine shores and hidden coves. These small, agile boats allow you to navigate through narrow channels and get close to rocky coastlines teeming with wildlife. As you glide over the clear waters, you might spot marine iguanas sunning on the rocks, blue-footed boobies diving for fish, and sea turtles swimming just beneath the surface. Guided by expert naturalists, a Zodiac excursion gives you an intimate experience with the Galapagos’ unique ecosystems, providing an adventurous way to witness the islands’ extraordinary biodiversity up close.
Night Safari
Taking a night boat safari while on an expedition cruise along the Amazon River is a thrilling experience that unveils the mysteries of the rainforest under the cover of darkness. As the boat glides quietly along the river, the sounds of nocturnal wildlife fill the air—croaks of frogs, chirps of insects, and distant calls of birds and mammals. Equipped with spotlights, guides scan the riverbanks and treetops to reveal creatures like caimans, nocturnal monkeys, and even elusive jaguars or ocelots. The dense foliage and eerie quietness of the river heighten the sense of adventure, offering a rare glimpse into the Amazon’s rich biodiversity after sunset.
Kayaking with Pink Dolphins
Kayaking in the Amazon around Iquitos, Peru, offers an extraordinary opportunity to observe the elusive pink river dolphin in its natural habitat. As you paddle through the tranquil waters, the lush rainforest surrounds you, and the sounds of wildlife echo from the trees. Suddenly, the calm is broken by the graceful surfacing of a pink river dolphin, its distinctive color and smooth movements cutting through the water. These dolphins are known for their curious nature, and if you’re lucky, they might approach your kayak, offering a close-up view of their playful behavior. Watching these unique creatures in the serene Amazon waters is a mesmerizing and unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Fishing
A fishing expedition in the Upper Amazon jungle is a true adventure for nature lovers and anglers alike. As you journey deep into the rainforest, surrounded by dense foliage and winding waterways, the Amazon’s vast biodiversity comes to life. The rivers and tributaries teem with unique fish species, such as the aggressive piranha, massive arapaima, and exotic peacock bass. With local guides by your side, you cast your line into the mysterious waters, hoping to reel in one of these remarkable creatures. The experience goes beyond fishing, immersing you in the sounds of the jungle, the sight of vibrant birds overhead, and the thrill of encountering wildlife in one of the world’s most untamed regions. As part of the commitment to the environment, there is a strict policy of catch and release.
Nature and Trail Walks
A trail walk through the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, particularly at Fundo Casual, offers an intimate encounter with the Amazon’s rich ecosystem. As you trek along the forest paths, your senses are heightened by the vibrant sounds and smells of the jungle. Guided by local experts, you’ll spot an array of wildlife, from colorful macaws and howler monkeys to sloths and vibrant frogs hiding among the dense vegetation. The trail leads through wetlands, giant trees, and hidden streams, each step revealing new surprises in this untouched part of the Amazon. Along the way, your guide shares knowledge about the flora and fauna, giving you a deeper appreciation for the biodiversity that thrives in this protected reserve.
