Experience a dazzling coastal desert scenery teeming with wildlife on this 14-day voyage aboard Greg Mortimer. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage gems and the ancient pre-Hispanic cultures. Encounter impressive cultural, natural, and archaeological marvels including Nazca Lines, Chinchorro mummies, and Chan Chan ancient city. You may cross paths with guanacos, flamingos, dolphins, fur seals, and Humboldt penguins one day, and sample Peru’s gastronomic flavors in Arequipa and Lima the next as we sail the coast of Chile and Peru aboard the state-of-the-art small ship expedition vessel, Greg Mortimer.
Highlights
Marvel at the dazzling desert coastal landscape of the Atacama eco-region
Soak up the charm of UNESCO-protected cities such as Valparaíso, Lima and Arequipa
Discover the unique flora and fauna at Pan de Azúcar National Park
Explore Chan Chan, an ancient pre-hispanic city in northern Peru
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Arrive in Santiago and make your own way to the group hotel. Dynamic and cosmopolitan, Chile’s capital Santiago is a vibrant and versatile city. Surrounded by the snow-capped mountains of the Andes, it enjoys a dramatically beautiful setting. The city’s diversity shines through in its many contrasting neighborhoods such as trendy Lastarria and Bellas Artes in downtown Santiago, lively Bellavista that lies at the foot of San Cristobal Hill, and more tranquil yet commercial Providencia, filled with shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. After check-in, the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Discover Santiago on an excursion highlighting the architecture of the city before making your way towards Valparaíso located on the Pacific coast, where your ship awaits. You’ll stop at a local vineyard for lunch and a brief tour to learn about the important wine industry. In nearby Valparaíso, head to one of the old town’s 42 hills – under UNESCO protection - to discover the dazzling street art for which the city is renowned. In late afternoon, board the Greg Mortimer for your journey to Guayaquil.
The Pacific is the largest ocean on Earth, covering approximately 30% of Earth’s surface. The ocean was named after Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who after sailing the mighty winds of the Atlantic, found calm and favorable winds in the Pacific, from the Latin word meaning peace. The series of interesting onboard presentations begin, delivered by your hand-picked group of experts. Learn about the wildlife, people, culture, and history of the places you’ll visit on this journey of discovery. You’ll also pick up a few photography tips along the way.
Pan de Azúcar National Park, located on the north coast of the Atacama Region, is characterized by its abundance of flora and fauna, and its Humboldt penguin colony on nearby Pan de Azúcar island. A unique characteristic of the park is the combination of terrestrial and sea environments, creating an ecosystem of diverse and abundant flora and fauna. A few hiking options will be available to you including Sendero Costero, a trail along the rocky coastline offering superb views of Pan de Azúcar island and Mirador Trail, leading to a lookout that offers a panoramic view of Pan de Azúcar Island and its surroundings. On the hike, you may encounter guanaco, the largest and the only wild species of the camelids. Time and conditions permitting, you may enjoy a Zodiac cruise along the shoreline to spot wildlife inhabiting the island.
The lecture series continues during your voyage toward the Peruvian border. Learn about the rich archaeological history of northern Chile, hear stories about the beguiling Chinchorro mummies that pre-date the Egyptian mummies and considered to be the oldest in the world.
Affectionately called the ‘city of eternal spring’, Arica’s salubrious weather and warm ocean water are enjoyed by visitors throughout the year. Shore excursions include a visit to San Miguel de Azapa Archaeological and Anthropological Museum to see the famous Chinchorro mummies. On the Atacama Coastal Walk, enjoy the panoramic views of the city, ocean, and the port from The Morro of Arica. At Puntilla, there’s a chance to see playful sea lions as well as soaring seabirds.
Leaving Chile behind and crossing the border into southern Peru, the first port of call is at Matarani, the coastal gateway to the stunning colonial city, Arequípa, Peru’s second largest. From the port of Matarani, you have the choice to head to the Mejía Lagoons National Sanctuary, a well-recognized refuge for migratory birds or alternatively take a gorgeous drive into the Andes to Arequípa, Peru’s southern capital and one of Peru’s best-preserved colonial towns.
The series of onboard lectures continues as you make your way north along Peru’s coast. Learn more about fascinating pre-Hispanic cultures such as the Icas and the famous Incan empire, which at the height of its power, extended from northern Ecuador to central Chile and north Argentina, with Cuzco as its capital.
The Paracas National Park is one of two Protected Natural Areas that preserves samples representing Peru's coastal marine ecosystems. Shore excursions today include a boat tour to the Ballestas Islands located off the coast of the Paracas Peninsula, where you’ll cruise among the rock arches and pink granite caves, encountering sea lions and teeming seabirds, including Humboldt penguins and Inca terns. At Paracas National Reserve, bird-watchers may encounter Peruvian boobies, Peruvian pelicans, whimbrel, American oystercatchers, and turkey vultures. As the center of the pre-Inca culture, Paracan civilization was famous for its textiles and scientific and medical knowledge; evidence of which can be seen at the wonderful Julio C. Tello Archaeological Museum. Enjoy a Nazca Lines Scenic Flight!* Don’t miss your opportunity to witness the enigmatic Nazca Lines geoglyphs on a scenic flyover in a 12-seater light aircraft, where more than 800 images have mysteriously been carved into the desert floor. *Places are limited; surcharge applies.
Peru’s eclectic capital enthrals visitors with the shores of its bay washed by the Pacific, its architecture that exudes a colonial past and its multi-faceted origins that sprout up at every corner. The City of the Kings is renowned for its medley of cultures, ethnicities and customs that make it one of the most diverse cities in the world. It is precisely this mixture that has made Lima the Culinary Capital of South America. This ancient and cosmopolitan city is home to hundreds of historical monuments. On a full day excursion, discover the wonders of Lima from its UNESCO listed old town to its bustling modern metropolis, with plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.
Trujillo, ‘City of Eternal Spring’ is located in the north-eastern part of Peru, and capital of the department of La Libertad. The star attraction in Trujillo are the remarkable pre-Incan archaeological sites nearby. Today’s shore excursion will include visits to the Sun and Moon pyramids, the center of power in the Trujillo Valley during Moche ancient times. At the Temple of the Moon, you’ll see impressive mud-brick friezes on the walls. Afterwards, visit the ‘Dragon ceremonial Temple’ before visiting one of the most significant archaeological sites in the country - the ancient adobe city of Chan Chan.
Enjoy a few final presentations from the team of experts including how to edit photos; finish that book you’ve been reading, or simply relax on your private balcony or in one of the many shared spaces on board the ship.
Day 14: Guayaquil, Ecuador | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Bid a fond farewell to your fellow travelers and expedition team and disembark in Guayaquil, Ecuador, gateway to the renowned Galápagos Islands, a renowned wildlife hotspot and the place that led Charles Darwin to develop his ground-breaking theory of evolution.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$7,000
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Aurora Stateroom Triple
230.34 ft² - 245.41 ft² - 6 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, three single beds, porthole window, desk area and 42" flat-screen TV
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Aurora Stateroom Twin Share
170 ft² - 245.41 ft² - Greg Mortimer features 8 porthole rooms, all with private en-suites. Located on Deck 3, they're close to the mudroom and loading platforms, perfect for adventurers who are looking for a comfortable base that's close to the action.
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Balcony Stateroom C
224.97 ft² - 266.95 ft² - 14 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.
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Balcony Stateroom B
254.03 ft² - 266.95 f - 22 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.
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Balcony Stateroom A
259.41 ft² - 301.39 ft² - 22 rooms available. All include en-suite bathrooms, floor to ceiling windows and balconies and a select number are also connecting rooms, perfect for families or groups.
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Balcony Stateroom Superior
303.54 ft² - 432.70 ft² - With a bit more room to stretch the legs, the Greg Mortimer's two Balcony Suites are perfect for polar adventurers who travel with plenty of gear. Featuring private balconies, en-suite bathrooms and a comfortable desk area, these will sell out quickly!
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Junior Suite
The Greg Mortimer's four Junior Suites take in some impressive scenery from their vantage 418.71 ft² - points on Deck 7. When you aren't enjoying a landing, you can relax in the suites' separate lounge area, or just watch the world float by from the private balcony.
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Captain's Suite
478.99 ft² - The largest of all the rooms, the Greg Mortimer's singular Captain's Suite will take you to the polar regions in ultimate style and comfort. Complete with large lounge area, balcony, walk-in wardrobe and en-suite.
Initial deposit is $2,500 plus $250 USD deposit for any activities at the time of booking, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Only Visa and Mastercard credit cards are accepted
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
13 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches, 12 Dinners
13 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Comprehensive pre-departure information
Beer, House Wine, and Soft Drinks with Dinner
Educational Lectures and Guiding Services from Expedition Team
Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consult)
Port Surcharges, Permits, and Landing Fees
Captain's Welcome and Farewell drinks including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
A 3-in-1 waterproof polar expedition jacket
Complimentary use of Muck boots during the voyage
All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises
All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
On-board accommodation during voyage including daily cabin service
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
Airport Departure Tax - Airport arrival or departure taxes
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses, Wi-Fi, email or phone charges
Hotels and meals not included in itinerary
Optional activity surcharges
Reciprocity and Vaccination Charges
Passengers traveling with Aurora Expeditions are required to be covered by a reputable travel insurance policy that includes baggage loss, cancellation & curtailment of the holiday, medical, accident, and repatriation/emergency evacuation coverage worth at least $250,000 USD.
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge
TrustScore 4.8 | 174 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 174 reviews on
1 day ago
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.
