Name: Cultures and wilds of Peru, Utria and the Darien
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: V1025040509

Itinerary

Lima, Peru's capital, sits between the Pacific Ocean and Andes Mountains with the seaport of Callao. The bustling city’s enowned culinary scene features a local favourite, ceviche. The UNESCO World Heritage historic centre features colonial-era architecture including Plaza Mayor and San Francisco Monastery. Nearby, the clay ruins of ceremonial pyramids, Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca, offer a glimpse of the Inca civilization's history.

A breeding ground for seabirds and sea lions, Isla Guanape lies a few miles off the Peruvian coast. Consisting of four separate islands, the area was exploited for guano (for fertiliser). The islands are now protected, and the harvesting of guano is strictly regulated. A few building relics remain scattered around from the guano-mining days. Wildlife, including pelicans, boobies, Humboldt penguins and Southern sea lions, live along the coastline.

Zodiac Isla Guañape Cruise with the Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

Included

02 h 00 m

With so many birds, these islands are home to a lot of guano (bird excrement). The area became a protected reserve in 2009, because the guano is harvested and used as a valuable organic fertilizer
As well as birds, this area has a fascinating array of fish, invertebrates, and crustaceans, including snails, crabs, and mollusks
Keep an eye out for the colonies of South American sea lions that also live on the Guañape Islands!

The port of Salaverry is the gateway to Peru's pre-Incan past, with the best of Peru's rich archaeological heritage. Surrounding well-preserved ruins include incredible relics of the 1st- to 8th-century Moche, like the mud pyramids of Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna. Ancient Chan Chan, once housing 60,000 under the Chimú Empire, was the largest pre-Columbian city in the Americas. Nearby Trujillo features the 16th-century Plaza de Armas.

El Brujo Archaeological Complex and Cao Museum

Optional

06 h 00 m

Discover this sacred place of the Moche Culture and enjoy the beauty of its impressive ancient buildings
Learn about the culture and traditions of the Moche civilization
Find out about the tattooed noblewoman discovered by archaeologists in 2006, almost two thousand years after she was buried

Sun and Moon Huacas and Chan Chan

Optional

05 h 00 m

Discover the legacy of the Moche culture as you witness two centers of great historical importance
Learn how the Moche sealed the bodies of dead rulers into the huaca, and see how the temples evolved over hundreds of years
Visit Chan Chan’s Nik-An Palace, and explore its ceremonial squares, broad plazas, royal burial chamber

Huanchaco and Caballitos De Totora Experience

Included

02 h 30 m

Admire the skill it takes to make these woven reed vessels
Learn how some archaeologists think Caballitos de Totora were the world's first surfboard
Wander along Huanchaco’s beach and see these reed boats lined up along the shore

Sun & Moon Huacas, Chan Chan, and Caballitos De Totora Experience

Optional

08 h 00 m

Discover the legacy of the Moche culture as you witness two centers of great historical importance
Admire the skill it takes to make unique Caballitos de Totora fishing boats, thought by some to be the world's first surfboard
Visit Chan Chan’s Nik-An Palace, and explore its ceremonial squares, broad plazas, royal burial chamber

Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.

Puerto Bolívar, a charming port city, serves as the gateway to Machala. Local cuisine features fresh seafood, including ceviche, baked sea bass (corvina al horno) and shrimp rice (arroz con camarón). Nearby, the Buenaventura Reserve is a cloud forest sanctuary, boasting over 130 hummingbird species and various other birds. The area is surrounded by banana plantations, the region's notable export, and Machala houses the Museum of Bananas.

Happy Fruit_Organic And Gastronomic Experience

Optional

04 h 30 m

Enjoy a unique adventure through the fruit trees with its agroecological cultivation
Walk through the herb fields, one of the most interesting and aromatic area with almost 20 species of cultivated herbs, plus around 20 known medicinal plants of the dry forest are part of the laboratory and natural pharmacy
Take part of an organic cocoa workshop, a sensory experience for lovers of cooking and chocolate

Puyango Petrified Forest Adventure

Optional

07 h 15 m

Get close to fossils and geological traces from the lower Cretaceous period
Watch out for over 130 different species of birds, which are found here throughout the year
The forest also has a wonderful array of wildlife, including butterflies, spiders, termites and dragonflies

El Sexmo Gold Mine Exploration and Zaruma Cooking Demonstration

Optional

09 h 00 m

Discover one of Ecuador’s oldest cities, known locally for its coffee, gold mines and delicious tigrillo breakfasts
Admire the ancient techniques used to construct Zaruma’s beautiful buildings
Feel transported back in time as you wander through this UNESCO World Heritage Site

Arenillas Dry Forest Reserve Short Walk

Included

03 h 30 m

Discover the captivated by the wonders of the Arenillas Reserve, where the fusion of nature's mastery and human appreciation culminate in an unique experience
Venture through this natural wonder, where every step unveils the captivating beauty of a rare ecosystem
Find yourself immersed in a kaleidoscope of colors while you explore the arid tropical forest

Also known as the Silver Island, Isla de la Plata, though rumoured to hold Sir Francis Drake's buried treasure, has never yielded any such riches. Nevertheless, it is rich in biodiversity, comparable to the Galapagos Islands, with a similar dry, tropical environment. The island hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including over 32 bird species like blue-footed boobies, waved albatrosses, pelicans, gannets and frigate birds.

Exploring the Natural Wonders Of Isla De La Plata

Included

04 h 30 m

Soak up the island's rich history, laced with tales of the infamous pirate Francis Drake, and mysterious undiscovered treasures
Watch out for playful dolphins and elusive hammerhead sharks swimming in nearby waters
Encounter an astonishing variety of marine birds, such as red-footed, and masked boobies, frigatebirds and pelicans

Snorkeling In Isla De La Plata

Optional

02 h 30 m

Discover the underwater wonders of the legendary "Silver Island" – a place with a history steeped in tales of swashbuckling pirates and hidden treasures
Watch as mesmerizing fish and rays gracefully glide past you
Return to your boat and enjoy a tasty snack after you snorkeling adventures

Natural Wonders Of Isla De La Plata Short Hike

Included

02 h 30 m

Soak up the island's rich history, laced with tales of the infamous pirate Francis Drake, and mysterious undiscovered treasures
Watch out for playful dolphins and elusive hammerhead sharks swimming in nearby waters
Encounter an astonishing variety of marine birds, such as red-footed, and masked boobies, frigatebirds and pelicans

Today as you sail, you’ll bask in the endless comforts of your ship. From the deck, marvel at the dramatic sea views. Relax with a nurturing facial treatment or massage in the spa or delve into the ship’s learning resources. Or, simply take refuge in your cabin and enjoy the opportunity to rest.

One of the worlds' wettest regions, with around 10,000 mm of rainfall per year, Utria National Park’s forested area has rich and diverse fauna and flora with seven different mangrove species along its shore. The national park also overlaps the territory of the Emberà indigenous people and fishing villages of Afro-Colombian people spread along the coastline. Both communities are strong conservationists and provide the local ecotourism services.

The authentic Emberá tribe live in the Darien Jungle, and rarely receive outside visitors.They rely on the jungle, using its plants for food, medicine and clothing. This is a unique opportunity to meet the indigenous people and discover their local customs.This visit offers an immersive look at an ancient culture still thriving in the Panamanian wilderness.

Fuerte Amador, the Panama Canal's Pacific terminus, lies at the end of a mile-long manmade causeway, built from the canal's waste materials. Nearby, Frank Gehry's colourful Biomuseo showcases Panama's biodiversity. Miraflores Locks' visitor centre tells the story of this legendary waterway. A short taxi ride away, modern Panama City has evolved around its two historic centres: the conquistador-era Panamá Viejo and 17th-century Casco Viejo.

Choose

YOUR SUITE TYPE

View mode

Number of Guests:

Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.

Oceanview M4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom, and a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony.

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom, and a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony.

Balcony D6

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a luxurious bathroom, and a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony.

Suite

40 m²

Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and walk-in shower – and a 10m² (108ft²) private balcony.

Premium Suite

47 m²

Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – walk-in wardrobe, and a 12m² (129ft²) private balcony.

Deck 4

Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with liv...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 8,540

Double

$ 4,880

		Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single		$ 8,540
Double		$ 4,880

Oceanview M4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with liv...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 8,890

Double

$ 5,080

		Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single		$ 8,890
Double		$ 5,080

Deck 5

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living ...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 10,990

Double

$ 6,280

		Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single		$ 10,990
Double		$ 6,280

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living ...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 11,515

Double

$ 6,580

Triple

$ 3,290

	Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single	$ 11,515
Double	$ 6,580
Triple		$ 3,290

Suite

40 m²

Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-ef...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 15,540

Double

$ 8,880

Triple

$ 4,440

Quad

$ 4,440

	Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single	$ 15,540
Double	$ 8,880
Triple		$ 4,440
Quad		$ 4,440

Deck 6

Balcony D6

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living ...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 12,215

Double

$ 6,980

		Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single		$ 12,215
Double		$ 6,980

Suite

40 m²

Suites feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-ef...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 15,540

Double

$ 8,880

Triple

$ 4,440

Quad

$ 4,440

	Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single	$ 15,540
Double	$ 8,880
Triple		$ 4,440
Quad		$ 4,440

Premium Suite

47 m²

Premium Suites have a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fire...

Adult Fare

3^rd or 4^th Guest

Single

$ 16,940

Double

$ 9,680

Triple

$ 4,840

Quad

$ 4,840

	Adult Fare	3^rd or 4^th Guest
Single	$ 16,940
Double	$ 9,680
Triple		$ 4,840
Quad		$ 4,840

Prices are quoted per person per cruise.

Cultures and wilds of Peru, Utria and the Darien

1

Details

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Zodiac Isla Guañape Cruise with the Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

El Brujo Archaeological Complex and Cao Museum

Sun and Moon Huacas and Chan Chan

Huanchaco and Caballitos De Totora Experience

Sun & Moon Huacas, Chan Chan, and Caballitos De Totora Experience

Happy Fruit_Organic And Gastronomic Experience

Puyango Petrified Forest Adventure

El Sexmo Gold Mine Exploration and Zaruma Cooking Demonstration

Arenillas Dry Forest Reserve Short Walk

Exploring the Natural Wonders Of Isla De La Plata

Snorkeling In Isla De La Plata

Natural Wonders Of Isla De La Plata Short Hike

YOUR SUITE TYPE

Oceanview D4

Oceanview M4

Balcony D5

Balcony M5

Balcony D6

Suite

Premium Suite

Deck 4

Oceanview D4

Oceanview M4

Deck 5

Balcony D5

Balcony M5

Suite

Deck 6

Balcony D6

Suite

Premium Suite

Cultures and wilds of Peru, Utria and the Darien

1

Details

Trip Highlights

Itinerary

Zodiac Isla Guañape Cruise with the Swan Hellenic Expedition Team

El Brujo Archaeological Complex and Cao Museum

Sun and Moon Huacas and Chan Chan

Huanchaco and Caballitos De Totora Experience

Sun & Moon Huacas, Chan Chan, and Caballitos De Totora Experience

Happy Fruit_Organic And Gastronomic Experience

Puyango Petrified Forest Adventure

El Sexmo Gold Mine Exploration and Zaruma Cooking Demonstration

Arenillas Dry Forest Reserve Short Walk

Exploring the Natural Wonders Of Isla De La Plata

Snorkeling In Isla De La Plata

Natural Wonders Of Isla De La Plata Short Hike

YOUR SUITE TYPE

Oceanview D4

Oceanview M4

Balcony D5

Balcony M5

Balcony D6

Suite

Premium Suite

Deck 4

Oceanview D4

Oceanview M4

Deck 5

Balcony D5

Balcony M5

Suite

Deck 6

Balcony D6

Suite

Premium Suite

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