Longing to explore landscapes where the desert meets the sea? Well, there’s an adventure like no other waiting for you along South America’s coastline! From the arid, surreal expanses of the Atacama Desert to the vibrant wildlife of Peru's Paracas Peninsula, this region is a treasure trove of natural beauty and ancient mysteries. Let’s take a closer look…
Gateway to the Pacific
Valparaíso, Chile, is a city that feels as though it’s alive with color and history. Known for its steep hillsides, historical funicular, and vibrant maze of cobblestone streets and colorful houses, Valparaíso is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers something at every corner. Discover Chile's most famous poet Pablo Neruda’s former home in Isla Negra, a place brimming with history, and get lost in a world of art and architecture that has withstood the test of time. The fertile Casablanca Valley – famed for its Chilean white wines – invites you to relax and savor the region's delightful offerings.
Where history and natural beauty collide
From Valparaíso, the coastline stretches into Coquimbo, a town that was once the center of Chile's gold and copper industries. Perched on the rocky hills of the Península Coquimbo, this vibrant harbor town is dotted with ancient petroglyphs and charming spots like the La Serena lighthouse and the Cross of the Third Millennium. You’ll want to take a moment to soak in the panoramic views before heading to the Limarí Valley, home to the mysterious Enchanted Valley park, where petroglyphs tell stories of ancient cultures.
Desert skies and salt flats
Next, you’ll find yourself in Antofagasta, a city with a turbulent past that once belonged to Bolivia until the War of the Pacific reshaped borders. Today, it stands as a gateway to the otherworldly landscapes of the Atacama Desert, with moonscape salt flats and stunning lagoons. Be sure to catch the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific from Caleta del Cobre, where the clear skies offer the perfect canvas for stargazing under some of the brightest stars in the world.
Lunar landscapes and ancient rituals
Venture deeper into the Atacama Desert, where the Valle de la Luna greets you with its eerie, lunar-like terrain, and the Atacama Salt Flat reveals a beauty that feels almost unearthly. This is where you can take part in a Pachamama Ceremony, a traditional ritual that honors Mother Earth, connecting you to the ancient energy of the land. It’s no wonder these extreme landscapes are a photographer's dream and an explorer’s paradise!
City at the edge of the desert
As you continue north, the coast of Arica awaits, where the world’s driest desert meets the ocean. This enchanting northern city, home to the unique Chinchorro mummies, is a fascinating blend of history and nature. Explore the Lluta Valley, rich with ancient geoglyphs and traditions, or take a train ride to the historic town of Poconchile, where the spirit of the 1920s nitrate era comes alive in the beautifully restored buildings.
Peru’s “White City” awaits
Further along the coast, the port of Matarani serves as a passage to Arequipa, Peru’s “White City.” Admire the elegance of colonial buildings carved from volcanic rock, and don’t miss the Santa Catalina Convent, a monumental 16th-century citadel that still echoes with the whispers of history. As you wander through the Mejia Lagoons, the peaceful surroundings invite you to marvel at the rich birdlife that calls these wetlands home, including flamingos, ospreys and migratory gulls.
Mysteries and wildlife
No trip to Peru’s coast would be complete without a visit to the Paracas Peninsula, a natural wonder teeming with life. The Nazca Lines, an ancient mystery carved into the earth, beckon you to fly above them, witnessing the geometric perfection of the designs from the sky. And on the nearby Ballestas Islands, a boat trip will introduce you to colonies of sea lions, Humboldt penguins, and Guanay cormorants, providing a rare glimpse into the wild, untouched side of South America.
The heart of Peru’s coastal culture
Visit the bustling port of Callao, where colonial charm meets modern energy. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage center, where historic landmarks like Plaza Mayor and San Francisco Monastery stand tall against the city’s vibrant backdrop. For a taste of local culture, savor the famous ceviche or explore the ancient ruins of Huaca Pucllana, remnants of the Inca civilization.
Is South America’s coastline calling?
Ready to experience a land of extremes, where desert meets ocean and history intertwines with nature? Then South America's coastline is waiting for you! Embark on the Discover South America's Coastline: Chile to Peru Cruise, and uncover the beauty of this unique and unforgettable region. Book your voyage today and let South America’s coastline become your next great adventure.