Cruise from Chile to Peru
Valparaiso, Chile - Callao, Peru SH Vega
Departure 30.03.26
10 Days Cruise
Embark on a captivating journey on the luxury cruise "Cruise from Chile to Peru," starting in the vibrant city of Valparaíso, Chile, and concluding in the bustling port of Callao, Lima. This enchanting voyage will take you along the stunning coasts of South America, allowing you to explore the rich cultural tapestries and breathtaking landscapes of the region.
As you sail, you'll have the opportunity to visit several intriguing locations such as Coquimbo with its ancient petroglyphs, and the historic city of Antofagasta. Discover the Chili-Peruvian gateway, Matarani, for a taste of Arequipa's colonial elegance. Moreover, explore the remarkable Paracas Peninsula, where the mysterious Nazca Lines and vibrant Ballestas Islands await your discovery. During this luxury cruise, indulge in a variety of exciting activities.
Unwind with a spa treatment on sea days, or refine your photography skills with expert guidance on board. Relish the breathtaking landscapes as you engage in shore excursions, from stargazing in the Atacama Desert to savoring the rich flavors of Arequipa in local vineyards. These experiences promise to enrich your journey from Chile to Peru, providing memories to treasure for a lifetime.
What’s INCLUDED:
* Your selected stateroom;
* All meals onboard;
* Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise;
* 24-hour room service;
* Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers;
* One selected shore excursion per port of call;
* All expedition landings;
* Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available);
* Gym, sauna, pool;
* 24/7 self service laundry;
* Waterproof backpack and refillable water bottle, yours to keep;
* In polar regions: branded parka, yours to keep and use of rubber boot;
* Memory Package;
* Onboard gratuities & port taxes.
The following services are NOT INCLUDED:
* Charter flights to the port of embarkation/ disembarkation;
* Group return transfers from airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included);
* One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply).
Itinerary
This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.
Terms and Conditions:
Standard deposit, payment, and cancellation policies apply. All bookings are subject to Swan Hellenic’s standard terms and conditions, available at:
Balcony D5
25 m2 Pax 3
Balcony Staterooms measure 25 m2 (269 ft2) – including a 5 m2 (54 ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
* Photojournalism package included (Value $1,200)
$ 7,775 Per Pax
Balcony M5
25 m2 Pax 3
Balcony Staterooms measure 25 m2 (269 ft2) – including a 5 m2 (54 ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
* Photojournalism package included (Value $1,200)
$ 8,125 Per Pax
Balcony D6
25 m2 Pax 3
Balcony Staterooms measure 25 m2 (269 ft2) – including a 5 m2 (54 ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.
* Photojournalism package included (Value $1,200)
$ 8,500 Per Pax
Suite
40 m2 Pax 2
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.
* Photojournalism package included (Value $1,200)
$ 11,725 Per Pax
Premium Suite
47 m2 Pax 2
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 12 m2 (129 ft2).
* Photojournalism package included (Value $1,200)
$ 13,525
Activities
Travel Photojournalism Experience at Sea
Turn your voyage into a story only you can tell.
Every journey leaves a mark — a memory, a face, a feeling.
Now imagine being able to capture that story as it unfolds, guided by professional travel photographers who help you see the world — and yourself — through a new lens.
This is not another onboard activity.
It’s a creative journey that transforms your cruise into a canvas of emotions, light, and discovery.
You’ll learn how to tell stories through your photos, document the beauty of life at sea, and connect more deeply with the places and people you encounter.
And at the end of your voyage, your story becomes part of something greater — a beautifully published photo book that celebrates your adventure and the shared spirit of the voyage.
Because true luxury isn’t just about where you go.
It’s about how deeply you connect.
It’s about coming home with more than memories — with a story that’s yours forever.
Photojournalism Package Offer:
Program is for booked guests only, and features a pre-voyage course, onboard workshops, photo excursions, and the hardcover photo book. All scheduled activities are subject to weather, operational conditions, guide availability, and expedition routing. Some sessions may be modified, substituted, or canceled for safety or logistical reasons. Guests are responsible for bringing their own photography gear, including cameras, lenses, and smart phone devices. Equipment rentals are not available on board.
British Coquimbo
Optional/Add'l Cost 03 h 30 m
√ Learn the history of La Herradura’s legendary English pirates
√ Discover the uniquely prefabricated metal Guayacán Church, designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel
√ Visit Fort Lambert, constructed by Charles Lambert, a prosperous miner, to safeguard his stock and mining supplies from pirate threats
La Serena Highlights
Included 04 h 00 m
√ Enjoy a scenic drive along Avenida del Mar, enjoying 12 km of pristine beaches and vibrant coastal life
√ Visit the 28-metre-tall Monumental Lighthouse, a La Serena symbol since 1951
√ Explore La Serena’s downtown, rich with architecture, then treat yourself at La Recova market with local crafts and sweet papayas
Taste of Coquimbo
Included 04 h 10 m
√ Stop for a photo at Monumental Lighthouse of La Serena, a magnificent structure, a proud symbol on the Chilean National Heritage List, sets the stage for a day rich in history and breath-taking views
√ Learn the meticulous process of papaya, from farm to table, culminating in a delicious tasting of high-quality, artisanal products
√ Cap off your tour with a deep dive into military history at Fuerte Lambert (Fort Coquimbo), a significant coastal fortification
Sunset and Stas
Optional/Add'l Cost 04 h 00 m
√ Gaze at the Milky Way in the oldest and driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert
√ Watch the sunset over the Pacific from the Caleta del Cobre viewpoint
√ Sip wine by a crackling fire pit as constellations twinkle in the clearest skies in the world accompanied by folkloric music.
Atacama Desert & Pachamama Ceremony
Optional/Add'l Cost 14 h 45 m
√ Discover the charming village of San Pedro, wandering its handicraft market, adobe church, and picturesque Caracoles street with traditional mud-brick architecture
√ Experience the surreal beauty of Valle de la Luna at sunset, followed by stargazing under the clearest skies on Earth
√ Honour Mother Earth by participating in a traditional Pachamama ceremony.
Highlights of Antofagasta
Included 04 h 00 m
√ Explore the Huanchaca Ruins, remnants of an impressive 1888 silver smelter from Antofagasta’s mining boom
√ Stroll through the Historic District's Victorian architecture, including the Old Customs House and the Plaza Colón clock tower, a replica of Big Ben
√ Marvel at La Portada, a stunning natural rock arch carved by the sea
Nitrate and Desert with Lunchbox
Optional/Add'l Cost 06 h 00 m
√ Visit the historic Railway Museum of Baquedano, which showcases vintage locomotives and carriages
√ Step back in time at the eerie ghost town of Oficina Chacabuco, a former nitrate hub, and learn about the "white gold" nitrate business
√ Stand at the Tropic of Capricorn, marking the sun's southernmost journey, and marvel at La Portada, a natural arch island
LLuta River Wetland & Local Culture
Optional/Add'l Cost 06 h 30 m
√ Discover 130 bird species, including the rare Peruvian thick-knee and white-backed stilt at Lluta River Wetland
√ Enjoy panoramic city, ocean, and port views with a refreshing Mango Sour at the historic site of El Morro de Arica
√ Experience the vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce of the Azapa and Lluta Valleys at the local fruit and veg market
Arica & Ancient cultures - With Lunch Box
Optional/Add'l Cost 06 h 30 m
√ Explore Arica's rich cultural tapestry with a visit to the Lluta Valley, discovering ancient geoglyphs
√ Observe mesmerising a traditional local ceremony and ritual honouring Mother Earth
√ Delve into the fascinating Chinchorro culture, known for its extraordinary mummification practices
Valley Explorer – Arica To Poconchile By Train
Included 05 h 00 m
√ Begin your adventure at Arica’s Chinchorro station and enjoy an exclusive passage through the serene Lluta Valley
√ Explore the historic town of Poconchile, a living museum where the echoes of the 1920s nitrate era come alive, with beautifully restored buildings and a rich cultural heritage
√ Enjoy panoramic view into the soul of South American
A day exploring Arequipa
Included 10 h 30 m
√ Admire amazing views of the "White City" from Carmen Alto and Yanahuara viewpoints
√ Discover the gold and silver treasures kept in Arequipa’s cathedral
√ Marvel at La Compañia church’s famous multicolored dome, and impressive collection of colonial art
Mejia Lagoons
Optional/Add'l Cost 04 h 00 m
√ Explore lagoons of different degrees of salinity, salt marshes, reed patches, and salt mines
√ Watch out for gulls, ospreys and Chilean flamingos
√ Keep an eye out for migratory birds too, such as the Franklin gull from the northern United States and Canada
Cooking Demonstration and Mollendo Excursion
Optional/Add'l Cost 05 h 35 m
√ Wander along the sand and watch out for local birdlife, including guanay cormorants and an impressive array of gulls
√ Visit Mollendo’s indoor market, with its colorful stalls and wonderful local produce
√ Head to Estación Ferroviaria de Mollendo and explore the railway station designed by Gustave Eiffel, now a museum and cultural center, complete with an 1871 steam locomotive
Vineyard Bodega 1615 Visit
Optional/Add'l Cost 03 h 45 m
√ Visit a historical vineyard, housed in a building that was part of the Hacienda of Santa Cruz de Lanchas in the 16th century
√ Unearth the secrets of traditional Paracas winemaking techniques
√ Sample the unique flavors of Paracas wine, with its raisin, geranium, citrus and floral notes, and bitter pecan finish
Paracas National Reserve
Optional/Add'l Cost 02 h 30 m
√ Dive into Peru's rich geological and cultural history at The Interpretation Center, where stunning visuals and interactive exhibits bring the ancient landscapes to life
√ Discover the hidden jewels of the coast, from the vibrant sands of Red Beach to the serene beauty of Yumaque Beach, each offering a unique and tranquil experience
√ Marvel at the awe-inspiring "La Catedral," a natural rock formation that stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the landscape, despite the ravages of time and nature
Built in Finland’s famous Helsinki Shipyard, SH Vega was made for wonderful cruising experiences. Welcoming spaces to relax on board, unobstructed views throughout the ship, and world-class restaurants, staterooms and amenities mean sailing on SH Vega is always a pleasure.
Swan Hellenic is all about personal service and genuine hospitality, and the crew on SH Vega are dedicated to giving you the best experience possible. No task is too big or too small: need a double espresso to get you going in the morning? Noted. Prefer your bed made up a certain way? We'll look after it. Absorbed by the views or the conversation at dinner? We’ll take care of everything else. We take pride in our caring, thoughtful approach.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Begin Your Photojournalism Journey?
The Travel Photojournalism Experience at Sea transforms passengers into visual storytellers, voyages intonarratives, and moments into lasting legacies.
Your camera is ready.
Your destinations are extraordinary.
Your story is waiting to be told.
Have a question not answered here? Contact Travel Photo Tour directly—we're here to help you determine if this transformative experience is right for your journey.