Valparaiso - Ushuaia Expedition Chilean fjords - primeval maze at the end of the world

Where several tectonic plates meet, Chile’s northern and southern fjords were created over millions of years. Only with a small expedition ship like the HANSEATIC inspiration can this labyrinth of water be experienced particularly intensively. Captain and crew choose fascinating passages through the vast network of fjords. Framed by gigantic glaciers and mighty granite mountains, awe-inspiring natural wonders and spectacular wildlife lie before you at the end of the world – hidden treasures just waiting for you to discover them. Each expedition day promises new, unique impressions. The charming town of Puerto Montt, surrounded by snow-covered volcanoes, marks the beginning. The Petrohue waterfalls and the Osorno volcano*, with its snow-covered cone, show you the sublime natural phenomena surrounding the people who live here. A kayak tour in the La Poza lagoon* takes you to the home of mock elms and kingfishers. German roots characterise Puerto Varas and Frutillar*: apart from the renowned Teatro del Lago, even Black Forest gateau is a sign of German–Chilean partnership. Chaiten shows how life is determined by the forces of nature. In 2008, the town fell victim to the volcano of the same name – a climb to the volcano* will take you right to the edge of the caldera. Alternatively, on a hike in Parque Pumalin*, you can explore the rainforest with giant cypresses. While cruising intensively through the northern fjords, you will enjoy the best views on the inspiration Walk and the ship’s many open deck areas. The picturesque route to Caleta Tortel – connected by kilometre-long walkways made of cypress wood – is truly something special. With less than 90 inhabitants, Puerto Eden reveals how idyllic it is to live in a village on the shore. From this point onwards, the following days will revolve around glaciers. The excitement mounts as the nautically demanding manoeuvres lead to spectacular scenes, including the passing of the Pio XI Glacier. Marvel at one of South America’s biggest ice masses with its bizarre craggy surface sparkling in blue and white.

The Calvo and Amalia Glaciers rise up in the heart of Chile’s southern fjords before the HANSEATIC inspiration once again proves its expedition capability as it undertakes the passage through the Kirke Narrows. The small, manoeuvrable ship masters the 100 m (328 ft) narrow passage to Puerto Natales with flying colours. The port city can often only be reached by plane, but on board the ship you are surrounded by nature and may even spot dolphins, whales and seals. Once there, a hike up Cerro Dorotea* into the mountains or a horseback ride through the Patagonian pampas* will treat you to views off the beaten track. One of Chile’s highlights, with mountains reaching 3,000 m (9,843 ft) at their peak is the Torres del Paine National Park*. Over 100 different animal species, including rheas, flamingos and Andean condors, live between rushing waterfalls, extensive forests and shimmering aquamarine mountain lakes. A trek to the Base Las Torres* offers the opportunity to observe the natural surroundings whilst on the move. As you cruise through the Strait of Magellan, you will feel the pioneering spirit of the first person to circumnavigate the globe.

The Tucker Islands are the ideal expedition territory for an exciting Zodiac ride, where you can keep a lookout for Magellanic penguins and cormorants.

The pioneering spirit of the golden age of seafaring can be felt at the end of the world in Punta Arenas. From there, a hike through Magallanes National Reserve* will take you into a world of diverse flora. The fauna, by contrast, is the focus of the boat trip to the penguin colony on Isla Magdalena*. Thousands of penguins congregate here at this time of year. Alternatively, keep an eye out for Chile’s national bird during condor watching*.

Cruising off the Garibaldi Glacier with its blue, shimmering tongue of ice and cruising through the Beagle Channel with a passage through “Glacier Alley” both reveal the beauty of nature in all its glory – a spectacular highlight and, at the same time, the crowning glory that rounds off this cruise.