Callao is Peru?s biggest harbour and close to the capital, Lima. Despite chaotic traffic conditions, a constant grey mist that the locals call ?garua?, and the rapidly growing shanty towns ? formerly known as ?barriadas? and today called ?pueblos jovenes? ? numerous historic sights dating from the colonial era and impressive collections of Peruvian art offer visitors a wealth of interesting impressions.

Majestic mountains reflected in calm fjords, waterfalls plunging into emerald-green mountain lakes – the varied landscapes of the South American Pacific coast are best explored on a small, manoeuvrable expedition ship like the HANSEATIC inspiration. On the Paracas Peninsula, one of South America’s largest marine reserves awaits your visit. A flight over the mysterious Nazca lines*, which baffle scientists to this day, provides a perfect view of these cryptic drawings on the desert floor. Take a boat trip to the lively Islas Ballestas*, teeming with seabirds and seals.

The spectacle is completed off Isla Pan de Azucar as you marvel at the pelicans and Humboldt penguins from a Zodiac.

Your wildlife sightings will continue as your cruise off Isla Chanaral, where you can keep a lookout for seabirds and seals.

Colourful Valparaiso covers the hills like a mosaic. Round off your tour of Valparaiso and Vina del Mar* with the sight of sea lions relaxing on the rock formations in the bay. Urban yet traditional, Santiago de Chile*, the capital city, greets you with splendid colonial-era buildings, an imposing cathedral and a skyline of glass.

Back in the Chilean island world, Isla de Chiloe is much more tranquil. Chiloe’s villages* will take you closer to the region’s culture and history, while penguin sightings on the island of Punihuil* provide thrilling insights into life in the colonies of Humboldt and Magellanic penguins – this is the only place in the world where two species breed in direct proximity to each other.

The town of Puerto Montt and its breathtaking surroundings are nestled among snow-covered volcanoes: a scenic journey takes you through the Chilean lake district* with a view of turquoise lakes and thundering waterfalls. If you’re feeling sporty, take a thrilling white-water-rafting trip on the Petrohue River*. With instruction from experienced guides, you will paddle down the river between lush, green forests, mountains and glaciers.

On board, the anticipation builds for one of the highlights of your cruise: Chile’s southern fjords offer new, spellbinding views at every turn. Majestic and radiant, the Pio XI Glacier rises up before you, a moving moment that can only be surpassed by an encounter with the gentle giants of the ocean: there is a good chance that whales will cross your path off Puerto Natales. On a scenic tour through Torres del Paine National Park*, you will delve deep into the wonderful world of Patagonia – mountain ranges, peaceful fjords and shimmering lakes with condors soaring overhead. Reaching up into the sky, the Torres peaks are an impressive sight – get close on a trek to the Base Las Torres*. Following in the footsteps of the famous pioneer, you will pass the Strait of Magellan and reach Punta Arenas. Get to within touching distance of nature on a hike in Magallanes National Reserve* or a tour to see the Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena*. Look forward to countless impressions of the next dream panorama as you approach the mighty Garibaldi Glacier in the Beagle Channel, with its vibrant shades of light blue. Accompanied by the calls of seabirds, the HANSEATIC inspiration will cruise through the Garibaldi Sound – another moment to remind you that no explorer can resist the other side of the world.