Between the Pacific and the Atlantic lies a kaleidoscope of creation. Once seized by the conquistadors and explored by scientists such as Alexander von Humboldt, the focus here is now on conservation and cultural heritage. Mysterious rainforest, pre-Columbian discoveries and relics from the time of Spanish colonialism – in-depth insights into the diverse variety of South America shape this route on the HANSEATIC inspiration. And there is no more spectacular way to start than with one of the engineering wonders of this continent. Enjoy a marvel that stretches for more than 80 km (50 mi.) with a daytime passage through the Panama Canal. As the grassland and rainforest glide past, your team of experts will tell you about the nature and history of the canal. Learn fascinating information about the canal’s construction, significance and expansion and find out how the ship manoeuvres in the Miraflores locks.

Discover the green heart of Panama from a special perspective in the Gulf of San Miguel, as traditional boats take you into the Darien jungle, Central America’s largest continuous rainforest. Gain a fascinating insight into life and culture in the Embera settlements.

Exotic flora and fauna await you in Utria National Park with exceptional biodiversity. As you forge your way through the untouched Colombian rainforest with local rangers, the calls of exotic birds will echo through the treetops above the habitat of reptiles and amphibians.

Much wilder, but no less lively, Isla Lobos de Tierra greets you with its rocky beauty. The island’s name, which translates as “island of the land wolves”, was inspired by its enormous population of sea lions. If the authorities grant permission, the Zodiacs will take you ashore, where you may be able to watch pelicans and blue-footed boobies. With a little luck, chains of Guanay cormorants swooping low over the water will herald your approach to the Islas Guanape: a group of rugged rocky islands that provide a habitat for sea lions and thousands of Peruvian boobies and Inca terns. Perhaps some time on the Observation Deck or glass balconies will reward you with the sight of whales surfacing.

From South America’s most important trading port, Callao, you’ll delve into fascinating chapters in the country’s history. Explore Lima, the capital of Peru*, which was founded in 1535 by the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro. The fascinating “City of Kings” has a lively atmosphere, surprising contrasts and monasteries from colonial times. As you visit the temple ruins*, modern urban architecture contrasts with a remnant of Peru’s oldest cultures: the sacred burial temple of Huaca Huallamarca from the sixth century.

The Paracas Peninsula in South America’s largest marine reserve may look like a desert, but it is in fact full of life. Take a boat trip to the lively Islas Ballestas*, teeming with seabirds and seals. A flight over the mysterious Nazca Lines* reveals the natural beauty and an enigma that is over 2,000 years old at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are many theories about the origins of the geometric figures and monumental animal images in the desert landscape. The country’s most important wineries are located in the region and monks perfected the art of brandy making there. The history of South American winegrowers and their world-famous products is reflected in Peru’s national drinks: pisco sour and wine*.

The palaeontological museum in the port of Puerto Caldera will take you on a journey far back in time. It is housed in a former railway station, where ore from the mines once passed through on its way to be shipped. Give in to temptation at the market in Coquimbo and try some of the exotic fruit – or stroll along the shopping streets in Chile’s second-oldest city with an excursion to colonial La Serena*. In the midst of the desert-like landscape, the Elqui valley* with its fruit plantations and vines seems to emerge like a green mirage. But this is no optical illusion – simply another vivid facet of South America to cherish in your memories.