Marine reserves, desert landscapes and rainforests – the transnational beauty of South America’s Pacific coast is what makes this expedition so unique. On board the HANSEATIC inspiration, you will set course for small islands, foreign cultures and exotic flora and fauna: the daytime passage through the Panama Canal provides an extraordinary kick-off. Gigantic locks, which are some of the world’s largest concrete structures, will reveal the past and present of one of the most important waterways in the world. Providing a wealth of exciting facts, your team of on-board experts will enrich your experience as you cruise past savannahs, jungles and mangrove forests.

Arriving at the Pacific, you will enter the green heart of Panama in the Gulf of San Miguel: traditional boats will take you into the Darien jungle, Central America’s largest continuous rainforest. Meet the Embera people here and get to know their traditional everyday life.

Utria National Park in Colombia most likely features the world’s highest biodiversity – its 5 km (3.1 mi.) long bay, Ensenada de Utria, serves as a unique refuge for marine animals. A wooden walkway leads around 800 m (875 yards) through the mangrove swamp, providing insights that change with the tides. The highlights of a challenging jungle hike with rangers include anteaters, howler monkeys, sloths and hummingbirds – just some of the species that live here.

In the 16th century, Sir Francis Drake went on a privateering expedition in the Pacific waters. He is said to have hidden a silver treasure on the Isla de la Plata in Ecuador – well guarded to this day by turkey vultures and lava lizards.

The Spanish port city of Paita was the target of pirate attacks in the same century. The enormous sea lions of Isla Lobos de Tierra have been hunting underwater for generations. If the authorities grant permission, the Zodiacs will take you ashore, where you may be able to watch pelicans and blue-footed boobies. Near Salaverry, the Chimu civilisation comes to life. Explore the Huaca Dragon Temple and the ruins of Chan Chan*, built around 1300 and arguably the largest archaeological site on the continent. Even older relics can be found in the Moche Valley*, with the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, constructed using millions of adobe bricks and decorated with detailed friezes.

The explorer in you will be awed by fascinating natural history when cruising off the Islas Guanape and cruising off the Islas Grupo de Huaura. Your Zodiac rides here are guided by respect for the sensitive nature. The Humboldt penguins on the rocky islands are joined by seabirds such as Guanay cormorants and Peruvian boobies. Perhaps you will be rewarded with glimpses of whales surfacing?

From South America’s most important trading port, Callao, you will 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, South America’s largest marine reserve, offers a wealth of natural treasures. Take a boat trip to the lively Islas Ballestas*, teeming with seabirds and seals. A flight over the mysterious lines of Nazca* reveals an enigma. The geometric figures and monumental animal images in the desert are over 2,000 years old and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of South American winegrowers and their world-famous products is reflected in Peru’s national drinks: pisco and wine*.

Your thirst for knowledge and adventure will also be satisfied by Isla Pan de Azucar – a kind of large sandy mountain. The “sugarloaf island” will treat your eyes to the sight of Peruvian pelicans on your last Zodiac ride on this expedition.