5 of the Best Ways to Explore South America
With so many of us being stuck at home due to the coronavirus, you’ve likely spent a lot of time fantasizing about grand adventures and new travel destinations.
Perhaps you’ve been imagining a trip to South America, where you can discover new flavors, a rich culture, and that one-of-a-kind feeling of a warm sun above you and cool, clear water below.
We get it, and we hope that it’ll be safe to travel again soon. But in the meantime, why not put together the perfect travel itinerary to get you through the final stretch?
At CloudBlue, we host exclusive South American excursions in 8 different countries and over 50 cities to choose from. So you can rest assured that the second it’s safe to get on a plane or cruise ship again, you’ll know exactly where to go and what to do to maximize your adventure.
Here are some of our favorite South American shore excursions to spark your imagination. And we’ll be here when you’re done reading to help make them a reality!
The Temple of Pachacamac
The Temple of Pachacamac, also known as the Temple of the Sun, stands tall and proud in beautiful Lima, Peru.
According to Inca legend, Pachacamac was the god who created the first woman and the first man. Unfortunately he overlooked their need for nourishment, and didn’t create food. The man perished, but the woman was saved by the sun god Inti, who showered her with rays of sunlight to heal her. (There’s much more to this story, but we won’t give away all of it!)
The Pachacamac temple is known as a sacred site, and is one of the most highly-regarded of the Incan buildings and shrines. For thousands of years, people from all over the world have made pilgrimages to lay eyes on the temple and receive its guidance.
During the Temple of Pachacamac shore excursion, you’ll depart from your cruise ship and be taken on a beautiful drive to the temple, where you can spot the remnants of ancient adornments like turquoise- and crystal-lined doors.
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Journey to the Middle of the World
Just as it sounds, the journey to the middle of the world takes you to the equator — specifically to the world-renown city of Quito, capital of Ecuador.
Quito was built on ancient Incan ruins in the 16th century. It’s a hub for archaeological finds and historically-preserved buildings.
The architecture itself exemplifies the unique style of Escuela Quitena, a combination of Indigenous and European art styles.
You’ll also have the opportunity to experience the Equatorial Line Monument, also known as the “Middle of the World.” This historical spot was the first place the location of the equator was determined by a French science expedition in the 18th century.
Here, you’ll be standing on both the northern and southern hemispheres of the earth at the same time!
Enhance your knowledge of the area by asking your expert tour guide and exploring world-famous museum Muséo Etnografico, where you can see ancient artifacts, learn about the geography of the area, and more.
Punta Tombo Penguin Rookery
Animal lovers, this one’s for you!
Every year between September and April, over half a million Magellanic penguins settle in at Punta Tombo to incubate their eggs. This makes it the largest penguin colony in South America.
On the Punta Tombo Penguin Rookery excursion, you’ll be able to see this incredible occasion with your own eyes.
Penguins and humans live in peace here, so after the scenic 2-hour drive from your cruise ship, you’ll be able to stretch your legs amongst thousands of adorable penguins and their offspring. Just be sure to be respectful of their space, as penguins don’t like to be provoked (and are known to bite!)
This area has one of the most diverse ranges of bird species in the region, so you’ll also catch sight of other seaside creature like guanacos, rheas, and sea birds.
You’ll be joined by an experienced guide who can share details about the lifestyle of the penguins and ensure you see everything the rookery has to offer.
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River Cruise to the Meeting of the Waters
You can’t call yourself a world explorer without exploring the Amazon, the biggest rainforest in the world.
On the river cruise to the meeting of the waters, your adventure begins in the incredible city of Manaus. Manaus is the capital of Amazonas, and the gateway to the Amazon rainforest.
There are plenty of shops where you can pick up a souvenir, and cafes where you can try out their unique menus. But don’t get too carried away and lose track of time — a once-in-a-lifetime cruise awaits, starting with departure from the world’s largest floating port.
From there, your river boat takes you on an excursion down the Rio Negro and into the Amazon rainforest, all the way to where the Rio Negro meets the Rio Solimões and they merge to create the Amazon river.
The journey doesn’t stop there. You’ll continue to the stunning Lake January, located in Lake January Ecological Park. Here, you’ll float amongst giant lily pads and catch glimpses of lake wildlife, including over 800 species of fish!
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Post Cruise Wine Tasting in Casablanca Valley
Casablanca Valley is located in Santiago, Chile. It’s known around the world for its delectable variety of wines.
The post-cruise wine tasting in Casablanca Valley is a must for any wine connoisseur. You’ll be picked up directly from your cruise port and taken to the lush Veramonte Vineyard, nestled in the beautiful Casablanca Valley.
The Veramonte is the largest vineyard in Chile. The rich soil and even-tempered microclimate make for the most delicious of fruits, turned carefully into wine that will stun you with its flavor.
Afterwards, you’ll move on to Viña Indómita, a modern winery with more world-famous wine flavors to try.
Book Your South American Excursion Today
So what will it be? Exploring ancient ruins, adventuring through the Amazon, mingling with penguins, or tasting the world’s best wine? No matter which excursion you choose, you’re bound to make memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to bust out your bucket list and cross off some huge landmarks as a world traveler, then book your shore excursion with CloudBlue today >
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