Where Desert
Meets Ocean
Sail from Valparaiso to Callao, where desert meets ocean — discovering Chile and Peru's striking Pacific coast, ancient geoglyphs, and vibrant cities along the way.
Valparaiso
Begin your journey in Chile's colorful coastal gem — a city of steep hills, street art, and maritime charm.
Atacama Desert
Step into the world's driest desert — a landscape of lunar valleys, salt flats, and endless skies.
Stargazing Skies
Experience the clearest night skies on Earth under the stars of northern Chile.
Paracas & Nazca Lines
Fly over Peru's mysterious Nazca Lines and explore the wildlife-rich Paracas National Reserve.
Wildlife Encounters
Spot Peruvian Boobies, Inca Terns, Andean Flamingos, and Bottlenose Dolphins along the Pacific coast.
Cultural Heritage
Discover traces of ancient civilizations and vibrant coastal towns rich in history and tradition.
Life Onboard
Enjoy lectures from expert guides, creative workshops, and quiet moments in our Library and Observation Lounge.
Valparaiso - Callao
From
/per person
Dates
30 Mar 26 - 8 Apr 26
Duration
9 nights
Ship
SH Vega
Experience the natural wonders of the Atacama and Paracas Desert cruise along the arid coastline of Chile and Peru. From the colorful houses of Valparaiso to the driest desert in the world, the Atacama and its otherworldly sand dunes, you'll experience a journey of extremes. Visit uninhabited wildlife havens, see prehistoric geoglyph line drawings in the Paracas desert, and discover world-class coastal towns and bustling cosmopolitan cities.
Valparaiso
Perched on steep hills above the Pacific, Valparaíso enchants with its maze of colorful houses, vintage funiculars, and vibrant street art — a city of bohemian soul and maritime heritage where your journey begins.
Coquimbo
A gateway to Chile's Elqui Valley and its star-studded skies, Coquimbo blends coastal charm with mystical energy — a place where ocean breezes meet the serenity of the desert.
Antofagasta
Set between the Pacific and the Atacama Desert, Antofagasta opens the way to otherworldly landscapes — from Moon Valley's sculpted dunes to salt flats shimmering under an endless sky.
Arica
Known as the "City of Eternal Spring," Arica offers sun-drenched beaches, ancient geoglyphs, and a rich blend of Andean and coastal cultures at Chile's northern frontier.
Matarani
The "Port of Arequipa," Matarani is your gateway to the dramatic volcanoes of southern Peru and the highland charms of the White City — a land where mountains meet the sea.
General San Martin
From the Paracas National Reserve to the mysterious Nazca Lines, this desert region reveals nature's artistry and ancient wonder — a haven for flamingos, sea lions, and seabirds.
Callao (Lima)
Historic port of Peru's vibrant capital, Callao leads to Lima's colonial splendor and world-renowned cuisine — a fitting finale to a voyage rich in culture, coastlines, and discovery.
The Journey of Your Dreams
An ocean voyage along the Pacific coast of Chile and Peru from Valparaiso to Callao aboard our boutique ice-class ship, SH Vega.
Nazca Lines
Fly over the Nazca Lines, one of the most mysterious shapes and lines on earth.
Atacama Desert
Visit the high-altitude Atacama Desert plateau filled with turquoise lagoons, llama-filled plains and sizzling salt flats.
Arequipa
Explore Peru's white city of Arequipa and its renowned colonial architectural masterpiece, the Santa Catalina Monastery.
The Journey of Your Dreams
An ocean voyage along the Pacific coast of Chile and Peru from Valparaiso to Callao aboard our boutique ice-class ship, SH Vega.
Nazca Lines
Fly over the Nazca Lines, one of the most mysterious shapes and lines on earth.
Atacama Desert
Visit the high-altitude Atacama Desert plateau filled with turquoise lagoons, llama-filled plains and sizzling salt flats.
Arequipa
Explore Peru's white city of Arequipa and its renowned colonial architectural masterpiece, the Santa Catalina Monastery.
Expedition Itinerary
9 nights exploring Chile and Peru — from the Atacama's desert horizons to Peru's ancient geoglyphs and coastal charm.
Day 1
Valparaiso, Chile
One of Chile's oldest cities, Valparaiso is known for its steep hillsides overlooking the ocean as well as its historical funicular. UNESCO-listed, it's a maze of monuments, wonderful architecture, churches, cobblestone alleys, colourful houses and bustling plazas. The former home of Chile's most famous poet, Pablo Neruda, is open to the public in Isla Negra. Leaving Valparaiso, the fertile Casablanca Valley is known for Chilean white wines.
Day 2
Coquimbo, Chile
Once Chile's gold and copper hub, colourful harbour town Coquimbo sits on the rocky Peninsula Coquimbo hills. On top of the town is the Cross of the Third Millennium. The main square, La Serena lighthouse and views from La Serena viewpoint are among highlights. Ancient petroglyphs are found in the Limari Valley's Enchanted Valley park. The fertile Elqui Valley produces papayas, wine grapes for Chile's famed Pisco.
La Serena Highlights
included- •Enjoy a scenic drive along Avenida del Mar, enjoying 12 km of pristine beaches and vibrant coastal life
- •Visit the 28-metre-tall Monumental Lighthouse, a La Serena symbol since 1951
- •Explore La Serena's downtown, rich with architecture, then treat yourself at La Recova market with local crafts and sweet papayas
British Coquimbo
optional- •Learn the history of La Herradura's legendary English pirates
- •Discover the uniquely prefabricated metal Guayacán Church, designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel
- •Visit Fort Lambert, constructed by Charles Lambert, a prosperous miner, to safeguard his stock and mining supplies from pirate threats
Day 3
At Sea
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship's observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert's view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.
- •Lectures on the history of the region
- •Photography workshops
- •Wildlife spotting
- •Discussions with experts
Day 4
Antofagasta, Chile
Steeped in culture on Chile's pristine Pacific coast, Antofagasta has a turbulent history. It was once part of Bolivia until Chile's 1883 War of the Pacific victory reshaped borders, giving Chile the city's horseshoe bay while landlocked Bolivia. Initially a prosperous mining hub, today Antofagasta draws visitors to its coastal beauty and proximity to Atacama Desert highlights like moonscape salt flats, lagoons and vast deserts.
Highlights of Antofagasta
included- •Explore the Huanchaca Ruins, remnants of an impressive 1888 silver smelter near Antofagasta's colonial boom
- •Stroll through the Historic District's Victorian architecture, including the Old Customs House and the Plaza Colon clock tower, a replica of Big Ben
- •Marvel at La Portada, a stunning natural rock arch carved by the sea
Nitrate and Desert
optional- •Visit the historic Railway Museum of Baquedano, which showcases vintage locomotives and carriages
- •Step back in time at the eerie ghost town of Oficina Chacabuco, a former nitrate hub, and learn about the "white gold" nitrate business
- •Stand at the Tropic of Capricorn, marking the sun's southernmost journey, and marvel at La Portada, a natural arch island
Atacama Desert & Pachamama Ceremony
optional- •Discover the charming village of San Pedro, wandering its handicraft market, adobe church, and picturesque Caracoles street with traditional mud-brick architecture
- •Experience the surreal beauty of Valle de la Luna at sunset, followed by stargazing under the clearest skies on Earth
- •Honour Mother Earth by participating in a traditional Pachamama ceremony
Sunset and Stars
optional- •Gaze at the Milky Way in the oldest and driest desert in the world, the Atacama Desert
- •Watch the sunset over the Pacific from the Caleta del Cobre viewpoint
- •Sip wine by a crackling fire pit as constellations twinkle in the clearest skies in the world accompanied by folkloric music
Day 5
At Sea
Back at sea, unwind as SH Vega sails north along Chile's desert coast. Enjoy a spa treatment or a workout with ocean views, join a lecture from our onboard experts, or simply relax in the observation lounge over a glass of wine. Visit the bridge, take in the vast Pacific horizon, and watch for seabirds and dolphins as we make our way towards Arica.
- •Visit the spa and gym
- •Meet the officers during a bridge visit
- •Relax in the Observation Lounge
- •Enjoy afternoon tea in the Club Lounge
Day 6
Arica, Chile
Bordering the Atacama, the world's driest desert, Arica – Chile's northernmost city – features an elegant cathedral designed by Gustave Eiffel and an archaeological museum showcasing some of the world's oldest mummies. Nearby, the Atacama boasts the planet's tallest sand dunes. Birds like the Chilean flamingo and Andean condor inhabit the stark yet beautiful desert landscape. The picturesque Pomerape and Parinacota volcanoes rise majestically across the shimmering waters of Chungara Lake.
Valley Explorer: Arica to Poconchile by Train
included- •Begin your adventure at Arica's Chinchorro station and enjoy an exclusive passage through the serene Lluta Valley
- •Explore the historic town of Poconchile, a living museum where the echoes of the 1920s nitrate era come alive, with beautifully restored buildings and a rich cultural heritage
- •Enjoy panoramic view into the soul of South American
Taste of Arica
optional- •Discover the historic and traditional olive preparation methods in the Azapa Valley
- •Immerse yourself in the local market's vibrant atmosphere
- •Delight in a captivating folklore performance at the village in Arica
LLuta River Wetland & Local Culture
optional- •Discover 130 bird species, including the rare Peruvian thick-knee and white-backed stilt at Lluta River Wetland
- •Enjoy panoramic city, ocean, and port views with a refreshing Mango Sour at the historic site of El Morro de Arica
- •Experience the vibrant atmosphere and fresh produce of the Azapa and Lluta Valleys at the local fruit and veg market
Arica & Ancient cultures
optional- •Explore Arica's rich cultural tapestry with a visit to the Lluta Valley, discovering ancient geoglyphs
- •Observe mesmerising a traditional local ceremony and ritual honouring Mother Earth
- •Delve into the fascinating Chinchorro culture, known for its extraordinary mummification practices
Day 7
Matarani, Peru
The port of Matarani is the gateway to Arequipa, Peru's White City, with the still-active El Misti volcano looming. Arequipa's colonial buildings carved from white volcanic sillar rock reflect the influence of volcanism on the landscape. Other landmarks include Inca ceremonial sites and the Museo Santuarios displaying the famous mummy of a girl, Juanita. Santa Catalina Convent, guarded by high walls, is a 16th century citadel within the city.
A Day Exploring Arequipa
included- •Admire amazing views of the 'White City' from Carmen Alto and Yanahuara
- •Visit Mundo Alpaca to explore the culture of alpaca
- •Discover the gold and silver treasures kept in Arequipa's cathedral
- •Marvel at La Compañia church's famous multicoloured dome, and impressive collection of colonial art
Mejia Lagoons
optional- •Explore lagoons of different degrees of salinity, salt marshes, reed patches
- •Marvel at one of the richest ecosystems on the Peruvian coast
- •Watch out for gulls, ospreys and Chilean flamingos
- •Keep an eye out for migratory birds too, such as the Franklin gull from the northern United States and Canada
Cooking Demonstration and Mollendo Excursion
optional- •Experience the popular local delicacy Rocoto Relleno, a stuffed, roasting spicy 'pombos' and an impressive array of grills
- •Visit Mollendo's indoor market, with its tantalising and colourful local produce
- •Drive to Estadio Ferroviario de Mollendo and explore the railway station
- •Walk to Guillermo E de Billinghurst Square, a museum and a revered local landmark
Day 8
At Sea
It's the perfect time to socialize with the Swan Hellenic team and your new friends as you reflect on the expedition voyage. Take in the views, listen to new lectures and make the most of your time with the expedition team. Dine a la carte in the Swan Hellenic restaurants with new friends or relax in your stateroom with a movie and room service.
- •Discussions with experts
- •Visit the bridge for the final time
- •Presentation of guest photos & voyage video
- •Certificate ceremony
- •Sharing stories with fellow guests
- •Farewell gala dinner
Day 9
General San Martin, Peru
The port of General San Martin serves as a gateway to the wonders of Peru's Paracas Peninsula. From here, guests can take flights over the Nazca Lines to witness geometric designs and mysterious geoglyphs. Nearby Paracas and Pisco offer speedboat excursions to the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands and vineyard visits discovering the Pisco-making process. In Tambo Colorado, well-preserved Inca ruins offer a glimpse into the lives of Inca nobility.
Ballestas Island
included- •Admire the breathtaking panoramic views of Paracas Bay and the Peninsula during a 2-hour speedboat tour
- •Cruise through the Ballestas Islands, a haven for Humboldt penguins and sea lions
- •Immerse yourself in one of the country's premier wildlife-spotting experiences
Flying Over Nazca Lines
optional- •Learn about the Nasca lines as you fly over them on an exclusive flight
- •Be one of the few people on Earth to witness this eye-opening, Peruvian mystery
- •Watch out for swirls and zigzags forming distinct shapes in amongst the geometric designs. Will you spot a hummingbird, a spider, or monkey? There's only one way to find out!
Dune Buggie Adventure
optional- •Embark on an exhilarating four-wheel-drive journey through otherworldly desert landscapes
- •Capture the moment with stunning photographs
- •Unwind with a luxurious pisco tasting
Vineyard Bodega 1615 Visit
optional- •Visit a historical vineyard, housed in a building that was part of the Hacienda of Santa Cruz de Lanchas in the 16th century
- •Unearth the secrets of traditional Paracas winemaking techniques
- •Sample the unique flavors of Paracas wine, with its raisin, geranium, citrus and floral notes, and bitter pecan finish
Tastiest Bay
optional- •Immerse yourself in the captivating world of fan shell breeding as our expert guide unveils the intricate process through vivid visuals
- •Climb aboard a charming small boat and venture to the hatchery
- •Savour a thoughtfully curated marine appetizer, perfectly complemented by a glass of wine or beer
Paracas National Reserve
optional- •Dive into Peru's rich geological and cultural history at The Interpretation Center, where stunning visuals and interactive exhibits bring the ancient landscapes to life
- •Discover the hidden jewets of the coast, from the vibrant sands of Red Beach to the serene beauty of Yumaque Beach, each offering a unique and tranquil experience
- •Marvel at the awe-inspiring "La Catedral," a natural rock formation that stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the landscape, despite the ravages of time and nature
Day 10
Callao, Lima
Lima, Peru's capital, sits between the Pacific Ocean and Andes Mountains with the seaport of Callao. The bustling city's renowned culinary scene features a local favourite, ceviche. The UNESCO World Heritage historic centre features colonial-era architecture including Plaza Mayor and San Francisco Monastery. Nearby, the clay ruins of ceremonial pyramids, Huaca Pucllana and Huaca Huallamarca, offer a glimpse of the Inca civilization's history.
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition life as we take you to the furthest more remote regions of the world. The day by day plan and experiences are given as a guide with the actual itinerary depending on weather, ice conditions and guidance of the captain and expedition leader.
What's Included
Transport & Accommodation
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self service laundry
- Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle
Additional Services
- Memory package of your voyage
Not Included
Charter flights
- To the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk)
Group return transfers
- From airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included)
One night pre-cruise accommodation
- With breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply)
What's Included
Transport & Accommodation
- Your selected stateroom
- Onboard gratuities & port taxes
Dining & Beverages
- All meals onboard
- Complimentary hot & cold beverages, beer, wine & spirits any time throughout your cruise
- 24-hour room service
Expedition Activities
- Lecture programs by expedition team and guest speakers
- One selected shore excursion per port of call
- All expedition landings
Onboard Amenities
- Gym, sauna, pool
- 24/7 self service laundry
- Entry level WI-FI (upgraded packages available)
Expedition Equipment
- Waterproof backpack
- Refillable water bottle
Additional Services
- Memory package of your voyage
Not Included
Charter flights
- To the port of embarkation/ disembarkation (Longyearbyen, Ushuaia, Kangerlussuaq, Nuuk)
Group return transfers
- From airport to cruise port and to the hotel (where included)
One night pre-cruise accommodation
- With breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel (exemptions apply)
Wildlife
Spot Peruvian Boobies and striking Inca Terns along the cliffs, watch Andean Flamingos grace desert lagoons, and Bottlenose Dolphins dance beside the ship on Chile and Peru's Pacific coast.
Peruvian Booby
Andean Flamingo
Bottlenose Dolphin
Inca Tern
Wildlife
Spot Peruvian Boobies and striking Inca Terns along the cliffs, watch Andean Flamingos grace desert lagoons, and Bottlenose Dolphins dance beside the ship on Chile and Peru's Pacific coast.
Peruvian Booby
Andean Flamingo
Bottlenose Dolphin
Inca Tern
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
Discover Swan Hellenic
Boutique luxury expedition cruises designed for those who seek meaning beyond the horizon.
See What Others Don't
Swan Hellenic specialises in cultural expedition cruises, offering immersive journeys to remote and historic destinations. Their fleet of elegant, ice-class ships, featuring Scandinavian design, provides luxurious accommodations and expert-led experiences. With a focus on unique itineraries and high staff-to-guest ratios, Swan Hellenic delivers enriching adventures for discerning travelers.
Here, luxury is not excess, but the art of seeing deeper.
Best in Cruise
Cruise Critic 2024
Excursion & Collaboration Winner
Sailawaze 2025
SH Vega
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Vega features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Vega has you covered.
Built in the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland, SH Vega features elegant interiors, wide unobstructed views throughout the ship, and dedicated expedition facilities – so you can explore remote destinations in style and comfort. Whether you're taking in remarkable scenery from a panoramic sauna, dining in a world-class restaurant, or unwinding in your sumptuous stateroom, SH Vega has you covered.
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC6 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Launched in 2023
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna & steam room
Fine Dining
Across 3 venues
152 guests & 117 staff
Exclusive boutique experience
PC6 Polar class
Designed specifically for polar regions
Enrichment
Library, Laboratory, Stargazing Deck
Launched in 2023
Brand new expedition vessel
Wellbeing
Infinity pool, jacuzzi, spa, gym, sauna & steam room
Fine Dining
Across 3 venues
Staterooms
Choose your stateroom aboard the expedition vessel SH Vega
Oceanview 20 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL AMENITIES
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Balcony 25 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL AMENITIES
- 5 m² private balcony
- Two single beds or a double bed
- Bedroom with living room area
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious bathroom
Junior Suite 32-36 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL AMENITIES
- 6 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room area
- Luxurious en-suite bathroom
Suite 41 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL AMENITIES
- 5-10 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and walk-in shower
Premium Suite 41 m²
FROM
ADDITIONAL AMENITIES
- 8-12 m² private balcony
- King size bed
- Separate living room
- Flame-effect fireplace
- Luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and shower
- Walk-in wardrobe
Expedition Team
Ralf Klug
Expedition leader
With a degree in Hotel Management alongside a wealth of first-hand hotel and hospitality experience, Ralf is a highly accomplished dive instructor, Zodiac driver and Antarctica field guide. Originally from Germany, his career has taken him the world over, from luxury resorts across Europe and the Caribbean to the wilds of Antarctica and many more in between. His unique skillset has since led him to life as an experienced, passionate and knowledgeable cruise expedition guide.
Juan Jose Apestegui
Marine Biologist
Born in the coffee country of Costa Rica, Juan José "JJ" Apéstegui turned a fascination with nature into a lifelong calling. With over 30 years of experience as a naturalist and Expedition Leader, JJ has travelled extensively through the Americas, Europe, Africa, the polar regions and beyond, broadening his expertise across ecosystems and continents. A passionate natural historian with a particular fondness for birds, he brings deep insight into both environmental and cultural encounters. Fluent in Spanish, English and French, JJ's storytelling style is as engaging as the landscapes he explores.
Sue Walsh
Ornithologist
Sue has travelled widely watching wildlife from the poles to the equator on all seven continents. She has been fascinated by all aspects of the natural world since studying geology back in the seventies. She is also an accredited bird ringer/bander which has allowed her to travel and ring birds in different countries. She has been lecturing on cruise ships since 2014, offering a range of informative talks on regional wildlife.
Ralf Klug
Expedition leader
With a degree in Hotel Management alongside a wealth of first-hand hotel and hospitality experience, Ralf is a highly accomplished dive instructor, Zodiac driver and Antarctica field guide. Originally from Germany, his career has taken him the world over, from luxury resorts across Europe and the Caribbean to the wilds of Antarctica and many more in between. His unique skillset has since led him to life as an experienced, passionate and knowledgeable cruise expedition guide.
Juan Jose Apestegui
Marine Biologist
Born in the coffee country of Costa Rica, Juan José "JJ" Apéstegui turned a fascination with nature into a lifelong calling. With over 30 years of experience as a naturalist and Expedition Leader, JJ has travelled extensively through the Americas, Europe, Africa, the polar regions and beyond, broadening his expertise across ecosystems and continents. A passionate natural historian with a particular fondness for birds, he brings deep insight into both environmental and cultural encounters. Fluent in Spanish, English and French, JJ's storytelling style is as engaging as the landscapes he explores.
Sue Walsh
Ornithologist
Sue has travelled widely watching wildlife from the poles to the equator on all seven continents. She has been fascinated by all aspects of the natural world since studying geology back in the seventies. She is also an accredited bird ringer/bander which has allowed her to travel and ring birds in different countries. She has been lecturing on cruise ships since 2014, offering a range of informative talks on regional wildlife.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey to Antarctica.
Start Your Journey
For any inquiries and reservations, please contact your travel manager. We’ll help you organize an unforgettable journey to Antarctica.