Explore and book Oceania Cruises 14 Night South America Cruise on the Oceania Vista departing from Callao (Lima), Peru on Feb 21, 2026 and ending in Puntarenas, Costa Rica on Mar 7, 2026 Sail to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, Manta (Quito), Ecuador, Salaverry (Trujillo), Peru, Callao (Lima), Peru, Ensenada, Mexico, Acapulco, Mexico, San Diego, California, Acajutla, El Salvador, Puntarenas, Costa Rica

Callao (Lima), Peru

Early Booking Sale

Lima, the capital of Peru, is a bustling metropolis known for its culinary scene and historic sites. Explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its colonial-era buildings and cathedrals. Savor the world-renowned Peruvian cuisine, from ceviche to pisco sours, in the city's top restaurants. Lima offers a dynamic mix of modern and traditional attractions.

Salaverry (Trujillo), Peru

Salaverry (Trujillo) offers a deep dive into Peru's rich history with its close proximity to ancient sites like the Chan Chan ruins. This port, coupled with the vibrant city of Trujillo, promises a blend of culture, history, and coastal beauty.

Manta (Quito), Ecuador

Located on the Pacific coast of Ecuador, Manta is renowned for its expansive beaches, delicious seafood, and proximity to tropical forests. As a major fishing port, it offers cruisers a genuine taste of the Ecuadorian coast.

Puntarenas, Costa Rica

A springboard to Costa Rica's tropical wonders, Puntarenas offers lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and scenic Pacific coastlines. Whether it's zip-lining or bird-watching, cruisers can enjoy a taste of pure nature.

Acajutla, El Salvador

Ruta de las Flores : Nahuizalco, Ataco, Coffee Tour, Hotsprings Santa Teresa.
Day Tour: Tazumal Maya Site, Volcanic Complex Park, Lake & Santa Ana City
Antigua Guatemala World Heritage Site, Day Tour from San Salvador.
Day Tour- Santa Ana Active Volcano + Panoramic View Lake Coatepeque
Shore Excursion from Acajutla: Tazumal Ruins, Casablanca and Santa Ana
Shore Excursion from Acajutla Coffee and flowers route
Shore Excursion from Acajutla: San Salvador City Tour

Acapulco, Mexico

Once the playground for the rich and famous, Acapulco offers golden beaches, cliff divers, and vibrant nightlife. Cruising to this Mexican Pacific coast gem provides the ideal blend of relaxation and excitement.

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Dolphin Swim
Whale Watching
Sail & Snorkel Fiesta
Superman & Zipline Adventure
Wild Canyon UTV Expedition
Scuba Diving
Horseback Riding on the Beach
Médano Beach
El Arco (the Arch) & Lover's Beach

Ensenada, Mexico

Situated on Mexico's Baja Peninsula, Ensenada is a blend of vibrant street life, oceanfront promenades, and renowned wineries. Just a short cruise from the U.S. west coast, it promises a lively mix of Mexican culture and Pacific Ocean views.

San Diego, California

14 Night South America Cruise

Mexico

Central America

Pacific

South America

North America

Escape into a world of imagination in our exquisite English-style library, boasting over 2,000 books and periodicals. It's the perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility and a touch of nostalgia amidst the elegance reminiscent of the Golden Age of Travel. Immerse yourself in the comfort of plush chairs and the quiet ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reading at sea.

Library

At the Culinary Center aboard Marina, cooking transforms into an interactive learning journey. With state-of-the-art workstations and expert chefs as your guides, you'll master the art of preparing exquisite dishes. It's more than a cooking class; it's a way to explore global cuisines while sailing the seas.

The Culinary Center

Unleash your inner artist at the Artist Loft, where inspiration from your travels comes to life under the guidance of resident artists. Explore various forms of visual arts, from painting to photography, and create a lasting memento of your journey. It's a vibrant space where creativity meets exploration.

Artist Loft

The LYNC Digital Center on the Allura is your go-to for enhancing digital skills with classes on social media, photography, and videography, all led by our expert Digital Concierge. Equipped with comfortable seating and expansive video monitors, it's the perfect place to stay connected and engaged.

LYNC Digital Center

Experience ancient wellness traditions from around the world with Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. Explore exotic destinations and discover time-honored health practices, all while enjoying unique, rejuvenating excursions designed to enhance your well-being.

Wellness Discovery Tours

Dive into relaxation on the pool deck with a large saltwater pool and two whirlpool spas. Unwind on luxurious day beds or chaise lounge chairs with a cocktail in hand, all while soaking in the panoramic sea views. It's the perfect serene escape to rejuvenate between port explorations.

Pool Deck

Perfect your putt and enjoy the timeless game of golf on our onboard putting greens. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or just looking for some leisurely fun, our 9-hole course offers a unique opportunity to hone your skills against the backdrop of the open sea.

Golf Putting Green

Dive into the spirit of friendly competition with a game of shuffleboard on deck. This classic game provides a perfect blend of skill and fun, inviting guests to enjoy leisurely play or engage in more spirited contests.

Shuffleboard

Elevate your game and your spirits high atop the ship with a round of pickleball, where panoramic sea views meet playful competition. Perfect for those seeking active fun, the sports deck offers a blend of activities, including a running track and games like shuffleboard. 

Pickleball

Discover a trifecta of leisure and competition with paddle tennis, bocce, and croquet on the sports deck. Amidst the splendid sea vistas, these games offer a perfect balance of friendly rivalry and the joy of the game. Join in for regular competitions as announced in Currents, and maybe even earn some Big O Points in the process.

Paddle Tennis, Bocce, and Croquet

Experience the thrill of Monte Carlo-style gaming on the high seas. Our casino offers a variety of games, from blackjack and roulette to a wide selection of slots and video poker. With free lessons, a loyalty points system, and options for cashless wagering, it's an exciting way to spend your evening aboard.

Casinos at Sea

Explore our chic boutiques for an exclusive shopping experience, offering a refined selection of sundries, resort wear, and fine jewelry. Perfect for finding that special gift or cruise memento, our boutiques cater to discerning tastes and provide a stylish reminder of your journey at sea.


Boutiques

Transform into a mixologist at the Brugal 1888 Tea at Sea Seminar, a fun, interactive experience where you'll craft your own Brugal rum and tea cocktails, learning both the history and techniques of mixology that you can showcase at home.

Brugal 1888 Tea at Sea

Discover the art of cocktail and dessert pairing at the Brugal 1888 & Ice Cream Masterclass, where you'll learn to craft unique rum cocktails inspired by ice cream flavors, such as coffee affogato and caramel popcorn milkshake, under the guidance of our expert mixologist and dessert chef.

Brugal 1888 & Ice Cream Masterclass

Experience the sophisticated charm of Martinis, where the art of the cocktail is celebrated with a wide array of martinis in an elegant setting. Inspired by the serene beauty of the Greek Isles, the ambiance invites you to unwind and enjoy the finer things in life.

Martinis

Founders Bar on Allura combines sophistication and innovative mixology in an exclusive setting. Savor barrel-aged Negronis or cocktails with aromatic vapor-filled bubbles, all prepared tableside for the cosmopolitan traveler.

Founders Bar

Discover the Grand Lounge's sophisticated ambiance, defined by its elegant, geometric decor. Enjoy a relaxing aperitif or nightcap in this exclusive, private club-like setting, perfect for evening socialization.

Grand Lounge

Horizons serves as an observation lounge by day and a vibrant evening venue by night, where dancing and cocktails under the glow of floor-to-ceiling windows create unforgettable moments. Its elegant, country club ambiance invites relaxation and enjoyment.


Horizons

Just a step away from the pool, Waves Bar is your oasis for refreshment in the midst of sun-soaked leisure. Offering a wide selection of drinks, it’s the perfect spot for a daytime cocktail or a sunset segue into the evening’s festivities.

Waves Bar

Enjoy an evening of creativity at The Bubbly Bar, hosted in the elegant Baristas area, where you can personalize sparkling concoctions with a diverse array of wines, liqueurs, homemade syrups, and unique garnishes, guided by our expert bar staff.

The Bubbly Bar

Explore new dimensions of the beloved Bloody Mary at The Ultimate Bloody Mary Bar, featuring a vibrant assortment of fresh ingredients and unique garnishes, available during lunch at Terrace Café.

The Ultimate Bloody Mary Bar

Delight in The Macallan Rituals, a refined whisky experience brought directly to your table, where you can choose from smoked cocktails, neat pours, or whisky served with a perfectly crafted ice sphere, enhancing your sensory enjoyment.

The Macallan Rituals

Discover the rich, complementary flavors of The Macallan Chocolate Pairing, offering a selection of specialty chocolates expertly paired with The Macallan Quest Collection to enhance and explore the luxurious whisky notes.

The Macallan Chocolate Pairing

Privée offers an unparalleled private dining experience for those seeking exclusivity and personalized gourmet menus. Set beneath a golden Venini chandelier, this venue promises a memorable evening for up to 10 guests in a setting of unmatched luxury.

Privée

Indulge in an opulent three-course champagne pairing, beginning with Mediterranean sea bass tartare and concluding with cured beef tenderloin, each course complemented by distinct Moët & Chandon vintages for a sophisticated dining delight.

Moet & Chandon Champagne Experience

Explore Mediterranean flavors through a five-course wine pairing lunch, where expert sommeliers enhance your dining experience with detailed explanations of each pairing, merging culinary art with oenological expertise.

Connoisseur Wine Pairing Lunches

Experience an elite six-course tasting menu at Privée, where exquisite dishes like scallops rossini and black truffle risotto are paired with select Dom Pérignon vintages, creating a refined feast for champagne aficionados and gourmet food lovers alike.

Dom Pérignon Experience

Embark on a sensory odyssey with La Reserve’s multi-course dinner, where dishes like bay scallop teriyaki and veal tenderloin Wellington meet their perfect wine counterparts, offering a memorable exploration of taste and elegance.

Odyssey Menu

Experience the grandeur of The Grand Dining Room, a culinary homage to Europe's finest five-star restaurants. With its splendid decor and expansive menu of Continental dishes and global flavors, it offers a dining experience that combines elegance with an incredible variety of choices.

The Grand Dining Room

Toscana invites you on a journey through authentic Italian cuisine, where each dish tells a story passed down from generations. Savor masterfully prepared Tuscan delights served on elegant Versace china, capturing the essence of Italy's culinary heritage with every bite.

Toscana

Step into Polo Grill, where timeless elegance meets the perfection of classic steakhouse favorites. From USDA Prime certified Black Angus beef to meticulously prepared seafood dishes, every bite is a celebration of tradition and flavor, accompanied by the warmth of genuine hospitality.


Polo Grill

Experience the essence of American culinary tradition at Ember, where every dish, from blackened crab cakes to porcini-dusted ribeyes, is infused with modern flair. Surrounded by the cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a Sonoma tasting room, enjoy a selection of expertly crafted meals that celebrate fresh, seasonal ingredients and the art of fine dining.

Ember

Experience the vibrant flavors and serene ambiance of Red Ginger, where modern Asian cuisine meets contemporary elegance. From spicy duck salads to rich Malaysian beef, each dish is a masterpiece of taste and harmony, designed to delight the senses.

Red Ginger

Terrace Café offers a relaxed retreat for informal dining, whether it's a sunlit breakfast, flavorful lunch, or sophisticated evening meal. With international-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and a diverse selection of plant-based options, every moment at the Terrace Café is a culinary delight.

Terrace Café

Indulge in casual luxury with Waves Grill's alfresco dining experience, offering a tempting menu of all-American favorites steps from the poolside. Treat yourself to decadent desserts like homemade passion fruit sorbet and hand-dipped milkshakes, making every bite a delightful escape.

Waves Grill

Treat your taste buds to specialty coffee perfection at Baristas, where expertly crafted illy® espressos and lattes await. Pair your beverage with delectable pastries and homemade biscotti, creating the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.

Baristas

Indulge in the timeless elegance of Afternoon Tea, a daily celebration featuring a classical string quartet, a splendid array of pastries, finger sandwiches, and a diverse selection of traditional and artisanal teas. This cherished pastime offers a moment of luxury and relaxation amidst the day's adventures.

Afternoon Tea

Elevate your cruise experience with our in-room dining options, offering a diverse menu available 24/7, including complimentary full hot breakfasts and expanded lunch/dinner choices for Concierge Level guests. Indulge in course-by-course meals in the comfort of your suite, or savor a tranquil meal on your private veranda, all while taking in breathtaking seascapes.

In-Room Dining Experiences

Revitalize both body and spirit at Aquamar Kitchen, where wellness and indulgence meet under the Mediterranean sun. Enjoy a breakfast of superfood smoothies and savory omelets or a lunch of flavorful, balanced dishes like Lebanese bowls and yellowfin tacos, all served in a bright, seaside-inspired setting.

Aquamar Kitchen

Experience vitality cuisine at AQUAMAR, inspired by the renowned Mediterranean diet, offering the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and gourmet plant-based dishes. With extensive menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including energizing options at the Raw Juice & Smoothie Bar, delight your palate while nourishing your body on our ships.

Aquamar Vitality Cuisine

Enrich your cruise experience with fascinating insights from our Guest Speakers, delving into the cultures, stories, and themes of the regions visited. With additional enrichment programs on select sailings and complimentary health and wellness seminars, our talks offer meaningful engagement and the chance to reinvigorate your lifestyle.


Guest Speakers

Immerse yourself in the world of dazzling performances onboard, where each night offers a new spectacle of world-class musical talents, including pianists, classical string quartets, and dynamic vocalists. With an ever-changing lineup, the entertainment is as diverse as it is captivating, promising a perfect night of enjoyment for every taste.


Onboard Shows

"Into the Night" dazzles with a dynamic fusion of dance styles inspired by modern media glitz. The show, choreographed by Britt Stewart, masterfully combines high energy, contemporary elegance, and innovative design, delivering an immersive, awe-inspiring performance that captivates from start to finish.

Into the Night

"Headliners" offers a unique concert experience where Vista's own vocal talents breathe new life into global hits. Guests enjoy an engaging performance featuring familiar tunes with a fresh twist, complete with vibrant choreography for a memorable night of music and fun.

Headliners

Step into "The Anchor Inn" for an upbeat musical celebration infused with British charm and West End flair. Engage in the communal spirit of an English pub, enjoying a performance that blends humor, nostalgia, and popular music, leaving guests feeling a joyous connection to the UK culture.

The Anchor Inn

Delight in the Vista Lounge's superb acoustics and captivating performances, ranging from expert talks by day to dazzling shows by night. This venue is a hub of intellectual stimulation and artistic entertainment, ensuring every visit is memorable.

Vista Lounge

Embark on a wellness journey at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, where restorative therapies, healthy cuisine, and enriching wellness experiences await. From rejuvenating treatments to immersive wellness excursions, every aspect is designed to enhance your health and vitality onboard.


Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center

Experience the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation at the Aquamar Spa Terrace, where the therapeutic benefits of a thalassotherapy pool or whirlpools await. This serene sanctuary is designed to soothe the mind and body, offering a peaceful retreat with stunning views and tranquil waters.

Aquamar Spa Terrace

Revitalize your body in the therapeutic embrace of our Thalassotherapy Pool. This saltwater sanctuary is perfect for soothing sore muscles, improving circulation, and easing joint pain, making it an ideal wellness complement to any cruise experience.

Thalassotherapy Pool

Enhance your wellness journey in our aromatic steam room, where temperature-regulated steam infused with herbal essences improves your skin and mood. This multisensory experience offers a perfect retreat for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Aromatic Steam Room

Immerse yourself in the healing properties of the ocean with our selection of body therapies. From Musclease Ocean Wraps to Intensely Cleansing Salt Scrubs, our treatments are designed to detoxify and nourish, leaving your skin purified and refreshed.

Body Therapies

Discover the art of relaxation and rejuvenation with our signature massage therapies at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center. Each therapy, from Aroma Stone to Thai Herbal Poultice massages, is crafted to restore harmony and balance to body and spirit, using natural ingredients and a blend of ancient and modern techniques.

Massage Therapies

Experience the transformative power of our facial therapies, where ancient massage techniques meet modern skin care to deliver essential vitamins and nutrients. Our Pro-Collagen Age Defy and Caviar Firm And Lift facials are signature services designed to rejuvenate and revitalize.

Facial Therapies

Elevate your look with our luxury salon and barber shop services, offering everything from personalized hair treatments to deluxe manicures and pedicures. Our experienced stylists and barbers use premium products to ensure you look and feel your best.

Salon & Barber Shop Services

Start your day with serenity by joining our complimentary yoga classes, designed to enhance your inner peace, flexibility, and strength. From sunrise sessions to introductory classes, there's a perfect match for every skill level, setting the tone for a day of exploration and discovery.

Yoga

Strengthen your core and improve your posture with our Pilates classes, a low-impact exercise regimen focusing on flexibility, endurance, and muscle control. Our expert instructors ensure a welcoming environment for developing core stability and enhancing overall body health.

Pilates

Energize your body with a workout in our state-of-the-art fitness center, featuring the latest in cardio and strength-training equipment. Join our complimentary classes for an extra boost of motivation, from bootcamps to indoor cycling, tailored to help you achieve your fitness goals.

Cardio & Strength Training

Embrace a healthier you with our complimentary fitness classes, catering to all levels of experience. From strength training to stretching and foot fitness, our professional instructors are dedicated to guiding you through each session, ensuring a fulfilling and beneficial workout.


Free Fitness Classes

Embrace the beauty of the sea and sky while keeping active on our running track. Whether you're starting your day with an energizing jog or enjoying a leisurely walk, the stunning views and fresh sea air offer a perfect backdrop for exercise and reflection.


Running Track

Elevate your wellness journey with our comprehensive range of complimentary fitness classes, from Pilates and yoga to strength training. Our state-of-the-art fitness center also offers the latest exercise equipment and personal training sessions, catering to all your fitness needs.


Fitness Center

Find your peaceful haven on our private sundeck, the ultimate spot for solitude and relaxation. Whether seeking a meditative moment or simply a break from the buzz, the sundeck offers a tranquil retreat to recharge.


Sundeck

Oceania's Vista merges tradition with innovation, creating a luxurious and imaginative environment that mirrors a high-end hotel more than a typical cruise ship. Passengers are treated to a diverse array of dining options, ranging from casual smoothie bars to upscale American steakhouses, ensuring culinary delights for every taste. The ship boasts a vibrant social scene with its bustling Founders Bar and a variety of creative spaces like the Culinary Center and Artist's Loft, enriching every journey with opportunities for social engagement and personal enrichment.

Experience the world's ancient wellness traditions with our Wellness Discovery Tours by Aquamar. Explore exotic locales and learn about timeless health practices, all while enjoying unique, rejuvenating excursions designed to enhance your well-being.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Vista

Dine with scenic views of Coatepeque Lake, a striking body of water formed by a volcanic eruption, before exploring two important Mayan archaeological sites that reveal the powerful impact of volcanic activity. Begin at San Andrés, an ancient Mayan community buried by volcanic debris in 1658, where you will walk among excavated pyramids and palaces built with adobe bricks. Continue to Joya de Cerén, often called the "Pompeii of the Americas," where volcanic ash preserved a farming village, offering an exceptional look into everyday Mayan life through its excavated buildings and artifacts.

Hike leisurely through El Impossible National Park, a vast expanse of rich biodiversity in El Salvador. As you traverse the park’s meandering trails, your guide will share the history of the park’s name, referencing the perilous gorge that once made travel treacherous for traders. Keep your eyes and ears open for rare species of birds such as the motmot, white hawk, and crested eagle, along with unique flora like tree-dwelling epiphytes. This nature walk offers a serene way to immerse yourself in one of the most ecologically significant areas of the country.

Race through volcanic terrain on a thrilling dune buggy adventure and unwind in geothermal springs afterward. This exhilarating excursion begins with a two-person dune buggy ride, taking you through the rugged countryside of Apaneca. As you tear along dirt roads and off-road paths, you’ll marvel at the volcanic landscape before pausing to admire the peaceful beauty of Laguna Verde, known for its glassy waters. After retracing your route at high speed, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch and relax in the Santa Teresa Hot Springs. The mineral-rich, warm waters will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, melting away tension and leaving your skin smooth.

Explore the vibrant Flowers Route, where fields of wildflowers line the way to two charming colonial towns known for their local crafts and colorful murals. In Nahuizalco, browse the markets for finely woven handicrafts, including baskets and handbags made from wicker and tule. Continue to Concepción de Ataco, a mountain town adorned with murals that tell the story of its rich history and natural beauty. Finish the experience with a coffee tasting, featuring beans grown in the surrounding mountains.

Enjoy a traditional lunch before embarking on a fascinating walking tour through the historical heart of Santa Ana, one of El Salvador’s largest cities. The guide will share insights into how natural disasters and fluctuating coffee prices shaped the town, giving context to the 19th-century architectural treasures that you will see. Highlights include the neo-Gothic Cathedral of Santa Ana, whose intricate façade was rebuilt after a lightning strike, and the majestic Santa Ana Theater, a National Monument where Italian opera was performed upon its inauguration. As you stroll through the city’s historical district, you will gain a deeper understanding of Santa Ana’s resilient past.

Dine beneath the shadow of El Boqueron, a striking volcano that last erupted about a century ago, before touring San Salvador, a city shaped by volcanic activity. As you approach the volcano, its immense presence becomes even more impressive, with homes nestled along the hillsides leading to the crater. After lunch near this natural wonder, you will explore the reconstructed areas of San Salvador, where contemporary architecture shines. Highlights include the elegant National Palace, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the modern, controversial El Rosario Church, known for its unique design and abstract sculptures.

Visit the vantage points that present the best views of Acapulco’s landmark attractions, including the spot where the famed cliff divers leap 140 feet into the sea. Divers have been fearlessly jumping from La Quebrada since 1934 and the spectacle is as exciting as ever. You will watch the death-defying show from the adjacent Hotel Mirador, followed by a much tamer but no less entertaining folkloric performance. Complimentary cocktail or soda is included. In keeping with the seaside theme, you will then drive past Acapulco’s legendary beaches before pausing to shop in a bustling marketplace known for its colorful handicrafts. You will also enjoy a close-up look at the luxurious resorts that line the ocean in the Golden Zone and Hotel Zone. If time permits, you will also pause at other scenic lookouts with views of the Pacific Ocean.

Spend a carefree day enjoying the amenities of the luxurious Fairmont Pierre Marques however you please. On the way there, you will pause for photos at a lookout that presents a stunning backdrop of the Sierra Madre mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other side. Famed industrialist J. Paul Getty built the hotel as his private retreat in 1958, and the setting on Revolcadero Beach is still stunning. While here, you will be free to bask in the sun, stroll along the beach and take a refreshing swim in the sea and in the hotel’s shimmering freshwater pool. All sorts of optional amenities are also available, including water sports and motorized vehicles. Considering all the activities, you will surely work up an appetite for the sumptuous buffet lunch that will be served in one of the hotel restaurants.

Gain a historical perspective of Acapulco by visiting some of its earliest attractions, including La Quebrada, from which cliff divers have been leaping into the sea since 1934. After watching the diving spectacle, you will proceed to the city’s affluent Caleta area, where stars such as Cary Grant and John Wayne once had homes. Hollywood also favored Los Flamingos Hotel, which famed Olympic swimmer and actor Johnny Weissmuller owned. The hotel has retained its original charm as you will see firsthand while enjoying a beverage there while overlooking the ocean. Another spectacular view awaits you at the Chapel of Peace, yet another landmark perched on the famed cliffs of Acapulco. Finally, you will see the historical Fort of San Diego. Constructed over 200 years ago to protect Acapulco from pirates, the star-shaped fort now serves as the home of the History Museum of Acapulco.

Enjoy the natural beauty of Acapulco while riding in a glass-bottom boat to La Roqueta Island, where you will hike through the forest and spend free time on the beach. To set the tone for the seaside adventure, you will first watch the famed cliff divers at La Quebrada leap into the swirling sea below. It is quite the spectacle. For a glimpse of the wonders below the surface, you will cruise to La Roqueta in a glass-bottom boat that offers expansive views of the colorful marine life that inhabit this part of the Pacific Ocean. After disembarking on the island, you will take a leisurely hike through an ecological reserve while the guide describes the most noteworthy flora and fauna. For a different perspective of the natural beauty, you will return to the mainland and relax on the beach at the Boca Chica Hotel.

Watch the intrepid cliffs divers leap 140 feet into the sea at La Quebrada. Observe the abundant marine life while cruising in a glass-bottom boat. Hike through a forest on La Roqueta Island, as the guide describes the flora and fauna. Relax on the beach during free time at the Boca Chica Hotel. Enjoy a light lunch at the Boca Chica Hotel.

This horseback riding excursion takes you along one of Cabo San Lucas' most scenic beaches, offering a peaceful and picturesque experience. You'll ride along a secluded stretch of soft sand, with the ocean breeze and sound of the waves enhancing the sensory experience. Afterward, enjoy free time at the ranch to explore its traditional desert-style architecture and shop for local handicrafts. This relaxing adventure is perfect for riders of all skill levels and offers the chance to spot migrating whales from the shore.

This tour offers a stunning blend of land and sea experiences at the southern tip of the Baja Peninsula. Begin with a boat ride to El Arco at Land’s End, where you’ll observe sea lions and marvel at the iconic rock formations. Afterward, enjoy a scenic coastal drive, stopping at a glass-blowing factory in Cabo San Lucas and the historic mission in San Jose del Cabo. The tour concludes with a refreshing drink at a clifftop restaurant, offering breathtaking views of Cabo San Lucas Bay.

This excursion offers a deep dive into the world of tequila through a guided tasting of several premium varieties. You'll learn about the spirit’s history, from its origins with the Aztecs to modern-day production methods, and explore the unique flavors derived from blue weber agave. Alongside the tastings, you'll enjoy tortilla chips and salsa, and at the end, you’ll receive a certificate naming you a tequila ambassador. It’s a flavorful and educational experience that highlights the complexity of Mexico’s iconic spirit.

This deep-sea fishing adventure off the Baja Peninsula offers the chance to catch some of the world’s most prized game fish, such as marlin, sailfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, and tuna. After a short ride to prime fishing waters, the crew will set up your gear and provide expert tips to improve your chances of success. With everything provided, you can focus on the thrill of reeling in powerful fish, known for their speed and strength, before releasing them back into the sea. It’s an exciting opportunity for both seasoned anglers and novices alike.

This tour offers a picturesque drive along The Corridor, a scenic coastal highway, and takes you into the charming town of San Jose del Cabo, rich in history and colonial architecture. You’ll visit the San Jose Mission, founded in 1730, and stroll through the vibrant Art District, where you can explore galleries featuring works by local and international artists. At the renowned Patricia Mendoza Gallery, you’ll enjoy a light snack and beer or tea. The journey back to Cabo San Lucas will offer more insights from your guide about the region’s history and culture.

Sail toward the iconic natural attraction Land’s End on a catamaran while listening to contemporary jazz music and sipping cocktails. There will be plenty of room to stretch out aboard the Tropicat, a 65-foot catamaran with open decks and covered seating. Along the way, jazz music will be playing in the background and the bar will be open. As you approach the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula, the scenery will be absolutely spectacular, especially as the sun begins to set. In time, you will reach El Arco, the natural arch that the tides and wind have cut out of the granite over millennia. Few spots are so photogenic, especially if sea lions are present. They congregate here for the solitude and protection, as the barren shoreline is inaccessible by land. Your view from the catamaran is the best one possible, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the unforgettable scenery.

This Mexican Outback and Camel Safari takes you on a memorable adventure through Baja's desert-like terrain. You'll begin with a scenic drive to Rancho Tierra Sagrada, where you’ll meet gentle camels and ride along the beach, enjoying stunning ocean views. After the camel ride, embark on a guided nature walk, exploring the local flora and fauna. The experience concludes with a traditional Mexican lunch, tortilla-making demonstration, and tequila tasting at a ranch overlooking the Pacific Ocean, before returning to the pier.

Visit a fourth-generation family dairy farm in the Valle de Ojos Negros. Observe how various cheeses are naturally produced without the use of hormones. Sample a variety of cheeses in La Cava de Marcelo, a climate-controlled cheese cave. Enjoy a tasting of locally produced wine and craft beer, followed by a traditional lunch.

Explore the fertile Guadalupe Valley in a Jeep, where you will eventually tour an esteemed winery and sample some of its finest wines. You will set off right from the pier in a caravan of vehicles and head north into the beautifully rugged countryside. While driving through the ever-changing terrain, you can expect to see distant mountains, idyllic valleys and sprawling farms. More than three-quarters of Mexico’s wines are produced in the Guadalupe Valley, which enjoys a Mediterranean microclimate, constant ocean breezes and cool summers. In time, you will arrive at the acclaimed Monte Xanic winery, a low-volume winery where the grapes are handpicked at night, pressed, fermented and aged in French oak barrels. Monte Xanic produces more than a dozen wines under four different labels, several of which you will sample. You may taste a deep-red Gran Ricardo, a Bordeaux-style wine created to honor the memory of one of the winery’s founding partners.

Delve into the history of Ensenada by visiting landmarks that include a former casino on the waterfront, an esteemed winery and the main shopping district. Your immersion into the past begins at the Hotel Riviera del Pacifico, a rambling Spanish-style resort built in 1930. It is now the center of the city’s cultural district and stands as a reminder of its flamboyant past. The margarita was supposedly invented here, and you will be served an icy one while touring the property. Your next stop, the Bodegas de Santo Tomas, is another historical gem. Founded in 1888, it is one the oldest wineries in Baja California, and you will have the opportunity to sample some of its most characteristic wines. The tempranillo is particularly outstanding and one of the reasons that Bodegas de Santo Tomas is so well respected. Following the tasting, you will transfer back to Ensenada’s main shopping area where you can browse the shops.

Watch mesmerizing La Bufadora blowhole spew seawater high into the air, discover the historical side of Ensenada and shop along the main thoroughfare. You will find the blowhole, one of the world’s largest marine geysers, on the Punta Banda peninsula. It shoots water as high as 65 feet, a continuous natural spectacle caused by the ocean’s waves being forced into a partially submerged cave with only one exit—a hole at the top. Back in Ensenada, you will tour the Hotel Riviera del Pacifico, a Spanish-style resort built in 1930 with an on-site casino. The infamous Al Capone was supposedly a regular and may have funded its construction. You will also enjoy two opportunities to shop. One at an open-air market; the other along the main boulevard of Lopez Mateos. As you browse the inviting boutiques, you will find a collection of art, perfumes, fine leather goods and casual clothing.

Enjoy a walking tour along the boardwalk and then learn to prepare some of Mexico’s most iconic dishes in a hands-on cooking class. While strolling the bay-front boardwalk, you will see luxurious yachts, lovely Ventana al Mar Park and a huge Mexican flag on a 350-foot pole rising above Flag Plaza. A downtown restaurant will be the venue for the cooking class. The exact dishes that you will prepare will depend on which ingredients are seasonal and freshest. Sauces are synonymous with the local cuisine, and you may make favorites such salsa molcajete, in which the tomatoes are roasted. Grilled marinated flank steak or carne asada is a traditional entrée that also may be on the menu. The completed dishes will be your lunch, a delectable and authentic Mexican meal. Afterwards, you may browse the inviting boutiques along the main boulevard of Lopez Mateos for handicrafts, art work and casual clothing.

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of El Cielo winery in the so-called Napa of Mexico. Sample a variety of wines while riding through the vineyards in a truck. Discover how El Cielo become Guadalupe Valley’s first eco-responsible company.

Explore some of the landmarks in Ensenada before visiting a tequila factory where you will discover the subtleties and varieties of this iconic Mexican spirit. Depending on the exact route downtown, you may pass the bustling boardwalk along All Saints Bay, see the massive Mexican flag that rises more than 350 feet above the aptly named Flag Plaza, and admire the fabulous Hotel Riviera del Pacifico. This Spanish-style resort was built in the 1930s and the margarita is said to have been invented here. How fitting, as you will next visit a factory that produces tequila, the key ingredient in margaritas. While touring the revered Tequilera Doña Engracia Ensenada, you will discover the differences between the various spirits by sampling the brand’s silver, reposado and añejo tequilas. Three additional liquors will also be served.

Take an adventurous safari into a grassy savanna and observe indigenous and exotic animals before relaxing at two waterfalls in the surrounding jungle. To maximize your experience in the wildlife park, you will ride in a safari vehicle open on the sides for panoramic viewing and be given carrots to feed the animals. You can expect to encounter giraffes, zebras, emus, ostriches and even camels. You can just imagine the thrill when a giraffe walks over, reaches down and gently plucks a carrot from your hand. You will see all sorts of other animals from a comfortable distance that allows you to view them without disturbing them. More adventures await you in the jungle-like countryside, which you will reach in a 4-wheel-drive, military-style vehicle. Here, you will find two waterfalls—La Perla and La Vieja—where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and even walk along a bridge behind one of the cascades. Afterwards, you will enjoy a hearty, buffet-style lunch before returning to the pier.

Walk high above the rainforest floor on the Skywalk, a series of suspended cable bridges in the tree canopy that will present a unique perspective of the surrounding ecosystem. Because of the height of the trail, you will see parts of the rainforest that you would never be aware of otherwise. Different animals inhabit different levels of the forest, and you can expect to see monkeys scurrying among the treetops and species of birds such as toucans, motmots and trogons. Even if trogons aren’t present, you will likely observe their nests in the cavities of dead trees. Chances are, you will also spot mammals such as coatis, agoutis and kinkajous moving about on the forest floor below. Along the way, the guide will provide enlightening commentary about the flora and fauna and point out highlights such as the marshlands of the Tárcoles River. Later, you will enjoy free time to browse the shops Santa Lucía village.

Ride horseback through the picturesque countryside, following a gentle trail while taking in the sweeping vistas along the way, especially from the higher elevations. After being paired with a horse suited to your riding abilities, you will proceed from the corral of an old hacienda that once comprised part of an extensive cattle farm. The trail leads to El Faro, the area’s highest point, where you will pause to gaze over the beautiful rural landscape. From there, you will descend to the lovely Machuca River and on into a section of virgin tropical forest. The guide will comment on the flora and fauna of this rare ecosystem, where you will eventually stop to relax, snack on fresh fruit and enjoy the tranquility. Later, while riding through a mango plantation, you will learn how the succulent fruit is grown and harvested, much of it for export.

Experience the natural beauty of the Guacalillo estuary and Tarcoles River on a leisurely cruise that focuses on the local flora and fauna. Mangroves line much of the coast in both areas and provide safe haven for the abundant wildlife, especially birds such as herons, egrets and storks. You may see hummingbirds flitting about, vireos perching on the intertwined mangrove branches and Panama flycatchers mournfully whistling, which is their distinctive call. Chances are, you will also pass crocodiles sunning on the river banks, as the Tarcoles River is home to one of the largest colonies of crocodiles in this part of Costa Rica. Along the way, the onboard naturalist will point out some of the more unusual species that may include basilisks. It’s quite a sight to observe one of these extraordinary lizards walking on water in a complex move that creates air pockets beneath its feet as it slaps the surface of the water. Before returning to the ship a visit to El Jardín Market will allow you to browse and purchase souvenirs, sample delicious tropical fruit or taste a cup of freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee while the beautiful sounds of the marimba music plays.

Visit a bird sanctuary that breeds endangered macaws for release into the wild and then explore the lively waterfront in Puntarenas. The Macaw Sanctuary El Manantial lies inland and is dedicated to the conservation of Costa Rica’s native macaws. The number of scarlet macaws and great green macaws in the country has been greatly diminished through habitat destruction from logging and the unauthorized sale of the birds to the pet trade. As you walk the sanctuary’s grounds, you can expect to spot brilliantly colored macaws flying about freely. You may also see several fledglings, as macaws are bred at El Manantial and then released into the wild. Tapirs, monkeys, peccaries and sloths also roam the sanctuary, which has been extensively replanted to provide a suitable habitat for the animals. Back in Puntarenas, a long narrow peninsula whose name means “sandy point,” you will have free time to explore the waterfront and landmark Gothic Revival cathedral.

Follow a naturalist through a tropical cloud forest and across suspended bridges high above the jungle floor, where the views will be spectacular. Upon arriving at the park, you will walk down a short trail to a hummingbird garden. Dozens of species of these typically iridescent birds call Costa Rica home, and you will observe many of them flitting about the garden. Following this delightful introduction to Costa Rica’s avians, you will begin an adventurous walk into the higher reaches of the cloud forest. Accompanied by a naturalist guide, you will follow a winding trail over rivers and across suspended bridges that hang more than 10 stories above the ground. The foliage will be jungle-like, wildly exotic and often punctuated with bursts of bright color from orchids, bromeliads and heliconias. The cloud forest is also home to a variety of larger tropical birds such as scarlet macaws and keel-billed toucans. At the end of your nature walk, you will be able to taste a delicious ‘agua dulce’ (a traditional drink) with a hearty typical Costa Rican lunch awaits to regain.

View the tropical rainforest environment from the unique perspective of a tractor-drawn wagon and look for wildlife along the way. As you ride through a private reserve in the dense rainforest, you will cross the Tárcoles River several times, giving you the opportunity to observe aquatic creatures as well as those that live in the trees. The naturalist guide will point out and describe the wildlife that may include large-billed toucans, colorful lizards and spider monkeys. If you hear loud whooping sounds from deep in the rainforest, it will probably be howler monkeys, as they are thought to be the world’s loudest land animals. Following the wagon ride, you will enjoy free time in Santa Lucía, a village whose newest building were constructed in a style that replicates centuries-old architecture. Before wandering around the village, a buffet of fresh fruit and cold beverages will be offered.

Experience the vibrant history and coastal charm of San Diego as you pass through its most picturesque districts and neighborhoods. Starting at the Embarcadero, you’ll be introduced to the city’s maritime history with landmarks like the USS Midway Museum and the iconic Star of India, the world’s oldest active sailing ship. In Old Town, discover the roots of California’s first permanent Spanish settlement dating back to 1769. Continue through the trendy Gaslamp Quarter, known for its Victorian architecture and vibrant nightlife, before heading to La Jolla, where upscale boutiques and scenic seaside views await.

Enjoy a relaxed, open-air trolley ride through San Diego’s most notable landmarks, soaking in both the history and scenic beauty. You’ll pass the USS Midway, a historic aircraft carrier now turned maritime museum, and cross the stunning Coronado Bay Bridge for views of the iconic Hotel del Coronado. Your journey continues through the Gaslamp Quarter, the heart of the city’s nightlife, and into the historic grounds of Balboa Park, where many architectural treasures from the 1915 Panama-California Exposition still stand. Along the way, learn about California’s early Spanish settlements and San Diego’s fascinating maritime history.

Explore the San Diego Zoo Safari Park at your own pace, spending nearly four hours discovering a wide range of fascinating animals. From majestic rhinos and towering giraffes to the rare okapi and sleek Sumatran tigers, the park offers an incredible array of wildlife. Be sure to grab a map upon arrival so you can navigate the sprawling 1,800-acre grounds efficiently. You can linger at the exhibits that intrigue you most, such as the Cheetah Safari, where you’ll witness these speedy cats sprinting up to 70 miles per hour. With so much to see, this leisurely visit promises a memorable day immersed in nature.

Take in the best of San Diego by both land and sea on this engaging tour, which highlights the city’s history, culture, and stunning waterfront. Drive through diverse neighborhoods and suburbs, including the lively Gaslamp Quarter and the historic site of California’s first permanent Spanish settlement. You’ll also pass through beautiful La Jolla, a charming upscale seaside village. Transition from land to water with a leisurely cruise around San Diego’s harbor, where you’ll gain new perspectives of iconic landmarks like the Coronado Bay Bridge, the Star of India sailing ship, and naval vessels. The cruise offers a deeper understanding of San Diego’s strong maritime history.

Experience a unique perspective of San Diego’s waterfront and neighborhoods on an exciting amphibious Hydra-Terra tour. Begin by driving through iconic areas like Little Italy, known for its rich history rooted in the tuna industry. Then, transition seamlessly from land to water as the Hydra-Terra plunges into San Diego Bay, offering scenic views of Navy ships, fishing vessels, and the beautiful mansions of Point Loma. Throughout the journey, informative commentary will shed light on San Diego’s deep maritime history and natural beauty, making this a truly immersive experience.

The Executive Collection Half Day Car offers a personalized, private touring experience in San Diego for up to two guests. You will have the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace, choosing attractions that interest you most while enjoying the convenience of a personal vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Whether you want to explore landmarks like Old Town San Diego, Balboa Park, or Little Italy, this tour allows for full customization based on your preferences. It’s an excellent choice for solo travelers, couples, and small groups seeking flexibility, or for those with mobility concerns who may need a more accessible tour experience.

The Executive Collection Full Day Car offers a private, customizable touring experience in San Diego, ideal for individuals or small groups wanting flexibility in their itinerary. You’ll have a personal vehicle, a driver, and an English-speaking guide (or sometimes a combined driver-guide), giving you the freedom to choose your own sightseeing route and pace. Explore iconic San Diego landmarks like Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, or La Jolla, or venture into more specialized areas of interest. This tour is perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or special interest groups looking for a tailored experience.

Explore Lima’s scenic beauty and history away from downtown on a visit to San Isidro, Miraflores and the Pedro de Osma Museum. Your coach journey begins at the pier and winds along handsome boulevards, past scenic beaches and beautiful parks, through tranquil residential districts, and ultimately leading to a palatial mansion-museum in a district where artists and intellectuals hold sway. Highlights along the route include Olivar de San Isidro, a vast park nestled in an olive grove; the café-lined squares and modern apartment highrises of fashionable Miraflores; and the artsy belle époque charm of Barranco. It’s here that you’ll stop to tour the museum showcasing the collection of Don Pedro de Osma Gildemeister, a connoisseur of Peruvian colonial-era art. The Pedro de Osma Museum and Gallery is housed inside a 1906 residence that is itself an exceptional example of architectural art. Viewing works spanning from the 5th to 18th century, you’ll capture a vivid sense of both Peruvian cultural identity and regal Spanish heritage.

Head out into one of the world’s most art-aware cities with an expert artist/historian as your guide and tour three of intriguing venues. Travel into Lima by air-conditioned coach, your first stop is in the historic Pueblo Libre district. The superb collection at Larco-Herrera Museum, housed in a viceroy’s former mansion, presents three thousand years of ceramic and textile art, including a room full of pre-Columbian erotic relics not for the prudish. In downtown, you’ll experience the Contemporary Art Museum, Peru’s premier collection of modern and contemporary Latin American art as well as temporary exhibitions of emerging and consolidated artists. Traveling further south to the bohemian enclave of Barranco, you’ll stop in to see what’s showing at the Casa Luna. This modern home was built by a Swiss citizen, Wilhelm Helbling, and now contains the art and treasures of the Luna Elias-Polo family, who will greet you and show off their extensive collection of ´Niños Manuelitos´ Nativity scenes from Peru and all over the world. You’ll likely be tempted; this city – and country – has deep artistic talent.

Enjoy a guided walk in Lima’s landmark-filled colonial center, then a drive through the fashionable residential suburbs of San Isidro and Miraflores. Founded in 1535 by Pizarro and known as the City of Kings, Lima was the seat of Spanish rule in the Americas for some 300 years. And the square at Plaza de Armas was its epicenter, surrounded on all sides by buildings of power. See the Government Palace, Lima City Hall, the Archbishop’s Palace, and visit grand, twin-towered Lima Cathedral, where Pizarro rests in the crypt. Nearby, step into an exquisite time capsule at Casa de Aliaga, a colonial mansion owned by the same family since 1534. Enjoy coffee and tea here and wander the beautifully-detailed rooms as music plays in the courtyard. The San Francisco Monastery complex features a church, chapels, striking fresco paintings and a cloister inlaid with glazed tiles imported from Seville in the 17th century. The catacombs here were once Lima’s main cemetery and are said to contain some 25,000 bodies. Leaving ancient Lima behind, you’ll drive into its affluent suburbs, passing handsome mansions and hotels. A stop at El Parque del Amor presents a gorgeous Pacific view.

Visit two impressive ceremonial and religious centers from the ancient days, still standing amidst modern Lima. An expert archaeologist will join you when you arrive at the ruins of Huaca Pucllana, where a pre-Incan civilization was centered between the 5th and 8th centuries BC. They’ll guide your tour and share fascinating background on the life and times of the pre-Incans as you wander a sprawling pyramid built of thousands of adobe bricks – surrounded by the townhouses, supermarkets and multiplexes of a modern Lima suburb. Artifacts exhibited at the site’s museum provide further insights into the religious ceremonies and sacrifices that once took place here. Continuing on to Huaca Huallamarca, explore another monumental oracle center that thrived for 1,200 years before the Spanish conquest and today stands undiminished by the ravages of time and modern civilization, not far from a golf course in fashionable San Isidro. This imposing two-story adobe pyramid has a steep ramp leading to its upper level and an onsite museum where fascinating objects unearthed here are displayed, including ancient funerary vessels and mummies.

Walk the UNESCO-listed historical center of Lima, City of Kings, with a historian and genealogist. The architectural and cultural jewels to be discovered in this colonial center are many – and Ronald Edwards knows them well. He’ll keep you expertly informed as you amble – and in a few cases drive – from landmark to landmark in the Old City. You’ll visit the University of San Marcos; founded in 1551, it’s the oldest learning institution in the Americas. At the Jesuit Convent of San Pedro, consecrated in 1638, you’ll encounter one of the absolute masterpieces of baroque architecture in Peru. Be wowed by the colonial wooden balconies and courtyard of the Casa de la Riva Agüero, where some of the most important manuscripts and archives of Peruvian history are ensconced. Pass through Lima’s huge main square, Plaza Mayor, encircled by buildings of power from the days when this was the epicenter of Spain’s empire in the Americas. And visit the fabulously-appointed Casa de Aliaga, a colonial mansion built in 1535 by a conquistador and still occupied today by his family’s 17th generation. It’s also an ideal place to enjoy lunch before the ride back to your ship.

Enjoy a wide-ranging immersion into Peruvian culture with visits to an archaeology museum, the ruins of a major Inca city, and a high-stepping Paso horse hacienda. At the National Museum of Archaeology, you’ll browse a world-class collection of pre-Columbian ceramics and weavings. Especially intriguing are the rare examples of a knotted thread system that might once have been a written language. In the Lurin Valley outside Lima, tour what remains of Pachacamac, the coast’s largest city and ceremonial center at the time the Spaniards arrived. The ruins encircle the rim of a low hill crowned with the partially-restored Temple of the Sun. A highlight here is the reconstructed House of the Mamaconas, where the Inca’s chosen women spun fine cloth for their empire’s hierarchy. Your next stop, Hacienda Mamacona, shares the name – but the chosen ones here have four hooves and a famous stepping gait. Enjoy a sumptuous Peruvian buffet lunch in the ranch’s garden, then thrill to a presentation of the iconic Marinera, where the horse and rider dance in time with a female partner on the ground to the rhythm of live music. Horses are available if you want to experience riding this unique breed firsthand.

Experience two museums that between them showcase 3,000 years of Peru’s artistic heritage. You’ll travel into historic Pueblo Libre by air-conditioned coach to tour the one-of-a-kind collection at Larco Herrera Museum. Housed within a viceroy’s former mansion, the exhibits include ceramics, gold, stone and textiles created by pre-Hispanic cultures, especially those of the Peruvian north. The Textile Room, Cultures Gallery and Gold & Jewelry Room are standouts, as is the Erotic Gallery discretely tucked away across the courtyard gardens. Larco is also one of the few museums where you can enter the storage area containing 30,000 more cataloged objects, many considered world-class examples of pre-Columbian art. Fast-forwarding to the present, you’ll tour fashionable Miraflores, a Lima neighborhood known for its parks, colonial mansions and luxe residential towers. Your destination here is a particularly splendid 1906 residence housing the Pedro de Osma Museum and Gallery, an extraordinary collection accumulated by Don Pedro de Osma Gildemeister, a connoisseur of Peruvian art from the 16th through 19th centuries. All the displayed works were originally in Don Pedro’s own large home; after his death, his family foundation arranged for them to be enjoyed by the public. Gracias, Don Pedro.

Discover intriguing sights, a rich culture and warm people on this introductory tour of Manta and picturesque Montecristi. You’ll visit the Archaeological Museum for background on the history and ethnic origins of this part of Ecuador, enjoy a spin along Manta’s scenic seaside promenade, and travel through the suburbs to the neighboring town of Montecristi. Famed for its natural crafts, the central square here is brimming with stalls where vendors offer everything from straw baskets and jewelry to fine handmade Panama hats – which really originated here in Ecuador. A visit to a Cabuya factory provides a rare peek into traditional plant weaving, a once-vibrant industry in the Manta region, today practiced only at this one remaining site. Enjoy a demonstration of the artful, archaic process that turns a natural plant fiber into woven bags once prominently used in agriculture and casual fashion – and leave with a small, eco-friendly bag as a souvenir of your visit. En route back to the pier, you’ll stop to inspect the wares at a workshop where the ivory-like nuts of the Tagua palm are fashioned into everything from buttons to small sculptures by craftsmen who’ve honed their nut-carving skills for generations.

Enjoy a fun-filled ride via local Chivas Bus to the heritage sights and shops of Montecristi. You’ve probably seen the Chivas before, molded into those adorable miniature ceramic buses sold at craft shops, complete with baskets of chickens and colorful produce strapped to their roof. But the actual-size Chivas Bus is Ecuador’s vibrant answer to mass transit. And it’s a bouncy, down-to-earth, wonderful ride. Chivas routes crisscross the country, offering reasonably-priced transportation between the towns along the coast and the interior. Your Chivas ride today will be a convoy-style transfer to inland Montecristi, with a local band riding atop one of the buses as the en route entertainment. Beautiful little Montecristi retains the atmosphere and faded elegance of its Spanish heritage – and is also the authentic home of what has long been known as the “Panama hat,” misnamed years ago by Teddy Roosevelt during his inspection tour of the Panama Canal construction site. With free time to wander Montecristi once you arrive, you’ll see many of these dapper woven toppers offered by the artisans whose stalls line the central plaza. Plenty of tempting straw baskets, jewelry and other colorful handicrafts, too.

Be enchanted by the culture of Ecuador at an afternoon tea and traditional dance performance at a beachfront hotel. It’s just a brief drive through downtown Manta to the Montecristi Golf Club. The tea served during your afternoon visit is just as carefully blended, while the canapés and sweets that accompany it will feature whatever ingredients are freshest that day – perhaps smoked salmon finger sandwiches along with mango-filled pastries and banana tartlets. After savoring these flavor notes reflective of the Ecuadorian palate, served in luxurious surroundings in the Golf Club, watch an Ecuadorian dance troupe perform modern and traditional dances that showcase the multicultural character of the country. You’ll notice African influences and Andean rhythms at play as the dancers gracefully cover the stage in their brightly colored costumes. It’s so easy to get swept up by the experience, you might find yourself tempted to try a few of these ethnic Ecuadorian dances moves yourself. No worries: after the show, the troupe will be happy to teach you a step or two.

Travel by coach to a pristine stretch of Pacific coast beach where you can swim, relax in the sun or shade, and sip cool drinks from the adjacent hotel. San Clemente Beach is north of Manta and an ideal place to just tune out for a few hours. You’ll have time to relax as you please, either on the sand in the sun or on a shaded beach lounge provided by the Palmazul Hotel. They’ll also provide up to three complimentary soft drinks – and of course they also a full bar and snacks if you have a hankering. will also be provided. The Palmazul property also offers a fresh pool and is dotted with palm tree shade. Bring along your favorite read, your favorite shipboard friends, or go it alone with just your travel companion. Either way, you’ll return to the pier refreshed: While close to the Equator, this section of shoreline is cooled nicely by the waters of the Humboldt Current, which carry a little bit of Antarctic chill up the coast to tropical South America.

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14 Night South America Cruise