Very few continents have such spectacular nature, such fascinating flora and fauna: small and manoeuvrable, the HANSEATIC nature can demonstrate its advantages as an expedition ship in the narrow waterways of the Chilean fjords. The Garibaldi Glacier in the Beagle Channel provides a fantastic start to a kaleidoscope of sensory impressions and experiences, its glistening blue lending the scenery a very special magic. In the wake of legendary pioneers, you will cross the Strait of Magellan in order to set off from Punta Arenas on a hike in Magallanes National Reserve*: in the dense forests, the moss-covered branches of the typical lenga trees create an almost mystical atmosphere. The Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena* are a lively sight – around 50,000 breeding pairs use the national reserve as a kindergarten. A kayak tour of the Strait of Magellan* will present idyllic mountain panoramas, and with a little luck you might even see some dolphins. As soon as the HANSEATIC nature reaches Puerto Natales, a masterpiece of creation awaits you: Torres del Paine National Park*. Between glistening waterfalls, sprawling forests and shimmering aquamarine mountain lakes, granite mountains rise up around 3,000 m (9,842 ft), Andean condors elegantly soaring overhead. Passengers who love sport can take a trekking tour to the Base Las Torres* and will be rewarded with fantastic views. The Chilean fjords present surprising new facets at every turn: mountain landscapes, glistening glaciers and shimmering tongues of ice. The Pio XI Glacier is simply outstanding. Enjoy impressive views of the blue-white foot of the glacier, which is several kilometres wide.

Leave the ice giants behind and step into the fire in the town of Chaiten: whether a climb up the Chaiten volcano* to the edge of the caldera or a hike through Parque Pumalin* deep into the jungle accompanied by the sound of the birds, Patagonia’s diverse landscape leaves visitors in awe. The charming city of Puerto Montt is surrounded by snow-covered volcanoes. The impressive natural surroundings in which the people live can be seen on a trip to Chile’s lake district*, while a white-water-rafting trip on the Petrohue River* will take you deep into the untouched wilderness. On Isla de Chiloe, Chiloe’s villages* will take you back to colonial history, while penguin watching on the island of Punihuil* will take you up-close to Magellanic and Humboldt penguins – this is only place in the world where the two species breed right next to each other.

Explore Valparaiso and the architectural attractions of the capital, Santiago de Chile*, or discover one of Chile’s splendid palm forests on a hike in La Campana National Park*.

Your wildlife sightings will continue as your cruise off Isla Chanaral, where you can keep a lookout for seabirds and seals.

Urban Iquique impresses with a fascinating blend of history and modernity – delve in on a city tour of Iquique* – while the historic treasures around Iquique* will take you 1,000 years back in time with mysterious geoglyphs.

In Paracas, solve the riddle of the more than 2,000-year-old artefacts in a flight over the mysterious Nazca lines*. Watch countless seabirds and seals on a boat trip to the lively Islas Ballestas* – a breathtaking farewell to South America’s unforgettable natural spectacle.