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HANSEATIC inspiration
FROM COLON TO VALPARAISO
Colon - Valparaiso
Expedition South America with Panama Canal - mysterious equatorial adventure
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19.11.25 to 05.12.25|16 days
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HANSEATIC inspiration
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INS2517
The highlights of this cruise
- Relics and rainforests, deserts and ancient civilisations – the diversity of South America on the Pacific coast
- Five-country adventure with Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Chile
- Daytime passage through the Panama Canal, with knowledgeable commentary from your experts
- Pure adventure: with the Zodiacs to remote places
- Encounter with the Indigenous people of the rainforest
At anchor
Further informations
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The Panama Canal stands as one of the most impressive technological wonders of the modern world. This artificial waterway is a vital maritime passage that connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, bypassing the need to navigate the dangerous and time-consuming waters around Cape Horn at the southern tip of South America. Stretching approximately 82 kilometers through the Isthmus of Panama, the canal serves as a crucial shortcut that has not only revolutionized shipping routes but also significantly influenced international trade. Sophisticated lock systems are at the heart of the Panama Canal, lifting and lowering ships to different levels of the waterway. This allows vessels of all sizes and classes to overcome the 26-meter height difference between the oceans. Through this innovation, the canal has significantly reduced navigation time and fuel consumption, leading to lower transportation costs and a more efficient international supply chain. A unique feature of the Panama Canal is its so-called mules - special towing locomotives that should not be confused with conventional trains. These powerful machines are specially designed to maneuver the massive ships precisely through the locks. Anchored on steel rails with impressive pulling power, these locomotives work in sync to keep the ship centered in the lock chamber, preventing collisions and damage.
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The Gulf of San Miguel is located off the usual tourist paths on the Pacific coast of Panama and is a sprawling marine basin that stands out for its natural beauty and peaceful environment. This Gulf, known for its biological diversity, provides protection for the lush mangrove forests, which in turn serve as nurseries for numerous marine species. Remote and barely developed, this area is home to indigenous communities such as the Kuna and Emberá, who have preserved their traditional way of life. The Gulf of San Miguel is therefore a place to experience nature in its purest form and to develop a deeper understanding of the harmonious coexistence of humans and the environment.
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Utría National Park, a natural paradise stretching along the Colombian Pacific coast, is an untouched protected area known for its impressive mangrove forests, pristine beaches, and stunning biodiversity. The area is a significant refuge for marine animals, including whales that come here to calve, and offers unique opportunities for ecotourism and whale watching. With its rich culture of indigenous Emberá and Afro-Colombian communities that harmoniously blend into the natural environment, the park also offers visitors the chance to immerse themselves in local culture and traditions. Utría National Park is truly a magical place where the deep blue of the ocean meets the emerald green jungle, and visitors can experience an unparalleled wilderness experience in Colombia.
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The Isla de la Plata, also known as the "little Galápagos," is a beautiful island off the coast of Ecuador that attracts nature and adventure lovers alike. It is part of the Machalilla National Park and is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, such as blue-footed boobies, sea turtles, and colorful reef fish that visitors can discover while hiking or snorkeling. With picturesque hiking trails, hidden beaches, and a rich marine fauna, Isla de la Plata is a wonderful destination for those who want to experience Ecuador's fascination and biodiversity in a compact and easily accessible setting.
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Callao is the largest port in Peru near the capital Lima. Despite chaotic traffic conditions, constant gray mist (Garua), and the rapidly growing shantytowns, formerly called Barriadas and now known as Pueblos Jovenes, numerous historical sights from the colonial era and impressive collections of Peruvian art offer visitors a wealth of interesting impressions.
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Paracas, located on the southern Pacific coast of Peru, is a picturesque fishing village and the gateway to the stunning Paracas Peninsula, known for its breathtaking natural beauty and ecological richness. Explore the fascinating Paracas National Park, home to a variety of wildlife including seabirds, sea lions, and penguins. The mysterious Nazca Lines, huge geoglyphs in the nearby desert sand, also draw the curiosity of history and culture enthusiasts. With the nearby Ballestas Islands, the "Galapagos of Peru," Paracas offers a unique combination of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural heritage.
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The Isla Pan de Azucar in Chile, part of the Pan de Azúcar National Park, fascinates visitors with its stark beauty and rich marine fauna, including the iconic Humboldt penguins. Washed by the surrounding clear Pacific, the island provides a spectacular backdrop for nature observations in the Atacama region.
The itinerary depends on official approval. The natural experiences and wildlife sightings described are possibilities on this expedition and are not guaranteed.
Arrival and departure options
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Tue, 18.11.2025
Scheduled flight from Germany to Panama City
Overnight stay with breakfastOptionally bookable
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Wed, 19.11.2025
City tour, journey to Colon/PanamaOptionally bookable
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Fri, 05.12.2025
Journey to Santiago de Chile
Scheduled flight from Santiago de Chile to GermanyOptionally bookable
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Sat, 06.12.2025
Arrival in GermanyOptionally bookable
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Extend your trip
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Our popular before and after programs include a wide range of excursions and are usually accompanied by experienced Hapag-Lloyd Cruises tour guides. Recommended for travelers who like to share their experiences with a group of like-minded people. Experience selected highlights of your holiday destination and enjoy the amenities of a group trip - we take care of transfers, excursions and overnight stays.
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Our travel concierge will be happy to put together tailor-made travel arrangements for you according to your wishes. From design hotels to luxurious beach resorts to ticket reservations for theater visits or restaurant recommendations for the most exciting cities. The Travel Concierge is available to you before your trip and of course on board.
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Price special
Attractive combination discount
Extend your stay with the previous cruise INS2516 and get a discount up to 35 % on cruise INS2516 (applies to PLATINUM fare, double occupancy).
Extend your stay with the subsequent cruise INS2518 and save € 900 per person (applies to PLATINUM fare).
