Cruises aren’t just about Caribbean vacations and spending time in some tropical place. There are numerous places that you can go and enjoy a little bit of history and nature as well. You can visit the following places on a cruise even though they are rather unexpected since they are more inland. It does require for you to be willing to take a cruise tour package where you add time before or after your cruise to allow time to travel to these amazing places.
Many cruise lines, such as Celebrity Cruises 2019 and Princess Cruises 2019, offer various pre- and post-South America Cruise tours which include Corcovado Hill, Rio de Janeiro, Iguassu Falls, Machu Picchu, Torres del Paine, Patagonia Chile, and even Easter Island.
Torres del Paine National Park, Chile
This is one of the most spectacular places to visit in the area. In 1978, the Torres del Paine National Park received the honor of being declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. While here, you can see the distinct peaks of the mountain range, the beautiful Lake Sarmiento and the famous Laguna Amarga that has a very intense blue color. You can also check out the jagged spires that are located right across from Nordenskjold Lake. They are pretty famous and have been seen in a variety of different publications.
Cusco, Peru
If your cruise stops at the port of Cusco, then you are in for a real treat. There’s a lot to do here and this area is full of history. Cusco itself was declared a World Heritage Site and around 2 million people visit the city each year. Visitors can feel as if they’ve stepped back in time by visiting the Qorikancha temple. You can see stonework that’s been very well preserved, the ruins of part of a colonial church, and a courtyard that features a variety of paintings. The Plaza de Armas is also a popular spot for visitors to explore. It’s easily recognizable with its two flags. Here you will find some of the locals selling a variety of goods.
Andes Mountains, Bolivia
Many people are surprised to find that their cruise will be making a stop near the Andes Mountains in Bolivia. At 4,500 miles long, this massive mountain range is the longest one in the world. It spans across seven countries, including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. Many cruise ship passengers can easily spot the snow-capped volcanoes right from their cruise ship. While you are at the Andes, you can go on a hike to explore the interesting terrain and perhaps spot some of the wildlife that has been able to thrive in the high elevation. These animals include alpacas, chinchillas, condors, and llamas. Also found in the Andes is the Cinchona Pubescens tree. It produces quinine which is highly successful in treating malaria.
Machu Picchu, Peru
You will never forget a visit to Machu Picchu. You can get an idea of how the Incas lived as you explore the ruins. Due to the high elevation, you will also have clouds that surround you, making for an incredibly unique experience. One of the interesting things about Machu Picchu is that it was only discovered a little over 100 years ago. Archeologist, Hiram Bingham, discovered it on July 24, 1911. Today, it is one of the world’s top tourist destinations.
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