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3 September 2024 by Norire Arakelyan
Latin America is spectacularly varied, hard to define and, most importantly, unimaginably vast. From glaciers in Patagonia and unique wildlife on the Galápagos Islands to Amazonian rainforests and lost Incan cities, this is a continent that's unparalleled when it comes to adventure. And, as such a colossal region, with many of the most awe-inspiring areas virtually unreachable via land, cruises are one of the best ways to fully immerse yourself in the boundless dramatics. Whether ploughing through broken icebergs among calving glaciers in Chile or cruising through the winding waterways of the Peruvian Amazon, our range of tailor-made cruises truly make the most of Latin America's incredible delights.
Cruises offer freedom like nothing else, and, with the comfort of your bedroom right there alongside you, all you need to focus on is the next unforgettable destination. And, with the likes of Jane McDonald recently enjoying a South America cruise, there's no lack of luxury, either. Spacious, luxurious suites, some with their own hot tubs and private verandas, lie alongside exquisite, all-inclusive restaurants, with 5-star service to boot. There's chances to explore some of the world's most spectacular cities – call into the vibrant buzz of Buenos Aires and its colourful streets, explore Cusco’s old-world cobbles and Lima’s cosmopolitan laneways, or start in Ushuaia’s remote wilderness or Quito’s Latin humdrum.
Aria Amazon cruise
Further afield, the bucket-list islands of Galápagos and their world-renowned wildlife are home to endemic species in their hundreds, and what better way to explore these world-famous inlets than with a cruise? You'll spot everything from lounging seals and giant tortoises on Santa Cruz to Isabela’s humpback and minke whales, all from the comfort of the ship deck – or step on land to explore. With our Galápagos cruise and rail journey you’ll combine two unforgettable experiences; a mountain rail journey through the Andes and an island-hopping, luxury cruise through the Galápagos, spotting marine iguanas on snorkel trips and reef sharks on diving jaunts before returning to all-inclusive fine dining.
Blue-footed booby, Galápagos Islands
Not South America as such, but Buenos Aires and Ushuaia are both gateways for cruising the world's last frozen frontier – Antarctica – the ultimate, once-in-a-lifetime adventure, and undoubtedly the most spectacular way to witness the awe-inspiring, ice-slicked landscape. You’ll start in Buenos Aires' vibrant buzz and historic icons before taking in Antarctica's dramatic glaciers, cragged icebergs and myriad wildlife in the utmost luxury. Witness colossal icebergs up close with included Zodiac landings, led by the expert expedition team on board the luxury Silver Cloud, where fine-dining luxuries, open-bar indulgences and a spread of superb facilities await.
Silver Cloud, Antarctica
The far-flung wilds of Patagonia are on many a bucket list, and cruising among ice floes and otherworldly glaciers is an unbeatable way to absorb the grandeur of Chile's iconic national parks. Cruise on ships that have specially-made hulls, enjoying private tours to the Perito Moreno Glacier and expert-led excursions, culminating days with all-inclusive gourmet dining. Head further north to more temperate climates and you'll find the spectacular Amazon river; with our Amazon cruise you'll be introduced to Peru’s history and the biodiverse Amazon rainforest, spotting the likes of macaws, dolphins, squirrel monkeys and piranha from the ship. There’s more epic Antarctic exploration too awaiting on Silver Explorer, where you'll spend three weeks sailing in style past sculpted icebergs, calving glaciers and spectacular wildlife in one of the world's last great wildernesses.
Grey Glacier, Patagonia
And, when you're not exploring on land, there are a wealth of amenities to keep you entertained, from on-deck swimming pools, whirlpool tubs and and luxury spas to observation decks, libraries, casinos and theatres. Plus, all of Wexas’ cruise lines have expert guides onboard whom truly bring the destination to life, including fascinating presentations and lectures that take your experience to the next level.
Cruising is undoubtedly the most luxurious and simple way to experience everything Latin America has to offer, from remote fjords to colourful cityscapes, maximising exploration with the absence of any overland travel. Safety is, naturally, paramount with any holiday, and with a cruise you can be assured of your safety in whichever country you explore. Contact one of our specialists today to tailor-make your own spectacular Latin America cruise.
Amazon river, Peru
