South America : Cabo & Trujillo

Arrive in Callao, the chief port of Peru, right outside Lima to a place where fishermen in colourful boats fit right in to the picture alongside our ship. Trading routes of the 16th century saw goods from all over Peru make their way across the Andes (by mule!) to Callao, for ships headed to Spain.

We dock in the port town of Salaverry in Trujillo, a historic city on the banks of a picturesque river in the Moche Valley. While it bustles like an emerging modern city now, it was once home to the great prehistoric cultures of the Moche and Chimu.

Pristine beaches, picturesque villages and a unique tropical dry forest await your exploration outside Manta. Or spend your day discovering the charming atmosphere and colonial architecture of nearby Montecristi, which was founded in the early 1600s. As the birthplace of the famed Panama hat, a stop at Montecristi’s local hat shops to view these pieces of woven art are a must while touring the small town.

From the original name “Sandy Point,” this southernmost capital city in Chile had its humble beginnings as sparse penal colony near the Straits of Magellan. Today, Punta Arenas is regarded as a geopolitical point of interest given its strategic location as a gateway to the Antarctic Peninsula.

Situated along the Pacific in southwestern Nicaragua, the coastal town of San Juan Del Sur is one of the country’s most popular holiday destinations. Discover local boutiques, delicious cuisine and beautiful landscape through a wide range of activities and tours. Whether horseback riding through a lush forest, gliding across emerald waters on a catamaran or catching some waves at one of the world-class surfing spots, everyone can find a piece of paradise in San Juan Del Sur.

Off the Pacific Coast, Acajutla is El Salvador’s principal seaport. Its beautiful quiet beaches are becoming increasingly popular for their white sand, blue waters and biodiverse reefs. A short ride away is San Salvador, where guests can tour Mayan ruins, hike dormant volcanoes and visit historic churches.

This port city was constructed in 1984 to help connect nearby cities. Travellers often venture out to Antigua, a 90-minute trek to where 17th century colonial facades beckons and Guatemalan history comes alive.

Its ancient name means “the place where wood is adored.” Thanks to some eco-tourism planning, Huatulco retains a great deal of its beloved natural beauty that surrounds its nine crystalline bays and has been awarded the prestigious Green Globe certification for its efforts.

As one of Mexico’s oldest coastal tourist destinations, Acapulco has much to offer both tourist and traveller. Shop, swim or simply take a siesta on the beach. But be sure not to miss the legendary La Quebrada cliff divers.

Picturesque fishing port-turned-tourist resort and self proclaimed sail fish capital of the world. Spectacular snowcapped volcanoes offer sights rarely seen. The waters and beautiful lagoons of Manzanillo are ideal for water sports.

Smaller and more subdued than Acapulco, Puerto Vallarta has retained a good deal of its small village charm along with 26 miles of spectacular beaches along the Banderas Bay. Stroll the cobblestone streets to the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Or peruse the many local wares for sale at the open-air markets.

Cabo’s signature landmark is El Arco (“The Arch”), a rock formation at the tip of “Land’s End.” The jewel of the Baja Peninsula is famous for its world-class sportfishing, as well as its high-end resorts and exclusive gated communities that line an area simply called “the Corridor.”

It’s not just a cliché – San Diego really does have some of the most enjoyable weather anywhere. This Southern Cal city also offers 70 miles of soft-sand beaches, a world-renowned zoo, spectacular golf course, and memorable destinations like Coronado, La Jolla and Del Mar.