Holland America to South America

Like all regions of the Americas, South America has a lengthy and rich history extending from Native American empires through European colonists to immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries. As such, a trip has potential to capture all facets: Stunning Incan ruins in the Andes, routes taken around Cape Horn, and the multicultural capitals of Buenos Aires, Lima, and Rio De Janeiro.

Holland America captures all angles with its intimate cruises based on routes taken to South America centuries ago by explorers. However, perspectives go deeper. Multi-day stays in port introduce you to regional culture, tastes, and history, while tours explore Cusco, the Andes, Machu Picchu, and other natural and historical wonders.

Travel Options

Three mid-sized ships take several routes to and around South America: • MS Zaandam • MS Statendam • MS Prinsendam

While you can’t see South America in a single trip, you can explore a significant amount of its ports with the following itineraries:

Buenos Aires Around Cape Horn: Start in the city known as the Paris of South America, go around its coldest region, and then explore the fjords and stunning landscape of Chile. Trips may finish in Santiago.

From Santiago: Cruises start in the Chilean capital to give you an in-depth look at South America’s western coast. The trip continues through Central America to terminate in the U.S.

From Lima: Begin with Peru’s history, which extends centuries back to the Incas through European explorers and to modern-day immigration. After you get to know Peru, Holland America sails north to Quito, Ecuador’s capital, and then lets you into Central America.

The Caribbean to Brazil: There are essentially two ways to explore Brazil from the Atlantic – go around its coast to explore the beautiful beaches and major cities, or sail down the Amazon. With trips beginning in Ft. Lauderdale and then traveling through the Caribbean, Holland America gives you a choice.

Places to Go

Buenos Aires: As cosmopolitan as it appears, Buenos Aires sits directly outside of Argentina’s cowboy culture and the pampas. Get to know both during an extended stay in this port.

Manaus, Brazil: Get to know Brazil’s rainforest communities. Manaus began as a rubber boomtown and then expanded to become the cosmopolitan heart of the jungle. European influences are clear around town: The Teatro Amazonas replicates the Grand Opera de Paris, the Mercado Municipal reflects Les Halles, and the Palacio Rio Negro hints at Old Portugal.

Punta Arenas, Chile: The most southern point on the continent – it’s 850 miles away from Antarctica, to be exact – displays a broken landscape of inlets and passages. During your time near the Strait of Magellan, explore the Torres del Paine National Park, see the volcanoes in Pali Aike National Park, and observe the penguins at Seno Otway.

Rio De Janeiro: From the beaches to the cultural melting pot, Rio’s ripe for a unique exploratory experience. Even then, don’t forget to see the Corcovado Mountain, Ipanema, and the Copacabana.

Santiago: A funicular takes you over the Chilean capital for a full view of churches, the sea, and the Andes Mountains. Look out for the Plaza de Armas and La Chascona.

From ancient history to beautiful beaches on the Atlantic, there’s more than one reason to visit South America – and Holland America provides the detailed perspective to encompass all aspects. Begin planning your vacation to this Southern Hemisphere destination today through Direct Line Cruises.