South America cruise ports

Arica is nestled along Chile's Pacific coast. The city is the gateway to El Morro. To the south are the dunes of the Atacama Desert. Many Bolivians come to Arica, largely for its splendid beaches. Visit the nearby citrus and olive groves. The celebrated Pan-American Highway also makes Arica a hub for transportation and trade.

Buzios lives up to all the expectation of a great sun and sand getaway. More than twenty beaches and crystal clear water await you in this port, which has frequently been ranked one of the ten most beautiful cities in the world. Great food, an active nightlife with discos and nightclubs, in addition to numerous fine boutiques and restaurants, make Buzios a great destination.

This is the port for Trujillo, the "Lordly City," whose elegant mansions and churches reflect the aristocracy of the Spanish colonial era. Here you may opt for a thrilling excursion to Chan-Chan, an immense and magnificent enclave that since A.D. 1300 has been the center of the sophisticated Chim culture.

The city of Salvador, which dates back four hundred years, is an unbelievable experience. Surf or swim in the crystal blue waters of Salvador's more than twenty beaches. Feel the rhythms the African-influenced music that springs up everywhere and then dance the night away at one of the city's clubs. Be sure to try some of the Moqueca, a local fish stew.

Santarem, located near the convergence of the Tapajos and Amazon Rivers, serves as the supply center for the miners and prospectors in the region and serves a major port of call for river steamers.

At the center of millions of miles of rain forest, Parintins is a quiet island where you'll learn about the life of the indigenous people of Brazil. Parintins was the focus of the Conference on the 500 Years of the Indigenous Peoples, on the 500th anniversary of the first meeting of Brazil's indigenous world with European civilization. Also the site of the famous Boi Bumba Festival every summer.

San Martin, located off the Peruvian coast, boasts an abundance of exciting attractions and spectacular scenery. Wander through a soft green paradise of lagoons, forests, and ancient ruins. Soak in the soothing waters of local rivers, waterfalls, and thermal falls. Make your night on the town one to remember by ascending the towering dance stages at Oasis.

The most notorious of the three Salvation Islands, Devil's Island functioned for generations as a French penal colony. Once known as the "Dry Guillotine" because so many prisoners died there, the island today seems haunted by the spirits of former prisoners. Henri Charriere, better known as "Papillon," claimed to be the only prisoner ever to escape the Island.

Perfect wind conditions make Illhabela the "Sail Capital" of Brazil. Dive among ancient shipwrecked vessels, try some deep sea fishing, or just relax on one of Illhabela's many beaches. Visit the State Park of Ilhabela, established to preserve one of the most beautiful portions of the Atlantic Rain Forest.