Arica, just south of
the border with Peru, is Chile’s northernmost cruise port. Arica has miles of
beaches, and the waves are famous among surfing enthusiasts around the world.
The San Miguel Archaeological Museum has an excellent collection of
pre-Columbian artifacts and mummies that date back to 5000 BC. Take a short
drive through the desert to visit Codpa, a historic village in a narrow,
fertile valley filled with fruit trees. Be sure to sample the pintatani wine
made from locally grown grapes.
Valparaiso is a
centrally-located port built on dozens of steep hillsides overlooking the
Pacific. Funicular cable cars take residents and visitors up and down the hills
to visit landmarks such as the Iglesia de la Matriz church and La Sebastiana,
home of the late Nobel Prize-winning poet Pablo Neruda. Valparaiso is also the
port for Santiago, located in a mountain-ringed valley about 60 miles inland. Visit
the sights around busy Avenida Alameda, the city’s main thoroughfare, including
the Church of San Francisco – the oldest standing building in Santiago, having
somehow survived at least three devastating earthquakes. The charming and
historic neighborhoods around Avenida Alameda include Barrio Paris-Londres,
Parque Forestal, and Bellavista. Visit some of the jewelry shops to look at
pieces made with beautiful Chilean lapis lazuli.
Puerto Montt was
settled by immigrants from Germany, which explains why you’ll find German-style
beer, architecture and food in southern Chile. The abundant natural beauty of
this area of lakes, rivers and fjords will tempt you to spend the day outdoors.
Take a drive to Puerto Varas, the “city of roses,” situated on shimmering
Llanquihue Lake with a view of the impressive Osomo Volcano. More active
pursuits in or near Puerto Montt include fly fishing, horseback riding,
kayaking and river rafting.
Chile’s summer begins
in December, making a Chilean cruise a perfect getaway from a North American
winter. For more information on itineraries, ports and things to do on shore,
talk with Anita, your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.
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