- Departure from Vancouver for a twenty-six-day coastal exploration
- Overnight stays in Ecuador and Peru for inland tours
- Access to Machu Picchu, the Amazon, and Galápagos
- Maritime experiences including Equator crossings and coastal stargazing
Holland America Line has introduced an extensive twenty-six-day itinerary titled the Inca Coast: Mexico and Latin America cruise. Set to depart on October 7, 2027, aboard the Nieuw Amsterdam, the voyage begins in Vancouver and travels south along the Pacific coastline. This journey is part of the cruise line’s Legendary Voyages program, which focuses on longer durations and deeper cultural immersion. By traveling at a slower pace, the itinerary aims to connect the diverse histories of North, Central, and South America into one continuous narrative.
A primary highlight of the trip is the focus on the Southern Hemisphere, including specialized access to the heart of the Inca Empire. The ship will feature overnight stays in Manta, Ecuador, and Callao, Peru. These extended stops provide travelers with the necessary time to venture inland to iconic sites such as Machu Picchu or the San Francisco Church and Monastery in Quito. These overnights also facilitate overland excursions to geographically significant regions like the Amazon rainforest and the Galápagos Islands.
In addition to archaeological and natural explorations, the voyage includes notable maritime milestones. Passengers will experience a crossing of the Equator and sail past famous landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. The journey concludes with stargazing opportunities off the coast of Chile. According to company leadership, this repositioning of the Nieuw Amsterdam reflects a growing demand for South American and Antarctic destinations. The cruise is designed to offer a blend of destination-inspired dining, regional enrichment, and live entertainment that caters to travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of the Pacific shoreline.
Regarding Holland America Line’s 26-day Inca Coast: Mexico & Latin America voyage departing October 7, 2027, the following details clarify the costs for the Machu Picchu overland tours and the current cabin pricing for the Nieuw Amsterdam.
Machu Picchu Overland Adventure Options
Holland America typically offers two tiers for the 3-day/2-night overland adventure from the port of Callao (Lima). Both options include round-trip flights between Lima and Cusco, guided tours of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, and most meals.
- Silver Option: This standard tier generally features accommodations at high-quality hotels such as the Hilton Garden Inn or JW Marriott El Convento Cusco. It includes a journey on the Vistadome Train, which offers panoramic views of the Urubamba River.
- Estimated Cost: Approximately $2,849 – $2,949 per person (double occupancy) or up to $3,399 for single travelers.
- Gold Option: This luxury tier upgrades the experience with five-star accommodations, often at the Belmond Hotel Monasterio. It also includes a ride on the exclusive Belmond Hiram Bingham Train, featuring gourmet dining, cocktails, and live entertainment.
- Estimated Cost: Approximately $3,999 – $4,299 per person (double occupancy) or up to $4,499 for single travelers.
Cruise Fare and Cabin Availability
For the October 7, 2027, sailing from Vancouver to San Antonio (Santiago), Chile, fares are currently listed as follows (subject to change based on demand):
| Cabin Category | Starting Fare (Per Person) |
| Inside | $3,479 |
| Ocean View | $3,679 |
| Verandah (Balcony) | $5,179 |
| Suite | $7,879 |
Note: These prices include port taxes and fees, averaging approximately $134 to $303 per day depending on the category selected.
Important Booking Considerations
- Cut-off Dates: These overland tours are popular and require early flight and permit coordination. They typically must be booked at least 90 days prior to the ship’s arrival in Peru.
- Physical Requirements: The Machu Picchu tour is classified as “strenuous” due to the high altitude (nearly 8,000 feet) and uneven terrain.
- Promotions: Current offers for 2027 sailings may include the “Have It All” package, which can provide shore excursion credits (up to $300), drink packages, and specialty dining to help offset these costs.
For the Holland America Inca Coast voyage in 2027, entry into Peru for the Machu Picchu overland tour is straightforward for citizens of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Visa and Passport Requirements
- No Tourist Visa Required: Citizens of the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom do not need to apply for a visa in advance for tourism stays of up to 90 or 183 days.
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into Peru. This rule is strictly enforced by both the cruise line and Peruvian immigration.
- Entry Stamps: While airport entries are often digital (Tarjeta Andina Virtual), cruise passengers and those entering via land or regional flights for overland tours should ensure their passport is stamped to avoid issues when exiting.
- Proof of Onward Travel: As a cruise passenger, your ship’s itinerary serves as your proof of onward travel, but it is wise to keep a printed copy of your cruise boarding pass.
Health and Safety for the Overland Trip
- Yellow Fever Vaccination: This is generally not required for travelers visiting only Lima, Cusco, or Machu Picchu. However, if your specific “Amazon Adventure” extension takes you into low-lying jungle areas (like Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado), a yellow fever certificate may be recommended or required.
- Altitude Precautions: Cusco sits at approximately 11,152 feet, which is significantly higher than Machu Picchu (7,972 feet). It is common for cruise lines to provide “soroche” (altitude) pills or oxygen on the trains, but consulting a doctor before the trip is advised.
Important Note for Minors
If you are traveling with a minor (under 18) and both legal parents are not present, Peruvian law is very strict. You will need a notarized and apostilled letter of consent from the non-traveling parent to allow the child to move inland for the overland tour.
- September 2027 Debut: Perfect Day Mexico opening date.
- Six-Month Passport Validity: Essential for Peru entry.
- No Visa Needed: For US/UK/Canadian tourists in Peru.
- Altitude Awareness: Key for the Machu Picchu trek.