Highlights of Valdivia

Leave Niebla quay to drive towards Valdivia, one of the prettiest cities in Chile and one with a very interesting history. This is a university town on the waterfront of a winding delta. The city is energetic, full of life, and very tenacious, having suffered attacks, floods, fires, and the disastrous earthquake of 1960 (the strongest ever recorded) that almost sank the city.  

Valdivia is divided by a series of narrow rivers, notably the Río Valdivia and the Río Calle Calle, that wrap around the city's downtown area. These rivers have produced some of the world's top rowing athletes, and many mornings you can see spidery figures plying the glassy water. 

While driving through the city, you will learn about the evidence of German immigration to the area through the stately, historic homes that dot the street. The houses, built between 1840 and 1930, belonged to affluent families, and many have been restored and maintained, despite the various earthquakes and other natural disasters that have beset them since construction. 

Stop for a visit at the Maurice Van der Maele Historical and Anthropological Museum, housing a large collection of Mapuche artifacts and jewelry, as well as important pieces of the Hispanic and German periods. The German influence can be felt in every corner of this city. 

Afterwards continue to Valdivia downtown area. Leave your bus to enjoy a pleasant walk around the area visiting the bustling Mercado Fluvial, where dozens of fishermen hawk fresh conger eel, hake, and king crabs in front of colorful fruit and vegetable stands. Behind the fish stands lurk pelicans and sea lions awaiting handouts.  Transfer back to Niebla to re-join the ship. 

Practical information: 

• Language: English.

• Remarks/requirements: It is recommendable to wear warm comfortable clothing, and a windbreaker waterproof to fully enjoy the visit. 

• Walking information: Walking is mostly up to each guest. Most surfaces are flat, some slight inclination and few steps. In downtown Valdivia walking on cobblestone, paved flat terrain. 

• Wheelchair accessible: No.