Mystical Atlantic Africa

Lisbon, Portugal's vibrant capital, is a city of hills, history, and stunning views. Start your day at the iconic Belém Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glimpse into Portugal’s maritime past. Nearby, visit the Jerónimos Monastery, a masterpiece of Manueline architecture, where you can admire its intricate designs.

In the afternoon, explore the historic Alfama district, with its narrow, winding streets and traditional Fado music echoing from cozy taverns. Ride the famous Tram 28 to see landmarks like the Lisbon Cathedral and the São Jorge Castle. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte viewpoint.

Madeira, an enchanting archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa, is renowned for its lush landscapes and year-round spring-like climate. Start your exploration with a visit to the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal, where you can savor local fruits and admire the island's famous flowers. Don't miss the awe-inspiring views from Cabo Girão, one of the world's highest sea cliffs.

For a unique experience, take a leisurely stroll through the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with endemic plants and wildlife. Wine enthusiasts should visit the Madeira Wine Museum to sample the island's renowned fortified wines.

Ships docking in Funchal, Madeira, use the Port of Funchal, located about 3 km (1.9 miles) from the city center. This short distance can be covered in around 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus. The port is conveniently situated, allowing easy access to Funchal's charming streets, vibrant markets, and stunning botanical gardens. To explore Funchal, taxis and local buses are readily available. A popular spot is the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, reachable by cable car offering panoramic views. Don't miss the traditional wicker toboggan ride down to Livramento.

‘La Isla Bonita,’ La Palma is one of the smaller of the Canary Islands. Its capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a beautiful colonial-style city set on a picturesque harbour. The island’s landscape is one of black sand beaches, mountainous terrain and rich plant life. Ships will dock at the port of Santa Cruz de la Palma.

Top Things to Do on La Palma:

• visit the salt fields in Fuencaliente
• swim in the La Fajana natural ocean pools
• take a guided tour of the Silk Museum
• enjoy the view from La Cumbrecita lookout
• walk the Volcano San Antonio trail

‘La Isla Bonita,’ La Palma is one of the smaller of the Canary Islands. Its capital, Santa Cruz de la Palma, is a beautiful colonial-style city set on a picturesque harbour. The island’s landscape is one of black sand beaches, mountainous terrain and rich plant life. Ships will dock at the port of Santa Cruz de la Palma.

Top Things to Do on La Palma:

• visit the salt fields in Fuencaliente
• swim in the La Fajana natural ocean pools
• take a guided tour of the Silk Museum
• enjoy the view from La Cumbrecita lookout
• walk the Volcano San Antonio trail

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the bustling capital of Tenerife, offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and natural beauty. Begin your exploration at the Plaza de España, where you can admire the impressive artificial lake and historic fortifications. Nearby, the Auditorio de Tenerife, designed by Santiago Calatrava, stands as an architectural marvel, hosting an array of cultural performances.

Stroll through the García Sanabria Park, a lush green oasis perfect for a leisurely walk among exotic plants and intriguing sculptures. For a taste of local culture, visit the Mercado de Nuestra Señora de África, where vibrant stalls offer fresh produce, local delicacies, and crafts. Don't miss the Museo de la Naturaleza y el Hombre, showcasing Tenerife’s rich archaeological and natural history.

Enjoy charming São Vicente and the amazing landscape here and on nearby Santo Antão. Stroll through town past vibrant markets and the replica of Lisbon’s Belem Tower. Visit the stark but lovely lunar-like beach at Catfish Bay. On Santo Antão see lush and rugged landscapes and picturesque villages.

Mindelo, nestled on São Vicente Island in Cape Verde, stands as a cultural jewel, renowned for its lively music scene and colonial charm. This city is a hub of creativity, home to the famous Carnival that rivals Brazil's with its vibrant costumes and infectious rhythms, showcasing the rich Creole culture of the island.

The waterfront area, with its colorful buildings and bustling markets, offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely stroll. The Mercado de Peixe (fish market) provides a glimpse into local life, offering fresh seafood and the chance to mingle with friendly locals. For art enthusiasts, the Centro Cultural offers insights into the island's artistic traditions. Mindelo's natural harbor, Porto Grande, is a testament to its historical significance as a coaling station for transatlantic shipping, adding a layer of historical intrigue to its lively cultural tapestry.

The capital of Senegal, Dakar, is an enigmatic and endlessly explorable city. Jutting out on the Cape Vert Peninsula with glorious surf-fringed beaches, the former colonial trading post is the westernmost point of the African continent. Ships will dock at the Mole 1 Terminal in Port de Dakar.

Top Things to Do in Dakar:

• visit the Museum of Black Civilizations
• learn about the African slave trade on Goree Island
• admire the pink Lake Retba
• shop at the Kermel Market

Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, stands on an island at the mouth of the Gambia River, offering a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. Key sites include the bustling Albert Market, where travelers can immerse themselves in the local atmosphere, finding everything from fresh produce to vibrant textiles. The African Heritage Museum is another must-visit, showcasing the rich history and art of the region.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to Kiang West National Park and the Abuko Nature Reserve, where West Africa's diverse flora and fauna, including rare birds and monkeys, can be observed in their natural habitats. These natural reserves are a short drive from the city, making them perfect for visitors looking for an easy day trip to experience The Gambia's remarkable wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Abidjan, the vibrant heart of Ivory Coast, offers a captivating mix of African culture with a modern twist. The city's skyline, marked by the St. Paul's Cathedral's stunning architecture, reflects its dynamic spirit. The Treichville Market, bustling with life, offers a glimpse into the local lifestyle, showcasing colorful fabrics, exotic spices, and handcrafted goods.

For those interested in art and history, the Musée des Civilisations de Côte d'Ivoire is a treasure trove of Ivorian heritage, featuring an extensive collection of traditional masks, sculptures, and artifacts. Abidjan's serene Parc National du Banco provides a refreshing escape with its lush rainforest trails, offering a peaceful retreat close to the urban excitement. This juxtaposition of urban energy and natural tranquility makes Abidjan a fascinating destination

The twin city of Sekondi-Takoradi was Ghana's first deepwater seaport and has prospered greatly. Still, the ambiance is rather laid-back, especially in the inviting beach areas. Monkey Hill, a tropical reserve for primates, lies in the heart of the city and offers a unique opportunity to observe monkeys in their natural habitat.

Nearby, Fort Orange, built by the Dutch in the 17th century, now serves as a lighthouse and stands as a historical monument with panoramic views of the coastline. The lively Takoradi Market Circle is another highlight, providing a vibrant shopping experience with a variety of traditional goods.

Lomé, the capital of Togo, is uniquely positioned as a vibrant coastal city along the Gulf of Guinea. Known for its palm-lined boulevards and bustling markets, the city offers a dynamic mix of cultural experiences. The Grand Marché is a focal point, a sprawling market where textiles, spices, and local crafts abound, reflecting the rich tapestry of West African life.

The city's architecture displays an intriguing blend of traditional, colonial, and modern styles, with the Independence Monument marking a significant national landmark. Lomé's coastline features extensive beaches that invite relaxation and leisure activities. Additionally, the Lomé Cathedral and the Togo National Museum, housing historical and cultural artifacts, provide insights into the nation's heritage and artistic expressions.

São Tomé, the capital city of São Tomé and Príncipe, is situated on the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea. This enchanting city is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and offers a rich tapestry of colonial Portuguese architecture, evident in landmarks like the São Sebastião Museum housed in a picturesque fortress. The museum displays artefacts that trace the island’s history of sugar, cocoa, and coffee production alongside African art.

The city is a charming blend of colourful buildings, bustling markets, and quaint cafés where visitors can taste the local São Toméan coffee and chocolate, renowned for their quality. The waterfront provides a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful views, making São Tomé a peaceful yet intriguing destination, marked by an intimate connection with nature and history.

Walvis Bay is the principal port of Namibia and is situated on the west coast of southern Africa - a quirky town focused around the busy harbour with many townspeople employed in the huge fishing and shipping industry that operates out of it.

One of the most unique and interesting aspects of Walvis Bay is it's huge natural lagoon. This always has numerous seabirds on and around it. Over 100,000 birds were counted on the lagoon, the most noticeable being flamingos and pelicans. These are joined annually by another 200,000 migratory birds, making this an excellent place for keen birdwatchers.

Lüderitz, nestled between the arid Namib Desert and the rugged Atlantic coast, offers a striking contrast with its German colonial architecture set against stark natural beauty. The town's colorful buildings and the iconic Felsenkirche, perched on a hill, provide a captivating backdrop. Nearby, the ghost town of Kolmanskop tells the eerie tale of a diamond rush long faded.

A much more haunting location, with an incredibly dark past, is Shark Island - which witnessed the deaths of between 1,000 and 3,000 people when it was the location of a German concentration camp, between 1905 and 1907. Inland from Luderitz is Kolmanskop, the site of a famous diamond mine and ghost town.

With the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, the Port of Cape Town is a picturesque cruise destination. Your cruise ship will be piloted through Table Bay to the dockside. From here you can explore the culture and attractions of South Africa’s most scenic city.

Top Things to Do in Cape Town:

• Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where Cape Town locals shop and eat
• Take a scenic trip up Table Mountain
• Visit Boulders Beach and walk amongst native African penguins
• Take a railway journey to visit renowned wineries