2025 Africa Cruises: Explore Madagascar, Zanzibar & South Africa

Cape Town, South Africa

As the oldest and most vibrant city in the country, Cape Town offers a myriad of thrilling activities. Explore Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela, the former president and activist, was imprisoned for nearly thirty years. Ride a cable car to the summit of Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Enjoy birdwatching while hiking through over 1,300 acres of lush greenery at the famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. At the popular V&A Waterfront, spend a delightful day shopping and dining by the harbor.

Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa is a rich blend of African, Indian, and Arabian cultures. Dive into the turquoise waters of Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve for exhilarating waterskiing, snorkeling, and diving. Discover breathtaking coral reefs and intriguing underwater shipwrecks. Venture off the beaten path to Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, where you can see African wildlife like giraffes, elands, oryx, and ostriches in their natural surroundings. In Shimba Hills National Reserve, encounter African elephants, sable antelopes, Sykes' monkeys, and more.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

For the ultimate beach paradise, look no further than Nosy Be, an island off Madagascar's northwest coast. Formed through volcanic activity, Nosy Be boasts lush, forested landscapes dotted with craters and crater lakes. Translating to Big Island, this biodiversity hotspot truly lives up to its name, making it an outdoor haven for beach enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and wildlife watchers. Experience the intoxicating aroma of ylang-ylang on a plantation tour, embark on a deep-sea fishing adventure, or hike the rainforest trails of Lokobe National Park in search of lemurs and chameleons.

Port Louis, Mauritius

At the center of Port Louis, the vibrant capital of Mauritius, stands the Citadelle (Fort Adelaide). Constructed by the British in 1840 atop a prominent hill, this basalt fortress offers sweeping views of the city. Nearby, you can visit Champs de Mars, a horse racing track perfect for an exciting day at the races. Don't miss the Blue Penny Museum, which provides an in-depth exploration of the island's art and history. Conclude your Mauritius visit with a leisurely walk along Le Caudan Waterfront, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Port Victoria, Seychelles

Victoria, located on Mahé Island, serves as the capital of Seychelles and is the largest city in the republic. Over 200 plant species thrive here, with around 80 unique to this location. This makes the National Botanical Garden a must-visit on your Africa cruise to Seychelles. Another popular destination for cruisers is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a primeval palm forest that has remained virtually unchanged since prehistoric times. The reserve boasts the world's largest intact forest of coco de mer palm trees, known for having the biggest seeds in the plant kingdom.

Safaga, Egypt

Nestled along the Red Sea, Safaga's warm desert climate, crystal-clear waters, and soft, white-sand beaches make it a perfect year-round port of call. Renowned as a health and wellness destination due to the healing properties of the local sand and mineral springs, Safaga is an ideal cruise port for relaxation. For the adventurous, watersports like windsurfing, diving, and kitesurfing await in Safaga's inviting waters. You can also take a day trip to Luxor to explore ancient wonders at the nearby Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

Walvis Bay, Namibia

For wildlife enthusiasts on your cruise to Africa, Walvis Bay is a prime destination. Nestled at the edge of the Namib Desert, this town boasts a large lagoon, salt pans, and a bird sanctuary that attracts a wide variety of species. During the summer months, over 150,000 migratory birds make this area their home. In addition to birds, you may also encounter seals, dolphins, and whales. For those seeking adventure, consider a thrilling quad ride through the desert or try your hand at sandboarding.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Situated just 22 miles off the coast of east-central Africa, Zanzibar is an archipelago of tropical islands. Its pristine beaches and vibrant markets make it a sought-after cruise vacation spot. Dive into the rich marine life among the coral reefs on a snorkeling trip. Stroll through the historic maze of streets in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Unguja Island. Discover local flavors on a culinary tour through a spice plantation.