An adventure to Africa is a once in a lifetime experience. Cruises to Africa allow you to set foot on pristine white beaches, swim in turquoise oceans, discover exotic wildlife and soak up authentic local culture and cuisine. Situated between two oceans, namely, the Indian and Atlantic, this continent and its remarkable locations offer paradise and treasures that often far outweigh traveler expectations.
Because Africa is so vast, the best time of year to visit depends on the locations you have in mind. The main season for cruises to Africa runs from October to May. For cruises to South Africa and the east coast of Africa the optimum time is between January and March for weather, wildlife and wine. On the west coast, anytime between March and May is fantastic because the rivers and vegetation have seen plenty of rainfall during the tropical season. While it’s still hot at this time, it doesn’t reach unbearable temperatures.
The least expensive months to go on an Africa cruise are April, May and September as these are months fall either side of winter. April and September are the best months to go, as the weather is still relatively warm, with less rainfall than usual. These are also the best months to be on the lookout for discounted rates.
Africa cruises cover an array of exciting, diverse ports of call, for culture, nature and adventure activities. Cape Town, South Africa blends lush mountain and ocean backdrops, with a multicultural vibe and world-renowned vineyards. Shore excursions include riding the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, vineyard tours and tastings, museum visits, penguin viewings on Boulder Beach and water-based activities.
The vibrant port of Durban is the gateway to South Africa’s third-largest city. Here, passengers can visit the Valley of a Thousand Hills, the Drakensberg Mountains and watch Zulu tribal drumming and dance. Kenya’s main port, Mombasa, offers an historic Old Town and a 16th-century Portuguese fortress. In Nosy Be, Madagascar, excursions include trekking in the Lokobe Reserve, catamaran trips and visits to local villages.
For year-round warm weather and beaches of the Indian Ocean, Africa cruises sail to Mahe, Seychelles. Here, passengers have the opportunity to snorkel in turquoise waters, try thrilling water sports and stroll on white sand beaches. Walvis Bay, in Namibia, is an historic whaling station and the entry point to explore the Namib Desert and Mondesa Township. From this port, passengers also embark on seal and dolphin watching adventures.
MSC Cruises is one of the primary cruise lines touring Africa. Featured ports include Mozambique, Madagascar, Namibia and Reunion. The MSC Sinfonia is a great choice for families, couples and groups alike, with plenty of onboard activities for days at sea. Entertainment includes bars, restaurants, theatre shows, swimming pools, a spa and children’s clubs for different age groups.
Oceania Cruises combine African ports of call, such as Mombasa and Madagascar, with Middle Eastern, Asian and European ports, across trips of up to 30 nights. The Oceania Nautica is a high-end ship with a casual atmosphere, best for mature travelers. It features lavish suites and guest rooms, spa and fitness facilities, open-seating restaurants, bars, lounges and a casino.
For luxury-loving passengers with relaxation in mind, the Cunard Queen Elizabeth stops at popular ports such as Cape Town and Walvis Bay. The elegant cruise ship blends old-world Hollywood glamour with gourmet dining, enrichment activities, decadent lounges, a library, games deck and world-class nightly entertainment.
As a cruise destination, Africa offers rich itineraries full of cultural highlights, natural wonders, island paradises and thrilling adventure activities.
