Southwest Africa Cruise from Angola to Ghana | Swan Hellenic

Day-by-Day Itinerary

The activities planned for this journey are as enticing as the destinations themselves. Days at sea offer relaxation and onboard enrichment, such as photography workshops and expert lectures. Guests can embrace land excursions, such as discovering Sao Tome's historic sites or engaging in voodoo ceremonies in Togo. This luxury cruise embodies exploration and cultural immersion at its finest

Itinerary route map

NOTE: This itinerary provides general information about each destination. Also, please be aware that some of the venues and highlights mentioned may not be open or accessible on the day we visit. For the most accurate tour program, we recommend contacting your Swan Hellenic agent or travel agent closer to your departure date.

Overview

Days 1-2. Luanda

Day image 1

As Angola emerges from colonial rule and a long Civil War, its capital, Luanda, is evolving into a forward-looking city with a rich heritage. Landmarks include Gustave Eiffel's Iron Palace and the 16th-century São Miguel Fortress. Luanda's historic upper town, Cidade Alta, features pink colonial buildings, the Presidential Palace and ministerial houses. Ilha do Cabo shows Luanda's modern side with trendy seaside restaurants and bars

Days 3-5. Pointe-Noire

Day image 1

The Republic of Congo’s second city, Pointe-Noire, unfolds as a piece of French Africa with distinct European and African quarters. Strolling through the lively La Cité reveals traditional Congolese cuisine and the vibrant Grand Marché, providing a glimpse into local life. Waterfront restaurants line Côté Sauvage, a laid-back city beach. Beyond the city limits is the stunning Diosso Gorge, a natural canyon in hues of pink, red and orange

Days 6-8. Expedition in Gabon

Day image 1

Gabon, on Central Africa's west coast, is rich in rainforests, wildlife and culture. Over 70 percent of the country is lush rainforest, which plays a vital role in the Congo Basin ecosystem. Its coastline features sandy beaches and tranquil lagoons, while the east transitions to savannas and plateaus. Gabon's rich cultural heritage includes the Fang people, the largest ethnic group, with music and dance deeply woven into traditions. Land with Zodiacs in Mayumba, Baie des Tortues, and cruise along Loango National Park.

Day 9. Sao Tome, Sao Tome

Day image 1

Sao Tome, the Gulf of Guinea's largest volcanic isle, is a tropical idyll with rainforests, beaches and waterfalls. São Tomé city features 15th-century Portuguese architecture and a slave trade history. Rainforests blanket two-thirds of the island, sheltering wildlife like monkeys, birds and reptiles and São Tomé Peak, reaching 2,024 m, provides refuge for island bird species like the dwarf ibis and grosbeak

Day 10. Santo Antonio, Principe

Day image 1

This laid-back, compact capital has less than 3,000 inhabitants and is the smallest city in the world (according to the Guinness Book of Records). Time seems to move more slowly in this dream-like place with its pastel-coloured buildings and salty sea air. The Nossa Senhora da Conceição church contains a beautiful stone carving of St Anthony, the city’s namesake saint

Day 10. Macaco Beach, Principe

Day image 1

Located on the northwest coast of Principe, Macaco Beach is a secluded paradise with pristine golden sands, lush vegetation and clear turquoise waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling

Day 11. Day at sea

Day image 1

Spend your day at sea enjoying the facilities available onboard. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the hot tub while taking in incredible views along the way. If you prefer to learn a little more about your surroundings, listen to an informative talk or have a chat with one of our knowledgeable experts

Day 12. Cotonou

Day image 1

Benin’s vibrant port city is defined by voodoo (the state religion) and its colonial legacy. As a former French colony, Cotonou retains a certain European flair in its cuisine and architecture. The sprawling Dantokpa market, with local crafts and an entire section of sacred voodoo items, offers insights into local culture. Ganvie, a lakeshore village, is the world’s only town on stilts with bamboo houses, where residents get around in canoes

Day 13. Lome

Day image 1

Voodoo traditions, colonial history and beautiful beaches: Togo’s capital city, Lome, is awash with history and culture. The National Museum's exhibits - pottery, masks and art - reflect Togo's rich heritage. Akodessewa Fetish Market is filled with voodoo talismans and animal skins, offering insights into traditional customs. Colonial relics include the German-built Sacred Heart Cathedral and the 1960 Independence Monument

Day 14. Tema (Accra)

Day image 1

Tema is a short drive from Ghana’s fast-paced capital, Accra, a city that's culturally rich, modern and historic all at once. European-built forts and Black Star Independence Square’s public monuments offer a glimpse at the past. The neighbourhood of Jamestown, a 17th-century fishing community with old colonial buildings, is its pulse with an art scene and local bites like waakye – rice and beans with sides – at a low-key ‘chop bar’