Name: Southwest Africa Cruise
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: D3725040713

Southwest Africa Cruise

D3725040713

Luanda - Tema (Accra)

07.04.25-20.04.25

SH Diana

Itinerary

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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.

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Days at sea are the perfect chance to relax, unwind and do whatever takes your fancy. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, trying to spot a whale from the deck, reading a chapter or two, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to the green days spent exploring on land.

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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.

Diosso Gorges and Hike

Optional

04 h 30 m

Explore Diosso Gorge, the Grand Canyon of the Congo, showcasing the remarkable geological formations of the region
Admire breathtaking views from cliffs reaching up to 50 m high, revealing the geological wonders of the area
Immerse yourself in the lush tropical rainforest, hiking along trails and experiencing the captivating beauty of this unspoiled environment

Discovery of Pointe Noire (AM)

Included

03 h 00 m

Explore Pointe-Noire's landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral, local markets, and the historic Congo-Ocean railway terminus
Immerse yourself in Congo's heritage at the African Circle Museum, showcasing the Luca Cosentino collection of masks, statues, and ritual artifacts
Discover the city's history through exhibits on the Congo-Ocean railway and the evolution of the oil industry via historical photos

Discovery of Pointe Noire and African Circle Museum

Included

03 h 00 m

Discovery of Pointe Noire and African Circle Museum

Included

03 h 00 m

Discovery of Pointe Noire and African Circle Museum

Included

03 h 00 m

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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.

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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.

Sao Tome Culture and History

Included

04 h 00 m

Explore São Tomé's colonial charm, including Praça Marcelo da Veiga and Independence Square
Watch the vibrant music and dance of a lively Tchiloli performance, a traditional cultural showcase
Visit the Nossa Senhora de Graça Cathedral, the capital’s main Catholic church

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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.

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Macaco Beach, nestled on Príncipe's northwestern shore, is a secluded paradise with pristine golden sands, lush greenery and clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

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Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.

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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.

Ganvié, Egungun and Ouidah With Lunch Box

Optional

07 h 10 m

Upgrade your Ganvie tour with a visit to Ouidah, exploring the city's Afro-Brazilian architecture
Immerse yourself in the mystical Sacred Forest, surrounded by ancient trees hosting hanging bats
Witness traditional fishing practices, with a chance to participate in this daily activity

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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.

Cultural wonders of Lome

Included

04 h 30 m

Discover Togo's spiritual heritage at the Fetish Market, where voodoo practices intertwine with Christian beliefs
Navigate the vibrant Grand Marché, experiencing the fascinatingly organized chaos of its bustling stalls
Admire the historical influence of Germany at the Gothic-style Sacred Heart Cathedral, a striking architectural landmark

Upgrade - Togoville, the Voodoo world and Lome

Optional

06 h 00 m

Uncover the Voodoo history of Togoville, historically central to the practice, with ties to Haiti and the slave trade
Experience the captivating energy of an authentic voodoo ceremony, immersing yourself in the ritualistic atmosphere
Visit Lome's bustling artisanal market and Fetish Market

Upgrade - Rural African Village life and Lome highlights

Optional

08 h 00 m

Immerse yourself in the rural life of a Togolese village, witnessing the fascinating process of palm nut oil production
Experience the vibrant traditions of the Ewe people, attending a lively dance and twin ceremony, celebrating the sacredness of twins
Exploring Lome's lively Artisans’ Market and the unique offerings of the Fetish Market

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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’.

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.