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Cultural Crucibles of West Africa

West Coast of Africa: Ghana to Senegal, From Accra to Dakar 13 Day Expedition Cruise

V0923041612
Dates
04/16/23 - 04/28/23
Ship
SH Vega
Duration
12 Nights
Guests
2 Guest
Price From
$ 10,803
Per Person
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Trip Details

Explore the captivating coast of West Africa and you will experience a combination of intriguing cultures, colourful history and beautiful wildlife. Travel with us on our 12-night West Coast of Africa - Ghana to Senegal cruise and visit destinations and remote locations in a wildly fascinating part of the world. We begin our journey in Accra, Ghana, where we can sample local culture and delve deeper into the harsh history of this diverse part of the world. Our journey continues to the bustling cities of Liberia and Sierra Leone with their notable histories as settlements for freed American slaves, before heading to the Gambia via far-flung islands covered in mangroves where hippos and pygmy cows are at home. Your remarkable cruise on a boutique expedition ship ends in Dakar, Senegal, a bustling city with a throbbing music culture, finishing off an incredible journey to some of the least-visited cultures, cities and landscapes in Africa. 

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Trip Highlights
Sample Ghanaian foods in Takoradi Market Circle, the largest market circle in Africa
See firsthand the rehabilitation of western chimpanzees at Tacugama Chimpanzee
Get a taste of Liberia at Monrovia’s Waterside Market
Keep an eye out for rare saltwater hippo in the remote Bijagos archipelago
Watch traditional ways of life continue on Ile Carabane in Senegal
Itinerary Map
Itinerary
Tema (Accra) Day 1

Sail into the coastal city of Tema, a short drive from Ghana’s buzzing capital, Accra. Once named ‘Africa’s Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times, Accra has become one of West Africa’s top destination cities. Marvel at the towering statues in the city’s Black Star Square, wander through Kwame Nkrumah National Park, the resting place of Ghana’s first prime minister and president, or shop for locally made arts and crafts in the Centre for National Culture.

Takoradi, Ghana Day 2

The twin cities of Sekondi-Takoradi, often called Tadi, are a major commercial hub on Ghana’s deepwater port. There’s a low-key beachfront, a 17th-century Dutch fort, and inland, a frenetic commercial centre dominated by Market Circle, the largest market circle in Africa, where you can indulge in everything from coconuts to dried fish and a staple local dish – tangy jollof rice. Further afield, you can see fishing boats in the harbour or watch a traditional drumming ceremony.

Abidjan Day 3

A city pulsing with energy, this former capital of Côte D’Ivoire is a hub of creativity and innovation. The thriving arts and music scene intertwines with the intoxicating blend of cultures, cuisines and traditions that define Abidjan. A window into West Africa, the tropical mood that permeates Abidjan is infectious and unforgettable in equal measure. Immerse yourself in the city’s distinct atmosphere, browse the many galleries and markets, and stop at the fascinating National Museum of Abidjan.

At Sea Day 4-5

You can spend your day at sea enjoying the many facilities available. Head to the sauna, get in a workout in the state-of-the-art gym or relax in the jacuzzi whilst 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 on-board experts.

Tokeh Beach Day 6

Founded by a Sherbo fisherman in Sierra Leone's colonial era, Tokeh's humble beginnings have given way to one of the most attractive collections of beach resorts in Western Africa; Tokeh Beach is a little slice of paradise tucked away on Sierra Leone's Freetown Peninsula. Lush forests and incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean surround the long stretches of golden sands and clear blue waters. Stop in at the charming beachfront bars and restaurants for some local seafood, unwind on the paradisical beach or head out for a relaxing swim in the sea.

Freetown, Sierra Leone Day 7

Sierra Leone’s portside capital city occupies a major position in history as the home of formerly enslaved people from North America and Britain. Sites like Cotton Tree and the King’s Yard Gate symbolise the town’s sombre past. Freetown today is a diverse city with a rich heritage – colourful Krio architecture, hearty, rice-based cuisine, and lively beaches. Stop by the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary to visit rescued, endangered primates in a rainforest.

At Sea Day 8

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.

Bijagos Archipelago, Guinea-Bissau Day 9-10

Off the coast of Guinea-Bissau lie 88 islands – most of them uninhabited – covered in mangroves and mudflats, savannah and palm forests. The remote Bijagos archipelago is a protected biosphere reserve, known as the home of the rare saltwater hippo, as well as migratory birds and pygmy cows. The islands remained largely unaffected by colonial influence, resulting in a strong cultural identity with traditional coming-of-age ceremonies like difuntu and fanado still in practice.

Karabane Island, Senegal Day 11

The far-flung island in Senegal’s extreme southwest, Carabane is a tiny tropical idyll covered with mangroves, baobabs, and palms at the mouth of the Casamance River. As a former French trading post, the island retains much of its 19th-century architecture, and villagers continue a traditional way of life fishing, cultivating rice and producing palm wine. Round off your trip, by relaxing on a palm-lined, white-sand beach.

Banjul, Gambia Day 12

At the meeting point of the Gambia River and the Atlantic Ocean, Gambia’s relaxed capital city sits on a little island filled with colonial buildings and vibrant markets. At the 19th-century Albert Market, you can browse souvenirs and the vibrant traditional clothing of The Gambia’s diverse ethnic groups. For a true taste of local culture, sign up to visit a typical Gambian home or ‘compound’, where local hosts will tell you about their heritage as you sip on herbal tea and sample traditional snacks.

Dakar, Senegal Day 13

With fabulous museums, a thriving art scene and elegant seaside dining, the capital city showcases a rich Senegalese culture and a forward-looking spirit. Discover the city’s traditional side in Medina, a bustling quarter of mosques, tea shops, and street markets. French influences remain in many aspects of city life, from architecture to food. Local mbalax music dominates a vibrant nightlife scene. Traditional crafts like wood carvings and glass paintings are easily found at the Soumbédioune market – the best place to shop for souvenirs.

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Rates Include
Return regional flights to the port of embarkation and/or disembarkation (where specified)
Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
One night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
All meals onboard
Onboard accommodation in a stateroom selected category
24-hour room service
Coffee, tea, soft drinks and selected alcoholic beverages available 24-hours per day
Lecture programmes by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
One selected shore excursion/expedition activities per port of call (Kayak not included, bookable for a fee on board)
Branded Swan Hellenic expedition parka and use of rubber boots in Polar Regions
Standard WiFi
Onboard gratuities & port taxes
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Itinerary Map
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition cruise life. The world has a habit of amazing us with incredible things when we yield to the unexpected. Join us with an open mind and a sense of adventure and you’ll find that this can pay off in the most rewarding ways.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK
Stateroom
Number of Guests
Oceanview D4
19 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on Deck 4 at the centre of the ship. Light, bright and crafted from natural materials Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Oceanview M4
19 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on Deck 4 at the bow. Light, bright and crafted from natural materials Oceanview staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom and living room and a luxurious ensuite bathroom.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Balcony stateroom is a Swan Hellenic guest favorite. Located on Deck 5 at the bow and aft, staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom, living room, luxurious bathroom and your own 6 m2 balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony M5
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Balcony stateroom is a Swan Hellenic guest favorite. Located on Deck 5 at the centre of the ship, staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom, living room, luxurious bathroom and your own 6 m2 balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Balcony D6
28 m2 Sleeps 2
Balcony stateroom is a Swan Hellenic guest favorite. Located on Deck 6, staterooms features 2 single beds, bedroom, living room, luxurious bathroom and your own 6 m2 panoramic balcony.
Price From
$ 0
Suite
44 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on Deck 5 and 6 at the centre of the ship, our spacious Suites with a 12 sq.m. private balconies are a favorite with discerning guests, and those that prefer a little more space and comfort.
Price From
$ 0
Premium Suite
49 m2 Sleeps 2
Located on Deck 6 at the aft, our Premium Suites with a 12 sq.m. private balconies are the most luxurious accommodation on board. A favorite for those who want nothing but the best.
Price From
$ 0
Itinerary changes and surprising experiences are part of expedition cruise life. The world has a habit of amazing us with incredible things when we yield to the unexpected. Join us with an open mind and a sense of adventure and you’ll find that this can pay off in the most rewarding ways.

09:00 AM – 05:30 PM (EST)

+1 (800) 537 6777
ARRANGE A CALLBACK