Name: Southwest Africa Cruise
Brand: Swan Hellenic
SKU: D0826040513

Itinerary

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 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.

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
Admire breathtaking views from cliffs reaching up to 50 m high, revealing the geological wonders of the region
Immerse yourself in the lush tropical rainforest, hiking along trails and experiencing the captivating beauty of this unspoilt environment

Discovery of Pointe Noire (AM)

Included

03 h 00 m

Explore Pointe-Noire's vibrant highlights, including Notre Dame Cathedral, local markets and the historic Congo-Ocean railway terminus
Immerse in Congo's cultural heritage at the African Circle Museum, featuring the Luca Cosentino collection of masks, statues and ritual objects
Gain insights into the city's history, with displays showcasing the Congo-Ocean railway and the evolution of the oil sector through 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

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.

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 ibis and grosbeak.

Sao Tome Culture and History

Included

04 h 00 m

Explore Sao Tome'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

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.

Santo António do Príncipe, Príncipe's main town, has vibrant colonial architecture, bustling markets, and is recognised as the world's smallest city. The Nossa Senhora da Conceição church features a stunning stone carving of St. Anthony, the city's patron saint. 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.

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.

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 tour with a visit to Ouidah after Ganvie, exploring the city's Afro- Brazilian architecture
Immerse yourself in the mystical Sacred Forest, surrounded by ancient trees hosting hanging bats
Witness the traditional fishing practices, as fishermen skillfully pull out their nets, with a chance to participate in this daily activity

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

Immerse in Togo's spiritual heritage at the Fetish Market, blending voodoo practices with Christian beliefs
Explore the vibrant chaos of Grand Marché, witnessing the surprisingly organised hustle and bustle
Witness the historical legacy of Germany at the Gothic-style Sacred Heart Cathedral

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

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.

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YOUR SUITE TYPE

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Oceanview D4

20 m²

Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m²(215ft²) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

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Oceanview M4

20 m²

Balcony D5

25 m²

Balcony Staterooms measure 25m² (269ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, a flame-effect fireplace and a luxurious bathroom.

Balcony M5

25 m²

Balcony D6

25 m²

Junior Suite

32 m²

Junior Suites measure 32-36m² (344-388ft²) – including a 6m² (65ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.

Suite

41 m²

Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including a 5m² (54ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and a walk-in shower.

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Premium Suite

41 m²

Premium Suites measure 41m² (441ft²) – including 8m² (86ft²) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – and a walk-in wardrobe.