West Africa cruise from Ghana to Angola

Expedition highlights

Along West Africa’s Atlantic edge, discovery comes through lived-in coastal culture, striking landscapes, and expert-led time outdoors in places that still feel rare.

Colonial Past

Walk districts where old trading routes left visible marks, from forts and warehouses to civic buildings and waterfront promenades.

Guided Walks

Coastal walks through dunes, cliffs, and historic quarters, paced for observation and led by experts who add context without overloading the day.

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

Explore the natural beauty of Africa, from island ecosystems to reserves and coastal habitats

African Traditions

Africa works best when it feels lived-in. Expect markets, craft, music, and small moments that explain how people actually live along these coasts.

Tag-für-Tag-Reiseroute

Explore Ghana’s colonial landmarks, Togo's voodoo markets, and Benin’s Ganvie village on stilts. Relax at pristine beach locations like Macaco Beach in Santo Antonio or dive into the rich natural beauty of Gabon's rainforests and Congo’s breathtaking Diosso Gorge. Activities on this cruise promise both adventure and cultural enrichment. Witness a voodoo ceremony, engage with local communities, or participate in traditional crafts and dances. While at sea, immerse in educational lectures or perfect your photography skills. Each day offers unique excursions to enhance your cultural journey through West Africa

HINWEIS: Diese Reiseroute bietet allgemeine Informationen zu jedem Reiseziel. Bitte beachten Sie, dass einige der genannten Sehenswürdigkeiten und Highlights am Tag unseres Besuchs möglicherweise nicht geöffnet oder zugänglich sind. Für das genaueste Tourprogramm empfehlen wir, sich näher am Abreisedatum an Ihren Swan Hellenic-Agenten oder Reisebüro zu wenden.

Überblick

Tag 1

Tag 1. Tema (Accra)

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’

Tag 2

Tag 2. Lomé

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

Aktivitäten:

Inklusive

Cultural wonders of Lome

4,5 Stunden

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Lomé on foot, starting with the vast Fetish Market, where voodoo practitioners find ritual ingredients. Admire the Gothic grandeur of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, then explore Lomé’s bustling "Grand Marché," one of West Africa's largest markets. Discover Togo’s history at the National Museum, and end at the Artisans’ Village, where skilled weavers, carvers, basketmakers and shoemakers display their craft.

Optional

Togoville, the Voodoo world and Lome highlights

6 Stunden

Upgrade your Lomé cultural tour with a traditional voodoo ceremony in Togoville. Drive to Aneho, or Little Popo, and take a pirogue across Lake Togo to Togoville, Togo’s cradle of voodoo. Participate in a traditional voodoo ceremony, visit Maison Royale (the chief’s house) and discover the Virgin Mary's shrine. After lunch, explore Lomé’s highlights, including Akodessawa voodoo Fetish Market, before returning to the ship.

Optional

Rural African Village life and Lome highlights

8 Stunden

Enhance your Lomé cultural tour with a visit to a traditional Togolese village and lunch. Travel to Davedi, an Ewe village renowned for farming and palm wine production. Experience an authentic Ewe dance and discover their belief in sacred twins, symbolised by dolls. Explore the Davedi community, interact with locals, and gain insight into their way of life. Afterwards, return to Lomé for lunch and visit the Artisans' Market and Fetish Market.

Tag 3

Tag 3. Cotonou

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

Aktivitäten:

Inklusive

Ganvie floating village and Egungun Masks Performance

4,5 Stunden

Board a dugout canoe to explore Ganvié, Africa’s Venice, the largest, most picturesque stilt village. From the water, witness daily life, from fishing and the bustling floating market to children heading to school. Enjoy free time in this unique setting before enjoying an Egungun mask performance, featuring elaborate costumes and spirited masquerades. Then drive to Cotonou with a visit to the Amazon statue, a tribute to Dahomey’s female warriors.

Optional

Ganvié, Egungun and Ouidah with box lunch

7 Std 10 Min

Climb aboard a pirogue canoe to explore Africa's Venice, Ganvie. See the Tofino people's stilt houses on Lake Nokoué, traditional fishing methods and floating market, then enjoy an Egungun performance. Continue to Ouidah’s Sacred Forest to discover voodoo traditions and the Door of No Return, a memorial for enslaved Africans. Visit the Zangbeto, night guardians of the Ogu people, and see the Amazon statue honoring Dahomey’s all-female army.

Tag 4

Tag 4. Seetag

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

Tag 5

Tag 5. Santo António, Príncipe

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

Aktivitäten:

Inklusive

Santo Antonio Walking Tour

2 Stunden

Soak up the sights, sounds and aromas of Santo António, Príncipe, on a guided walking tour. Begin with the vibrant local market, brimming with fresh produce and unique goods. Visit a handicraft shop showcasing local artisans and chocolate from the Sundy plantation. Learn about the island's conservation and sustainability efforts at the Príncipe Foundation, dedicated to preserving its natural beauty and biodiversity.

Optional

Principe Cultural Tour

3 Std 50 Min

The island of Príncipe is the smallest of the two main islands in the country, with a population of about 8,000 people and a stunning pristine forest area part of UNESCO´s World Biosphere reserve. Drive to Terrero Velho where Claudio Corallo grows his cocoa to make his famous chocolate, well- known around the world. After the visit, drive to Porto Real to learn about a project called “Changing the world through women's hands" focusing on sustainable and responsible use of natural resources and threats to sea turtles. They collect waste from the largest sea turtle nesting beach on Príncipe Island and transform them in other useful objects while contributing for the sustainability of the local people. After, drive to Santo Antonio, the capital town, to know more about the local people as well as their daily life before continuing towards Sundy Roça to see where the Theory of Relativity was proven. Return back to the ship. Note: Transportation on the island is very limited and basic. Tours run in school buses without P/A system. Please note that this shore excursion requires a minimum number of participants to run. The number of participants for this activity is very limited; places will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Optional

Principe birdwatching walk

3 Std 20 Min

Grab your binoculars and embark on a tropical birdwatcher’s dream tour of Príncipe Island. Explore this remote paradise, home to endemic species like the Príncipe kingfisher, Príncipe sunbird, and Dohrn’s thrush-babbler. Take a 3 km nature walk through their natural habitat, where with patience and a bit of luck, you'll spot these rare birds. Wear sturdy shoes for a comfortable, safe adventure through the island's rainforest terrain.

Tag 5

Tag 5. Macaco Beach, Príncipe

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

Tag 6

Tag 6. São Tomé, São Tomé

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

Aktivitäten:

Inklusive

Sao Tome Culture and History

4,5 Stunden

Feel the cultural and historical pulse of São Tomé, a hidden paradise brimming with calm and warmth. Start at the National Museum to explore colonial history, then visit Praça Marcelo da Veiga to see the statue of rebellion leader Rei Amador and the Cathedral. Head to Independence Square for a traditional Tchiloli performance. Drive to Bobô Fôrro market to learn local trading, then meet locals in Pantufo fishing village and discover daily life.

Optional

East Coast highlights to Pico Cao Grande

8 Stunden

Unveil the highlights of São Tomé's eastern coast on this full-day tour. Start with a visit to the charming fishing village of Pantufo and Igreja de São Pedro church, followed by a stop at the Água Izé plantation, birthplace of cocoa production. Enjoy fresh coconut at Hell’s Mouth, see Praia das Sete Ondas surfing beach and Pico Cão Grande volcanic rock formation. Finish with lunch in Angolares, accompanied by a cultural performance.

Optional

Natural Beauties of Sao Tome

8 Std 10 Min

An amazing tour for the ones interested in nature, endemic plants and birds. First, travel to the center of the island, around 1000 m altitude, and enjoy views of the cocoa and coffee plantations along the way. Drive to Bom Successo, where you will feel the impulse of nature surrounded by plants, trees and bird species. For nature lovers, this is an ideal place to learn about the endemic plants and see how some of them are used in the traditional medicine. The place is also a heaven for bird watchers as they will have the chance to see some endemic birds, such as: SãTomé Prinia, Paradise Flycatcher, Oriole, Giant Sunbird, Giant Weaver. You will also visit botanic garden where you will know more about some endemic plants as well as the orchids species that can be found in São Tomé and Príncipe. Learn about the educational role of the garden in the society and make sure to bring your binoculars to spot a variety of endemic birds. After the Botanical garden, drive to São Nicolau Waterfall, the most visited waterfall on the island. This beautiful waterfall, about 60 meters high, is hidden by the dense vegetation of the lush forest, but still reasonably easily accessible. Walking around you can reach the small plantation which gives the name to the waterfall. After, continue to Saudade for a delicious lunch and, on your way back to the ship, learn about the island history at the Massacre monument.

Tage 7-9

Tag 7. Expedition in Gabun

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

Tage 10-11

Tag 10. Pointe-Noire

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

Aktivitäten:

Inklusive

Discovery of Pointe Noire

2,5 Stunden

Dive into the heart and soul of Pointe-Noire, the Republic of Congo’s bustling port city. Visit landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, Pointe Noire Beach and the historic Congo-Ocean railway line terminus. Visit the African Circle Museum, showcasing Congo's rich heritage with the Luca Cosentino collection of masks, statues and ritual objects, alongside historical photos and contemporary Congolese art.

Optional

Diosso Gorges and Hike

4,5 Stunden

Wander through Diosso Gorge, the Grand Canyon of the Congo, one of the country’s most famous and beautiful sites. Formed by plateau erosion into stunning circuses, it features 50-metre-high red rock cliffs draped in rainforest, resembling small valleys. Hike for 1 hour through forest trails with breathtaking views of pink and ocher granitic rocks. Locals believe the gorge is home to the female spirit Mboma, in a snakelike form.

Optional

Makola Salt Glacier

5 Std 20 Min

Stand in awe at the Makola Salt Glacier, a unique natural wonder born from an environmental disaster. Originally a salt mine, a massive flood in the 1970s left behind a salt dome, which has since transformed into an awe-inspiring salt glacier. Marvel at the shimmering salt formations, capturing the interplay of light and shadow. The glacier's slow movement creates intricate patterns, offering surreal photo ops in this extraordinary landscape.

Tag 11. Pointe-Noire

Aktivitäten:

Inklusive

Discovery of Pointe Noire

3 Stunden

Optional

Diosso Gorges and Hike

4,5 Stunden

Optional

Makola Salt Glacier

5 Std 20 Min

Optional

Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Sanctuary

5,5 Stunden

Prepare to be captivated on a thrilling safari adventure to the Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Drive from Pointe-Noire to the Kouilou River, where you'll board boats to explore islands home to over 200 chimpanzees living in semi-freedom. Witness these incredible primates during feeding time at Africa’s largest sanctuary and learn about vital conservation efforts. Afterward, return to Pointe-Noire by boat and 4x4 vehicles.

Tage 12-14

Tag 12. Luanda

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

Unendliche Möglichkeiten Ihren Tag zu gestalten

Es gibt keinen typischen Tag mit Swan Hellenic. Wir bieten Ihnen unendliche Möglichkeiten, jeden Moment nach Ihren Interessen und Ihrer Stimmung zu gestalten, sodass Sie an Bord stets Ihren Traumtag erleben.

SH Diana im Überblick

Boutique‑Kreuzfahrten

Die maßgeschneiderten Interieurs der SH Diana sind geräumig und geschmackvoll eingerichtet, mit luxuriösen Möbeln und bodentiefen Fenstern, die unverstellte Ausblicke auf einige der beeindruckendsten Landschaften der Welt bieten. Klare, markante Linien verbinden sich mit Holz, Metall und natürlichen Stoffen und schaffen eine lässige, zugleich komfortable Atmosphäre.

Kulinarische Exzellenz

Hervorragende Küche ist Teil Ihres Boutique‑Reiseerlebnisses. Freuen Sie sich darauf, gastronomische Spitzenleistungen zu entdecken, während Swan Hellenic’s weltbekannte Köche Sie auf eine internationale kulinarische Reise mitnehmen.

Beauty & Spa

Wählen Sie aus Schönheits‑ und Wellnessbehandlungen, darunter von Bali inspirierte Massagen und Körperpflege. Eine perfekte Möglichkeit, sich zwischen den Landausflügen zu regenerieren.

Fitness & Sauna

Unser hochmodernes Fitnessstudio bietet alles, was Sie für ein belebendes Workout benötigen – von Cardio‑Geräten über Trainingsbänder bis hin zu freien Gewichten. Genießen Sie Trainingseinheiten mit Personal Trainern und entspannen Sie in der Sauna mit Aussicht.

Entdeckungen an Bord

Tauchen Sie ein in die Natur, Geschichte und Kultur jedes Ortes, den Sie auf Ihrer Kreuzfahrt besuchen, mit speziellen Briefings, Vorträgen und Präsentationen. Unsere erfahrenen Expeditionsführer sorgen dafür, dass Ihre Zeit an Bord faszinierend und informativ ist.

Inspirierende Umgebung

Ob Sie einen Moment der stillen Besinnung suchen, Ihre Akkus wieder aufladen möchten oder die Wunder der Natur erkunden wollen – die SH Diana bietet eine Vielzahl entspannender und belebender Rückzugsorte, die Ihre Reise mit uns unvergesslich machen.

Persönlicher Service

Swan Hellenic steht für persönlichen Service und echte Gastfreundschaft. Unsere warme und zuvorkommende Crew hat nur ein Ziel: Ihnen das bestmögliche Erlebnis zu bieten.

Ihr Zuhause in der Ferne

Entspannen Sie in der zurückhaltenden Eleganz Ihrer Kabine oder Suite. Eine anspruchsvolle Mischung aus gedämpften Tönen, natürlichen Texturen und intuitiver Technologie – das vom skandinavischen Design inspirierte Interieur verbindet die natürliche Welt nahtlos mit außergewöhnlichem Komfort.

SH Diana im Überblick

Boutique‑Kreuzfahrten

Kulinarische Exzellenz

Beauty & Spa

Wählen Sie aus Schönheits‑ und Wellnessbehandlungen, darunter von Bali inspirierte Massagen und Körperpflege. Eine perfekte Möglichkeit, sich zwischen den Landausflügen zu regenerieren.

Fitness & Sauna

Entdeckungen an Bord

Inspirierende Umgebung

Persönlicher Service

Swan Hellenic steht für persönlichen Service und echte Gastfreundschaft. Unsere warme und zuvorkommende Crew hat nur ein Ziel: Ihnen das bestmögliche Erlebnis zu bieten.

Westafrikanische Kreuzfahrt von Ghana nach Angola

Westafrikanische Kreuzfahrt von Ghana nach Angola

Expedition highlights

Colonial Past

Guided Walks

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

African Traditions

Tag-für-Tag-Reiseroute

Überblick

Tag 1. Tema (Accra)

Tag 2. Lomé

Aktivitäten:

Cultural wonders of Lome

Togoville, the Voodoo world and Lome highlights

Rural African Village life and Lome highlights

Tag 3. Cotonou

Aktivitäten:

Ganvie floating village and Egungun Masks Performance

Ganvié, Egungun and Ouidah with box lunch

Tag 4. Seetag

Tag 5. Santo António, Príncipe

Aktivitäten:

Santo Antonio Walking Tour

Principe Cultural Tour

Principe birdwatching walk

Tag 5. Macaco Beach, Príncipe

Tag 6. São Tomé, São Tomé

Aktivitäten:

Sao Tome Culture and History

East Coast highlights to Pico Cao Grande

Natural Beauties of Sao Tome

Tag 7. Expedition in Gabun

Tag 10. Pointe-Noire

Aktivitäten:

Discovery of Pointe Noire

Diosso Gorges and Hike

Makola Salt Glacier

Tag 11. Pointe-Noire

Aktivitäten:

Discovery of Pointe Noire

Diosso Gorges and Hike

Makola Salt Glacier

Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Tag 12. Luanda

Unendliche Möglichkeiten Ihren Tag zu gestalten

SH Diana im Überblick

Boutique‑Kreuzfahrten

Kulinarische Exzellenz

Beauty & Spa

Fitness & Sauna

Entdeckungen an Bord

Inspirierende Umgebung

Persönlicher Service

Ihr Zuhause in der Ferne

Kabinen

Meerblick

Balkon

Junior-Suite

Suite

Premium-Suite

Expedition highlights

Colonial Past

Guided Walks

Nature & Wildlife Reserves

African Traditions

SH Diana im Überblick

Boutique‑Kreuzfahrten

Kulinarische Exzellenz

Beauty & Spa

Fitness & Sauna

Entdeckungen an Bord

Inspirierende Umgebung

Persönlicher Service

Ihr Zuhause in der Ferne