LuxuryCruiseTickets.com | Cape Town to Mahe

Day One: Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA

Stretching along a breathtakingly blue coastline and framed by the iconic Table Mountain, Cape Town is undeniably one of the world’s most beautiful cities. This Mother City blends majestic natural scenery, vibrant multiculturalism, and relaxed coastal charm. Explore rolling vineyards, enjoy dining in laid-back seaside suburbs, or immerse yourself in Cape Town’s buzzing urban culture.

Table Mountain’s cable car whisks you to its 3,500-foot summit, offering jaw-dropping views of the city cascading towards the ocean. For another stunning perspective, hike Lion’s Head at dawn, where the sunrise bathes Table Mountain in golden hues. Down below, the icy waters are home to a colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach. Stroll along walkways to watch these endearing creatures waddle, swim, and bask in the sun.

At the Cape of Good Hope, stand at the continent's edge, gazing over the point where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge. Back in the city, the lively V&A Waterfront offers bustling restaurants and curious seals, but it’s the sombre silhouette of Robben Island that commands attention. A visit reveals the harrowing history of South Africa’s fight for freedom, as former prisoners share their stories, bringing Nelson Mandela’s 27-year incarceration vividly to life.

Cape Town is a city of contrasts—stunning beauty paired with poignant history, making it a destination as enriching as it is unforgettable.

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Day Two: Day at sea

Days spent at sea offer an ideal chance to relax, rejuvenate, and finally slow down. Whether you choose to hit the gym, indulge in a spa treatment, go whale watching, catch up on your reading, or simply soak up the sun, these tranquil blue sea days create a perfect counterbalance to the bustling days spent exploring the shore.

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Day Three: Luderitz, NAMIBIA

The arid desert surrounding Luderitz creates a striking contrast with the city's collection of German art nouveau architecture, making it stand out along the Namibian coastline. This distinctive feature adds to the destination's allure. Observe playful penguins frolicking in the waves, pink flamingos gracefully wading along the shore, and dolphins soaring through the air near Penguin Island and Seal Island. In stark contrast, Shark Island presents a haunting atmosphere with its tragic history; it was the site of a German concentration camp from 1905 to 1907, where between 1,000 and 3,000 people lost their lives. Just inland from Luderitz lies Kolmanskop, renowned for its diamond mine and ghost town.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Kolmanskop – Ghost Town Walking Exploration}

_{Luderitz Walking Orientation}

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Day Four: Walvis Bay, NAMIBIA

Nestled alongside a stunning lagoon, Walvis Bay presents a vibrant African experience, showcasing some of the continent’s most colourful wildlife. This small Namibian city, located on the Atlantic coast of southern Africa, derives its name from Whale Bay, hinting at the exceptional wildlife-watching opportunities it offers. The deep waters teem with abundant plankton, attracting numerous curious marine mammals that come to feast. As Namibia's only deep-water harbour, Walvis Bay serves as a crucial fishing hub for the nation, while its sunlit shores and natural attractions draw holidaymakers from afar.

For bird enthusiasts, Walvis Bay is a true paradise, where hundreds of thousands of birds gather to enjoy the tidal lagoon. You can embark on boat tours to get up close with the vibrant birdlife or admire the flamingos, herons, and various wading species from a distance. Nearby, Pelican Point offers a sandy spit where you can meet pelicans and enjoy the calm waves lapping the shore. With whales and dolphins playfully swimming offshore, the diversity of wildlife here is remarkable.

On the edge of the sun-baked Namib Desert, Dune 7 stands as the tallest sand dune in the country, rising 380 meters high. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or an exhilarating desert sport, such as sand skiing or sandboarding. Ascend to the summit for breathtaking views, or take a flight tour to explore the surrounding landscapes and spot extraordinary land animals. Witness the natural spectacle of Sandwich Harbour, where golden sand dunes dramatically plunge into the ocean's waves.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Swakopmund Highlights}

_{Flamingos, Salt Pans & Dunes}

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Day Five: Walvis Bay, NAMIBIA

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Swakopmund Highlights}

_{Flamingos, Salt Pans & Dunes}

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Day Six: Day at sea

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Day Seven: Day at sea

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Day Eight: Port Elizabeth, SOUTH AFRICA

Port Elizabeth, often referred to as PE, is an undiscovered treasure of a destination. Cherished by affluent South African families as a vacation spot, this city presents a blend of contrasting identities. First, it is a natural paradise with pristine beaches, rolling dunes, and the warm Indian Ocean gently caressing your feet. Second, it is a post-industrial city rich in heritage and diversity. Also known as Nelson Mandela Bay, the area is filled with tributes to this iconic figure, beginning with Route 67, which showcases 67 artworks commemorating the 67 years Mandela dedicated to South Africa’s liberation.

Affectionately dubbed "the friendly city," Port Elizabeth is undergoing a revitalization, driven by the region's youth eager to restore its prominence. Picture vibrant creative projects emerging at every corner, a pedestrian-friendly central zone, galleries exhibiting local art, restaurants serving South African fusion cuisine, and award-winning buildings that house museums alongside beautifully restored Victorian homes. Naturally, the boardwalk is alive with energy.

PE's location near the exceptional nature parks of Addo and Lalibela makes it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Both parks are a short distance from the city—70 and 90 kilometres east, respectively—offering a chance to immerse yourself in South Africa’s stunning natural landscapes. This is the real allure for visitors: the opportunity to witness the legendary Big Five. Addo even features the Big Seven, which includes the lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard, as well as the great white shark and Southern right whale.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Township Exploration - South Africa's Past & Present}

_{Addo Elephant Park by Coach}

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Day Nine: Port Elizabeth, SOUTH AFRICA

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Township Exploration - South Africa's Past & Present}

_{Addo Elephant Park by Coach}

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Day Ten: East London, SOUTH AFRICA

This distinctly British name makes it clear who founded East London, South Africa. Established in 1847, this port on the Buffalo River was constructed by the British to support their military forts and troops during land disputes with the Xhosa people. As European settlement expanded, East London flourished. Settlers often walked in the footsteps of those who inhabited the land before them. Here, countless individuals must have lived over the years, as the oldest footprints in the world, dating back 200,000 years, were discovered nearby. The Eastern Cape Province is home to most of the eight million Xhosa people, a proud tribe that celebrates a vibrant culture through colourful clothing, music, and dance. Beaded jewellery holds significant meaning, serving as decoration for dancers, playing a role in special ceremonies, and indicating women's social status. Today, they navigate a modern Africa filled with opportunities and challenges while maintaining connections to their heritage. The city boasts several natural attractions that appeal to both residents and visitors. The sandy beaches are a favourite among locals, who also enjoy water activities on the scenic Buffalo River. Like many regions in South Africa, game parks attract wildlife enthusiasts. Additionally, near East London is the site where the first living coelacanth, captured in 1938, was discovered. This lobe-finned fish, previously known only from 66-million-year-old fossils, is more closely related to four-legged land animals than to typical ray-finned fish. This area is steeped in history.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Natural History Adventure}

_{Immersive Xhosa Cultural Experience}

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Day Eleven: Day at sea

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Day Twelve: Richards Bay, SOUTH AFRICA

Regarded as the official gateway to Zululand, Richard's Bay has transformed from a small fishing village into a vibrant harbour town. Today, the 30 km² lagoon serves as the region's primary port, which is also the deepest in Africa. Situated on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal, Richards Bay was established in 1879 and named after British Rear Admiral Sir Frederick William Richards, who landed there during the Anglo-Zulu colonial wars. Despite its remarkable natural beauty, Richards Bay was long viewed as a remote area in Southern Africa, with only about 200 residents as recently as 1969. The population increased after it was designated a town, yet it remains relatively sparsely populated, with fewer than 60,000 residents today. The town's Zulu heritage is prominently featured, so be sure to explore the local arts and crafts. Nearby, Dumazulu village is the only Zulu village opened to tourism by King Goodwill Zwelithini, showcasing authentic Zulu traditions that are accessible to visitors. For those less interested in African culture, the surrounding area boasts fascinating flora and fauna, including the rare white rhino and the famous Big Five. Additionally, Richards Bay's attractions extend closer to the port, where the 350 kilometres of coastline, known as the "Dolphin Coast," offer delightful experiences for divers and beach enthusiasts alike.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{St. Lucia Nature Reserve - Hippo Haven}

_{Dumazulu Cultural Village Experience}

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Day Thirteen: Durban, SOUTH AFRICA

Durban; South Africa’s third most popular city is loved by so many - perhaps for its vibrant waterfront, diverse cultures, laid-back lifestyle and beautiful scenery. (to name but a few).

Durban has long been recognised as a beach city, but it was the significant investment for the 2010 World Cup that truly brought it to prominence. The extensive renovation of the promenade has introduced an array of fantastic dining options, offering everything from traditional bunny chow to bobotie, a sweet spiced minced meat dish topped with egg. You can also expect Asian culinary influences throughout the city, as Durban is home to the largest Indian population outside of India. Although evidence is scarce, it is believed that the area known as eThekwini—Durban in Zulu—was inhabited by hunter-gatherers as far back as 100,000 BC.

The city was first observed by Vasco da Gama in 1497, but it wasn't until 1824 that British settlers raised the Union Jack Flag, following King Shaka's gift of a “25-mile strip of coast a hundred miles in depth” to Henry Francis Fynn, who assisted him in recovering from a stab wound. Durban remained part of the British Commonwealth until 1960 when it became a part of the Republic of South Africa. The city's Euro-African heritage continues to thrive today.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Scenes of Durban with Specialist Guide}

_{Valley of a Thousand Hills}

_{A Glimpse into Durban's Indian Heritage}

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Day Fourteen: Day at sea

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Day Fifteen: Day at sea

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Day Sixteen: Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA

Stretching along a breathtakingly blue coastline and framed by the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain, Cape Town undoubtedly ranks among the most stunning cities in the world. In the Mother City, a captivating mix of dramatic mountain landscapes, rich multiculturalism, and a laid-back coastal vibe awaits. You can explore rolling vineyards, enjoy casual dining in coastal suburbs, or immerse yourself in the vibrant urban culture. Cape Town’s natural beauty is fully unveiled as the cable car ascends sharply to the summit of Table Mountain. From this vantage point, 3,500 feet above sea level, you can soak in the expansive views of the city cascading down to the ocean. For another breathtaking perspective, hike to the top of Lion's Head. Though it requires an early start and a steep climb, witnessing the morning sun casting a honey-gold glow on Table Mountain is one of Cape Town’s most exquisite experiences.

However, Cape Town's radiant sunshine and inviting waves can be misleading—these waters are often quite chilly, with nothing but the expanse of ocean separating the peninsula from the icy grip of Antarctica. This cool water brings its own charm, attracting a colony of delightfully cute African penguins to Boulders Beach. Boardwalks provide perfect spots to observe these adorable creatures as they frolic in the sea and bask in the sun.

Nearby, you can visit the Cape of Good Hope, the southernmost tip of Africa, where you can stand at the edge of the continent and gaze out at the confluence of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Cape Town's beauty is contrasted by the foreboding silhouette of Robben Island, located just four miles offshore from the bustling restaurants and sunbathing seals of the lively V&A Waterfront. Here, you can embark on a boat tour that recounts the history of the island as a prison, guided by a former inmate who shares the harrowing tales of life within its walls. Your guide will take you through the cramped cells, vividly illustrating Mandela’s long journey to freedom with poignant clarity.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Chapman's Peak Scenic Drive & Wine Tasting}

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Day Seventeen: Cape Town, SOUTH AFRICA

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Stellenbosch & Lourensford Wine Tasting}

_{Chapman's Peak Scenic Drive & Wine Tasting}

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Day Eighteen: Day at sea

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Day Nineteen: Mossel Bay, SOUTH AFRICA

Nestled midway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, you’ll find the sunny, shallow waters of Mossel Bay. As you dig your toes into the pristine sands of Santos Beach, watch the warm Indian Ocean lap the shore. For thrill-seekers, the options are abundant, ranging from shark cage diving, wreck diving, and surfing to snorkelling, bungee jumping, and skydiving. Just around the Point, lies some of the best surfing spots.

Discover the stunning golden coast that spans more than 60 km, where you can rejuvenate with a swim in the ocean. At low tide, take advantage of the expansive natural rock pool, featuring a diving board at the Point. Enjoy a walk on the St Blaize trail during your visit to the historic lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the bay.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Mossel Bay Discovery}

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Day Twenty: Day at sea

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Day Twenty-One: Day at sea

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Day Twenty-Two: Maputo, MOZAMBIQUE

Maputo is renowned not only as the capital of Mozambique but also for its vibrant energy that is unmatched elsewhere in Africa. Following the conclusion of 15 years of civil war in 1992, the city experienced an economic revival, attracting visitors who come as much for its lively bars and restaurants as for its Mediterranean-worthy colonial architecture. Maputo stands apart from other cities in the region; it possesses a certain magic. There’s a storybook quality to the city, accompanied by a tangible belief that one day, Maputo will be recognised for its true significance. Neither floods nor drought, which affect many other areas in Africa, will hinder its progress. Evidence of this self-assurance is visible throughout the city, from the vibrant music that spills into the streets to the quirky notion of constructing a cast-iron house in Africa. Visit the town square to witness this unique architectural choice for yourself. Formerly known as Lourenco Marques, the city was named after a Portuguese explorer who arrived in 1544. Although much of the city’s infrastructure and architecture were devastated during the war, a few must-see locations remain. The train station, often mistakenly credited to Gustave Eiffel, is one of the world's most stunning buildings, featuring a large-domed, green-and-white steel structure that seems more suited to Lisbon. Other highlights for sightseers include the gleaming white Roman Catholic cathedral, the neo-classical City Hall, and the French-Mozambican cultural centre.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Maputo City Orientation}

_{Maputo on Foot Exploration}

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Day Twenty-Three: Day at sea

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Day Twenty-Four: Day at sea

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Day Twenty-Five: Day at sea

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Day Twenty-Six: Nosy Be, MADAGASCAR

If you've ever dreamed of visiting a remote and exotic destination, you've found the perfect spot. There are two ideal locations: Nosy Be and Nosy Komba. These islands provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, even by Indian Ocean standards. There's a popular saying in Madagascar: “same, same but different,” which perfectly captures the essence of Nosy Be and Nosy Komba. Both islands boast lush forests that are home to endemic species. However, while Nosy Be (meaning Big Island) appeals to travellers seeking a rustic and laid-back getaway, Nosy Komba—translating to Lemur Island—hints at its main attractions. The lush forests are undoubtedly the highlights of both islands. The intoxicating aroma of ylang-ylang trees, vanilla, and pepper has earned Madagascar the title of the perfumed isle, and the export of spices and fragrances remains a crucial aspect of the island's economy. Predominantly French-speaking, the island's linguistic influence stems from the queen of the Boina Sakalava tribe, who invited the French from nearby Reunion in 1841, paving the way for colonial rule. If you embark on the 20-minute boat ride to Nosy Komba (officially known as Nosy Ambariovato) and its lemur park, prepare to be enchanted. The arboreal primates, with their large eyes, soft fur, and long curling tails, are not only charming but also incredibly friendly.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Tanikely Submarine Reserve}

_{Nosy Komba Island Discovery}

_{Marodoka - Old Swahili Village}

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Day Twenty-Seven: Nosy Be, MADAGASCAR

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Tanikely Submarine Reserve}

_{Nosy Komba Island Discovery}

_{Marodoka - Old Swahili Village}

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Day Twenty-Eight: Antisiranana, MADAGASCAR

Originally named Diego Suarez after a 16th-century Portuguese navigator, Antisiranana was renamed in 1975 following the declaration of independence from Portuguese rule in Madagascar. The Bay of Diego stands as one of the largest natural bays globally, and both the bay and the city are steeped in history. In the 1880s, the bay was a battleground for the French, served as a depot for Russia in 1896, and became a strategic focus again during World War II. In 1942, the Allies initiated Operation Ironclad, landing troops at Courrier Bay and Ambararata Bay, located just west of Antisiranana. Hundreds of British soldiers lost their lives in the Battle of Madagascar, with many laid to rest in a dedicated British cemetery in the heart of the town. Antisiranana also provides access to the Montagne d'Ambre (Amber Mountain) National Park, a secluded mountainous forest area that rises dramatically from the surrounding dry landscape. The park is renowned for its stunning waterfalls, crater lakes, and diverse wildlife, particularly its chameleons.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Diego Suarez Orientation}

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Day Twenty-Nine: Day at sea

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Day Thirty: Day at sea

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Day Thirty-One: Praslin, SEYCHELLES

Beloved by those who appreciate paradise in its natural form, Praslin is one of the most stunning islands in the Seychelles. The reason? Anse Lazio, the island's beach, has consistently been recognised as one of the world's best, attracting travellers eager to discover an untouched island paradise. Although Praslin is the second largest of the Seychelles islands, measuring just 11 kilometres long and 4 kilometres wide, it remains quite small. The challenge of accessing it—aside from arriving by sea, there is a small airport that only connects to Mahé—means modern attractions are scarce. Instead, the island's charm lies in its rich flora and fauna. Originally named Isle de Palmes, the island is aptly named due to its lush jungle interior, featuring bubbling brooks, winding paths, and towering trees that offer a refreshing escape from the sun. This jungle is the true essence of Praslin, housing the endemic Black Parrot (with fewer than 1,000 individuals left) and the iconic Coco de Mer, known as the world's heaviest nut, which flourishes in the wild. The Coco de Mer nut is steeped in legend; it was once believed to grow beneath the Indian Ocean, with its fruit possessing healing properties. Even after it was revealed that the tree grows on dry land, it retained its mystique; folklore evolved to suggest that for the 25-kilogram nut to develop, male and female trees must embrace during a stormy night.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Vallée de Mai}

_{Scenic Drive & Anse Lazio Beach}

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Day Thirty-One: La Digue, SEYCHELLES

Prepare to be enchanted by long stretches of pristine beach, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs that will leave any diver in awe. La Digue, nestled between Praslin and Mahé, is part of the Seychelles’ iconic "holy trinity," but it remains blissfully tranquil. Here, life moves at a leisurely pace—bicycles and ox-carts are the primary modes of transport, strolls through paths shaded by tropical blooms are the main entertainment, and the island hums with a timeless, peaceful rhythm.

What truly draws visitors to La Digue is its otherworldly charm, where it feels like time has stood still since the 18th century. The island’s residents, the Digueois, still carry the names of their ancestors who arrived as slaves with the French colonists in 1789, adding a deep historical connection to the island’s tranquil atmosphere.

The beaches of La Digue are legendary, with La Anse Source d’Argent often cited as one of the most beautiful in the world. This breathtaking stretch of powder-white sand, fringed by the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, is a true paradise. Scattered with smooth granite boulders, the shore forms secret coves and caves, offering shelter to some of the most vibrant and colourful marine life you’ll ever encounter.

_{Included Shore Excursions}

_{Journey Back In Time}

_{Coco Island Snorkel Adventure}

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Day Thirty-Two: Mahe, SEYCHELLES

Few places on Earth are as blessed by nature as Mahe. Nestled in the remote Seychelles archipelago, over 1,500 kilometres east of Mombasa, Mahe is the largest of the 115 islands and offers an abundance of stunning attractions. For many, the Seychelles is the ultimate dream destination: azure seas, endless beaches, lush tropical jungles, and surreal natural beauty that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Mahe is home to 68 pristine beaches, but it’s the towering peaks of Morne Seychellois National Park that dominate the island’s landscape. Covering over 20% of the island, this park is a sanctuary for rare endemic flora and fauna, including the elusive Seychelles Scops-owl.

The crystal-clear waters surrounding Mahe are a diver’s paradise, teeming with a rich diversity of marine life, making it ideal for divers of all experience levels. Despite being visited by the British in 1609, Mahe wasn’t mapped until 1742 when French explorer Lazare Picault first charted the unnamed islands. It wasn’t until 14 years later that the French officially claimed the islands, with the naval ship Le Cerf, under Captain Corneille Morphey, planting the Stone of Possession—a symbol of their sovereignty, now on display in the National Museum. The first settlers arrived in 1770, and by 1785, the population had grown to 130, including 7 Europeans and 123 slaves. Today, Mahe is home to 80,000 Seychellois.

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Cape Town to Mahe

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