The west coast of Africa is vast and wildly beautiful. Experience the region’s raw charm aboard Crystal Serenity and visit off-the-beaten-track destinations including Takoradi in Ghana and Abidjan in Ivory Coast. You’ll also spend a day in Dakar, the wonderfully diverse capital of Senegal, and discover two islands, Cape Verde.

Africa and the Indian Ocean region beckon adventurers with its diversity. From unraveling ancient civilizations with Egypt’s famous pyramids to exploring rich wildlife and idyllic beaches in the Seychelles and Zanzibar, this enchanting region offers an unforgettable patchwork of experiences.

Africa & Indian Ocean

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Grand Journey

From its humble origins as a fishing village to its current status as Ghana&#39;s largest port, Tema&#39;s industrial growth has somewhat obscured the picturesque scenery of the region. However, the neighboring beaches retain their unspoiled beauty<del cite=`mailto:Kate%20Simon` datetime=`2024-07-20T07:47`>,</del> and<ins cite=`mailto:Kate%20Simon` datetime=`2024-07-20T07:47`>,</ins> happily, these serve as a testament to the diverse birdlife found in the area. Gannets, Boobies, and Kingfishers all nest in and navigate the forests and waters along the coast. However, most visitors will undoubtedly want to travel the 20-mile distance to Accra, the country&#39;s capital. Here, you&#39;ll find markets flush with color and activity, as well as 17th-century churches and a surprisingly lush botanical garden.

Drive from Tema Port to Accra and begin your city tour with a visit to the National Museum, which offers a broad overview of West African culture through its ethnographic displays from Ghana and other West African countries. The adjoining garden features sculptures depicting regional history. Both the museum and nearby markets sell African fabrics and local handicrafts.Next, visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, the final resting place of the leader who led Ghana to independence in 1957. The site includes a museum with photos, artifacts, and insights into his life.Stop at Black Star Gate, a symbol of Ghana&#39;s freedom, and take a photo at Independence Square, where the flame of African liberation, lit by Kwame Nkrumah in 1961, still burns.Enjoy lunch at Labadi Beach Resort while watching a traditional cultural display. Afterward, visit a Fantasy Coffins workshop. These unique coffins, reflecting the deceased&#39;s occupation or interests, are a significant part of Ghanaian funeral traditions.Finally, stop at an artist center to explore traditional and contemporary art, including paintings, carvings, jewelry, and fabrics from Ghana and neighboring countries.After the tour, return to Tema Port.

Embark on a cultural journey to Accra. Explore the National Museum&#39;s ethnographic displays and Kwame Nkrumah&#39;s mausoleum. Experience the symbolism of the Black Star Gate and Independence Square. Enjoy a traditional lunch at Labadi Beach Resort and discover unique Fantasy Coffins. Conclude with a glimpse of traditional and contemporary art.

Accra City Tour

Start your journey from Tema Port and head to the Krobo community, known for its traditional bead-making. The Krobo people of Ghana have crafted bead jewelry for centuries, symbolizing wealth and beauty. Observe the bead-making process and learn about its cultural significance. Interact with a local family who will guide you through the craft, still prominent in Ghanaian ceremonies and daily life. You will also have a chance to shop these beautiful artisanal necklaces.Next, proceed to Aburi for lunch before continuing to the scenic Akuapem hills, offering stunning views of Accra and Tema. Visit the Aburi Botanical Gardens, established by the British in the 1890s, and explore the diverse indigenous and exotic plants. Your guide will explain the medicinal uses of the plants and highlight the area&#39;s rare butterflies and abundant birdlife.Nearby, explore the Aburi craft village, famous for traditional African drums, sculptures, and other crafts. Watch artisans at work and find unique souvenirs at some of the best prices in Ghana.Conclude your day with a return transfer to Tema Port.

<div class='flex-1 overflow-hidden'><div class='react-scroll-to-bottom--css-egfwk-79elbk h-full'><div class='react-scroll-to-bottom--css-egfwk-1n7m0yu'><div class='flex flex-col pb-9 text-sm'><div class='w-full text-token-text-primary' data-testid='conversation-turn-5'><div class='px-4 py-2 justify-center text-base md:gap-6 m-auto'><div class='flex flex-1 text-base mx-auto gap-3 md:px-5 lg:px-1 xl:px-5 md:max-w-3xl lg:max-w-[40rem] xl:max-w-[48rem] group final-completion'><div class='relative flex w-full flex-col agent-turn'><div class='flex-col gap-1 md:gap-3'><div class='flex flex-grow flex-col max-w-full'><div data-message-author-role='assistant' data-message-id='96526f26-db62-4582-8c15-19ad022723bb' class='min-h-[20px] text-message flex flex-col items-start gap-3 whitespace-pre-wrap break-words [.text-message+]:mt-5 overflow-x-auto'><div class='markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light'>Embark on a cultural journey from Tema Port to explore the vibrant traditions of Ghana.Visit the local community in Krobo, known for its ancient bead-making techniques. Discover the historical significance of these beads, symbols of wealth and beauty in Ghana. Enjoy a traditional lunch before venturing into the Aburi Botanical Gardens, home to diverse flora with medicinal properties, rare butterflies, and abundant birdlife.Discover the Aburi craft village, where skilled artisans create traditional African drums, sculptures, and crafts.</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Krobo Beads with Aburi Gardens and Craft Village

From Tema Port transfer to Shai Hills reserve, a protected expanse of Savannah, grassland, and woodland. A mosaic of forest covers the 5 separate hills in the reserve, while grassland and low dry forests are found in intervening canyons. Major wildlife to be seen include olive baboons in large numbers, green monkeys, kobs and bushbuck antelopes, as well as monitor lizards, pythons and snakes. Bird lovers will also find Senegal parrot, grey plantain eater, hornbill, red northern bishop and violet turaco, Senegal cuckoo, stone partridge and francolin. The site has archaeological importance as well: the caves were originally inhabited by the Shai people since the late Stone Age, from 10,000 BC until 1892. In 1892 the British army expelled them from the hills and forced them to move. The Shais lived in clans with each clan occupying a particular cave and its surrounding area. Remains of Shai people`s works can still be found at the reserve. Look out for wildlife while driving around by bus.&nbsp; Proceed to the lunch venue, Labadi Hotel, where an entertaining cultural display will be set up for you. After the tour, transfer you back to Tema Port.&nbsp;

Shai Hills reserve, a protected expanse of Savannah, grassland, and woodland, provides wildlife viewing opportunities as well as archaeologically important evidences left from the Shai people. Proceed to the lunch venue, Labadi Hotel, where an entertaining cultural display will be set up for you&nbsp;

Shai Hills Reserve

Takoradi is equal parts a busy commercial hub and blissful beaches. The fourth-largest city in Ghana enjoys a frenetic economy fueled by the oil industry but has not lost its traditional roots; head to the labyrinthine Market Circle and you&#39;ll find local vendors as likely to engage in a lengthy conversation as they are to sell you a bolt of vibrant Ghanaian fabric or handful of local spices. Takoradi also serves as the entry point to the 15th-century Elmina and 16th-century Cape Coast Castles, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and both somber reminders of the dark history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

Embark on a journey from Takoradi Port to Elmina, home to a rich and complex history. Your first stop is Elmina Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest colonial structure in sub-Saharan Africa, dating back to 1482. Explore the castle&#39;s deep historical significance, particularly its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Visit the small museum, hosting a collection of historical photos and objects.Next, take the short drive to Elmina town, for a guided walking tour. The town was given the name of Elmina by the Portuguese due to the abundance of Gold found in Ghana, translated Elmina means The Mine. Gold is of such importance to Ghana today and historically that the country was known as the Gold Coast before independence.During your walk observe traditional fishing boats, and get a glimpse of local daily life. Along the way, you&#39;ll also see the posuban shrines, vibrant and symbolic structures representing the Asafo companies, traditional military groups that today hold important social and ceremonial roles. Each shrine is adorned with colorful statues depicting warriors, mythical figures, and animals, symbolizing protection and power.Transfer to a local beach resort where you&#39;ll enjoy a buffet lunch accompanied by a traditional drumming and dance performance.Your day concludes with a return drive to Takoradi Port.

Visit Elmina Castle, a UNESCO world heritage site, and learn its history strictly linked to the tragic transaltantic enslaved African trade. Experience the local way of living at Elmina town before enjoying lunch and a traditional performance.

Elmina and its Castle

Depart by bus from Takoradi Port and drive for approximately 2-hours to Kakum National Park, Africa&#39;s world-famous rainforest canopy walkway. This is a truly beautiful, tropical guinea rainforest and the canopy walkway is sure to be a highlight of your time in Cape Coast. This national park protects the original habitat of the region which was once the local inhabitants&rsquo; major source of food. The walkway consist of 7 bridges, attached to 7 emerging trees, 40 meters high above the rainforest floor. Prepare to take a deep breath as you walk the suspended bridges. Next, it&rsquo;s time for history and cultural discovery. Drive to Cape Coast Castle, a provoking monument to a harrowing period in the region&#39;s history. Engage in an emotional journey, touring this castle which held captive more enslaved Africans than any other in West Africa. See the dungeons and the infamous Door of no return. Visit the historical museum, which explains the entire history of the castle and Cape Coast itself, as well as the cultural history and traditions of Ghana. &nbsp; After a wonderful and educative tour, head to Coconut Grove for lunch, whilst enjoying a traditional cultural display. After a wonderful day transfer back to Takoradi Port.&nbsp;

Combine the best of the region natural and cultural highlights: take a walk in Kakum National Park, and pump up the adrenaline as you traverse the 7 bridges hanging high above the rainforest; then visit Cape Coast Castle, standing as a reminder of a harrowing period in the region&#39;s history.

Kakum Rainforest Canopy and Cape Coast Castle 

Depart from Takoradi Port and drive for approximately 1.5 hours to a community center in Cape Coast, which will be the venue for your fun and interactive traditional cooking class. In this Ghanaian cooking lesson, the chef will work with you in preparing one of the most popular Ghanaian dishes. After helping and learning how to prepare a local dish, it`s time to enjoy the final product during lunch. While enjoying your meal, a wonderful cultural performance of traditional drumming and dance will entertain you. After a relaxing day of mingling with the locals, transfer back to the port by bus.

Learn how to prepare a local dish following the instructions of your Ghanaian chef. Enjoy the meal you have helped preparing for lunch, while being entertained by a wonderful cultural performance of traditional drumming and dance.&nbsp;

Ghanaian Cooking Lesson

The `Paris of West Africa”, French-speaking Abidjan is the Ivory Coast&#39;s biggest and most important city. Its high-rise skyline is all glittering skyscrapers, but down at street level in the city&#39;s neighbourhoods, a vibrant local culture reveals itself, with an exciting culinary scene that reflects Abidjan&#39;s diversity, offering a mix of traditional Ivorian dishes and international cuisine. Immediately beyond its bustling streets there&#39;s natural beauty to be found; along from its port are lagoons and waterways where almost 750 species of bird thrive (including 26 endangered species). For those venturing further outside the city limits, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Grand Bassam is an hour&#39;s drive away.

Explore the rich past of Ivory Coast with a visit to the charming town of Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where history comes alive amidst colonial architecture and cultural landmarks. Upon arrival, delve into the heart of the colonial capital city. See the Royal Court, a symbol of the region&#39;s regal past. As you wander through the French colonial district, immerse in the captivating tales of bygone eras. Next, step into the fascinating world of tradition and heritage at the costume museum, where the vibrant colors and intricate designs of Ivorian attire await. See craftsmanship on display at the craft center, where local artisans showcase their talents through intricate handiwork. Stop at the majestic Governor 'Binger' Palace, once home to the Ivory Coast&#39;s first colonial governor, and pause at the poignant Ariane Monument, a solemn reminder of the yellow fever epidemic that once swept through the region during the colonial period. Make your drive back to the pier and on the way stop at CAVA, which stands for Centre Artisanal de la Ville, the artisanal center, for more shopping opportunities, before reaching the ship. &nbsp;

Discover Ivory Coast&#39;s captivating history in Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through colonial streets, visit the Royal Court, and explore the French colonial district. Dive into tradition at the costume museum and witness local craftsmanship at the craft center. See the Governor 'Binger' Palace and the Ariane Monument. Wrap up your journey with shopping at the artisanal center before returning to the ship.&nbsp;

Colonial Grand Bassam

Depart from the port in direction of the city center for a visit to St. Paul Cathedral. Situated at one of the higher vantage points of Le Plateau, with its 70-metre-high bell tower, Abidjan&rsquo;s main cathedral stuns visitors with its grandeur and impressive architecture. Designed by Italian architect Aldo Spirito, the construction of the church was completed in 1985 and the product was a futuristic and unique structure.&nbsp; Next, visit The Museum of Civilization, where artifacts and exhibits narrate the tales of Ivory Coast&#39;s past. As we journey onwards towards Bingerville via Cocody, soak in the scenic beauty and cultural richness that surrounds us. Upon arrival in Bingerville, step into the Musueum Charles Combs, a treasure trove of local heritage and artistry. Then, it&#39;s time to savor the flavors of the region with a delightful lunch. After refueling, our hearts open wide as we visit the Orphanage, offering a moment of connection and joy with the local children. Our exploration continues with a stroll through the botanical garden, a haven of tranquility amidst the bustling city. Our journey back to the pier is punctuated with a stop at CAVA Artisanal Markets where you can collect souvenirs to cherish the memories of this day. End the tour at the pier. &nbsp;

Embark on a journey through Abidjan&#39;s highlights, starting with the awe-inspiring St. Paul Cathedral. Next, immerse yourself in Ivory Coast&#39;s history at The Museum of Civilization. In Bingerville, explore the Musueum Charles Combs and indulge in a delightful lunch. Connect with local children at an Orphanage and find tranquility in a botanical garden. Wrap up the day with souvenir shopping at CAVA Artisanal Markets before heading back to the pier.&nbsp;

Abidjan and Bingerville

Dakar is a heady mix of 20th-century modernization intertwined with France&#39;s colonial influence and African cultural character. The beating heart of the city is the bustling Place de l&#39;Independence, akin to Paris&#39;s Champs-Elysées, and is undoubtedly the best place to start exploring the city. Head north for vibrant markets, sun-soaked beaches, and trendy bars infused with mbalax. Because of the port&#39;s strategic location, Dakar was a key player in the slave trade from the 16th century until 1857, when the French abolished the practice. Do not miss a trip to the House of Slaves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Goree Island, just a 20-minute boat ride from the port to understand the full scope of Dakar&#39;s harrowing slave history.

Dakar is the economical and administrative capital of Senegal. It is nowadays a modern city of more than three millions inhabitants and an important university as well as cultural center. The city reconciles very harmoniously its old African traditions, with traditional markets, typical handicraft centers, and the need of modern life. Discover this lively city during a panoramic tour with stops at the main highlights. See the picturesque and welcoming quarter of Medina, the Kermel Market, pass through to the political district with the majestic President&rsquo;s Palace and its impressive red spahi guards. Through the tour stop at the Parliament House, the University, the Great Mosque and at the Cathedral for photos, and spend some time at Soumbedioune fishing village, and learn about the sand painting technique. You will also admirethe Millennium Door monument, constructed in 2000 on the West Corniche symbolizing the entry to a new century, and the Monument of the African Renaissance, unveiled in 2010 and standing now as the tallest statue of the world. At the end of your exploration, return to the pier.

A city tour of Dakar taking you to the capital`s main architectural and cultural highlights.

Dakar City Highlights

From the port board the chartered ferry for the 15 minutes crossing to Goree Island, 3 km off the coast of Dakar. This pleasant island is steeped in history and indelibly marked by the painful memories of the Atlantic slave trade. In 1444, under the Command of Denis Diaz, the Portuguese caravels discovered this small island called Ber. With the exception of few wild goats and the traces of some Neolithic activities, the island was&nbsp; unoccupied. From that period, many navigators and explorers from landed in Goree and some settled there.&nbsp;From the 15th to the 19th century, Goree Island was the largest slave-trading center on the African coast. Ruled in succession by the Portuguese, Dutch, English and French. Its architecture is characterized by the contrast between the grim slave-quarters and the elegant houses of the slave traders. In 1978 Gor&eacute;e Island was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site and today it continues to serve as a reminder of human exploitation and as a sanctuary for reconciliation. Visit the Fort d&rsquo;Estr&eacute;es (built in the 1850s), now the site of a historical museum, and the House of Slaves (Maison des Esclaves) with its Door of No Return. A museum and memorial to the victims of the Atlantic slave.&nbsp; After a lecture at the historical Museum, visit Saint Charles Boromeo Church and make a stop at the Governor&rsquo;s Palace. Some free time will be allowed to explore the market or further walk the island`s trails and alleys, before taking the return ferry ride to Dakar.

Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is steeped in history and indelibly marked by the painful memories of the Atlantic slave trade. Learn about the role of the island on those events and visit the museums and memorials standing as a reminder of human exploitation.&nbsp;

Goree Island

Board&nbsp; your coach at the Pier and leave for Lake Retba, viewing the outskirts of Dakar and some traditional villages on the way. Lake Retba is located in the village of Niaga, about 22 miles north of Dakar. The lake is famous for its pinkish hue given by a marine microorganisms living in its waters. However in the recent years, due to the impact of climate change, the lake once called `The Pink Lake` has been losing its peculiar color. The salt extraction activity from the lake has created a social microcosms made of salt harvesters, salt buyers and sellers, the Fulani village. Once arrived at Lake Retba, board the 4x4 trucks and jeeps and enjoy the bumpy ride on the sand dunes. Drive on the wild beach which was the final stage of the famous Paris-Dakar car rally. Visit the Fulani village before having lunch at a local resort. Proceed to the traditional wolof village of Noflaye, where you will attend a traditional feast organized in your honor. You will be welcomed by the Chief of village and the notable, before enjoying a ceremony of traditional dances, songs, and demonstration of Senegalese most popular sport, wrestling. Leave the village of Noflaye and take the 1 hour drive to the ship.

Enjoy a bumpy 4x4 ride on the sand dunes around Lake Retba, the Pink Lake, explore the local village before participating to a ceremony of traditional dances, songs, and cultural performances at the traditional wolof village of Noflaye.

Lake Retba and Village Feast

This tour aims to show you one of the most authentic and deepest aspects of Senegal life: its cultural life summarized by its artistic expression. A journey into the country&rsquo;s history, its present life and its hopes and projections into the future. Board your bus and drive through Independence square passing by the President&rsquo;s Palace and the Parliament House. Arrival at IFAN Museum of African Arts, the richest African Art Museum of West Africa, which gathers artifacts of various West African past kingdoms. Take a visit accompanied by a specialist of African art. Next, drive through the business center of Dakar, pass by the Cathedral, the Great Mosque, go through the colorful and popular district of Medina and arrive at your next destination, the sand painting gallery. Sand painting is a popular art of Senegal. You will be explained the whole process that leads to the final painting and admire the various works displayed in the gallery. Here, you will also attend a folklore show featuring various ethnic dances of Senegal, performed by a famous Senegalese ballet.&nbsp; Proceed for lunch at a local restaurant, then drive to the Art village. Here you will meet Senegalese artists in their workshops, including painters, weavers, sculptors&hellip; and more. Interact with them while sharing a drink, and learn about their expression of Senegalese and African Art. Visit the workshops and admire their works while a musician is performing Kora music. Drive to the Museum of Black Civilizations, seen as the most important African Museum after the one in&nbsp; Cairo. Your visit, guided by the Museum art specialist, will take you through the prehistory, history and present of African cultures, including the Diaspora. On the return drive to the ship, stop at the Central Station of Dakar, an impressive colonial building with Baroque design. &nbsp;

Discover Senegalese cultural life through its many artistic forms. Your tour includes visits to IFAN Museum of African Arts, the Art Village, the Museum of Black Civilizations and a folklore show.&nbsp;

Arts and Museums of Dakar

This show promised to be a display of the richness and authenticity of the Senegalese folklore, mirror of various ethnic cultures and traditions. A festival of sounds and colors. Board&nbsp; your bus and leave for `La Residence de Medina`, former residence of late Mamadou Dia, first&nbsp; Prime Minister of the independent Senegal, now a cultural center.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; You will be welcomed by a folklore performance by the `Lebou` ethnic group founders of Dakar in the early 17th century. Take your seat in the court-yard of the Residence and enjoy the show - the Grand Ballet. A performance presenting dances of various Senegalese ethnic groups celebrating different events of man&#39;s life. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; At the end of the performance, sip a soft drink while interacting with the artists. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Return to the ship.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Enjoy a festival of sounds and colors at `La Residence de Medina`, former residence of late Mamadou Dia, first&nbsp; Prime Minister of the independent Senegal.&nbsp;

Grand Ballet and Traditional Folklore of Senegal

Set in the south of Santiago, Praia showcases what Cape Verde does so well: impressive diversity with a unique appeal. As the capital of the biggest island in the 10-island archipelago, the city is home to over half the country&#39;s population, yet retains its Afro-Portuguese authenticity. The old capital (and UNESCO World Heritage Site) Cidade Velha was the first European colonial outpost in the tropics and features some of the city&#39;s original street layout along with impressive remains including two churches, a royal fortress, and Pillory Square, a sober reminder of the island&#39;s slave trade. Santiago is also home to beautiful beaches where visitors can relax on golden sands and swim in the clear Atlantic waters.

Praia has absorbed influences from the other islands due to inter-island migration, as well as influences from abroad due the population of foreign origin is mostly concentrated in Santiago and also as the easiness of communication with other nations. Visit the center of the city, Plateau and Ethnographical Museum, which was founded in 1997. Your visit to the Cape Verdean colourful life continues by visiting the Vegetable Market. A short walk takes you to Praca Alexandre Albuquerque square, an emblematic place of Santiago. The Municipal Palace built in 1920s with Portuquese Colonial Arqhitecture is located here. The Palace of the President and the viewpoint of Statue of Diogo Gomes, who discovered the islands of Cape Verde in 1460, is just around the corner with great view to outside of the city. One of the oldest buildings in Praia is Jaime Mota Barracks (Quartel Jaime Mota) dating from 1826 which you will see during your walking exploration. You will then pass by the Prime Minister&#39;s house and various ambassies. You will see the Monument&nbsp;Cruz de Papa just above the Quebra Canela Beach. Outside the colonial city center you will see the Avenue Cidade de Lisboa, the most modern street of Praia. The Governal Palace and the Football (Soccer)&nbsp;stadium is located on this street as well, not to mention the National Library and statue of Amilcar Cabral. Finishing your outing, you will visit the colourful Sucupira market.

Visit the center of the city, Plateau and Ethnographical Museum, and the Vegetable Market. Walk to Praca Alexandre Albuquerque square, an emblematic place of Santiago. Outside the colonial city center you will see the Avenue Cidade de Lisboa, the most modern street of Praia. Finishing your outing, you will visit the colourful Sucupira market.

Cultural Praia

Begin by visiting the Fortress of S. Filipe, built by orders of Filipe the I, King of Portugal and Spain, during the 16th century before reaching the Pelourinho, a white marble pillory that poignantly symbolizes the history of slavery and the commerce of enslaved people on the island. Enjoy some free time to explore the square, then rejoin the party and go to Rua Banana, which connects the entrance of the Old City to the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary. The street is lined with 15th-century stone houses and a local handicrafts store.Continue to the capital, Cidade da Praia, to visit the Praca Alexandre Albuquerque. Visit the Se Cathedral Nossa Senhora da Graca, pass by the Palace of the President and the Statue of Diogo Gomes, the Portuguese navigator and explorer who discovered Cape Verde in 1460. Continue to the islands&#39; lively and colorful vegetable market, then head back to the port through Avenida Cidade de Lisboa, passing by Sucupira market on your way.

This half-day walking tour leaves from the port of Praia and takes you towards Cidade Velha, the UNESCO-protected historic center and former capital of the island.

Praia & Cidade Velha

Begin with a drive inland from Santiago&#39;s capital, stopping at the local village in S. Domingos for a brief visit before heading to Sao Jorge dos Orgaos. Continue to Fonte Lima to discover its handmade pottery, then explore Assomada&#39;s city center with its Portuguese colonial buildings, churches, banks, and town squares. The next stop is the vibrant Assomada Market, followed by the Norberto Tavares Cultural Center, an exhibition center that showcases permanent local handicraft exhibitions. Nearby, see the house of Amilcar Cabral, a renowned nationalist thinker and politician, and Cape Verde&#39;s largest tree, a 600-year-old kapok.A scenic drive leads to Serra Malagueta Natural Park, a national park in the north of the island that has been protected since 2009. At over 1,000 meters above sea level, the park boasts 26 endemic plant species. Stop in a stunning viewpoint for a picnic lunch returning to your ship.

This scenic drive combines cultural insights, natural beauty, and local history for an immersive and enriching.

Santiago&#39;s Culture & Nature

Drive to inland from the capital of Santiago. Visit the local village in S. Domingos and its art craft cooperative with local arts and crafts. The beauty of the Cape Verdean Botanical Garden is shown in Sao Jorge dos Orgaos. During your scenic drive to Assomada, you will pass by little villages and see the local life. Assomada plays an important commercial role and it has a pleasant combination of urban areas and fields. The city center features many Portuguese style colonial buildings. In the center of town lie churches, banks, and several town squares. The market of Assomada is one of the largest on the island of Santiago, with a large variety of agricultural products and crafts. It is the central collection and distribution point for products produced throughout the surrounding countryside, and while the consumer-focused market is very large and vibrant, the majority of the trade is between middlemen who bring the produce to larger national and international markets. During your ride to Tarrafal you will be able view the landscape of Santiago and have few short photo stops. The bay and beach of Tarrafal, is on the northern tip of Santiago Island. The little houses are part of the tourist resort, which is relatively well integrated in the landscape. Despite the beauty of its beach, Tarrafal is infamous due to STI former Concentration Camp. The Portuguese colonial-fascist regime built near the town the Concentration Camp, where Tarrafal many opponents, to the regime, were imprisoned, tortured and many died. The Victims of prison Tarrafal were antifascist, Portuguese Democratic Activists and members of African Liberation Movements in the Portuguese colonies. Even today the word Tarrafal is used to mean something very bad and horrible. The torment of the concentration camp Tarrafal ended in 1974, after the April 25 revolution in Portugal, which led to the end of the colonial war. Enjoy lunch before returning to the ship.

Visit the local village in S. Domingos and Sao Jorge dos Orgaos. During your scenic drive to Assomada, you will pass by little villages and see the local life. The city center features many Portuguese style colonial buildings. In the center of town lie churches, banks, and several town squares. Visit the market of Assomada, one of the largest on the island of Santiago. Drive to Tarrafal. Despite the beauty of its beach, Tarrafal is infamous due to STI former Concentration Camp. The Portuguese colonial-fascist regime built near the town the Concentration Camp, where Tarrafal many opponents, to the regime, were imprisoned, tortured and many died.

Assomada & Tarrafal

Also called Mindelo, beautiful Porto Grande (Big Pier), in São Vicente is the cultural capital of Cape Verde. The 10-island archipelago was uninhabited until it was colonized by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and today Portuguese is still the official language throughout Cape Verde although Creole tends to be used in conversation. Legend says that Cape Verdean culture is based on music, food, and the telling of stories and certainly this can certainly be felt in the bars and restaurants that play traditional songs and spill out onto the pavements. São Vicente stretches to far more than just Mindelo, take a 4x4 adventure through the desert dunes or hike through deep, fruit-filled valleys set against a backdrop of volcanoes and dramatic seascapes to really appreciate the beauty of the island.

Ascend to Monte Verde, the highest peak in Mindelo at 774 meters, and soak in breathtaking views of the city and neighboring islands—Santo Antão, Santa Luzia, and São Nicolau—while sipping a refreshing cup of coffee or tea.Next, your scenic drive takes you to Baia das Gatas, Mindelo&#39;s beloved beach resort. Feel the fresh sea breeze as you marvel at the sandy shores and azure waters framed by majestic mountains. Your guide will treat you to a taste of local liqueur at Praia Grande.On your return, enjoy stunning vistas from the agricultural area of Ribeira do Calhau and catch a picturesque view of your ship from the port in Rutxinha before heading back to the pier.

Ascend to Monte Verde for stunning views of Mindelo and nearby islands while enjoying a cup of coffee, then relax at Baia das Gatas, where you can take in the beautiful coastline and sample local liqueur. Conclude your tour with scenic vistas from Ribeira do Calhau and a view of your ship in Rutxinha.

Panoramic Island Drive & Monte Verde

Explore Mindelo&#39;s rich culture and craftsmanship, starting with a visit to the Cultural Center exhibition. Then, head to Praça Estrela, a vibrant African market where 'blue tile' Portuguese-style houses display African souvenirs like handicrafts, clothing, and flags.Next, stop by Capvert Design, a souvenir shop offering a wide array of local treasures, including miniatures of Mindelo&#39;s iconic landmarks.Relax at Baia das Gatas, Mindelo&#39;s famous beach, framed by mountains and featuring a serene lagoon perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Sip Cape Verdean or Portuguese wine with snacks while enjoying the soulful tunes of Morna music.Conclude with a visit to a guitar atelier to learn about traditional instruments.

Dive into Mindelo&#39;s vibrant culture with a visit to Praça Estrela&#39;s colorful African market, unwind at the stunning Baia das Gatas beach, and savor Cape Verdean wine while soaking in the soulful sounds of Morna music—all before exploring traditional instruments at a local guitar atelier.

Mindelo Highlights & Catfish Bay

Discover the heart of São Vicente on this full-day, active adventure that combines history, culture, and nature. Begin your journey with a scenic hike through the abandoned village of Mato Inglês, learning about local life and the island&#39;s landscape.Explore the vibrant streets of Mindelo, including Rua de Praia along the bay. Visit iconic landmarks like the Diogo Alfonso Monument and Belem Tower, and stroll through bustling local markets filled with the sounds and colors of island life.Pause for a delicious traditional lunch before embarking on a scenic drive through rugged volcanic terrain. Visit Praia Grande for a captivating capoeira show, then head to Monte Verde, the island&#39;s highest point, for panoramic views and insights into its unique agriculture.

Explore São Vicente&#39;s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes with a hike, local market visits, a traditional lunch, and breathtaking views from Monte Verde.

São Vicente Hike, Landscapes & Culture

On this experience you will be taken to nearly untouched nature, starting with a drive along a fantastic site over the north and south coasts of the island to Palha Carga, a 0.6 miles (1 Km) long beach. Drive by the agricultural valley of the island, you may get a glimpse of the uninhabited islands St. Luzia, Raso and Branco on the left and the crater of the volcano Viana on the right. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand at the beach Saragaca and natural caves along the beach of Gatchod formed of the end of a lava flow, with some luck find some ospreys (fishing eagles) at Topim. Visit the fishermen village Calhau with the colorful wooden sail boats, which will make you feel the rhythm this country.

Enjoy a 4X4 drive around the Island, passing by Palha Carga, the agricultural valley of the island. Enjoy the beauty of the turquoise waters and white sand at the beach Saragaca and natural caves along the beach of Gatchod formed of the end of a lava flow, with some luck find some ospreys (fishing eagles) at Topim. Visit the fishermen village Calhau with the colorful wooden sail boats, which will make you feel the rhythm this country.&nbsp;

Sao Vicente by 4x4

Cachupa is a traditional dish of Cape Verdean gastronomy. There are two different versions of this dish, Cachupa Rica (elaborated with several types of meat), and Cachupa Pobre (made with only fish). The distinction between the types of Cachupa has to do with the fact that Rica contains meat, which makes the dish more expensive, and only accessible to the population with more means. &#39;Rico/Rica&#39; is the Portuguese word for &#39;Rich&#39; while &#39;Pobre&#39; means poor. In addition to the meat or fish, the cachupa is made with beans and corn stewed, sometimes served separately from the other cooked vegetables. Among the latter there may be boiled potatoes and cooked bananas. Meat and fish can also be served separately or on the same platter of cooked vegetables. You will learn how this dish is made and then enjoy a lunch of Cachupa. &nbsp;

On this experience you will learn how the traditional Cape Verdean dish of Cachupa Rica is made and then enjoy a lunch of the same. In addition to the meats, the cachupa is made with beans and corn stewed, sometimes served separately from the other cooked vegetables. Among the latter there may be boiled potatoes and cooked bananas. Meat can also be served separately or on the same platter of cooked vegetables. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Cape Verde Culinary Experience

Las Palmas is the capital of Gran Canaria, in the Canary Islands. You can hit the beach without leaving the city - its waterfront is blessed with sandy stretches shelving into gentle blue waters. For a fix of Spanish culture, head to the Vegueta, Las Palmas&#39; picturesque Old Town, where the narrow cobbled streets are lined with grand houses in traditional Canarian architectural style, and squares like Plaza de Santa Ana are dotted with palm trees and low-key bars and cafes. Playa El Confital offers tranquil rock pools and secluded coves popular with naturists.

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