Go Out On Safari
Going on safari during an African cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Think open-top jeeps, dramatic savannahs, and the raw beauty of nature just metres away.
Many African cruise holidays include time to get out on safari excursions, giving you the best of both worlds — sensational moments at sea and thrilling land-based experiences. It’s the perfect add-on for nature lovers, photographers and anyone looking to see the Big Five in their natural habitat.
Explore Bustling Cities
From Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain and trendy waterfront to Durban’s golden beaches and rich Zulu heritage, there are plenty of incredible metropolises to discover on a cruise to Africa.
Many African cruises also visit Walvis Bay in Namibia, where sweeping dunes meet a charming colonial town. In Morocco, the port of Casablanca offers a gateway to buzzing souks, grand mosques and colourful city life. Each stop combines authentic local flavour with fascinating sights, giving you time to wander lively markets, taste regional cuisine and dive into each destination’s unique rhythm.
What Cruise Lines Voyage To Africa?
Several top cruise lines offer unforgettable voyages to Africa, each bringing a unique style to your adventure.
P&O Cruises to the UK from ports like Cape Town and Walvis Bay, combining classic cruising with exciting African highlights. MSC Cruises – known for their Mediterranean flair – offers round-trip sailings from South Africa, ideal for exploring local hotspots and nearby islands.
For a more luxurious experience, Regent Seven Seas features all-inclusive journeys with immersive land excursions, including safaris and cultural tours. Meanwhile, Silversea Cruises delivers ultra-luxury small-ship voyages with personalised service, visiting off-the-beaten-track destinations alongside iconic cities.
What To Wear On A Cruise To Africa
Wondering what to wear on a cruise to Africa? Think light, breathable and practical. Daytime temperatures can soar, so pack lightweight clothing in natural fabrics like cotton or linen, plus a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
For safari excursions or inland tours, neutral colours work best — they’re less likely to attract insects and help you blend into natural surroundings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring cities or game reserves.
Evenings onboard can be smart-casual, so bring a few dressier outfits for dinner. A light jacket or wrap is handy for cooler evenings or air-conditioned areas.
Africa In Pictures
From golden deserts and wildlife-rich savannahs to vibrant cities and coastal gems, explore the majesty and magic of Africa.
Africa Tips & Guides
Discover our top tips and ultimate guides to cruising Africa! Click on the buttons below to read each article in full...
Most Popular Africa Cruise Destinations
Africa Cruises To Egypt
Most African itineraries travelling to Egypt call at Alexandria, a busy port city that acts as a gateway to Cairo and the legendary Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum.
Cruises can also stop in Port Said, providing access to the Suez Canal and excursions into the heart of ancient Egypt, and Safaga, the jumping-off point for Luxor, home to the Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.
Africa Cruises To Madagascar
Madagascar is a standout destination on many African cruise itineraries, offering a mix of exotic landscapes, rare wildlife and vibrant culture. Ships often call at Nosy Be, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters, spot lemurs in the Lokobe Reserve, or simply unwind on palm-fringed beaches.
On the east coast, Toamasina invites you to explore colourful markets and lush rainforest just beyond the city. Some cruises also include calls at Fort Dauphin, a more remote port surrounded by dramatic scenery and home to traditional Malagasy villages.
Africa Cruises To Morocco
Morocco adds a dash of spice and culture to any Africa cruise. In Casablanca, you’ll step into a city where grand boulevards meet buzzing souks, and the impressive Hassan II Mosque stands proudly by the sea.
Shore excursions often whisk you away to Marrakech, where vibrant markets, ornate palaces and aromatic street food await. Further north, Tangier offers a completely different feel — a mix of bohemian flair, Andalusian influence and winding medina alleyways.
Africa Cruises To Seychelles
Seychelles is a dreamy addition to many Africa cruise itineraries, offering sugar-white sands, turquoise waters and lush island landscapes. Ships often call at Mahé, the largest island and home to the capital, Victoria, one of the world’s smallest capitals, filled with Creole charm, colourful markets and colonial architecture.
From here, excursions take you to tranquil beaches, tropical gardens and the mountainous Morne Seychellois National Park. Some itineraries also include visits to smaller islands like Praslin and La Digue, where life moves at a slower pace and nature reigns supreme.
Africa Cruises To Namibia
Namibia is a striking highlight on many Africa cruise itineraries, where desert landscapes meet the Atlantic Ocean. Most cruises call at Walvis Bay, a laid-back coastal town known for its rich birdlife, including flamingos and pelicans, and access to dramatic desert scenery.
From here, shore excursions often head into the Namib Desert, where you can see the towering dunes of Sossusvlei or take a thrilling 4x4 ride across the sand.
Africa Cruises To Mauritius
Mauritius is a tropical gem on many Africa cruise itineraries, known for its turquoise lagoons, lush mountains and rich cultural mix. Ships typically dock in Port Louis, the island’s quaint capital, where you can explore bustling markets, colonial architecture and the waterfront Caudan complex.
Beyond the city, excursions reveal sugar cane fields, botanical gardens, rum distilleries and the famous Seven Coloured Earths of Chamarel. Adventure seekers can hike in Black River Gorges National Park, while beach lovers will find soft sands and crystal-clear waters never far away.
Africa Cruises To Mozambique
Mozambique is a rising star on Africa cruise itineraries, offering unspoiled beaches, vibrant culture and stunning marine life. Most ships call at Maputo, the lively capital, where colonial buildings sit alongside bustling markets and a thriving food scene. Shore excursions often explore the city’s historic sites or venture out to nearby nature reserves and coastal villages.
Further north, some cruises stop at islands like Bazaruto or Portuguese Island, where white sands, turquoise waters and colourful coral reefs create a paradise perfect for snorkelling and sunbathing.
Africa Cruises To South Africa
South Africa is a highlight of many Africa cruise itineraries, offering a rich mix of scenery, wildlife and buzzing cities. Most cruises call at Cape Town, where Table Mountain, Robben Island and the V&A Waterfront await. From here, you can explore the Cape Winelands, spot penguins at Boulders Beach or take in the dramatic Cape Point.
Further along the coast, ports like Durban offer golden beaches, Zulu culture and access to thrilling safaris. Port Elizabeth is another key stop, known for game reserves and friendly seaside charm.
Top Africa Deals
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Frequently Asked Questions: Africa Cruises
You can choose from short coastal voyages to longer expeditions visiting multiple countries or islands around the continent.
Top stops include Cape Town, Durban, Walvis Bay, Maputo, Madagascar, and the Seychelles.
A valid passport is essential, and some countries may require individual visas. Be sure to check entry rules for each destination on your itinerary.
Some regions require vaccinations like yellow fever or malaria prevention. We recommend consulting a travel clinic before departure.
It depends on your route. Southern Africa is best from November to March, while the Indian Ocean islands are ideal between May and October.
Expect wildlife safaris, cultural tours, beach days, and scenic island visits, often with optional land-based add-ons.
Yes, but itineraries can be more adventurous, with longer sea days and less-developed ports than typical routes.
Light clothing, sun protection, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and smart-casual evening wear are recommended.
Larger ships offer more amenities for long cruies, while smaller vessels can reach remote ports and hidden gems.
Decide what interests you most (wildlife, culture, beaches, or islands) and choose a cruise that focuses on those experiences.
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