Africa cruises: 5 top sailings & 10 best destinations to visit

Cruises to Africa pack in a plethora of destinations – some you’ll have heard of, others you won’t – and ensure a good mix of white sand beaches, historical gems, tasty local cuisine and awe inspiring wildlife.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has an exciting selection of fly cruise Africa offers – from West Africa cruises to Africa and Indian Ocean cruises to South Africa cruises 2025 – to choose from. No matter which one you pick it’s bound to be a bucket-list getaway! You can also join NCL shore excursions if you want ready-packaged explorations or you can explore on your own: the world is your oyster.

There are cruise deals to be had too! NCL’s Free at Sea upgrade package, starting at just £299 per person (based on a 12-14 day cruise), offers an all-inclusive experience with Premium Beverages across bars, restaurants and lounges, including a wide selection of beers, cocktails, wines and spirits. Guests also gain access to speciality dining venues and bag onboard Wi-Fi and US$50 excursion discounts per stateroom at each port of call. Additionally, the third and fourth guests in a stateroom pay only the applicable taxes, available on select NCL cruises.

Are there any cruises that go to Africa?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line is just one cruise line offering cruises to Africa. There are options to discover the West Coast, Indian Ocean islands, and even the Canary Islands and Spain in the same trip when booking with NCL.

Can you cruise around Africa?

Yes, NCL has cruises that go all around South Africa up east to the Indian Ocean. Alternatively, sail from Cape Town up the west coast ticking off multiple thrilling Africa cruise ports from Senegal to Gambia before heading up to the Canaries and Europe.

How long would a cruise to Africa take?

Africa cruises generally last around 10 days. NCL cruises take between 10 and 21 days depending on how many destinations you want to visit and how much time you have to sail!

Can you take a cruise to South Africa?

Yes, South Africa is a very popular cruise destination for holidaymakers exploring the southern half of this amazing content. Depending on which itinerary you choose, Norwegian Cruise Line stops at a variety of ports. These include Cape Town, Mossel Bay (a pivotal stop on early maritime trade routes boasting great beaches), Port Elizabeth (home to one of South Africa’s largest national parks – famous for its large population of African elephants – if you’re after game reserves), and Durban (known for its Golden Mile stretch of beautiful beaches).

Do cruise ships come to Cape Town?

Yes, most ships cruising to South Africa call at Cape Town, with NCL cruises to Africa often starting or ending here. The city is home to Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. The iconic flat-topped mountain offers staggering panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape.

Can you sail to South Africa from Mauritius?

Yes you can cruise to South Africa from Mauritius. NCL’s itinerary ‘South Africa: South Africa & Madagascar’ follows this exact route, finishing in Port Louis, Mauritius.

Norwegian Dawn offers a memorable voyage with a stunning array of amenities and activities. Enjoy exceptional dining – from standout restaurant The Venetian to Teppanyaki’s interactive Japanese dining experience – as well as a wide range of entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, and casino games. Stay active with pools, sports courts, and fitness centres, or unwind at the luxurious spa. Choose from various staterooms, from cosy interiors to spacious suites with private balconies.

As for the newly refurbished Norwegian Sky, you’ll find something for everyone. Enjoy over 10 dining options, various bars and lounges, an onboard spa, and a full casino. If you bring the kids, they’ll be entertained all day while you relax by the pool, play in the casino, or dine at one of the many restaurants.

Cape Town, South Africa

On NCL cruises to South Africa, start with a cable car ride up Table Mountain for stonking views of the city and coastline. After descending, explore the V&A Waterfront, where you can shop, dine and visit the Two Oceans Aquarium. After some wildlife on your cruise to Cape Town? Jump in a taxi along the coastline to Cape Point, stopping at Boulders Beach to see the famous penguin colony. Finish with a potter through the historic Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, known for its colourful houses and rich cultural heritage, before heading back to resume your South Africa cruise.

Pointe de Galets, Reunion

Make the trek to the stunning Piton de la Fournaise, one of the world’s most active volcanoes, where you can hike or take a guided tour to explore its dramatic landscapes. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy beaches of Saint-Gilles-les-Bains or snorkel in the clear waters of the lagoon. For a touch of culture, visit the Jardin d’Eden, a lush botanical garden, before sampling some local Creole cuisine.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

Hike through verdant rainforest in Lokobe National Park, where you can spot unique wildlife such as lemurs and chameleons. After your jungle adventure, make tracks to one of Nosy Be’s pristine beaches, like Andilana Beach, to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. For lunch, tuck into fresh seafood at a local beachside joint. In the afternoon, explore nicer-than-it-sounds Hell-Ville, Nosy Be’s main town, where you can admire the colonial architecture. If time permits, take a boat trip to the nearby smaller islands, such as Nosy Komba or Nosy Tanikely, for more snorkelling or diving experiences before returning to your NCL cruise ship.

Port Louis, Mauritius

Hit up the Central Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere, sample exotic fruits, and shop for unique souvenirs. Next, explore the historical and cultural sites, such as the Blue Penny Museum, which houses rare stamps and exhibits on Mauritian history. For lunch, indulge in delicious Mauritian cuisine at a waterfront restaurant in the Caudan Waterfront area. Then, take a short drive to the beautiful Pamplemousses Botanical Garden, renowned for its giant water lilies and diverse plant species. Before returning to your ship, stop by the picturesque Champ de Mars racecourse, the oldest horse racing track in the southern hemisphere – perhaps you’ll even be able to catch a race if the schedule allows!

Walvis Bay, Namibia

Take a boat tour of Walvis Bay Lagoon, where you can see playful dolphins, seals and a variety of birds, including flamingos, before checking out the nearby Pelican Point to see the iconic lighthouse and large seal colonies. Feast on fresh seafood then take a 4×4 excursion into the Namib Desert to explore the stunning sand dunes, such as Dune 7 – the highest dune – where you can try sandboarding or simply marvel at the vast landscapes. Conclude your day in port with a visit to the Walvis Bay Waterfront for some shopping or a chilled meander along the promenade.

Luanda, Angola

Start with a visit to the Fortaleza de São Miguel, a 16th-century fortress that now houses the Museum of the Armed Forces, offering vistas of the city and insights into Angola’s history. Next up, venture into the downtown area, where you can take in the Mausoleum of Agostinho Neto, a monument dedicated to Angola’s first president. Be sure to sample such typical Angolan dishes as muamba de galinha (chicken stew) and relax at the Ilha do Cabo, a scenic peninsula with beaches, restaurants and bars. Don’t miss the Luanda Bay promenade, known as the Marginal, for some last-minute shopping or people-watching.

Sao Tome, Sao Tome and Principe

Swing by the historical São Sebastião Museum housed in a 16th-century fortress, providing insights into the island’s colonial past, and enjoy West African delicacies – fresh seafood for us, please! Later take a short drive to the beautiful Praia das Sete Ondas (Beach of Seven Waves) for a dip or a peaceful walk along the shore. If you have time there’s the nearby botanical gardens, Jardim Botânico, home to a variety of tropical plants.

Abidjan, Ivory Coast

If you’re a brutalist buff, the Plateau district, the city’s buzzy business centre, boasts striking St. Paul’s Cathedral – it’s known for its modern architecture and impressive views of the city. Alternatively, head to the lively Marché de Treichville to experience the fun atmosphere of bustling markets and shop for traditional crafts and textiles. Kick back at the serene Banco National Park, where you can take a guided nature walk through lush rainforest and keep an eye out for wildlife. Don’t forget to fuel up with Ivorian cuisine, trying dishes like attiéké (cassava couscous) with grilled fish.

Banjul, Gambia

Swot up at the National Museum of The Gambia, where you can learn about the country’s history and culture on an NCL West Africa cruise to Gambia. Next, explore Albert Market for a taste of local life, sample Gambian cuisine (domoda – peanut stew – is always a good shout), and shop for colourful textiles and souvenirs. Head to the nearby Kachikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau, where you can see and even interact with the resident crocs, considered sacred by the local community. If time allows, visit the beautiful Banjul Arch 22 for views of the city and surrounding areas before returning to your NCL ship.

Dakar, Senegal

On NCL West Africa cruises to Dakar check out the African Renaissance Monument, an impressive landmark that overlooks the city, and Sandaga Market. Hungry? Savour Senegalese cuisine – look out for thieboudienne (fish and rice). Hop on a ferry to Île de Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a poignant history as a former slave trade centre. Explore the island’s cobbled streets, visit the House of Slaves and enjoy the island’s scenic beauty. Return to Dakar where you can stroll along the Corniche to soak in the coastal views… then re-join your ship for more new adventures afoot!