Description
Join us for this remarkable journey along the south west coast of Africa that promises to be a voyage unlike anything else the MS Caledonian Sky has undertaken in recent years. Leaving bustling Cape Town, we traverse Namibia’s bleak but beautiful Skeleton Coast before arriving into the former Portuguese colony of Angola which, with tourism in its infancy, is largely unexplored by all but the most intrepid of travellers. Following a relaxing two days at sea we arrive in the two-island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, famous for its natural beauty and birdlife, for two full days of exploration before reaching our final destination of Gabon.
Some of the most memorable highlights will include exploring the dunes and lagoons of Namibia’s Walvis Bay and watching the sky turn pink as tens of thousands of flamingos take flight as well as visiting the quaint colonial towns. From Mocamedes, our first call in Angola, we will venture inland to the Namibe desert with the opportunity to see some of the oldest plants on earth, Welwitschia, and we have an afternoon to explore Luanda, Angola’s fascinating capital and once a major city in the Portuguese trading empire.
In Sao Tome & Principe natural wonders abound from beautiful untouched beaches to jungle-covered mountains and the emerald waters are a biodiversity hotspot. Principe still retains the atmosphere of an undiscovered place and, anchoring off beautiful Bon Bon island, we will visit the island’s capital city, the world’s smallest, and learn about cocoa production on a plantation visit. Finally, we make the short hop to Gabon and the vibrant capital city of Libreville where we have the morning to explore before returning to the UK or, alternatively, you may wish to extend your time here with a two night stay in Pongara National Park.
Without doubt the only comfortable means of experiencing the region’s many wonders is by small ship and we are fortunate in having such a special vessel as the MS Caledonian Sky for our exploration. Adding further to your enjoyment will be our experienced onboard team who will be able to inform you of the marine life, birdlife and culture of the regions we will be discovering.