Africa: Namibia, Angola & Ivory Coast

Meaning “Whale Bay,” Walvis Bay is located along a natural deepwater harbor by the Namib Desert and is an ideal location for both migrating and resident birds. A birdwatcher’s paradise, more than 150 bird species have been recorded in the area with Walvis Bay Lagoon being a major hotspot. Bring your camera and binoculars for the chance to see thousands of flamingos and other species congregating. Or look to the ocean for a chance to see whales or dolphins. For some sand-based excitement, head inland into the desert to Dune 7 (a staggering 1,256 feet tall) for a hike or to enjoy an exhilarating sandboarding experience.

As the largest and capital city of Angola, Luanda offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from touring museums and historic sites to exploring the region’s many beaches. During a guided tour of Luanda, you will come across colonial architecture and numerous new builds that have been part of the city’s revitalization following the end of the Angolan Civil War in 2002. Learn about the region’s turbulent past, recline on a warm sandy beach or simply browse shops and markets and savor the delicious Portuguese-influenced local cuisine.

Africa’s second smallest nation, São Tomé and Príncipe is home to stunning natural beauty. Príncipe is an almost entirely untouched island close to the equator with a population of less than 10,000. Hikers will love trekking through untouched jungle on the way to pristine beaches. If you’re looking for a less adventurous way to see the sights, you can get some of the best views from a boat trip around the island. The islands are also home to an incredible array of wildlife you can’t see anywhere else. When you’re ready to relax after a day of exploring, try some of the local chocolate or a fresh cup of coffee.

Situated along the Ébrié Lagoon and Gulf of Guinea, Abidjan is the economic capital of the Ivory Coast. A quick glance at the city skyline confirms this title. Skyscrapers tower above unique contemporary buildings that hug a bustling harbor — all evidence of the booming success of the region before the Ivorian Civil Wars occurred. Embark on a guided tour of what has been called both the “Manhattan of West Africa” and the “Paris of West Africa” and explore museums, see historic sites and striking contemporary architecture and savor delicious local cuisine. Or journey outside the city to be immersed in the lush rainforest or take to the water on a fishing tour.

Situated on an island where the Atlantic Ocean and Gambia River converge, Banjul is the country’s capital city that’s bustling with commerce centered around the region’s natural resources. Head to Old Town among the colonial architecture and visit the historic sites and museums. Or journey outside the city to soak in the warm sunshine on one of the nearby beaches or explore a nature reserve that offers excellent bird watching.

As the cultural and economic heart of Senegal, Dakar is a lively city of contrasts. Visit gleaming mosques and cathedrals then browse the colorful stalls of one of the many bustling markets for handmade goods. Tour Place de l'Indépendance and see the colonial architecture of historic buildings lining the central square. Or trade the chaos of the city for the peacefulness of one of the nearby islands and watch surfers masterfully ride the waves. Explore the history and culture of Senegal at one of the city’s museums or simply enjoy the present with a beachside stroll. Whatever aspect of Dakar you choose to explore, you’ll encounter the outgoing friendliness for which the locals are well-known.

Located at the eastern tip of the island of Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz is a natural cruise destination as over half of its perimeter is shoreline. The beaches are lovely at that, from the yellow sands of Las Teresitas to the black sands of the quieter, clothing-optional Las Gaviotas. There's also plenty to do and see inland, especially if you're here during the spectacular Carnival.

The capital of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, Arrecife (which means "reef' in Spanish) is renowned for its abundance of reefs and islets along its coast. If your cruise takes you to Arrecife, be sure to explore this island's many natural wonders, from the fabulous El Reducto beach to the craters, lava tunnels, canals and tubes of Los Volcanes Nature Park. Explore more of Arrecife on a European cruise!

Motril is a magnificent Spanish gem on the Mediterranean coast. The relaxing sands of Playa de Torrenueva are a great place to spend a sunny day. For some inland exploring, head to the Cueva Del Capitan for a fantastic nature hike. There’s also plenty of history waiting to be experienced in the city. Stop by the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza to see a 17th-century church surrounded by incredible panoramic views. Then head to the Pre-industrial Sugar Cane Museum to learn all about the region’s staple crop.

This Costa Blanca jewel lies between mountains and sea fronted with miles of beaches. Spanish Baroque at its finest, Cathedral de San Nicolas is well worth the stop. Discover the La Alcudia Archaeological Sites, a working dig occupied since the Stone Age.

The capital of Catalonia, and one of its provinces, Barcelona, is a place of palpable history, where you can lose yourself strolling down the medieval streets of the Barri Gotic. It's a city designed to delight the senses: visit other-worldly Modernista churches like Gaudi's La Sagrada Familia, or treat yourself at a street side cafe to Patatas Bravas or a Passion Fruit Mojito. Explore more of Barcelona on a European cruise!