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Islands of West Africa & Cape Verde – An Island Hopping Expedition from Sengal to Cape Verde

Islands of West Africa & Cape Verde – An Island Hopping Expedition from Sengal to Cape Verde

From GBP £9,495

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Description

This wonderful island hopping itinerary visits the diverse islands off the West Coast of Africa, uniquely combining Senegal, The Gambia and the Bijagos Archipelago with the Cape Verde Islands. Much has changed since the Portuguese sailed along the West African coast in the 15th century. This region of Africa, rarely visited for more than a half-century, has opened up in recent years and we will enjoy an intimate exploration of the extraordinary diversity of landscapes and cultures as we travel between Senegal and Cape Verde. 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 all-suite MS Hebridean Sky for our exploration.
Our journey begins in the Senegalese capital of Dakar, where reminders of the region’s complex past stand alongside the vibrancy of a modern capital. From here there will be the opportunity to visit Ile de Goree where the poignant legacy of the Atlantic slave trade contrasts with peaceful colonial streets. Alternatively you can travel inland to the remarkable Bandia Reserve which is home to a diverse range of African mammals. In neighbouring The Gambia, you will be able to choose between exploring the bustling capital of Banjul or the tranquil waterways and welcoming rural communities before we sail south to the Bijagos Archipelago, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve off the coast of Guinea-Bissau which remains one of Africa’s most rewarding and least explored destinations with its scattered islands, pristine beaches and unique island culture. Our three days here will be spent exploring secluded beaches, encountering diverse wildlife, and learning about the distinct traditions of the local island communities.
After a welcome and relaxing day at sea we arrive in Cape Verde for our exploration of the culture and lifestyle of the islands, some of which are arid and flat with extraordinary beaches contrasting with lush mountainous islands. The archipelago is a little world of its own, each island having a distinct culture and atmosphere and an ideal destination for small ship cruising.
Our voyage promises to be a rewarding experience and whilst on some islands the infrastructure is minimal, we will be able to use our nimble Zodiacs to land on the remotest of islands and explore on foot. Aside from the marvellous scenery we will encounter, there is of course a fascinating cultural heritage and human history to be discovered as we delve into the legacy of West Africa’s transatlantic slave trade which we will learn about from local guides. The roads may be poor and the tourist infrastructure very much in its infancy in some places, but that is precisely why we believe the region presents such an array of exciting experiences for the adventurous traveller.

Trip Name
Islands of West Africa & Cape Verde - An Island Hopping Expedition from Sengal to Cape Verde
Days
12
Overview
Vessel Type: Expedition Length: 90.6 metres Passenger Capacity: 118 Built / Refurbished: 1992 / 2016 The MS Hebridean Sky is a beautifully appointed small ship, designed to offer an atmosphere of refined elegance and intimate comfort. With just 59 spacious suites, many featuring private balconies, she provides all guests with an outside view and a sense of relaxed luxury. Suites are finished in warm wood panelling and brass, with thoughtful details such as rainfall showers, dressing gowns, Noble Isle toiletries and flexible bed configurations. The public areas are equally welcoming, from the bright dining room and convivial Club bar to the well-stocked library and panoramic observation deck. A clinic with doctor, hairdressing facilities, a lift serving all decks and complimentary Wi-Fi ensure that every journey is made in comfort and ease. Life on board the MS Hebridean Sky is calm, sociable, and tailored to those who value discovery and relaxation over large-scale entertainment. Dining is a highlight, with talented chefs crafting exquisite à la carte menus often enhanced by fresh local produce, complemented by fine wines included with meals. Guests may enjoy al fresco meals on the Lido Deck, afternoon tea, or informal evenings with music in the lounge. Enrichment comes through fascinating lectures, daily briefings, and the company of like-minded travellers, while the warm and attentive service creates the feel of a private yacht or country house hotel. With her understated elegance, exceptional service, and focus on exploration, the Hebridean Sky offers a truly memorable and distinguished cruising experience.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1 London to Dakar, Senegal.
Fly by scheduled indirect flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Hebridean Sky and embark. Enjoy drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 - Day 2 Dakar & Ile de Goree.
Today there will be a choice of excursions from the Senegalese capital. Our city tour will include Independence Square, the Presidential Palace and a local market before we take a ferry across to Ile de Goree. With its colonial style houses and wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, it is difficult to believe that this island was one of the busiest slave centres in West Africa during the 18th and 19th centuries. We will see the House of Slaves, now a museum, and the Historical Museum in the Fort d’Estrees. From the fort there are marvellous views of the island and over Dakar. Alternatively, visit Bandia Reserve, a 3,500-hectare nature reserve which is home to a wide range of African mammals including white rhino, zebras, giraffes, green vervet monkeys and jackals, along with over 120 bird species. Boarding safari jeeps, we will spend time in the nature reserve before driving to Lake Retba, or ‘Pink Lake’ as it is known for its vivid pink colour. The lake is separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strip of sand dunes and being so close to the ocean means the lake has a high salt content which the locals collect for preserving fish.
Day 3 - Day 3 Banjul, The Gambia.
We will spend today in The Gambia, the 31 mile wide country that is surrounded on three sides by Senegal. It makes up for its size with its personality, being known as the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa’. The country has a long history, with stone circles excavated which date back over 1200 years, to Arab traders setting up trade routes in the region for slaves, gold and ivory. The Portuguese took over the routes in the 15th century, and the area now known as The Gambia was colonised and recolonised by the British from the 16th century onwards, in various forms, until its independence in 1965. There will be a choice of tours today and the half day city tour will include the city mosque, market and museum with exhibits showcasing the culture and history. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the south of The Gambia which is rich in natural beauty with extensive waterways and tributaries home to a range of birdlife and wildlife amongst the lush green wilderness. Here villages and life continue to embrace traditions and offer insights into the culture of different communities, through their art and food. Maybe join a small boat for a leisurely cruise amongst the mangroves or alternatively board 4x4 vehicles to visit some of the villages, the local school and markets before enjoying lunch at a beach restaurant.
Day 4 - Days 4 to 6 Bijagos Archipelago, Guinea Bissau.
We have three days in the Bijagos Archipelago which comprises a group of 88 small islands, spread over 5000 square miles, many of which are uninhabited and rarely visited by foreigners. These islands offer a unique blend of culture, history, wildlife and natural beauty and were declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1996. Our programme will be determined by tidal and weather conditions but we hope to use our Zodiacs to land on Carache Island, which boasts tropical rainforests and a stunning coastline. Visiting the local village we will learn about their rituals and subsistence farming projects and will have the opportunity to buy some handicrafts or relax on the golden beaches. Meanwhile on Caravela Island we will join the local women as they harvest oysters and shellfish before a performance of traditional Bijagos dancing. We may also visit Bolama Island which was the capital during Portuguese rule and retains colonial era architecture.
Day 5 - Day 7 At Sea.
Spend a relaxing day at sea as we cross to the Cape Verde Islands.
Day 6 - Day 8 Praia, Santiago, Cape Verde.
Arriving in the Cape Verde we explore the historic capital of Praia on the island of Santiago. Praia has a wonderful African feel and we will visit Cidade Velha, the former Portuguese capital which has a rich history and was once the centre of the slave trade. See the fort and cathedral which dominate the narrow, cobbled lanes and stone houses. Enjoy a traditional performance of Batuco dance before we continue into the green interior, climbing the steep mountains and enjoying the colours as we make our way to Rui Vaz where we enjoy a lunch of local produce in the shadow of Pico da Antonia. We will see local farms and drive past the only water dam in Cape Verde before returning to the MS Hebridean Sky and sailing this evening.
Day 7 - Day 9 Sao Filipe, Fogo.
Fogo is an extraordinary island. It is a volcano that rises steeply out of the Atlantic and has become an island, the summit reaching some 3000 metres. Known as the ‘Mother Island’ it has its own unique character and people. An island drive will take us through dramatically contrasting areas of fertile valleys that are dominated by the massive grey volcanic cone of Pico de Fogo. Enjoy lunch in a local restaurant with locally cultivated wines whilst we listen to our guides speak about the eruptions of 1995 and 2014. There will then be the option to return to the MS Hebridean Sky or visit the main town of Sao Filipe, a gracious town of faded grandeur with its pretty squares and wide boulevards of colonial houses.
Day 8 - Day 10 Porto Novo, Santo Antao.
We have a full day on the most beautiful of Cape Verde’s islands, Santo Antao. Driving up the old trading route, we will pass the volcanic crater ‘Cova’ with its agricultural plantations and enjoy panoramic views of the island. After lunch in the seaside village of Ponta do Sol, we will take the coastal road towards the greenest valley in the archipelago, the valley of Paul. Here we will enjoy a coffee break whilst learning about the production of sugarcane on the island. Also discover ‘Grogue’, the national drink of the islands and have a taste of it at the oldest traditional Grogue distillery on the island. We will drive back to the MS Hebridean Sky along the coast to the southern side of the island. This evening we sail the short distance to Mindelo where we moor overnight.
Day 9 - Day 11 Mindelo, Sao Vicente.
Enjoy a full day in Mindelo, one of the most attractive of all the Cape Verde towns with its colonial buildings, cobbled streets, cafes and lively restaurants. Our morning discovery tour will include the lively markets and the secret corners of the harbour town followed by a coffee break in a typical Cape Verdean bar. The afternoon is free to explore the vibrant town further independently. This evening we will be entertained by local music and capoeira on board before we sail to Sal.
Day 10 - Day 12 Sal to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled indirect flight to London.
Day 11 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £9,495Amundsen Deck Standard Suite
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £9,795Byrd Deck Superior Suite
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £9,995Mawson Deck Premium Suite
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £10,295Mawson Deck Corner Suite
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £10,895Amundsen Deck Standard Sole
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £10,995Scott Deck Deluxe Balcony Suite
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £11,495Shackleton Deck Owner's Balcony Suite
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £11,795Byrd Deck Superior Sole
10-02-202821-02-2028GBP £11,995Shackleton Deck Hebridean Suite

Inclusions

    • Discover the Bijagos Archipelago – Explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve by Zodiac, visiting remote islands, pristine beaches and traditional communities while experiencing local culture, wildlife and traditional dancing.
    • Island-hop through Cape Verde – Discover the contrasting landscapes and cultures of Santiago, Fogo, Santo Antão and São Vicente, from volcanic peaks and lush valleys to historic colonial towns and lively markets.
    • Explore Senegal and The Gambia – Visit Dakar and historic Gorée Island, search for wildlife at Bandia Reserve and experience The Gambia’s waterways, mangroves, villages and vibrant local culture.

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