Into Africa: Exploring the Treasures of West Africa
« All Corinthian cruise options
- Day 1 Malaga, Spain / Embark
- Day 2 Casablanca, Morocco
- Day 3 Casablanca / Rabat
- Day 4 Safi / Marrakech
- Day 5 At Sea
- Day 6 Laayoune, Western Sahara, Morocco
- Day 7 Dakhla, Western Sahara
- Day 8 At Sea
- Days 9-10 Dakar, Senegal
- Day 11 Banjul, Gambia / Abuko Nature Reserve
- Day 12 At Sea
- Day 13 Freetown, Sierra Leone
- Days 14-15 At Sea
- Days 16-17 Takoradi / Kakum National Park, Ghana
- Day 18 Tema, Ghana / Accra, Ghana
- Day 19 Lome, Togo / Lake Togo
- Day 20 Cotonou, Benin / Porto-Novo, Benin
- Day 21 At Sea
- Day 22 Principe, Sao Tome and Principe
- Day 23 Sao Tome
- Day 24 At Sea
- Day 25 Pointe-Noire, Congo
- Day 26 Luanda, Angola
- Day 27 Lobito, Angola / Benguela
- Days 28-29 At Sea
- Days 30-31 Walvis Bay, Namibia
- Day 32 Luderitz / Kolmanskop
- Day 33 At Sea
- Day 34 Cape Town, South Africa /Good Hope Nature Reserve
- Day 35 Cape Town, South Africa / Disembark
| Dates | Deck + Cabin Type | |||||||
| Category E | Category D | Category C | Category B | Category A | Category AA | Category VS | Category PHS | |
Cabin Information:
A limited number of cabins have been designated for single travelers in Categories C - A at no supplement to the per person, double occupancy rates. Additional cabins are available at either 1.2 or 1.7 the double occupancy rate.
Deposit & Payment A limited number of cabins have been designated for single travelers in Categories C - A at no supplement to the per person, double occupancy rates. Additional cabins are available at either 1.2 or 1.7 the double occupancy rate.
Day 1 Malaga, Spain / Embark
Arrive in Spain’s Malaga and transfer to the port to embark Corinthian. Sail in the evening, sailing by Gibraltar shortly thereafter.
Day 2 Casablanca, Morocco
After a morning at sea, dock in Casablanca, Morocco’s largest port city and commercial center. Tour the city, including the vast Hassan II Mosque, built on a promontory facing the sea. Overnight aboard docked in port.
Day 3 Casablanca / Rabat
From Casablanca, drive to Rabat, Morocco’s elegant capital. Tour Rabat’s main sites, including its Medina. Within the Medina are colorful souks, the Kasbah des Oudaias, the evocative quarter of the old Almohad, the Chellah Citadel, and Merenid and Andalusian towns.
Day 4 Safi / Marrakech
From Safi, drive to fabled Marrakech, one of Morocco’s four Imperial Capitals, founded in the 11th century and set among gardens and palm groves. Your exploration includes the 12th-century Koutoubia Minaret, the Bahia Palace, the Ben Youssef Medressa, the Jewish Quarter, and Djemaa el-Fna, the city’s central square at the heart of the Medina. There will also be the opportunity to walk through Marrakech’s colorful souks.
Day 5 At Sea
Today relax aboard your luxurious small ship, at sea cruising along the coast of Morocco.
Day 6 Laayoune, Western Sahara, Morocco
From the port of El Marsa, drive inland across Saharan dunes to reach Laayoune, the main city in Morocco’s Western Sahara. Explore the Spanish-Saharan architecture of the city’s old district, the Museum of Traditional Arts, and the Artisans’ Center’s craft workshops.
Day 7 Dakhla, Western Sahara
The former capital of the Spanish colony of Rio de Oro, Dakhla is the southernmost town of Western Sahara, located on a long peninsula jutting into the Atlantic. Whitewashed houses characterize this friendly town. Enjoy a tour of the city and a drive north through the scenic peninsula, which is flanked on one side by the Atlantic and by a tranquil bay on the other.
Day 8 At Sea
Enjoy the numerous amenities on board today, while cruising the coast of Africa. Your onboard naturalist and historians will be briefing you for the continued journey ahead.
Days 9-10 Dakar, Senegal
Spend two days in Senegal’s beautiful capital city, Dakar. With its strong French influence, it is also a center of African arts and culture. Your exploration of this vibrant city includes the Museum of African Art, one of the continent’s best, and the artisan market, among other sites. A short ferry ride brings you to Goree, a UNESCO -protected island, with narrow alleyways and characteristic pastel mansions.
Day 11 Banjul, Gambia / Abuko Nature Reserve
Founded by the British early in the 19th century, Banjul is the capital and commercial center of The Gambia. Drive to the Abuko Nature Reserve, one of the last surviving examples of tropical riverine forests in the country. Within its confines are about 300 species of birds, as well as red colobus and callithrix monkeys. Continue to the Makasutu Culture Forest, a private nature habitat with beautiful woodland and waterways.
Day 12 At Sea
Another day aboard your ship to enjoy the many fine amenities.
Day 13 Freetown, Sierra Leone
With its lush forests, nature reserves, and white-sand beaches, Sierra Leone is one of West Africa’s most attractive destinations. Tour Freetown, the country’s capital, including the Sierra Leone Museum, St. George’s Cathedral, and the city’s colorful markets. Also visit the picturesque Regent Village, with its early 19th-century Krio-style houses, and the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Alternatively, travel to Bunce Island. Located up the Sierra Leone River, Bunce is known for its enormous slave fort, built in 1670 by the British, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Days 14-15 At Sea
At sea, cruising to Ghana
Days 16-17 Takoradi / Kakum National Park, Ghana
The center of the “Castle Coast,” Takoradi is your gateway to two of Ghana’s most important sites, the Kakum National Park and the historic forts built by the colonial powers starting in the 15th century. Kakum is an extensive rain forest with a rich wildlife, including colobus monkeys, over 300 species of birds, and some 600 varieties of butterfly. Walk the 1,000-foot aerial walkway through the forest canopy. On the coast, visit the Cape Coast Castle, built by the Dutch in 1637, now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 18 Tema, Ghana / Accra, Ghana
Tema is the port of Accra, Ghana’s capital, which you will explore, including the excellent crafts market and the National Museum of Ghana, with its fine collections. Alternatively, take an excursion to the Aburi Botanic Gardens, since 1890 a leader in research and conservation, or the Shai Hills Resource Reserve, home to mammals, reptiles, and a rich variety of bird species.
Day 19 Lome, Togo / Lake Togo
For centuries Togo was part of several empires, later becoming part of the French and German colonial empires. Tour Lome, Togo’s friendly capital and one of West Africa’s most exciting cities, including the handicraft markets, with traditional goods from all over West Africa and noted especially for sculpture and batiks. Then drive to Agbodrafo, formerly known as Porto Seguro, set on the shores of Lake Togo, from where you will explore the lake’s traditional villages by local pirogues.
Day 20 Cotonou, Benin / Porto-Novo, Benin
The small country of Benin, home to an ancient sophisticated culture, is emerging as a popular travel destination. From the port of Cotonou, drive to the nearby capital, Porto-Novo, set on green hills surrounding a large lagoon. Formerly the center of an indigenous prosperous kingdom, it later became the capital of the French colony of Dahomey. Explore this pleasant city, including visits to the Ethnography Museum and the restored palace of King Toffa. After lunch, board local motorboats for a ride across Lake Nokoue to the picturesque fishing village of Ganvie, built on stilts.
Day 21 At Sea
Cruising towards Sao Tome and Principe
Day 22 Principe, Sao Tome and Principe
The smaller of the two-island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, tiny Principe features an impressive landscape of soaring volcanic peaks covered with dense forest. Beautiful beaches with incredibly clear water line this tropical paradise. Wander in the charming colonial town of Santo Antonio, walk through the abandoned plantation of Porto Real, watch villagers make palm oil, or hike through the pristine rain forest.
Day 23 Sao Tome
Sao Tome was the prized island of the Portuguese, who possessed it from the 15th century until 1975. That year, Sao Tome and the nearby island of Principe gained independence and formed the Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe. Call at the island’s capital and main port, also called Sao Tome, a picturesque and friendly town featuring colonial architecture. Also explore the island’s lush interior, known for its rich biodiversity, and visit an active coffee plantation, where you’ll observe a lifestyle largely unchanged since the colonial era and where you’ll also sample some of their coffee.
Day 24 At Sea
Another day to enjoy your ship while cruising toward Congo.
Day 25 Pointe-Noire, Congo
Congo’s main port, Pointe-Noire is an appealing city, thanks primarily to the wealth generated by offshore oil. Drive through typical villages and scenic countryside to visit the Diosso Gorge, with its red rock cliffs draped by the green of the jungle. Also explore the nearby museum, exhibiting objects relating to Congolese history, archaeology, and culture.
Day 26 Luanda, Angola
Arrive in Luanda, Angola’s capital, founded by the Portuguese in the late 16th century. Guarding the entrance to port is the Fortaleza de Sao Miguel, a fortress built in 1576, which we will visit during our tour of the city (the fortress now houses a museum), along with other sites. Alternatively, take a full-day excursion to the Kissama National Park, a large area of coastal savannah that is home to a rich wildlife.
Day 27 Lobito, Angola / Benguela
Take an excursion to Benguela, known as Angola’s cultural capital. Founded by the Portuguese in 1617, Benguela retains much of its colonial architecture, including the church of Nossa Senhora do Populo, built in 1748, and the Palacio do Governo, facing the sea.
Days 28-29 At Sea
Cruising the shore of Africa toward Namibia.
Days 30-31 Walvis Bay, Namibia
From Walvis Bay, explore the Namib Desert Park, with its incredibly beautiful sand dunes, home to some of the oldest desert landscapes in the world. Learn about the natural life of the desert and enjoy a spectacular private dinner in the dunes. Also explore the wetlands around Walvis Bay, which comprise perhaps the most important bird sanctuary in Southern Africa. Over 150,000 birds are found here, including large numbers of flamingoes, chestnut-banded plovers, curlew sandpipers, and others.
Day 32 Luderitz / Kolmanskop
The first recorded European visitor was the great Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama who sought shelter here in 1487. Later Luderitz became a thriving German colony, and today, the Bavarian architecture is unmistakable. Drive through the desert to the ghost diamond mining town of Kolmanskop, whose standing buildings give an insight into the area’s diamond boom years.
Day 33 At Sea
Continuing your journey south, relax aboard the Corinthian while cruising toward South Africa.
Day 34 Cape Town, South Africa /Good Hope Nature Reserve
The striking combination of coastal and mountain geography of the famed Cape Peninsula, on which the city is built, make Cape Town one of the world’s most attractive cities. Travel through rolling hills to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and the lovely Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Alternatively, explore South Africa’s celebrated wine lands, including charming Stellenbosch, with its historic buildings and oak-lined streets. Overnight aboard, conveniently docked near the center of the city.
Day 35 Cape Town, South Africa / Disembark
Disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flights home.
Itinerary Notes
Cruise fare includes:• 34-night cruise aboard the all-suite, 100-guest Corinthian
• Complete program of tours and excursions
• Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions aboard ship
• All meals aboard ship, including house wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Open bar aboard ship throughout the cruise
• Enrichment program of lecturers and discussions by accompanying naturalists and lecturers
• Professional tour staff
• Complete pre-departure materials
• Baggage handling and transfers aboard on the designated program arrival and departure dates
• Port and embarkation taxes
• Gratuities to porters, guides, and drivers
Not included in cruise fare:
• Airfare
• Visa and passport fees (if applicable)
• Luggage and trip cancellation insurance
• Meals, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages other than those specified above
• Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, faxes, and e-mail service
• Gratuities to shipboard personnel
Deposit & Payment
Initial deposit is $1700, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, and Discover. Alternatively, you can send a check to our Missoula, Montana, office or register online at: https://www.adventure-life.com/forms/fourways.php
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure.
Final payment by bank transfer, check or Visa, Mastercard, Discover, or Amex. Credit Card payments subject to 3% convenience fee and maximum $15,000 charge.
Booking last minute? No problem! Please contact one of our trip planners, and we can get you on your way if booking less than 100 days prior to departure.
Click here to see a copy of our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
| Days Prior to departure | Fee |
|---|---|
| 91 days or more | $500 |
| 90-61 days | 55% cruise cost |
| 60-0 days | 100% cruise cost |
Corinthian
- Ship Highlights
- Passengers : 100
- Luxury Expedition Ship
Recently re-launched after extensive refurbishment, redecoration and other improvements, the all-suite Corinthian offers the finest in small-ship cruise travel. Taken together with her limited guest capacity, excellence of design, craftsmanship, and material, Corinthian’s spaciousness and intimate ambiance combine to make her ideal for distinctive cultural and expedition voyages.
This private yacht-like cruise ship accommodates only 100 guests in 50 spacious suites, each of which affords ocean views and is equipped with luxurious attention to detail and amenities.
Attractive Amenities & Public Facilities:
The luxuriously appointed public facilities include a restaurant accommodating guests at a single, unassigned seating, two lounges, an expansive library with Internet access, gym, spa, beauty salon, boutique, Jacuzzi, doctor’s office, and ample deck areas for relaxing and sunbathing. An elevator serves all decks.
Decorated with rich fabrics, handsome wood, polished brass, rare antiquities and fine works of art, the yacht’s public spaces are warm and inviting. These include:
• Library with Internet access
• 2 Lounges with audiovisual facilities
• State-of-the-art gym/spa
• Beauty salon
• Boutique
• Hospital
• Elevator to all passenger decks
• Dining room
• Two sun decks
• Jacuzzi
• Swimming platform
Luxurious Accommodations:
Each of the 50 suites all of which affords ocean views, measure 215 square feet or more and is appointed with a sitting area or separate living room, twin or queen-size beds, spacious closets and climate control. Guests staying in the spacious Penthouse Suites and Veranda Suites will also enjoy a private balcony, private butler service, and other exclusive in-suite amenities. Additional amenities for all suites include:
• Satellite TV, DVD/CD player
• Telephone
• Mini-refrigerator
• Safe
• Marble-appointed bathroom with fine toiletries and teak floor
• Plush terry robes and slippers
• Fresh flowers and fruit basket
• 24-hour room service
Safety and Security:
Corinthian complies with the latest international and U.S. Coast Guard safety regulations and is outfitted with the most current navigational and communications technology as well as with retractable fin stabilizers for smooth sailing, an ice-strengthened hull and a fleet of Zodiacs. Corinthian is staffed by 60 European officers and crew.
| Cabins | |
|---|---|
 | Category E Deluxe suites, Ariadne & Leto Decks, windows and sitting area. 215 sq ft. Suites *342-*345,*428, *429 *Partially obstructed view |
| Category D Deluxe suites, Ariadne & Leto Decks with window and sitting area. 215 sq ft. Suites 334 - 335, 433. | |
 | Category C Deluxe suites, Athena Deck with portholes and sitting area. 275 sq ft. Suites 246 - 252 |
| Category B Deluxe suites, Ariadne Deck with windows and sitting area. 225 sq ft. Suites 336 - 341 | |
 | Category A Deluxe suites, Leto Deck with window and sitting area. 235 sq ft. Suites 420 - 427, 430 - 431 |
 | Category AA Deluxe suites, Cleo Deck with forward windows and sitting area. 285 sq ft. Suites 505 - 506 |
 | Category VS Deluxe Veranda Suites, Cleo Deck with private balcony and sitting area. 245 sq ft. Suites 507 - 518 |
 | Category PHS Deluxe Penthouse Suites, Phoebe Deck with private balcony, window and sitting area. 260 sq ft. Suites 601 - 604 |
