At Sea
This itinerary includes a total of 6 days at sea to reach these destinations. During sea days, relax or join our Expedition Team for a program of interactive workshops and presentations.
Reunion
A choice of excursions at magnificent Réunion are available – either a full day tour or a half day morning tour. The full day tour takes in the central highlands where rugged peaks of dormant or extinct volcanoes and mountains rising over 3,000m dominate the landscape. The air is scented with vanilla and plunging waterfalls tumble into vast cirques. Take in spectacular views from Nez des Boeuf of the Piton de la Fournaise crater before lunch at a creole restaurant and a visit to Cite du Volcan museum. Learn about the important part that vanilla plays in Reunion’s cultural heritage at St Andre vanilla plantation then explore St Denis. An optional helicopter tour (additional cost) is available to take in more of the magnificent geography of the island.
Isalo & Zombitse-Vohibasia National Parks
Journey overland from coastal Toliara to Isalo National Park, stopping on the way at Zombitse National Park, where you will see baobab trees and perhaps even the White Sifaka Lemur. Isalo National Park is known for its rugged landscape of imposing gorges and plunging canyons. On nature walks, spot the several species of lemur found in the park as well as many bird species. Your overnight accommodation will be at the Hotel Relais de la Reine and Hotel Jardin du Roy. In the morning, there is further opportunity to spot lemurs or enjoy a swim at a freshwater pool in the forest called Piscine Naturelle.
Andavadoaka & Nosy Hao
The small fishing village of Andavadoaka sits on the edge of a tranquil lagoon protected by vibrant coral reefs and is home to semi-nomadic Vezo people who rely upon the ocean for their livelihood. We will learn about community projects promoting sustainable marine management before enjoying an afternoon of beach activities, swimming, and snorkeling at Nosy Hao.
Belo Sur Mer
At the village of Belo Sur Mer, you will enjoy the company of the Vezo people. The village sits on the shores of a turquoise lagoon with inviting white-sand beaches shaded by palm trees. This region of Madagascar is well-known for the traditional timber fishing boats, known as pirogues, which are built on the beach. When a vessel is launched, there is a festival-like atmosphere and we may be lucky enough to witness such an occasion.
Morondava
In a country scarred by deforestation, Kirindy Reserve is a wildlife habitat for threatened species and is protected and managed through selective and sustainable logging. Covering around 125sq km, Kirindy’s dry deciduous forests provide a haven for the endemic fossa, a cat-like mammal the size of a small greyhound, as well as lemurs, birds and reptiles including chameleons. In the afternoon, visit the famed Avenue of the Baobabs, known as the ‘most beautiful road in Madagascar’. A local conservation campaign aiming to protect the Avenue as Madagascar’s first natural monument in an often-treeless landscape
Mahajanga
On arrival at Mahajanga, travel to Cirque Rouge. Cirque Rouge is a multi-colored circular rock formation that recalls red American canyons, with hills carved by large gullies. Erosion has revealed a wide range of colours in the sandstone surface, from white, pink, orange to ochre shades. Local people collect the colourful sand to create souvenirs, such as drawing images in bottles.
Mozambique Island
The fortified city of Mozambique and former Portuguese trading post on the Island of Mozambique is a UNESCO World Heritage site, significant for its remarkable 16th century architectural features. Connected to the mainland by a 3.4km long bridge straddling the Indian Ocean, the island has two distinct types of dwellings: the stone and lime town of Swahili, Arab and European influence in the north and traditional African macuti town - city of roofed palm leaves - in the south. Enjoy walking tours to discover the island’s diverse cultures and charming communities, as well as the Chapel of Nossa Senhora de Baluarte, the oldest European building in the Southern Hemisphere.
Kilwa Kisiwani
The UNESCO World Heritage Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, once a medieval sultanate and occupied from the 9th to the 19th century, was described as one of the most beautiful cities of the world in its heyday. Wander around the magnificent ruins of Malindi Mosque, Fort Gereza, a former prison built atop the ruins of a Portuguese fort, and the tombs of the Sultans. Husuni Kubwa, a Sultan’s palace of grand proportions down to its octagonal swimming pool, was similar to those found in Syria, Turkey and the Persian Gulf. On your final evening onboard Coral Geographer, reminisce about your voyage with new friends at the Captain’s Farewell Drinks.
