Start your expedition adventure to the largest island in the Indian Ocean from PORT LOUIS. Thanks to its location far away from the East African continent, Madagascar’s flora and fauna have been able to develop undisturbed and feature species that can only be found here. Look forward to accompanied excursions* and gather special insights provided by the team of experts travelling with you. Your first destination is the coastal city of TOAMASINA on the east coast. To this day, the island only has a few adequately paved roads, and the Canal des Pangalanes serves as an important transport link. A boat trip* takes you along the jungle worlds and traditional villages. To find out more about the colonial heart and nature of ANTSIRANANA, explore the wild idylls of the surrounding bays by all-terrain vehicle*. For the Madagascans, the island of NOSY HARA is a sacred place. Untouched by the hustle and bustle of the world, a hiking trail leads over karstic rocks and dense forests. If you’re lucky, you might spot colourful geckos and the Brookesia micra – the smallest chameleons in the world – on the branches. MAYOTTE is a French Garden of Eden with intact coral reefs, turquoise-blue lagoons and deserted beaches. Experience its beauty on a catamaran trip* and keep an eye out for sea turtles. The city tour* through DARESSALAM, the seat of government of Tanzania, takes you to the African continent. Delve deeper into the country by aeroplane to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area*. The savannahs and rivers are home to the big five and a large population of wild dogs – a photo safari* promises unforgettable experiences. The old town of ZANSIBAR, which was a legendary trading centre for the island’s spices until the 19th century, is now an idyllic swimming site in the Indian Ocean. Kenya is also famous for its wildlife. Via MOMBASA, you reach the Shimba Hills National Reserve*, where you can spot forest elephants, giraffes and, with luck, lions in the jungle and green meadows. In Madagascar, the endemic lemurs can be found almost everywhere and in great variety and abundance. On NOSY BE, you can see them in the lemur park* or paddle with outrigger boats to Lokobe Reserve* to delve deeper into the secrets of the wilderness on a hike. You can reflect on your adventures the next day under the palm trees of AMBODIFOTATRA and NOSY NATO. REUNION and MAURITIUS, where your cruise comes to an end after a final overnight stay, are also magical with their idyllic beaches.

* The shore activities are not included in the cruise price and are in the planning stage. Subject to change.