DAYS 1 TO 5 | LUANDA & POINTE-NOIRE

Your journey begins in Luanda, Angola’s vibrant coastal capital, where Portuguese heritage, contemporary African culture and lively markets come together. Discover the city’s historic architecture, including the 16th-century São Miguel Fortress, or venture beyond Luanda to the dramatic lunar-like landscapes of Miradouro da Lua. Embark Swan Hellenic’s elegant expedition ship, SH Diana, and sail north towards Pointe-Noire in the Republic of Congo. Explore the city’s distinctive French and African quarters, colourful Grand Marché and rich cultural heritage. Beyond the city lies Diosso Gorge, where towering cliffs in shades of pink, red and ochre rise dramatically through the surrounding rainforest. Alternatively, visit the Tchimpounga Chimpanzee Sanctuary and learn about its important conservation work.

DAYS 6 TO 8 | EXPEDITION IN GABON

Navigate Gabon’s wild and sparsely visited coastline, where dense rainforest meets sweeping beaches, lagoons and the waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Expedition landings may include remote Mayumba and the shores surrounding Loango and Pongara national parks. Accompanied by Swan Hellenic’s expedition team, explore by Zodiac and look for monkeys, sea turtles, colourful birdlife and other wildlife inhabiting this remarkably biodiverse region.

These flexible expedition days offer an opportunity to experience one of Africa’s most ecologically significant and least-visited coastlines.

DAYS 9 TO 11 | SÃO TOMÉ, PRÍNCIPE & AT SEA

Arrive in São Tomé, a volcanic island of rainforest-covered mountains, historic cocoa plantations, waterfalls and palm-fringed shores. Explore the island’s Portuguese heritage, colourful markets and local traditions, or journey into its lush interior in search of endemic plants and birdlife. Continue to Príncipe, where pastel-coloured Santo António provides a charming introduction to island life. Discover local conservation initiatives, visit historic plantations or explore the tropical forest in search of rare birds. At secluded Macaco Beach, golden sands and clear waters create an idyllic setting for swimming and relaxation. A day at sea provides time to enjoy SH Diana’s elegant facilities and insightful talks from the onboard expedition team.

DAYS 12 TO 14 | COTONOU, LOMÉ & ACCRA

In Cotonou, experience the cultural heritage of Benin. Travel by canoe through Ganvié, an extraordinary village built over the waters of Lake Nokoué, and witness a traditional Egungun masked performance. Continue to Lomé, Togo’s vibrant seaside capital. Explore its bustling markets, colonial landmarks and artisan traditions, or journey to Togoville to gain an insight into the region’s spiritual heritage and living voodoo traditions. Your voyage concludes in Tema, gateway to Ghana’s energetic capital, Accra. Discover landmarks associated with Ghanaian independence, explore the historic neighbourhood of Jamestown and experience the city’s thriving contemporary culture.

This remarkable 13-night voyage aboard SH Diana crosses seven countries, revealing an Africa of rainforest-fringed shores, volcanic islands, powerful histories and enduring cultural traditions.