Board Le Bougainville for an exceptional 11-day cruise along the southwest coast of Africa. Starting in lively Durban, you'll discover subtropical beaches, colonial towns and go on safari in Addo Elephant National Park. You walk through Cape Town, visit the iconic Table Mountain and soak up the atmosphere in hip neighborhoods. Then sail on to Lüderitz and the ghost town of Kolmanskop, until you admire the endless dunes of the Namib Desert and thousands of flamingos in Walvis Bay. On this exclusive trip, you will explore the impressive nature, culture and history of this special region under the guidance of experienced guides.
This cruise is available from 19/03/2026 to 29/03/2026. Feel free to contact us for other options.
Important information:
- An international passport is required, valid until at least 6 months after return, with at least 2 blank pages.
- No visa is required.
- Normally no special vaccinations are required. We do recommend that you seek advice from your family doctor or the Tropical Institute.
Day 1: Durban
Your cruise starts in Durban, South Africa's third largest city, located in the province of Kwazulu-Natal. Here the warm waters of the Indian Ocean meet a colorful mix of cultures: African, Indian and colonial. As you walk through the city, you'll pass colonial buildings, museums and vibrant neighborhoods where the term "Rainbow Nation" comes to life. The jacaranda trees color the streets purple during the flowering season and outside the city you will find a wealth of fauna and flora. Embarkation is between 16:00 and 17:00.
Day 2: At sea
Today you will enjoy a day at sea. Relax in the spa or find a place to sunbathe. Feel like getting some exercise? Then work out in the fitness center or swim laps is the pool. Take a short walk on the upper deck and look out over the endless horizon. With any luck, you'll spot dolphins or other sea creatures.
Day 3: East London
Today the ship docks in East London, also affectionately known as "Buffalo City." Located between the Nahoon and Buffalo Rivers, this port city on the Sunshine Coast enjoys a subtropical climate. Visit the East London Museum, where unusual finds such as the coelacanth and a dodo egg are on display. Nearby, discover traditional Xhosa villages and important archaeological sites such as the ancient footprints in the Nahoon Point Nature Reserve.
Day 4-5: Port Elizabeth
After a delicious breakfast, explore Port Elizabeth, one of South Africa's most important cities. Its nickname "The Friendly City" reflects the hospitality of the locals. Enjoy the vast beaches or go on safari in Addo Elephant National Park, famous for its elephants. In the Donkin Reserve, walk past historical monuments and learn about both South Africa's colonial and recent past.
Day 6: At Sea
Another day to fully unwind on board. Relax in the comfort of your ship, take advantage of the wellness facilities or attend a lecture or show. Stroll the deck, admire the endless sea and search for dolphins or sea birds. A perfect day to let all the impressions of the trip sink in.
Day 7-8: Cape Town
You arrive in Cape Town, located at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain and one of the most beautiful bays in the world. Stroll along the white sand beaches, explore the hip downtown area with its boutiques and restaurants or take a trip to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve with its unique fauna and flora.
Day 9: At Sea
As the ship sails further south, once again enjoy the many facilities on board. Get pampered in the spa, attend a lecture or enjoy the tranquility of the pool. On deck, continue to search for sea birds or marine mammals as the endless ocean stretches out before you.
Day 10: Lüderitz
Today you arrive in Lüderitz, a former German colonial port town on the edge of the Namib Desert. The town is known for its striking colonial architecture, such as the Felsenkirche, the Goerke Haus and the old Deutsche Afrika Bank. Just outside Lüderitz is Kolmanskop, a deserted ghost town where the desert takes over and abandoned houses slowly disappear under the sand.
Day 11: Walvis Bay
Walvis Bay forms the backdrop of your last day: here the Namib Desert ends right on the Atlantic Ocean. Between the lagoons you admire thousands of flamingos, pelicans and Cape cormorants, while large colonies of fur seals hunt in the cool sea water. An impressive end to your trip.
What should you expect in terms of budget?
Dream trip in sight? For this unique experience, you can expect a price starting at 11,500 euros per person. Exact costs vary based on your preferences and the period in which you travel.
Why book with Caractère?
- Best price guarantee
- Caractère extras
- Just one phone call or email away from our enthusiastic travel experts
- Pay safely
- No extra or hidden fees