2025 Africa Cruises: Discover Madagascar, Zanzibar & South Africa

From the panoramic views from Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, to the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania, Africa's landscapes are as varied as its history and culture. Experience them on a cruise vacation with Norwegian Cruise Line. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or it's your first time on the high seas, there's a cruise to Africa that's right for you.

Ports of call on a cruise to Africa include some of the most sought-after vacation spots on the continent. Norwegian also offers a range of exciting shore excursions so you don't have to lift a finger planning your next adventure. Just kick back, relax, and enjoy Norwegian's cruising experience. Keep reading to find out about some of the different ports you can experience on Norwegian's cruises to Africa in 2025.

Cape Town, South Africa

As the country's oldest and most vibrant city, Cape Town offers a host of exciting activities. Visit Robben Island, where former South African president and activist Nelson Mandela was held prisoner for nearly three decades. Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, one of the New 7 Wonders of Nature. Enjoy birdwatching on a hike through more than 1,300 acres of lush natural areas at the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. At the ever-popular V&A Waterfront, you can spend the day shopping and dining along the edge of the harbor.

Mombasa, Kenya

Mombasa is a mosaic of African, Indian, and Arabian cultures. Delve into the turquoise waters at Mombasa Marine National Park and Reserve for waterskiing, snorkeling, and diving. You'll find stunning coral reefs and undersea shipwrecks to explore. Get off the beaten path at Nguuni Nature Sanctuary, and get up close and personal with African wildlife, such as giraffes, elands, oryx, and ostriches, as they roam their natural habitat. At Shimba Hills National Reserve, discover African elephants, sable antelopes, Sykes' monkeys, and more.

Nosy Be, Madagascar

For the ultimate beach paradise, look no further than Nosy Be island off the northwest coast of Madagascar. Formed by volcanic activity, Nosy Be's lush, forested landscapes feature numerous craters and crater lakes. Nosy Be translates to Big Island, and this biodiversity hotspot lives up to its name. It's the ultimate outdoor playground for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Discover the heavenly scent of ylang-ylang on a plantation tour. Cast a line on a deep-sea fishing excursion. Hike the rainforest trails at Lokobe National Park in search of lemurs and chameleons.

Port Louis, Mauritius

At the heart of Port Louis, the lively capital of Mauritius, lies the Citadelle (Fort Adelaide). Built by the British in 1840 atop a towering hill, this basalt fort provides panoramic views of the city. Within walking distance, you'll find Champs de Mars, a thoroughbred horse racing track where you can enjoy an exciting day at the races. Stop by the Blue Penny Museum, which offers a detailed look at the art and history of the island. Wrap up your visit to Mauritius with a stroll along Le Caudan Waterfront, which features shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

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Port Victoria, Seychelles

Victoria, on the island of Mahé, is the capital of Seychelles and the republic's largest city. More than 200 plant species grow here naturally, and about 80 are found nowhere else on the planet. For this reason, the National Botanical Garden is a must-see attraction on your Africa cruise to Seychelles. Another top spot for cruisers is the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a natural palm forest that has remained nearly unchanged since prehistoric times. The reserve is home to the world's largest intact forest of coco de mer palm trees, which boast the biggest seeds in the plant kingdom.

Safaga, Egypt

Situated along the Red Sea, Safaga's hot desert climate, crystal-clear waters, and soft, white-sand beaches make it an ideal year-round port of call. Best known as a health and wellness destination thanks to the therapeutic properties of the local sand and mineral springs, Safaga is the perfect cruise port to relax and unwind. Alternatively, you can take part in various watersports, such as windsurfing, diving, or kitesurfing, in Safaga's warm waters. You can even take a day trip to Luxor, where you can delve into ancient history at the nearby Valley of the Kings and Karnak Temple.

Walvis Bay, Namibia

If you're hoping to glimpse wildlife on your cruise to Africa, Walvis Bay is the place for you. Situated at the edge of the Namib Desert, the town features a large lagoon, salt pans, and a bird sanctuary that attracts a diverse range of species. In the summer months, more than 150,000 migrant birds call the area home. Other animals you might spot in Walvis Bay include seals, dolphins, and whales. More adventurous cruisers can take a quad ride through the desert or try sandboarding.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Located just 22 miles off the coast of east-central Africa, Zanzibar consists of a chain of tropical islands. Its pristine beaches and colorful markets make it a favorite cruise vacation destination. Explore the diverse marine life among the coral reefs on a snorkeling adventure. Wander through the labyrinth of historic streets in Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Unguja island. Sample the local flavors on a culinary tour through a spice farm.

These stunning cruise ports are just a few of the incredible destinations you can enjoy on a Norwegian cruise to Africa. Whether you're a history buff, sunseeker, outdoor enthusiast, foodie, or adventurer, Norwegian offers a host of itineraries for Africa cruises in 2025.

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