Volcanic Landscapes from Cape Verde to Canary Islands: A Journey of Culture and Nature

Day 1 - Dakar

Dakar, Senegal: Dakar is situated at the tip of the Cape Vert peninsula, making it the westernmost city in West Africa, and it serves as the capital of French-speaking Senegal. Although established in 1857, it stands as West Africa's oldest European city and is highly westernised. The town gained prominence following the opening of the Dakar-St Louis railway in 1885, later becoming a French naval base and, in 1904, the capital of Afrique Occidentale Française. The city's downtown, the Plateau, retains much of Africa's French colonial past, with architecture reminiscent of southern France. A modern city filled with activity, Dakar offers visitors the chance to enjoy authentic mint tea and engage in bartering at bustling craft markets known for traditional embroidery, wood carvings, metalwork, and costume jewellery.

Day 3 - Praia

Praia, Santiago Island, Cape Verde: Your expedition holiday begins in Praia, the capital of Cape Verde located to the south of Santiago Island. The old centre, perched overlooking the ocean, boasts historical buildings adorned with transom windows. In the old quarter, visitors can delve into the diverse cultural roots of the archipelago at the Ethnographic Museum. Cap off your day with a visit to the harbour to see the Diogo Gomes statue, a tribute to the man credited with discovering the archipelago in 1460.

Day 4 - Mindelo

Mindelo, São Vicente Island, Cape Verde: The journey continues in Mindelo, the cultural heartbeat of Cape Verde. Immerse yourself in the local life by listening to authentic morna music in the bars of the old town while enjoying the local sugarcane spirit. Mindelo is renowned for its British and Portuguese colonial architecture, pastel-coloured houses, its municipal market, and the ornate façade of the old Governor’s Palace.

Day 7 - Santa Cruz de La Palma

Santa Cruz de La Palma, Spain: Often referred to as 'La Isla Bonita' (the beautiful island), La Palma features lush pine, laurel, and fern forests contrasting with the rugged magnificence of the vast Taburiente crater. The island is home to charming villages awaiting exploration, and its capital, Santa Cruz, offers an intriguing blend of modern architecture with historic colonial buildings. A visit to the Natural History Museum and a wander around the historic quarters and Plaza de Espana come highly recommended. Alternatively, venture just outside the city to the exquisite Church of Our Lady. Shopping enthusiasts will find a plethora of beautiful silver jewellery, leather goods, and intricately embroidered clothes and linens, a speciality of the Canary Islands.

Day 8 - Puerto de la Estaca

Puerto de la Estaca, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain: Puerto de la Estaca serves as the gateway to the grandeur of El Hierro, an island lesser-known within the Canary Islands archipelago. This charming port buzzes with laid-back island life and is an ideal launch pad for exploring El Hierro's lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and serene volcanic trails. The port offers a tranquil setting with opportunities to enjoy the local culture and cuisine before venturing further into the island.

Day 9 - Santa Cruz de Tenerife

Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain: The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife is an enchanting and picturesque locale enjoying perennial sunshine, dominated by Mount Teide. The mountain range spans the island's centre, with fertile valleys to the north. At its heart lies the extensive natural crater of Cañadas del Teide, roughly 14 miles in diameter. Initially a small fishing village, Santa Cruz has blossomed into a modern city, showcasing an array of 16th-century civic edifices alongside ornate private mansions. Nearby, the Santa Cruz Palmetum - a Botanical Garden specialising in palms - offers a serene green escape.

Day 10 - Arrecife

Arrecife, Lanzarote, Spain: A volcanic island recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Lanzarote captivates with its dramatic landscapes born of a fiery volcanic history. Its picturesque beaches and consistently dry climate, coupled with duty-free shopping, make it a highly sought-after destination. Arrecife, the island's main port and capital, is a pleasant town featuring a modern seafront and vibrant gardens. Beyond the capital lie wonders such as the dazzling white salt flats of Janubio, the rugged Fire Mountain terrain, the mysterious caves of Los Verdes, and a scattering of unspoilt fishing villages along the coast. Diners can indulge in an array of local specialities, including garbanzos compuestos—a hearty chickpea stew—and papas arrugadas, alongside fresh seafood. Note that shore excursion participants may need an early onboard lunch to align with schedule timings.

Day 11 - Las Palmas de Gran Canaria

Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain: Perhaps the most stunning of the Canary Islands, Gran Canaria is nearly circular and dominated by Pozo de Las Nieves at its centre. The island offers a trove of natural splendour matched by the vibrant city life of its capital. In the old quarter, dating back to the 15th century, the Vegueta and Triana districts await exploration. Throughout the island, a sublime subtropical climate supports the growth of a wide array of exotic palms and fruits.