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South East African Horizons | October 2025

Price $12760 $11609 18 Days/17 Nights
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South East African Horizons | October 2025

$12760 $11609 per person
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
* Prices are CAD per person, based on 2 people sharing in an  Oceanview D4 Stateroom
*Embarkation date in Mombasa is October 29th, 2025. Swan Hellenic does include the night prior to embarkation day (on October 28th, 2025). We do highly advise arriving the day before embarkation to take advantage of this complimentary night (by arriving on October 28th, 2025). In order to arrive by October 28th, you must fly from Canada on October 26th or 27th, depending on the flight times). You may also consider adding on a pre-extension for when details become available.
For Cabin Upgrades on the SH Diana please go to the “Cabin/Deck Plans” tab to view more options.
Single Rooms and Rates:  The single supplement is 175% of the double occupancy fare or 200% for a suite on Request Basis only.   If you’re a single traveler and looking to be matched up with a roommate (of the same gender), please reach out to us for details.

SWAN HELLANIC – SOUTH EAST AFRICAN HORIZONS: October 29th to November 15th, 2025

Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar and South Africa!
Join Trip Merchant Journeys/Swan Hellanic on this amazing South East African Cruise!

Set sail from Mombasa, cruising the scenic East African coast as you explore the Mozambique coast to vibrant Maputo. Relax on Zanzibar and Nosy Be’s beaches, explore Mahajanga’s colonial architecture, Toliara’s mangroves, Kilwa Kivinje’s ancient sites and discover Morondava’s baobab trees. From Swahili influences to colonial history, experience the Western Indian Ocean’s diverse culture. Your journey ends in cosmopolitan Cape Town, South Africa.

What’s Included:
  • Group return transfers from the airport to the cruise port (via our included accommodation where applicable)
  • One-night pre-cruise accommodation with breakfast in a 4/5-star hotel or onboard
  • All meals onboard
  • 24-hour room service
  • Coffee, tea, soft drinks, and selected alcoholic beverages available 24 hours per day
  • Lecture programs by our experienced expedition team and guest speakers
  • Standard WiFi
  • Self-service laundry
  • Onboard gratuities and port taxes
  • One selected shore excursion/expedition activity per port of call

*Hosted with minimum of 15 paying passengers

Not Included: 

International airfare, Out of Country Cancellation and Medical Insurance is recommended, anything else not mentioned above, Optional Pre/Post-Extension

Terms and Conditions: 

Staterooms will be confirmed with the locked rates once deposit of 20% (30% for suites) is applied. Final payment is due 120 days before departure.

Cancellations:
Cancellations must be received in writing and receipt will be acknowledged by Swan Hellenic. If you do not receive a written acknowledgement from Swan Hellenic, your notice of cancellation was not received. Cancellation charges are calculated based on total fares paid to Swan Hellenic for all voyage components. Refunds will not be applied for passengers who fail to participate in the voyage or do not complete the Voyage. Cancellation charges will apply regardless of Swan Hellenics ability to rebook the cancelled cabin.

Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext 504
Mention Group Booking Number: AFRSH25
18 Days/17 Nights
Group Departures
Guided Tours
Ocean Cruises
Trip Merchant Journeys Group Departures
  • Destination
    Africa
  • Arrival City
    Mombasa, Kenya
  • Departure City
    Cape Town, South Africa
  • Activity Level
    This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs, or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.
  • Passenger Limit
    192 Guest Passengers
1
Wednesday, October 29th, 2025: MOMBASA
*Embarkation date in Mombasa is October 29th, 2025. Swan Hellenic does include the night prior to embarkation day (on October 28th, 2025). We do highly advise arriving the day before embarkation to take advantage of this complimentary night (by arriving on October 28th, 2025). In order to arrive by October 28th, you must fly from Canada on October 26th or 27th, depending on the flight times). You may also consider adding on a pre-extension for when details become available.

A dynamic coastal metropolis, Mombasa's rich history comes from a beguiling blend of cultures. Over centuries, Arabs, Portuguese, Asians, and British settlers coexisted in the old town, blending African, European, and Asian architectural styles. Perched above the sea, Fort Jesus was built by the Portuguese in the 1590s to protect the city, while the bustling spice market is packed with fragrant stalls selling pepper, ginger and cardamom.

Early-afternoon Embark on cruise from Mombasa Port!
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals: Lunch (depending on your embarkation time), Dinner
2
Thursday, October 30th, 2025: ZANZIBAR
Cosmopolitan Zanzibar Island, or Unguja, known as the Spice Island, features Zanzibar City's UNESCO-listed Stone Town(Mji Mkongwe)—a lively warren of narrow streets with 18th- and 19th-century buildings. Highlights include the Old Fort, the House of Wonders, and a spice market with stalls heaped with locally grown spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Nearby, Jozani Chwaka Bay National Park is home to the red colobus monkey, unique to Zanzibar.

HIGHLIGHTS OF STONE TOWN (4h)

Visit Stone Town, a fine example of a Swahili Coastal trading town, and delve into its Afro-Asian history.  See the piled-high tropical fruits and inhale the aroma of freshly ground spices neatly packed at the colourful City Market.  Take time to learn about the "dark ages" at the East Africa Slave Exhibition, a collection of photographs that documents the role Zanzibar played in it.

OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) - Please contact for more information.

1) HALF DAY JOZANI FOREST (3h)

Visit the only natural reserve in Zanzibar, which houses the largest portion of the island's mature forest, mangrove forests and saltmarshes. Get a rare opportunity to view the endangered Red Colobus Monkey, while learning about local flora and fauna on a guided nature trail.  Walk across the unique mangrove boardwalk over the swamps to see tropical fish and crabs among the mangrove roots

2) RUINS AND SPICES OF ZANZIBAR (5h)

Explore the Palace Museum in Kibweni, immersing yourself in the island's rich history. Discover the archipelago's spice legacy, which once produced 90% of the world's cloves.  Continue to the lush countryside to smell, taste, touch and see different spice plants as well seasonal fruits, some unique to Zanzibar

3) SANDBANK DHOW ADVENTURE (6h)

Explore Zanzibar's splendid beaches and marine life on a traditional dhow boat and snorkeling adventure to the Sandbank.  Relax at Pange Sandbank with a coconut drink before your guided snorkeling session on a nearby reef and explore the vibrant marine life. Enjoy a delectable seafood lunch buffet, complemented by coffee and Amarula liqueur, followed by swimming or relaxation on the beach
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
3
Friday, October 31st, 2025: KILWA KIVINJE
Kilwa Kivinje, on Tanzania's southern coast, was a medieval Swahili coast trading hub. Founded in the 8th century, Kilwa Kivinje thrived in the 13th and 14th centuries as a centre for ivory and gold. Today, it provides insight into medieval East Africa's opulence, with dhows in the harbour and spice markets amid jungle and mangrove estuaries. The Great Mosque and Husuni Kubwa, The Sultan's African Palace, are UNESCO World Heritage Site ruins.
Accommodation:  SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
4
Saturday, November 1st, 2025: DAY AT SEA
Sea days are rarely dull. Take the time to sit back and let the world go by. The ship’s observation decks provide stunning views of the passing ocean. A day at sea gives you the opportunity to mingle with other passengers and share your experiences of this incredible trip or head to our library which is stocked full of reference books. Get an expert’s view in one of our on-board lectures or perhaps perfect your photography skills with invaluable advice from our onboard professional photographers.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
5
Sunday, November 2nd, 2025: NOSY BE
Sandy swimming beaches, biodiverse jungle, and vivid blue crater lakes are among the highlights of verdant Nosy Be island off Madagascar's northern coast. In Hell-Ville port, remnants of French colonial architecture charm visitors. Nearby, Lokobe Reserve beckons with guided pirogue canoe tours, where black lemurs climb ancient trees and vibrant panther chameleons, growing about a foot and a half long, play hide-and-seek in the lush foliage.

ISLAND TOUR HALF DAY EXPEDITION WITH MONT PASSOT (4h)

Pay a visit to the Hell-Ville marketplace brimming with vegetables, fruits and spices. Enjoy the views from Mont Passot, overlooking crater lakes and plantations. Enjoy a panoramic dive looking at the island vegetation.

OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) - Please contact for more information.

1) NOSY KOMBA (3.5h)

Visit the Black Lemur Sanctuary and rejoice in the antics of the lemurs as they frolic in their habitat.  Relish free time to walk on the beach.  Walking through the Sakalava fisherman’s village.

2) LOKOBE NATIONAL PARK (3.5h)

Try to spot the Eulemur Macaco, the flagship species of the park.  Enjoy the ride on a small boat to the heavily wooded Lokobe Natural Reserve.  See colorful birds and endemic species such as black lemurs.

3) ISLAND TOUR HALF DAY EXPEDITION WITH MONT PASSOT (4h)

Pay a visit to the Hell-Ville marketplace brimming with vegetables, fruits and spices. Enjoy the views from Mont Passot, overlooking crater lakes and plantations. Enjoy a panoramic dive looking at the island vegetation.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
6
Monday, November 3rd, 2025: MAHAJANGA
The lively northern port of Mahajanga (Majunga) is known for its charming French colonial and Arabian architecture as well as a broad seafront promenade lined with coconut palms. A gigantic landmark baobab tree towers near the water. Long sandy beaches stretch north towards Cirque Rouge, a remarkable natural Amphitheatre whose crumbling rocks are a blend of red, ochre and pale pink, and are at their most dramatic at sunset.

MAHAJANGA CITY TOUR (4h)

Feel the atmosphere of the city market place. Don't miss the symbol of the city the Huge Baobab, which is over 1000 years old. Enjoy stunning views of the town
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
7
Tuesday, November 4th, 2025: NOSY VAO

The remote 1.97 km-long Nosy Vao, located 70 km north of Maintirano, offers an unspoilt tropical escape off Madagascar's northeast coast. With surrounding coral reefs and few visitors, Nosy Vao provides a peaceful retreat. Terns flock to the reefs, while lemurs inhabit the savannas, and palm trees dot the interior. Vezo fishers build temporary shelters and move between islands, fishing for sharks.

Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8
Wednesday, November 5th, 2025: MORONDAVA
The relaxed west coast town of Morondava is the gateway to the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs. Lining a bumpy track, this striking grove of centuries-old giants - often nicknamed upside-down trees - is especially popular at sunset, when the trunks cast long shadows on the ground. To the south, Kirindy Mitea National Park is a protected coastal reserve home to several species of lemur along with the rare fossa, a close relation of the mongoose.

MORONDAVA AND THE BAOBAB AVENUE (4h)

Discovery of the Baobab Avenue, and take the postcard picture. Enjoy tasting local snacks and drinks. Stroll around the local Market.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
9
Thursday, November 6th, 2025: TOLIARA
Mangroves, beaches and an offshore coral reef surround Toliara (Tuléar), near the mouth of the Onilahy River. Just southeast of the city, the Arboretum d’Antsokay was created by a Swiss botanist in 1980 amid a swathe of spiny forest. Garden guides lead you past more than 900 mostly endemic plant species, flitting butterflies or lemurs tucked into branches. Within the port, a fascinating small museum is dedicated to local marine life.

VISITE OF ARBORETUM ANTSOKAY (3.5H)

Discover the Arboretum of Antsokay, created around 1980. Admire over 920 plant species, lemurs, radiated tortoises, snakes and chameleons. Enjoy a folkloric show before getting back to the port.
OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) -Please contact for more information.
1) 4X4 RENIALA SPINY FOREST DISCOVERY (3.5h) Discover one of the oddest and most unique habitats on the planet, the spiny forest. Walk in the bird sanctuary looking out for mammals including the grey mouse lemurs and several birds. Enjoy the folkloric show before getting back to the pier.
Accommodation:  SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
10
Friday, November 7th, 2025: DAY AT SEA
Days at sea are the perfect chance to relax, unwind and do whatever takes your fancy. So whether that is going to the gym, visiting the spa, trying to spot a whale from the deck, reading a chapter or two, or simply topping up your tan, these blue sea days are the perfect balance to the green days spent exploring on land.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
11
Saturday, November 8th, 2025: DAY AT SEA
Day at Sea!
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
12
Sunday, November 9th, 2025: RICHARDS BAY
A busy port town with a deep natural harbour, Richards Bay is surrounded by extensive wetlands sheltering diverse birdlife. A hotspot on the Zululand Birding Route, it's a haven for rare species like cuckoo hawks and pygmy geese. The town's large lagoon becomes a cooling spot for hippos and crocodiles. Meanwhile, Alkantstrand Beach offers laid-back charm with long stretches of golden sand and gentle waves.
OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) -Please contact for more information.

1) FD CAPE VIDAL SNORKELING (9h)

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a section of South Africa’s 1st World Heritage Site. The Game Reserve is divided by some of the second highest vegetated dunes in the world. Opportunity to do some snorkeling at Cape Vidal.

2) HD ZULU NYALA SUNSET SAFARI WITH DINNER (7h)

Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve is one of South Africa's most diverse conservation regions. Enjoy dinner and drinks at the open-air “boma”.

3) HLUHLUWE GAME RESERVE (6h)

The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve has become well known for its small population of the rare, white rhino. The reserve has a spectacular variety of bird and animal life. Be ready to take incredible pictures of the Big 5.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
13
Monday, November 10th, 2025: DURBAN
South Africa’s third-biggest city, Durban is friendly and cosmopolitan. Durban's golden mile is the heartbeat of the city with long sandy beaches and rickshaw rides. Durban's Indian District awakens the senses with its aromatic curry houses and spice stalls. Peaceful Durban Botanic Gardens is renowned for its orchid and palm collections. Nearby Umgeni River Bird Park is home to around 200 species, from vibrant parrots to majestic eagles.

DISCOVER DURBAN (5h)

Explore the culture and traditions of Durban. Visit to the well know Victoria Street Market.
OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) -Please contact for more information.

1) TALA GAME RESERVE (5.5h)

Embark on a 4 X 4 Game Drive at Tala Private Game Reserve, viewing big game including rhino, kudu, hippo, giraffe and the rare sable antelope. Have a superb game viewing experiences. At Tala the aim is to get you close to nature.

2) SCENIC DRAKENSBERG HELICOPTER FLIGHT & LUNCH (8h)

Take Scenic Helicopter flight to the Drakensberg Mountain range. Enjoy magnificent views of the World Heritage Site of the Drakensberg Mountains. Enjoy a fresh produce local lunch in the Drakensberg.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
14
Tuesday, November 11th, 2025: EAST LONDON
On South Africa's Eastern Cape, East London is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, including Nahoon and Cove Rock. The city features the Buffalo Pass, a scenic road that winds through a lush valley, crossing the Buffalo River. The East London Museum showcases fossilised human and animal footprints and artefacts from the Xhosa-speaking people. In the surrounding areas, numerous game reserves provide habitat to elephants, lions, zebras and more.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
15
Wednesday, November 12th, 2025: PORT ELIZABETH
On the western edge of Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) is an unassuming city with long stretches of beaches and pockets of Victorian architecture. Pods of frolicking dolphins swim close to shore. Just outside town, Kragga Kragga Game Park is home to roaming white rhinos and cheetahs, while guided game drives at Addo Elephant National Park (about 70 km northeast) offer thrilling encounters with the world’s largest land mammal.

PORT ELIZABETH CITY TOUR (4h)

You will have a good overview of Port Elizabeth City and history. Meet a Khoisan Chief and Khoi Historian.

OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) -Please contact for more information.

1) PUMBA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (7.5h)

Take the opportunity to view Big Five in their natural environment. Learn how Pumba was the first of the Eastern Cape Game reserves to introduce a White Lion breeding program. Enjoy the day in contact with nature.
2) PENGUIN CRUISE (5h) View the largest breeding colony of African penguins on the planet. You might also encounter schools of Bottlenose dolphins in groups.

3) 4 X 4 ADDO ELEPHANT PARK SAFARI (6h)

The Addo Elephant Park, which consists of + 51 000 ha of bush country, is the home to over 450 elephants. Take an incredible game drive in 4x4 open vehicles. You might see the unique flightless dung beetle, which is found almost exclusively in Addo.

4) WALKING WITH THE GIANTS AND BUFFALO ENCOUNTER (6h)

Experience a unique close adventure walk with the reserve’s tallest wildlife members – the Giraffe. Enjoy an intimate walk through the heart of the Addo Valley Bushveld. View the Cape Buffalo from your 4 x 4 vehicle.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
16
Thursday, November 13th, 2025: MOSSEL BAY
Set on a hillside, the laid-back seaside town of Mossel Bay was the first place where Europeans made landfall in South Africa in 1488. The area’s history unfolds at Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, which contains maritime displays, 19th-century stone cottages and a botanical garden. Nearby, Santos Beach is a wide sandy stretch for swimming and watersports. Southern right whales calve in the bay’s calm waters between July and October.

MOSSEL BAY CITY (2.5h)

Don't miss the opportunity to listen to Mossel Bay history. Enjoy a Wine and Mussel tasting.

OPTIONAL TOURS (Additional Cost) -Please contact for more information.

1) FRIEMERSHEIM WALL ART ROUTE (2.5h)

Visit the Friemersheim Wall Art Route. Local coffee roastery. Beautiful scenery on route to Friemersheim.

2) GARDEN ROUTE WINE TASTING (3.5h)

Visit a local Wine Estate. Wine Tasting of various local wines.
3) OCEAN ZIPLINE ADVENTURE  (2h)
Longest over the ocean Zipline in the world. 1150m Long with an average 80km/h. This is a once in a lifetime experience!
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
17
Friday, November 14th, 2025: HERMANUS
Hermanus, a seaside town southeast of Cape Town, enchants visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant marine life. Within Fernkloof Nature Reserve, a 12 km cliffside pathway provides views of seasonal whale migrations and bustling penguin colonies. The Old Harbour, now a museum, encompasses the history of the old harbour, a fishermen's village and the Whale House Museum. The town's bars and restaurants promote local wines and seafood.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
18
Saturday, November 15th, 2025: CAPE TOWN
Between mountains and the ocean, Cape Town is a vibrant, multicultural city with a lively waterfront featuring seafood restaurants, shopping and attractions. A cable car transports visitors to distinctive Table Mountain with sweeping views. Boats head to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. Nearby Boulders Beach is home to African penguins, and world-class Stellenbosch vineyards offer wine tastings amid Cape Dutch architecture.

SHUTTLE SERVICE TO V&A WATERFRONT (3h)

Visit the vast VA Waterfront with the freedom to shop or dine at your leisure. Discover culture and heritage in the harborside attractions. Enjoy flexibility, and stay as long as you like in this bustling area using the shuttle buses.
Accommodation: SH Diana
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
19
Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext. 504
Mention Group Booking Number: AFRSH25

Tour Location

       

Welcome Aboard the SH Diana!

Looking for next level expedition cruising? SH Diana is just what you need! The newest addition to our fleet combines cutting-edge technology with stylish, sophisticated design, and the ship’s special ice-resistant PC6 hull means it’s able to visit some of the world's most inaccessible regions. This new generation polar class ship is our largest, and features elegant interiors – including exclusive onboard art – wide unobstructed views, a spectacular grand staircase, and dedicated expedition facilities, so you can explore the world in style and comfort.
Ship Highlights:
  • 5 star Facilities - Library, Stargazing Deck, Observation Lounge, etc..
  • Dining & Drinks - 3 Restaurants/Lounges, Room Service
  • Relax & Refresh - Spa & Beauty Salon, Pool, Jacuzzi, Sauna, Gym
  • Personalized Service
More Info - https://www.swanhellenic.com/ship/SHDiana
Cabin Comforts:
Amenities also include a smart HDTV, individually-controlled air-conditioning, stocked minibar with snacks, soft drinks & beer, Illy Espresso coffee machine with pods, kettle and Kusmi tea bags, towels for cabin, pool and gym, bathrobe, bedroom slippers, and toiletries by Lajatica.
Each cabin welcomes you with a bottle of Champagne (75cl – Premium Suites, Suites, Junior Suites/37.5cl – Balcony, Oceanview) and there’s also free Wi-Fi, personal safe, and a pair of Nikon Prostaff 3S 10x42 binoculars to help you watch out for wildlife!

STATEROOM TYPES

All rates below are in CAD and are per person based on double occupancy.

Oceanview D4 - $11,609
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.
Oceanview M4 - $12,109
Oceanview Staterooms measure 20m2 (215ft2) and can accommodate two guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, a bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.
Balcony D5 - $14,987
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.
Balcony M5 - $15,737
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.
Balcony D6 - $16,613
Balcony Staterooms measure 25m2 (269ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature two single beds or a double bed, bedroom with living room area, and a luxurious bathroom.
Junior Suite - $20,992
Junior Suites measure 32-36m2 (344-388ft2) – including a 6m2 (65ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, have a separate living room area, and luxurious en-suite bathroom.
Suite - $22,117
Suites measure 41m2 (441ft2) – including a 5m2 (54ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two or three guests. They feature a king size bed, and have a separate living room, with a flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom with separate bath tub and a walk-in shower.
Premium Suite - $24,369
Premium Suites measure 41m2 (441ft2) – including 8m2 (86ft2) private balcony – and can accommodate two guests. They feature a king size bed, separate living room, and flame-effect fireplace. There’s also a luxurious ensuite bathroom – with separate bath tub and shower – and a walk-in wardrobe.