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Northern Africa

Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea on the north and the Atlantic Ocean on one side, the coastal areas of Northern Africa are highly accessible by cruise. The southern part of the region is immensely occupied by the Sahara Desert, the largest desert in the world, so you can expect an abundance of dry landscapes, warm climate, and teeming wildlife on shore excursions. The region is also packed with interesting cultures and history, evidenced by its centuries-old pyramids, old fortified cities, and archeological ruins. 

Set on a massive sandy desert, under the scorching Egyptian sun, the pyramids of Giza are concrete remnants of the ancient world that withstood the test of time, now serving as an awe-inspiring wonder from times long gone. Admire the iconic architectural landmarks in Morocco, such as Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, and the charming blue-washed buildings in Chefchaouen. Cape Verde is a slice of paradise for sunseekers and water sports enthusiasts, where white-sand beaches and sunshine are endless.

From vast arid deserts and magnificent coastal scenery to centuries-old historical sites and immersive cultural experiences, Northern Africa packs a punch of almost everything you need for a memorable cruise holiday!

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Northern Africa Cruise Highlights

The Sahara Desert

The Sahara is the world’s hottest and third-largest desert with an annual average temperature of 30°C, whilst the hottest recorded temperature peaked at 58°C. The vast desert spans 9.2 million km², which makes up 8% of the earth’s land area. It covers ten countries, including Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Sudan and Tunisia, as well as the territory of Western Sahara. Riding a quad bike is one of the best ways to explore the sprawling sand dunes and the local villages. Other activities you can enjoy are sand surfing, glamping, stargazing, and sunset watching.

The Pyramids of Giza in Egypt

Egypt’s iconic pyramid complex in Giza is one of Egypt’s must-see sites, allowing visitors to understand the long-vanished past of the country. This centuries-old monument offers an impressive sight, both from a distance and when you’re standing closely at their feet. While this man-made attraction is truly a majestic feast for the eyes today, its main purpose has quite a grim undertone. The pyramids were built as tombstones where pharaohs lay rest, prompting many baffling mysteries to envelope this historic site over the time. These pharaohs were believed to become gods in the afterlife, hence temples and massive pyramids were constructed to prepare for the life after death.

Morocco’s Hassan II Mosque 

Located in Casablanca, Hassan II Mosque prides itself on being one of the largest functioning mosques in Africa. This grandiose mosque is idyllically positioned on reclaimed land right on the Atlantic Ocean, offering uninterrupted ocean views from the towering minaret. The dramatic location of this Moroccan marvel is intentionally rooted from a Quran verse stating that the deity’s throne was built upon the water. The structure is big enough to accommodate up to 105,000 worshippers – 25,000 inside, and the rest on the expansive outdoor courtyards. The mosque complex has an imposing architecture, adorned by intricate patterns carved on the cedar walls enclosing it, with grand entrance doors and gorgeous fountains on all sides.

History and Culture

Considered one of the major cradles of human civilisations, a long storied past can be associated with Northern Africa. The multi-cultural region is home to over 3,000 indigenous groups, each bearing distinct language, cultures, and traditions. The earliest human inhabitants developed and utilised great stonework techniques and established communities. Several migrations and settlements ensued in the pursuit of better living conditions. 

Centuries of invasion and colonisation then followed, Carthage being one of the most powerful civilisations to have ever existed in the region’s history prior to the arrival of the Romans. Get a glimpse of the period’s glorious history in the archeological site of Carthage in Tunisia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where remains of the glorious Phoenician city can be found.

Things to Do in Northern Africa

Get lost in time at the Amphitheatre of El Jem

The beautiful ruins of the Amphitheatre of El Jem remain to be one of Tunisia’s main points of interest. This oval amphitheatre is the largest colosseum in North Africa, huge enough to hold up to 35,000 spectators. It’s situated in the small town of El Jem and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get lost in time as you discover the remains of a historical landmark that once hosted numerous gladiator battles and small-scale chariot races and relive the notorious past of survival and mass entertainment – all while getting awestruck by the impressive well-preserved Roman architecture.

Ride a camel in the Sahara

Embarking on a camel tour is a quintessential experience when you’re travelling to the Sahara. These emblematic creatures will grace your path as you wander the desert that stretches into the horizon with endless red-sand dunes. Camels are extremely diligent and have the ability to survive harsh desert conditions, making them an efficient mode of transportation for both passengers and goods. The Sahara region offers an eclectic mix of charming local towns and magnificent gorges, and many areas are set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, so you can admire breathtaking views while taking a camel ride and soaking up the Nomad lifestyle.

Take a spiritual journey to the summit of Mount Sinai

Mount Sinai is one of the most prominent peaks in Egypt, set adjacent to the country’s highest mountain – Mount Catherine. This summit carries a great religious significance as the prime location of divine revelation in the biblical story, where God was believed to have shown himself in front of Moses to give him the tablets of stone in which the Ten Commandments were inscribed. Mount Sinai is considered an important pilgrimage destination for the three monotheistic religions that evokes spiritual self-discovery and healing. If you’re not keen on mountain climbing, you can step inside the Saint Catherine Monastery, set at the foot of the mountain, where the burning bush is presumed to have appeared.

Archaeological Sites

Northern Africa is blessed with natural and architectural wonders, with numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites spread across the region. Besides these, the region boasts several archeological sites, where traces of past human behaviour and activity were detected. These sites feature well-preserved artefacts, molecular evidence, and structural ruins – now serving as a fascinating reminder of life and survival during the ancient times. Unearth the mysteries and stories of the past in these famous archaeological sites in Northern Africa: 

 

  • The Valley of the Kings and the Valley of the Queens, two separate sites where the pharaohs of New Egypt and their wives are buried

  • The archeological site of Carthage in Tunisia, home to the ruins from the Carthaginian period that echo a glorious but tormented past

  • The Pyramids of Giza are perhaps the most iconic and well-sought after of all these archeological sites – a testament to the ancient Egyptian glorification of life after death

Northern Africa Cruises FAQs

How long would a cruise to Africa take?

An Africa cruise typically lasts 10 days, which usually embark in Cape Town or Durban in South Africa. However, shorter and longer itineraries are also available as per your schedule and desired length of stay.

What are the countries in Northern Africa?

The UN sub-region of Northern Africa countries comprises Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, Sudan, and the territory of Western Sahara.

What are the must-see destinations in Northern Africa?

Northern Africa packs a punch of remarkable destinations for every kind of traveller. Some of the most famous ones that you can consider including your cruise itinerary are the Sahara Desert, the Pyramids of Giza and Valley of the Kings and Queens in Egypt, and the Atlas Mountains and Hassan II Mosque in Morocco.

When is the best time to go on a Northern Africa cruise?

The shoulder seasons of spring and fall are the most ideal time to go on a Northern Africa cruise for pleasant weather and lesser crowds. This falls in the months of March to May and September to November.

Why take a Northern Africa cruise?

A cruise to Northern Africa offers a wide selection of extraordinary shore excursion experiences, from visiting classical sites and stunning mosques to exploring rolling desert sands and majestic mountains. Your days at sea will also be filled with comfort and entertainment, with a variety of onboard activities and amenities to enjoy.

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