Cruise Le Dumont d Urville: Madagascar, Southern Africa departing from Durban

The port :

The port of Durban, a jewel on the Indian Ocean, is a major maritime crossroads in South Africa. Located just 3 kilometers from the bustling city center, it offers quick and easy access by cab or public transport. This port, bathed in warm ocean waters, is the ideal place to start your exploration of South Africa's east coast.

What to visit in Durban

Durban, an enchanting coastal city, is famous for its Golden Mile, a golden beach lined with palm trees and activities. Don't miss the moving Apartheid Museum, which traces an essential part of the country's history. The Durban Botanical Gardens, a haven of peace and greenery, offer a natural escape in the heart of the city. For shopping and culture lovers, the Indian market is a must, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage.

What to visit in the surrounding area

On the outskirts of Durban, the Umhlanga Rocks Nature Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers, with its sandy beaches and diverse wildlife. Further afield, the Valley of a Thousand Hills offers breathtaking scenery, combining rolling green hills and Zulu traditions. For a unique experience, a visit to the town of Pietermaritzburg, with its colonial architecture and bustling markets, is highly recommended.

The port :

Richards Bay, on South Africa's northeast coast, is a vibrant port surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Visit the Alkantstrand Water Park for a relaxing day on the beaches. Explore the Umlalazi Nature Reserve, where you can spot mangroves, exotic birds and maybe even crocodiles. Enjoy safari excursions to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, where you'll have the chance to see the Big Five. Richards Bay is also an ideal base for discovering Zulu culture and the surrounding traditional villages.

Richards Bay, on South Africa's northeast coast, is a vibrant port surrounded by beautiful natural scenery. Visit the Alkantstrand Water Park for a relaxing day on the beaches. Explore the Umlalazi Nature Reserve, where you can spot mangroves, exotic birds and maybe even crocodiles. Enjoy safari excursions to the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, where you'll have the chance to see the Big Five. Richards Bay is also an ideal base for discovering Zulu culture and the surrounding traditional villages.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Tuléar, or Toliara in Madagascar, welcomes you with its sunny climate and splendid beaches. Explore the baobab forest and Tsimanampetsotsa National Park, renowned for its pink flamingos. Diving and snorkeling are exceptional in Anakao, offering a colorful spectacle of coral reefs. Don't miss the local market for unique handicrafts. Enjoy fresh seafood and romazava, a traditional Malagasy dish.

Morondava, located on Madagascar's west coast, is known for its iconic baobabs and picturesque landscapes. Visit the Allée des Baobabs, where these majestic trees form an almost supernatural landscape. Morondava is also the gateway to Kirindy National Park, a biodiversity hotspot with unique wildlife, including lemurs and fossas. The town itself has a relaxed atmosphere, with tranquil beaches and a peaceful pace of life. Morondava is a captivating destination for discovering Madagascar's unique nature and culture.

Sailing days are the ideal opportunity to take advantage of the facilities available. Depending on the ship, you'll have access to pools, whirlpools, spas, gyms and theaters, ensuring relaxation and entertainment for all.

Mahajanga, also known as Majunga, is a vibrant port city in Madagascar. Located on the northwest coast, it is famous for its lively waterfront, the Bord, where locals and tourists mingle to enjoy the sea breeze and views over the Mozambique Channel. The city offers a fascinating cultural mix, with colonial architecture and colorful markets. Nearby attractions include the Cirque Rouge, an impressive geological formation, and the Ankarafantsika National Park, rich in biodiversity.

Nosy Komba, a volcanic island near Nosy Be in Madagascar, is famous for its lemur population and traditional villages. The island, often referred to as "lemur island", allows visitors to see these fascinating creatures up close. The black sand beaches and warm waters are perfect for relaxing and diving. Nosy Komba is also known for its handicrafts, notably embroidery and woodcarving.

Nosy Hara, a marine national park in Madagascar, is an archipelago of spectacular limestone formations. These islets offer unique landscapes with steep cliffs and baobab forests. The marine ecosystem is rich, making Nosy Hara a prime site for diving and snorkeling. Terrestrial and avian fauna are also abundant.

Nosy-Bé, nicknamed "l'île aux parfums", is a major tourist destination in Madagascar. With its white sandy beaches, warm waters and the scent of ylang-ylang, it offers an idyllic setting. The island combines adventure and relaxation, offering a variety of activities such as diving, hiking in the Lokobe forest and discovering the local culture. Nosy-Bé is also a starting point for exploring neighboring islands.