Africa

Stunning Natural Features: The continent of Africa holds a variety of striking landscapes and great beauty, like Cape Town’s Table Mountain, Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Crater, and Namibia’s salt pan and sand dunes.

Beaches: Some of the best stretches are on the Indian Ocean, especially the gorgeous, wide, white sands along the coast of Zanzibar and out on the islands of the Seychelles.

Wildlife: Many itineraries include optional overland excursions to the continent's many game preserves. You'll see a greater quantity of wildlife here than you could see anywhere else in the world — from lions to elephants, leopards, cheetahs, rhinos, and those menacing-looking Cape buffalo. 

Cape Town, South Africa: Cruising into this gorgeous port is up there with the harbors of Rio de Janeiro and Sydney. Travel to the top of Table Mountain for incredible views of the city and the cape. If you have time, book a trip out to wine country to sample the area's famous Pinotage.

Zanzibar, Tanzania: Set on the Indian Ocean, this tropical city has many narrow lanes to wander, lined with carved doorways, mosques, and bazaars.

Be Flexible: Political instability, conflict, and disease can lead cruise lines to avoid certain countries and ports at times. If your itinerary changes, trust it's for a good reason.