Exploring Africa & the Middle East by Cruise
Cruising Africa and the Middle East introduces you to a region where ancient history, vibrant cultures, and diverse landscapes come together. From the pyramids of Egypt and the markets of Morocco to the wildlife reserves of South Africa and the futuristic skyline of Dubai, each port offers a unique lens into this part of the world.
Because distances are vast and overland travel can be complex, a cruise is one of the most convenient ways to experience these destinations. It allows you to explore iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and local traditions across multiple countries in one journey—all while returning to the comfort of your ship each evening.
Why Cruise Travel is Ideal for Africa & the Middle East
Independent travel in Africa and the Middle East often requires long flights, extended road journeys, and significant logistics. Cruising simplifies the process, giving you direct access to major ports and cultural centers without the need for constant repacking.
Cruises here often include overnight stays in ports such as Dubai, Cape Town, or Safaga (for Luxor), giving you the opportunity to explore both during the day and into the evening. Many itineraries also feature scenic sailing, such as along the Nile Delta, through the Suez Canal, or around the southern tip of Africa.
If you want to explore iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and diverse cultures in one journey, cruising provides an efficient, comfortable, and enriching way to do so.
Highlights of Africa & the Middle East Cruises
- Ancient History: Visit the pyramids of Giza, Petra in Jordan, and temples along the Nile.
- Cultural Traditions: Explore bustling souks in Morocco, taste Middle Eastern cuisine in Oman, or enjoy Cape Malay flavors in South Africa.
- Wildlife Encounters: Join safaris in South Africa, game drives in Kenya or Tanzania, or birdwatching excursions along coastal wetlands.
- Modern Cities: Experience Dubai’s futuristic skyline, Abu Dhabi’s cultural attractions, and Cape Town’s waterfront.
- Scenic Sailing: Sail the Suez Canal, round the Cape of Good Hope, or explore remote Indian Ocean islands like Seychelles or Madagascar.
- Island Landscapes: Discover the Canary Islands, where volcanic terrain, black- and golden-sand beaches, and Spanish-meets-African culture create a distinctive atmosphere.
Africa & Middle East Itinerary Routes and Ports
North Africa and the Mediterranean Coast: Itineraries may include ports in Morocco (Casablanca, Tangier), Tunisia, and Egypt (Alexandria or Safaga for Luxor). The Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote) are also frequent calls, often paired with Morocco or included on longer repositioning sailings.
Middle East and Arabian Gulf: Cruises often depart from Dubai or Abu Dhabi and include ports such as Muscat (Oman), Doha (Qatar), and Bahrain. Longer itineraries may extend through the Red Sea toward Egypt and Jordan.
East Africa and Indian Ocean: Ports may include Mombasa (Kenya), Zanzibar (Tanzania), and Indian Ocean islands such as Mauritius, Seychelles, and Madagascar.
Southern Africa: Cruises along the South African coast often stop in Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha), and Richards Bay, sometimes extending north toward Mozambique.
Grand Voyages: Longer sailings may combine multiple regions, connecting the Middle East, Africa, and even Asia or Europe as part of repositioning or world cruises.
Best Times to Cruise Africa & the Middle East and Weather Insights
The best time to cruise varies by region, but most itineraries operate in cooler, drier months when conditions are more comfortable.
Middle East (October to April): This is the prime season for Arabian Gulf cruises, with pleasant temperatures ideal for sightseeing. Summers can be extremely hot.
- Typical Temperatures: 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C)
North Africa (October to April): Comfortable weather for exploring Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia. Summers are often very hot inland.
- Typical Temperatures: 65°F–80°F (18°C–27°C)
Southern & East Africa (November to March): Best for wildlife viewing and coastal exploration in South Africa, Kenya, and Tanzania.
- Typical Temperatures: 70°F–85°F (21°C–29°C)
Indian Ocean Islands (Year-Round, Peak May to October): Cruises to Seychelles, Mauritius, and Madagascar are possible year-round, though May to October brings the most comfortable conditions.
- Typical Temperatures: 75°F–85°F (24°C–29°C)
Canary Islands (Year-Round): Mild subtropical climate makes these islands a year-round cruise destination.
- Typical Temperatures: 65°F–80°F (18°C–27°C)
Cruising in Africa and the Middle East is especially rewarding if you’re interested in combining iconic landmarks, cultural discovery, and natural wonders in one journey. These itineraries often involve longer flights to embarkation ports, but once there, a cruise offers a practical and enriching way to experience this diverse part of the world.
