Islands of the Atlantic: West Africa to Lisbon, exploring the Canary & Madeira Islands

Funchal Botanical Gardens in Madeira island, Portugal

Islands of the Atlantic: West Africa to Lisbon, exploring the Canary & Madeira Islands

May 01 - 12, 2025

Length: 12 days

Region(s): Africa, Europe

Activity Level: Activity indicator paw

Type: Cruise, Ocean Cruise

Delving into the natural and cultural history of West Africa and the Canary & Madeira islands, this cruise offers an opportunity to learn about a fascinating part of the world that has been shaped both by the natural forces of geology and climate, and by the human forces of conquest and colonialism.

Operated by Thalassa Journeys

Tour Highlights

Travel with one of Cal Discoveries’ most sought-after lecturers, renowned UC Berkeley Professor Alex Filippenko, Distinguished Professor of Astronomy.
Cruise aboard the Swan Hellenic Diana, enjoying the ship’s elegant facilities.
Learn about the natural and cultural history of West Africa and the Canary & Madeira islands.
Visit the craft markets and Museum of African Arts in Dakar.
Visit La Laguna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the largest Canary Island, Tenerife and then the historic town of La Orotava, our gateway to Teide National Park, where we will visit the Teide Observatory, operated by the Canary Islands Institute of Astrophysics.
On the island of La Palma visit the Roque de los Muchachos Observatory, the highest elevation on the island and site of the world’s largest single aperture optical telescope.
Tour the beautiful monuments, the Botanical Garden, and visit the Museum of Sacred Art followed by a sampling of unique wine on the island of Madeira.
While on Porto Santo Island, tour Vila Baleira, including a visit to the house of Christopher Columbus, now a museum, and also explore the rest of the small tranquil island with its stunning long beach of fine golden sand.
If you would like to receive a PDF copy of this trip’s brochure, please click on the words “Brochure Request Form” under Additional Resources on this webpage.

Activity Level 3

What to expect: These trips feature long touring days with travel via motor coach, ship, zodiac, all-terrain vehicle, or train. Travelers are required to board transportation without assistance as well as stand and walk over uneven terrain for extended periods of time. Some tours may include optional higher-intensity activities and travel at higher altitudes with steep ascents and descents. Outings last four to six hours most days.

Suitable for: Travelers who are able to comfortably walk four to six miles, or 6,900–9,200 steps, each day.