Cruise off the western coast of La Palma to an area teeming with dolphins as well as whales. After driving across the island’s interior, you will head out on the Flipper, an open-air double-decker boat that offers uninterrupted views of Atlantic Ocean. More than two dozen species of cetaceans inhabit these waters at different times of the year, so the chance of spotting a variety of these carnivorous aquatic mammals is excellent. The onboard marine biologist with point out and describe the various species as they breach the water’s surface. You may observe easy-to-identify common cetaceans such as the resident bottlenose dolphins and lesser-known, rarer species that may include Gervais’s beaked whales. It all depends on the day. There is also plenty to see along the rugged coastline such as the La Fajana natural pools and Porís de Candelaria, a cluster of modest homes built into a rocky cliff around a sea cave.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Look for dolphins and whales while cruising off the western coast of La Palma.
• Be awed by the spectacle of seeing these aquatic mammals in their natural habitat.
• Hear fascinating commentary about the cetaceans from the onboard marine biologist.
• Pass unexpected coastal attractions such as natural sea pools and sea caves.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable closed or walking shoes.

Enjoy meeting the locals and being entertained by whimsical lemurs on this delightful tour to nearby Nosy Komba.

Board your local boat from the ship's gangway and cruise across the east coast of Nosy Be to Nosy Komba, passing the verdant Lokobe evergreen forest along the way. Reaching the fishing village of Ampangoriana, you will tender ashore (please note it is a "wet" landing) and then have a bit of time to mingle with the locals and browse for souvenirs. Approximately 500 yards from the village is the Black Lemur Sanctuary, home to Madagascar's most famous residents, the black lemurs. During your visit, you will have the opportunity to observe these lively creatures as they leap from tree to tree. The black lemurs are the males and the brown lemurs the females. Although these animals live in the wild, they are tame enough to be fed with bananas and their capricious behavior will no doubt be fun to watch.

Leaving the sanctuary, you will walk to a nearby snack bar where you will be treated to a light snack while relaxing in the shade of a Tamarind tree and taking in the wonderful views of the Lokobe Reserve and surrounding islands. During your break, the local Sakalava embroiders will give you a demonstration on tablecloth making and the village children will perform a brief folk show for you. Free time will be provided for you to stroll on the beach, shop for souvenirs or perhaps take a dip in the ocean.

At the conclusion of your visit, you will re-board your boat and cruise back to Nosy Be and your awaiting ship.

Visit a vanilla plantation and explore a stunning cirque on this fascinating tour that includes lunch and free time for shopping. Take a picturesque drive to Saint-Denis, the economic and political center of Réunion Island, and notice eye-catching colonial mansions and buildings that date back to the time of the East India Trading Company during the 18th century.

Driving through the Sainte-Marie region, you’ll view sugar cane fields, lush greenery and, further east, vibrantly hued Indian temples. At a fragrant vanilla plantation, relish a guided tour and informative demonstration of how the plant’s aromatic oil is produced. Continuing to the Cirque of Salazie, thrill to a route through the natural amphitheater that passes countless cascading waterfalls, verdant gardens and colorful flowers while you ascend to approximately 3,300 feet. You’ll capture amazing photos during a stop at Bridal Veil Falls, then enter the town of Hell-Bourg, named for a respected former admiral and island governor.

Take a walking tour past the village’s enchanting Creole houses and enjoy time on your own to shop before savoring a traditional lunch, a wonderful conclusion to your delightful exploration.

Become familiar with the agricultural practices of Ecofinca Nogales, an organic farm that grows fruits and vegetables using sustainable methods that respect the environment. While touring the family-operated farm, you will see firsthand how the produce is grown without chemicals that may damage the quality of the soil. Compost tea, livestock manure and plant debris are used as an organic fertilizer that over time improve the fertility of the land. The farm has also optimized its irrigation system to reduce water consumption and meticulously recorded its carbon footprint to see how it might be lessened. As a result, everything grown at Ecofinca Nogales is certified to be ecologically responsible and sustainable. The variety and distinct flavors of the produce may surprise you. During the tasting that follows the guided tour, you may sample Pinkerton avocados, Red Lady papayas and aubergines.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit an organic farm that strictly follows sustainable practices.
• See how the farm’s water consumption and carbon footprint have been reduced.
• Taste a variety of fruits and vegetables grown using traditional, eco-friendly methods.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

OVERVIEW

This extraordinary tour gives you the opportunity to view one of the world's most active volcanoes and the surrounding geological wonders. Departing the pier, you will enjoy a scenic drive along the coastline to Saint Pierre, where you will turn inland and begin your ascent to the high plateau of the Plaine des Cafres. Making your way inland, you will soon notice that the cooling freshness of the coast gives way to the natural heat of the volcano as you pass a landscape of heathers, gentians, small villages, pastures and lush forests. From the nearly 6800 ft. summit of the 'Nez de Boef', you can see down across the valley below with all of its geological surprises. This includes the gaping hole in the crater 'Commerson'. The splendid calderas created by the volcanoes are also referred to as amphitheaters and hold many amazing discoveries that delight geologists from around the world.Next, you will visit the viewpoint that overlooks the 'Plaine des Sables'. Marvel at this barren terrain that is strewn with volcanic rock and makes one think they have stepped from the surface of the Earth to that of the Moon. It is truly an incredible sight to behold. Continuing, you will reach 'Pas de Bellecombe', the main viewpoint for the Bory crater which rises up in front of you over 8600 feet. This advantageous viewpoint is situated on the top of a 492 foot high cliff that overlooks the volcanic valley which includes more than 60 smaller craters that are spread around the two main ones, Crater Bory and Crater Dolomieu. Before it's time to make the 2 and one-half hour journey back to the ship, you will be treated to lunch at a nearby restaurant.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ascend the Plaine des Cafres plateau, passing lush forests and small villages.
• Behold the Commerson Crater’s massive caldera from the approximately 6,800-foot summit of Nez de Boeuf.
• Take in magnificent views from the Pas de Bellecombe overlook atop an approximately 500-foot cliff.
• Marvel at a lunar-like volcanic valley showcasing over 60 small craters and the larger Bory and Dolomieu Craters.
• Refresh with a relaxing and tasty lunch at a specially selected restaurant.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, lightweight, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Experience the tropical charms of northwestern Nosy Be on this half-day tour of its key destinations.

Begin by boarding a coach in Hell Ville, the colonial capital of Nosy Be. The town's curious name pays homage to the 19th century French admiral Louis de Hell, who also served as governor of nearby Réunion Island. You'll soon see one of Hell Ville's liveliest spots, the market place, where locally grown vegetables, colorful fruits and exotic spices are all on display. Many of the merchants are Sakalava, the island's first inhabitants and most prevalent ethnic group.

From here, it's a drive through the luxuriant countryside, passing Malagasy villages and plantations. During brief stops in the fields, you will likely smell the aromas of the lush crops, which may include coffee, pepper and the coveted ylang-ylang, a tree whose flowers yield fragrant oil that is used in the making of perfumes. Ylang-ylang is so abundant that Nosy Be is often referred to as the Island of Perfumes.

Driving further into the countryside, you will see the unusual, balloon-shaped homes in Dzamandzar, the second largest city in Nosy Be. For a different perspective of the island, you'll stop at Mont Passot, an elevated area known for its stunning views of the Amparihibe crater lakes and the surrounding plantations.

Next, it's on to Madirokely Beach, considered one of the best on the island. If you like, you might take a quick dip in the turquoise waters, and then enjoy a beverage at the hotel.

Finally, you will make your way back to Hell Ville, where you may shop for Malagasy handicrafts, perfumes and embroidered tablecloths before returning to the ship.

Marvel at the stunning, volcanic landscape of southern La Palma, admire breathtaking views from the site of a 17th-century eruption, sample sweet local vintages at the island’s largest wine producer. Continue your tour travelling through lush vineyards and pine forests to the San Antonio volcano, which last erupted in the late 1600s. From the crater’s rim, behold the pretty town of Fuencaliente, which means “hot spring” even though the namesake inspiration was long ago destroyed by volcanic activity, and take in a spectacular view of the Teneguía volcano, which erupted more recently in 1971. At the Bodegas Teneguía, learn about the decadent malvasia grapes, which are allowed to become over-ripe for more sweetness and thrive in soil enriched by volcanic ash and lava. Savor an ambrosial taste of the fruit-saturated, aromatic wine produced in this somewhat unique terroir. You’ll long revel in the joys of this journey through an island inextricably tied to its volcanic past.

Travel through the breathtaking coast and towering mountains of northern La Palma and visit a luxuriant forest, savor local rum and behold shimmering natural swimming pools. In the quaint town of La Galga, glory in the majestic views from San Bartolo, a marvelous lookout wedged between two deep-cut gorges. Wind through incredible mountains to Los Tilos, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve blanketed by the largest and most pristine laurel forest in the Canary Islands. Keep watch for beautiful indigenous plants such as the orange-blossomed Canary bellflower and striking Strawberry Tree, so named because its edible fruits bring to mind bright strawberries.

Descending toward the coast, you'll pass sprawling banana plantations, important to the local economy, and make a stop at a charming rum distillery. Learn how the delicious spirit is derived from a variety of sugar cane introduced to the island from India in the 15th century, and delight in a sample. You'll thrill to a dazzling cluster of crystal-clear swimming pools in Charco Azul that were formed long ago by lava flows. Enjoy free time to amble along the coast or simply relax and cherish the awe-inspiring scenery, reflecting on the unforgettable natural beauty of the La Palma coast.

Explore the eastern side of the island with a visit to Marodoka and other notable landmarks on this excursion that combines both culture and relaxation.

Your tour begins with a leisurely drive to Marodoka that includes a photo stop along the way. The remains of this Arab-Indian village that originated in the 17th century features huge banyan trees that would seem to stand as a silent memorial to those that once lived here. During its prime, the village was bustling with activity and had a distinctive Arab, Indian and Swahili influence.

Leaving Marodoka, your next stop is at a ylang-ylang distillery where you will have learn how the oil is extracted from the flower and then used in the production of perfumes and lotions. A quick visit to the Zoo is an opportunity to see some resident lemurs, reptiles, chameleons and the orchid garden.

Continuing on, it's a stop at the Sacred Tree, one of the most important Sakalava cultural sites on the island, and from there, you will next make your way to the souvenir market. Here, a wide variety of goods that include intricate woodcarvings, embroideries, raffia baskets, seashells and spices are available for purchase.

As you begin your return to Hell Ville, a brief stop at one of Nosy Be's best beaches will be made. Enjoy a soft drink and folk performance at a beach hotel and perhaps take a stroll along the beach before re-boarding your coach for the final leg of your journey. Afterwards, transfer directly back to the cruise ship pier.

Admire the untamed natural beauty of Réunion Island on this beguiling tour that includes a visit to an aromatic garden and lunch.

Settle in for a leisurely 90-minute drive to Réunion’s south coast, reaching a rugged shoreline of volcanic rock that has been battered for centuries by the tumultuous sea. You’ll find dense vegetation and a primeval inland forest that stretches along the volcanic slopes and provides shelter for an abundance of avian species. Gaze in wonder at the stark Grand Brûlé, or Great Burn, which has been covered over the ages by successive lava flows and stands in dramatic testament to nature’s sometimes beautiful devastation.

After a delicious lunch of traditional dishes at a local restaurant, tour the Perfumes and Spices Garden, where you’ll be introduced to hundreds of native and exotic plants, an aromatic coda to your scenic and fragrance-filled day.

This tour serves to acquaint you with the island's main points of interest in a short amount of time.

Traveling from the pier, you will enjoy a drive around this delightful island which is also referred to as the perfume island due to the wonderful Ylang-Ylang trees that grow here. The oil from the flowers of the Ylang-Ylang tree are extracted and used in the making of perfumes and lotions. During your tour, a stop will be made at a Ylang-Ylang distillery where you can observe this process in action.

As you continue your exploration of the island, you will travel through Hell Ville and also view the island's sugar fields, fruit and spice plantations. You will also stop in Dzamandzar, the second largest town in Nosy Be, famous for its unique balloon shaped houses. Afer having the opportunity to interact with some local villagers, you will next make your way to Andilana Beach, considered the most beautiful beach in Nosy Be. Enjoy a soft drink and folk performance here at the Loulou Belvedere Restaurant. You will also have the opportunity for a refreshing swim in the crystal clear waters.

Finally, you will make your way back to the port, stopping en route for a chance to purchase some local souvenirs.

Uncover the charming history and breath-taking views of La Palma as you visit quaint mountain hamlets, quiet black sandy beaches and astonishing viewpoints. Travel to El Paso, which means “the pass,” a lovely village that lies just south of the awe-inspiring Caldera de Taburiente National Park. During your journey, behold the incredible terrain that, while starkly steep, is filled with fertile valleys dotted with picturesque farms. Driving along the Llano de Las Cuevas plain, observe the majanos, pyramid-shaped piles of stones, and walls constructed by 16th-century colonists as they cleared rocks from the land to prepare it for planting.

Appreciate how the landscape could be rough, beautiful, surprising, and spectacular, while reaching a viewpoint over the most recent volcano of the Island: Tajogaite, It was formed by an 85 days long eruption process that affected the island in 2021. The new volcano has created a new strip of land changing completely the landscape in the Aridane Valley. Next, drive back toward the coast to La Conception viewpoint to take in views of the capital of the Island before reaching the coast to admire the black Sandy beaches of Los Cancajos resort. Have some little time at leisure for a stroll around before reaching the viewpoint of Roque Alto for some breathing panoramic views before returning to pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Journey to enchanting El Paso, a town adjacent to the Caldera de Taburiente National Park
• Gaze at terrain that is ruggedly steep yet filled with fertile valleys boasting scenic farms and forests.
• See the Llano de Las Cuevas plain, where colonists piled stones to make the land arable.
• Explore the Island on a combinations of panoramic drives and easy walks
• See the new volcano that was formed by latest eruptions in 2021

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.