Exploring West Africa's Traditional Cultures & Hidden Nature Reserves

This is the West Africa that few travelers have experienced. Tourism, on a large scale, would destroy these authentic cultures. We must have a small footprint. And that's only possible aboard a ship like the 34-guest yacht Callisto.

Even for a lifetime adventurer, the Bijagos Archipelago is one of the most obscure places in the world.

Few people outside anthropological or conservationist circles have ever heard of this tropical 88-island chain off the coast of Guinea-Bissau, in West Africa.

The inhabitants of the islands practice an animist religion. Nature is holy to them, and many places are considered sacred, much as they had been in prehistoric times when the Bijagos people settled the islands (believed to be around 9000 b.c.) Such beliefs have helped to preserve the rich biodiversity and abundant wildlife of the islands, which have been declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

We will spend three days in this "undiscovered" archipelago, viewing the wildlife, including the rare saltwater hippos found only on Orango Island, and meet with the friendly Bijagos people and learn about their ancient culture and traditions.

Itinerary Highlights:
Our three days in the Bijagos Archipelago are only one of the highlights of this unique voyage. Also sail up Senegal's Saloum River and visit the fishing village of Joal-Fadiout, entirely constructed from crushed seashells. Take in the exuberant musical traditions of Dakar, weave through riverine forests in The Gambia where colobus monkeys gambol, and venture to the gorgeous, isolated Soumba Waterfalls of Guinea. Witness the marvelous songs and dances of Guinea and feel the pulse of life in the region's cities.

Program Inclusions *10-night cruise aboard the 34-guest private yacht Callisto *Day rooms in Freetown at the Hotel Kimbima or in Dakar at the Hotel Pullman Dakar Teranga *Complete program of tours and excursions *Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions aboard ship *All meals aboard ship, including house wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner *Open bar aboard ship throughout the cruise *Educational program of lectures and discussions by accompanying lecturers and expedition staff *Professional Travel Dynamics International tour staff *Complete pre-departure materials *Baggage handling and transfers abroad on the designated program arrival and departure dates *Port and embarkation taxes *Gratuities to porters, guides, and drivers

Multiple departures

10 nights

Max Group Size: 34

Accomodations: ship cabin Callisto

$10,995 to $13,995 USD per person based on twin

DETAILED ITINERARY