Emerald: Through Savannah and Tropical Paradises
Imagine starting your journey surrounded by the wild sounds of the African savannah and ending it sailing among the granite islands of the Indian Ocean, kissed by turquoise waters and sugar-white sands.
The “Safari and the Seychelles” cruise, part of Emerald Cruises‘ 2026/2027 season, is far more than just a holiday – it’s a transformative 16-day experience that blends the vibrant energy of Kenya with the disarming serenity of the Seychelles. A perfect balance of adventure and escape, this itinerary is designed for those seeking the authenticity of Africa’s wide open spaces and the uncompromising luxury of a boutique cruise through unspoiled islands.
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The journey begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s colorful and dynamic capital, where the rhythm and warmth of East Africa are immediately felt. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by an expert guide who will accompany them throughout this extraordinary adventure. The overnight stay in Nairobi serves as a gentle introduction to the days ahead: an immersive experience filled with breathtaking landscapes and close encounters with some of the continent’s most iconic wildlife. On the second day, the journey heads north to the remote and captivating Samburu region. In this semi-arid landscape dotted with rocky hills and sandy rivers, the first true safari begins. Large elephant herds are drawn to the water, but what makes Samburu truly unique is its northern endemic wildlife – such as the reticulated giraffe, Somali ostrich, and Grevy’s zebra. Beyond the wildlife, it’s the local culture that stands out: a visit to a Samburu village offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life and deep-rooted traditions of this land-connected community.
Next is Lake Nakuru National Park, one of the best locations in Africa to spot both black and white rhinos, along with a stunning variety of other species – lions, buffalos, zebras, Rothschild giraffes, and countless birds. Here, the savannah meets the lake’s alkaline waters, creating an unforgettable natural tableau. The African sunset is celebrated with drinks and canapés as the sky glows fiery red. The following day brings a moving experience: a visit to the Mission in Action Orphanage, a humanitarian project founded by an Australian family providing shelter and education to children in need. After this touching interlude, the journey enters the very heart of African wildlife: the Masai Mara Reserve. This is the land of the Great Migration, endless plains, and legendary predators. The next three days are entirely dedicated to game drives – morning and afternoon – in search of the renowned “Big Five”: lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Scenes of hunts, animal interactions, and the timeless beauty of the landscape leave a deep imprint on every traveler.
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On day eight, guests return to Nairobi for a cultural visit to the Giraffe Centre and the Karen Blixen Museum, former home of the famous Out of Africa author. The day ends with a dinner at the iconic Carnivore Restaurant, renowned for its open-air grill experience, before boarding a night flight to Mahé, in the Seychelles archipelago. Here, the pace and atmosphere shift entirely. From the adrenaline of safari to the relaxing calm of island-hopping. In Mahé, the largest of the Seychelles islands, guests board their luxury Emerald Cruises yacht and begin a voyage that is a true celebration of natural beauty.
The first stop is Sainte Anne Island, nestled within a protected marine park and home to abundant underwater life. Its coral reefs host over 150 species of tropical fish, and Hawksbill turtles are often seen nesting on the beaches. In the afternoon, the cruise continues to Cousin Island, a nature reserve and sanctuary for rare seabirds and endangered species like the elusive Seychelles fody. Here, nature reigns supreme, and strict conservation rules ensure the protection of this fragile ecosystem.
The journey continues to Praslin, the jewel of the archipelago, famed for its primeval rainforest – the Vallée de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking beneath the towering coco de mer palms feels like stepping into a prehistoric world. Praslin’s beaches, like Anse Lazio, rank among the most photographed on Earth, while the coral reefs invite guests to dive or snorkel among colorful fish and graceful sea turtles.
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Next is La Digue, a tranquil island where bicycles are the main mode of transport. Famous for Anse Source d’Argent, with its pink-hued sand and artistically sculpted granite boulders, La Digue offers a dreamlike escape where time seems to stand still. Curieuse Island follows – the land of giants. Hundreds of Aldabra tortoises roam its untamed landscape, and the island still holds traces of its colonial past in the remnants of an old quarantine station. As with the rest of the itinerary, nature is respected and protected in every detail.
Aride Island, the cruise’s penultimate stop, is a naturalist’s paradise and a haven for birdwatchers. With over thirty rare bird species – including the Seychelles warbler and the storm petrel – Aride is a sanctuary of biodiversity, adorned with untouched beaches and dramatic cliffs. The final two days are devoted to relaxation in Mahé, exploring the trails of Morne Seychellois National Park, wandering through Victoria – one of the world’s smallest capitals – and swimming in crystalline waters.
The Safari and the Seychelles tour is a rare and perfectly balanced combination of exploration and luxury, wild landscapes and tropical seas. An exclusive experience, meticulously crafted for travelers who seek not just to see the world, but to live it fully and deeply.
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