Roots of the Atlantic: Portugal, Morocco and the Canary Islands

Arrive in Lisbon on an overnight flight. The capital of Portugal, Lisbon maintains a reputation as one of Europe’s most vibrant and charismatic cities, with captivating history, art, culture and delectable cuisine. Transfer from the airport to the city and spend the day exploring at your own pace. Check in with the hospitality desk this afternoon before embarking the <i>National Geographic Endurance </i>in the late afternoon.  <b>Arrival time: </b>Arrive before 3:00 p.m. local time. <br /><b>Arrival City: </b>Lisbon, Portugal

First settled by the Romans, Setúbal offers a blend of the past cultures and modern life in a lovely Portuguese town by the sea. Enjoy a walking tour and relax in the town square over a cup of coffee and a pastel de Nata. Alternatively, spend the morning exploring the natural beauty of Arrábida Natural Park which is home to some of Portugal’s most spectacular beaches. 

Meaning ‘White House’ in Spanish, Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and a hub of industry on Africa’s west coast. The architecture of the city is an eclectic blend of influences from the Moors, French, Art Deco era and more. Explore the bustling Old Medina, alive with activity and an array of whitewashed buildings on twisting cobbled streets. Stroll along the Corniche, the popular boardwalk by the sea. Witness the vast beauty of Hassan II Mosque, built on an outcrop jutting out over the ocean.  

Nestled between the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Agadir is one of Morocco’s most modern cities. Destroyed by a major earthquake in 1960, the city has been rebuilt to its current vitality while still maintaining a rich history. A beautiful example of this is La Medina d’Agadir which was recreated in the 1990s using traditional Berber methods. Overlooking the city, The Kasbah is one of the few structures to survive the quake. Hike to the top to take in the stunning views and medieval architecture of this fortress. Alternatively, spend time exploring Souss-Massa where birders will delight in the many species who call this region’s estuaries, grassy dunes and shoreside habitats home.  

Arrive in enchanting Madeira, a subtropical island abloom in flora. First settled by the Portuguese in 1419, the island’s capital city of Funchal is filled with a trove of architecture from the 15th through the 19th centuries. Spend the day exploring the winding streets on a guided tour.  

Drop anchor in the azure waters of the Canary Islands, which occupied a central place in the history of Atlantic exploration. The island of La Palma is known as La Isla Bonita, or “the pretty island,” for its lushly forested mountain slopes set against crystal-clear waters. More recently, the island experienced volcanic activity that gave birth to the Atlantic ridge. Take in fantastic island views and experience the contrasts between the lush hillsides and the newly created lava moonscape.  Then visit Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. Explore the winding streets of the historic district or hike the trails of the Teide National Park–a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the impressive Mount Teide, the highest volcanic peak in Spain.  

Soak up the serenity of these days at sea as the ship sails south across the Tropic of Cancer. Visit the Bridge to learn about navigation from your captain, enjoy time in the spa, listen to one of the amazing staff presentations or relax with a book on the observation deck.  

Today, arrive at Sao Filipe, the capital city on the western side of the island of Fogo. The striking landscape here has been shaped and transformed by lava flows from its namesake volcano, Pico do Fogo, most recently in 2015. Visit Portela, one of the villages that was swallowed up by lava in that eruption. The locals have since reclaimed the land, rebuilding and restoring their restaurants, shops and homes.  

Start the day in this island paradise with a walking tour of the old town center or “Plateau.” Learn about the island's rich history as you discover the colonial influence on the architecture of the Presidential Palace and Main Square. Explore the open-air market where displays of local fruits and vegetables are works of natural art.   Travel via bus to Cidade Velha, the historic center of Ribeira Grande and the first city built by the Portuguese in Africa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ruins tell the story of the buildings that protected the city against pirates, provided sanctuary within the cathedral and convent and supported everyday life with the thatched roofs of Banana Street. 

Following a day at sea, arrive early evening in the capital of Senegal, Dakar a city often referred to as the cultural center of French-speaking West Africa. You’ll discover a mosaic of traditions, cuisines, dance and architecture along with Senegalese music which is a blend of many ethnic influences. Enjoy an onboard concert from local musicians for a sample of this lively, invigorating sound.  Explore the remains of the colonial architecture of Île<i> </i>de Goree (Goree Island), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and center of slave trade to the Americas. Test your bartering skills at the massive Sandaga Market where you can find local crafts, textiles and more. Spend some quiet time exploring Dakar Grand Mosque, built by French and Moroccan architects. Adorned in glazed Moroccan tiles, it’s one of the most important religious centers in the city. 

Disembark in Dakar and transfer to the airport for flights home.  <b>Departure Time:</b> Depart after 12:00 p.m. local time. <br /><b>Departure City:</b> Dakar, Senegal