Norwegian Dawn stopped at four ports in South Africa, three of which offered safari experiences as shore excursions.
From Richard’s Bay, passengers could visit the iSimangasilo Wetland Park, home to elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, zebras and other classic African big game. The park is about an hour and a half drive from the port, and Norwegian’s shore excursion included two game drives, snorkeling and a traditional South African braai, or barbecue.
Just as cruise itineraries can sometimes be subject to last-minute changes, safaris are at the whim of wild animals. Sightings are not guaranteed, but patience and vigilance are often rewarded.
In Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), Norwegian Dawn’s passengers had the opportunity to visit Addo Elephant National Park, also about an hour and a half drive from the port.
As the name suggests, Addo is home to a huge and docile population of more than 600 elephants. These animals often congregate around watering holes accessible from well-worn safari tracks.
Even after a strong rainfall the night before the excursion, which allowed elephants to retreat into the bush and temporarily lessen their reliance on overtaxed wells, dozens of the creatures greeted visitors coming from the ship for two-hour game drives.
In Mossel Bay, passengers could also access private game reserves, which often have a higher concentration of wildlife roaming free, but sometimes include animals that are not directly indigenous to the area where they’re located.
Cape Town and the winelands
There’s more to Africa than safaris and Cape Town is an especially good place to experience metropolitan life and other kinds of outdoor activities on the continent.
South Africa’s legislative capital offers excellent hiking, a great foodie culture, beautiful (if slightly chilly) Atlantic beaches, penguins and more.
For travelers willing to explore beyond the city, South Africa’s wine country is close at hand in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and many vineyards offer tastings and meal experiences. One Norwegian excursion took passengers to the Blaauwklippen wine estate in Stellenbosch, which is best known for its Zinfandel.
