Wild coasts, unspoilt mountain worlds, rugged desert and volcanic landscapes: the Macaronesian islands off the coast of Africa live up to their name, which translates as “happy islands”. Madeira, the “garden of Europe”, beguiles visitors with vegetation of all shapes and colours. Get to know the island’s stunning interior on a levada hike* – the narrow paths along the water channels reveal pristine nature in all its glory. Take an evening city tour in a tukxi through Funchal* or explore Madeira’s capital at your own pace. Mingle with the islanders and see out the day in one of the many cafes. Take an all-terrain vehicle tour of Madeira* and marvel at the fantastic panoramic views of the rugged hinterland.

The landscape of Selvagem Grande is also strictly protected – the largest of the “wild islands” can only be reached on a small expedition ship like the HANSEATIC nature.

After the isolation of the Ilhas Selvagens, you will be welcomed to the Canary Islands by Santa Cruz de la Palma, an idyllic harbour town with Spanish charm nestled on the edge of the crater of a mighty, extinct volcano. Old houses in the colonial style and elaborate wooden balconies covered in beautiful flowers offer fantastic photo opportunities and entice you to spend your evening wandering the narrow alleys. At the heart of the island, Caldera de Taburiente National Park* was formed by a huge volcanic caldera. 

The primeval force of volcanoes can also be felt on El Hierro. Head off the beaten track and enjoy a fascinating island tour* or a hike through eucalyptus and pine forests* to elevated San Andres.

Silent bays, fertile valleys and a stunning mountain backdrop – get a true expedition feeling on Cape Verde. Despite its rich diversity and tropical magic, this island paradise remains an insider tip. Take a walking tour of Mindelo* on Sao Vicente and immerse yourself in life on Cape Verde, where the African influence is unmistakeable: smell the exotic scents, hear the music in the air and listen to the women loudly selling their wares at the market. Kriolu is the islands’ conversational language, and is used to trade and haggle. The excursion to Mindelo and Baia das Gatas* takes you to the impressive Monte Verde and the bizarre lava formations in the “bay of cats”. Go off-road* on a jeep tour along Sao Vicente’s exciting north coast. From Porto Novo, hike the pristine island of Santo Antao* with its fertile Paul Valley – a paradise for nature lovers. A scenic journey* on old trading routes will present diverse vegetation, deep valleys and rugged rock formations at every turn. The volcanic island of Fogo presents a fascinating contrast. This entire island in the south of the archipelago is a mighty volcano surrounding the Pico do Fogo, the highest mountain on Cape Verde. Discover bizarre lava formations in the fire island’s volcanic landscape* that will come to resemble figures as your imagination takes flight. On the coast you will find black lava beaches scattered with colourful fishing boats, while a walk through Sao Filipe* allows you to immerse yourself in island life. Which island will make you happy?