THE CAPE VERDE ISLANDS

A Portuguese colony for more than 400 years, the Cape Verde Islands seduce visitors with a vibrant Creole culture expressed in brightly colorful villages, a delicious sea-based gastronomy and warmly hospitable local folks. Lying 100 miles off the West African coast, islands such as Santo Antão boast spectacular volcanic landscapes and small isolated villages tucked into mountainous niches. Festive São Vicente and its main town of Mindelo is a magnet for Cape Verdians; the island’s annual Carnival rivals many of the world’s similar better-known events. Santo Antão, São Vicente and Sal Island—the Group Rendezvous site—are visited during a 5-day stay.

THE GAMBIA

The tiny nation of The Gambia makes a deep salient into Senegal, hugging the shores of the Gambia River that penetrates West Africa. Banjul, the capital and our Rendezvous point, lies at the mouth of the Gambia River a short drive from a string of impressive Atlantic Ocean beaches. On land and by comfortable private river boat explore nature reserves and upriver national parks rich with wildlife—Gambia is a West African birding mecca with more than 400 species and a mid-river island notable for accessible wild chimpanzees. Days will be spent observing and photographing wildlife with an emphasis on birds. River travel during the 7-day visit will include stops to meet traditional Gambians in their riverside villages.

JOURNEY DETAILS: Trip length is 14 days starting with the Group Rendezvous on 3November in Santa Maria, Sal Island at 1800 at the designated hotel and ending in Banjul, The Gambia on 16November. Land cost is $4,550 per person double-occupancy (single-occupancy extra). International & domestic airfares are not included. Accommodations are 4-star hotels in the cities, best-available in the countryside. Maximum group size is 6 persons. Upon receipt of the 10% deposit Calidex will forward the complete trip information package: day-by-day itinerary, lodgings, site maps & photos, “must book” flight information, suggested equipment & clothing, health issues, visa procurement, payment schedule and other important items. Please click on contact at top of page to discuss the trip in additional detail.