The Canaries, lands of contrast

In the Canaries archipelago, the volcanic islands rise from the Atlantic Ocean like mirages. In these lands of a thousand contrasts, lunar landscapes with crimson and ashen reflections, valleys covered in lush vegetation, craggy coves and sand dunes blend beautifully.  At the heart of these majestic islands, where nature reigns supreme, PONANT invites you to enjoy a surprising interlude on this 8-day cruise aboard l'Austral.

Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. Throughout your journey, you will benefit from an excursion included per person per port of call, to choose from a selection offered by PONANT. During this cruise, admire the volcanic and verdant landscapes of Santa Cruz de La Palma, explore the Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from La Gomera, or discover the interior of the lava tubes of the Cueva del Viento, or "Wind Cave", from Los Cristianos. The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).The diversity of experiences on offer promises you intense and varied moments (to discover the full range of excursions, go to the itinerary tab).

Your cruise will start on the island of Gran Canaria in Las Palmas, then l'Austral will take to the sea, sailing to Lanzarote, or the Island of Fire. This inspiring, enigmatic and mysterious island reveals itself in a captivating setting composed of majestic peaks, volcanic vineyards and pristine national parks. It is also renowned for its many volcanic tunnels and caves offering unique moments in a fascinating underground world.

The neighbouring island of Fuerteventura lies a little further south. In Puerto del Rosario, admire the old town and its Canarian-style houses, take in the exceptional panoramas formed by its emblematic sand dunes and go hiking to discover the biodiversity of the island.

Your ship will sail westward to reach the vibrant seaside town of Los Cristianos. Succumb to the charms of its atmosphere unlike any other, its mythical Mount Teide, the highest mountain in Spain, and its long stretches of fine sand lapped by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic.

Next, Santa Cruz de La Palma will invite you to spend a moment suspended in time. Here, the accent is on authenticity and tranquillity as you succumb to the charms of its unspoilt nature and its unusual architectural heritage featuring traditional Canarian houses with brightly-coloured wooden balconies, sumptuous palaces, and religious buildings.

You will journey onward to El Hierro, the smallest of the Canary Islands. Among other activities, in this peaceful and tranquil haven scattered with volcanic desert and forests of pine and laurel, you will be able to enjoy these vast, untouched, lush spaces during a discovery tour of the island on an electric bike.

L'Austral will then drop anchor at?La Gomera. This tiny island with lush vegetation is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its biosphere reserve. This island is also renowned for its whistling language,?Silbo, that the inhabitants use to communicate from one valley to another. 

Finally, you will visit Las Palmas, on Gran Canaria Island, the final port of call on your Canarian cruise.