Baia dos Tigres, Angola

Once a bustling fishing village, Baía dos Tigres is now an abandoned island reclaimed by nature.

An aerial view of the dramatic, untouched landscape where the vast golden sand dunes of the Namib Desert meet the powerful blue waves of the Atlantic Ocean in Angola, Africa.

Overview

Baia dos Tigres, Angola Cruise Port

Baia dos Tigres, or Tiger Bay, is an extraordinary and remote destination off the southern coast of Angola, exclusively visited by expedition cruise ships. Once a thriving Portuguese fishing village, São Martinho dos Tigres, it became a desolate ghost town when a severe storm in 1962 severed its land connection and freshwater supply, transforming it into an island. Today, this isolated locale offers a haunting glimpse into history set against a backdrop of dramatic desert dunes meeting the pristine Atlantic Ocean.

A visit to Baia dos Tigres focuses on exploring the eerie remnants of the abandoned settlement, witnessing the incredible power of nature reclaiming man-made structures, and appreciating the raw, untamed beauty of the Angolan coastline. A cruise stop here promises a unique blend of historical intrigue and adventurous exploration in one of Africa's most untouched and evocative coastal environments.

Top Things to Do in Baia dos Tigres, Angola

Explore the Ghost Town of São Martinho dos Tigres

Step ashore to wander through the captivating ghost town of São Martinho dos Tigres. See the decaying structures of a once-thriving fishing community, including remnants of houses, a church, and industrial buildings, all slowly being reclaimed by the desert sands and the elements.

Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for walking over uneven ground and through sand. Be respectful of the abandoned buildings.

Witness the Lighthouse and Abandoned Infrastructure

Discover the Ponta da Marca Lighthouse, still standing as a sentinel, and observe the visible signs of the island's abandonment, such as old fishing boats, vehicles, and pieces of the former infrastructure that once supported this remote outpost.

Tip: The contrast of the decaying structures against the vast, empty landscape offers profound photographic opportunities.

Observe the Unique Desert-Coastal Landscape

Appreciate the striking natural phenomenon where the Namib Desert's vast dunes meet the Atlantic Ocean. The area around Baia dos Tigres showcases incredible coastal geology and the powerful interaction between sand, wind, and sea.

Tip: The sheer scale and desolation of the landscape are truly impressive. Look for unique desert flora adapted to the harsh conditions.

Zodiac Cruising Around the Bay and Island

Take a Zodiac cruise around the island of Baia dos Tigres to gain a different perspective of its isolation and the dramatic coastline. Your expedition team may point out unique geological features or marine life in the surrounding waters.

Tip: This offers excellent opportunities for wide-angle photography of the island's desolate beauty from the water.

Coastal Birdwatching

Keep an eye out for coastal birdlife that inhabits this remote stretch of the Angolan coast. While the focus is often on the ghost town, the area's isolation means it can attract various seabirds and waders.

Tip: Bring binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.

Reflect on a Story of Isolation and Resilience

Engage with your expedition team's historical insights into Baia dos Tigres. Understanding the human story of this remote settlement, its rise and dramatic fall, adds a compelling layer to your visit, making it more than just a tour of ruins.

Tip: Attend onboard lectures prior to your visit to fully appreciate the context and significance of this unique location.

Overview