African Safari, Africa Vacations & Middle East Tours
Discover Our Africa Tours and Safaris
During the less-enlightened colonial period of the 19th century, Africa was referred to as the ‘Dark Continent,’ a name that evoked its undeniable mystery to the average outsider. How times have changed! Now easier than ever to visit, Africa remains a land filled with amazing travel experiences and opportunities, and there are African vacations to suit a wide variety of interests.
Africa Travel Highlights
Best African Safari Destinations
Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and boasts ‘The Big Five’ game sightings: the lion, the African elephant, the Cape buffalo, the leopard and the rhinoceros. Joining them are a myriad of other wildlife species and birds. An Africa safari here will be an unforgettable experience. There are literally over 100 game reserves in South Africa. Some of the better-known ones include Hluhluwe-Imfolozi, Addo Elephant Park, Madikwe and Pilanesberg.
Elsewhere in Southern Africa, Botswana, where most of the animals are allowed to roam freely, has some first-rate game reserves such as Chobe National Park, the Okavango Delta and Moremi National Park, all teeming with wildlife. In Zimbabwe, 12% of the country is devoted to either National Parks or Game Reserves suitable for Africa safari tours. The two principal wildlife reserves are Hwange which contains more than 30,000 elephants and Lake Kariba. Zambia has excellent game reserves such as South Luangwa National Park, which also boasts a large colony of elephants.
Abundant animal viewing is available on an East Africa safari. Both Kenya and Tanzania offer an array of wildlife on their savannah grassland plains. Safaris in East Africa tend to be on the wilder side. This is the home of the Great Migration, Serengeti National Park and Maasai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro.
African Beach Resorts
Two other considerations for either an après-safari sojourn or just a beach vacation are the Seychelles and Mauritius located in the Indian Ocean off the East African coast. The beaches are uncrowded with powder-soft sands nestled next to turquoise waters. For water sports enthusiasts, there are wonderful opportunities for snorkelling and scuba diving. Meanwhile, off the coast of Tanzania, Zanzibar offers an intoxicating blend of history, multiculturalism, and plentiful opportunities to relax by the Indian Ocean.
Choosing Which Country to Visit in Africa or the Middle East
From Cape Town to Cairo, Africa is a continent rich with diversity and natural beauty. It is home to some of the oldest civilizations on earth, and many of its most famous and impressive creatures and natural wonders. Journey on through the Middle East and the adventure continues! Here are some of our favourite Africa vacation spots.
South Africa
South Africa has been described as “A World in One Country.” It has been blessed with spectacular natural beauty, a great climate and diverse cultures. There are awesome mountain ranges such as the Drakensberg, subtropical forest, exceptional wetlands and bushveld alive with wild animals, all available on African vacations. Cape Town, a cosmopolitan and modern metropolis, is a premier contender for the world’s most beautiful city award with its natural setting sandwiched between the striking background of Table Mountain and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Best places to visit in South Africa
When it comes to exceptional coastal scenery, the Garden Route is hard to beat and stretches from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. It features lakes, lagoons, lush forests and rugged coastal scenery. Some of the major towns are Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, The Wilderness, Tsitsikamma National Park, Plettenberg Bay and Oudtshoorn. The Garden Route is also a great place for whale-watching on African vacations.
For wine enthusiasts, a visit to the Cape Winelands is a must with its magnificent mountain backdrop and classic Cape-Dutch homesteads. Visits to world-class wineries are available in Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek. The nearby Cape of Good Hope offers striking natural beauty and a short boat ride takes you to the infamous Robben Island.
The Panorama Route is nothing less than breathtaking, with the world’s third-largest canyon, Blyde River Canyon. Scenic spots here are God’s Window, the Pinnacle and the Three Rondavels. And don’t leave out Pilgrim’s Rest, an authentic Gold Rush town. Zululand is the heart of the Zulu Kingdom, the place where many tribes and clans came together to form a united kingdom. The nearby battlefields have been witness to many clashes between the British and the Zulus.
Johannesburg is a modern city with interesting attractions such as Gold Reef City for a glimpse of the Gold Rush era and Soweto Township, a community purpose-built under Apartheid for native African people and former home to Nelson Mandela. Pretoria is known as Jacaranda City with its impressive parliament buildings and the Voortrekker Monument. Durban with its mild climate and sandy beaches is a good place to relax, swim or surf and make sure to take in the exotic spice markets. You can even test your nerves, cage diving with great white sharks! There are a number of other outstanding South African cities all of which have something to offer the visitor on African tours.
Botswana
For a somewhat more upscale safari with unparalleled wildlife viewing, UNESCO world heritage listed regions and a total ban on game hunting, look no further than Botswana. One of Africa’s safest, most economically prosperous, and geographically diverse nations, Botswana’s attractions read like a list of Africa’s biggest safari hits, in the form of the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, and Moremi Game Reserve. From the wetlands of the delta to the dry landscapes of the Kalahari Desert which stretch into Namibia, Botswana is a safari destination like no other.
Zimbabwe and Zambia
Zimbabwe and Zambia have frequently paired thanks to the natural wonder that brings them together - Victoria Falls. The jewel in the crown for both countries, this awe-inspiring cascade of beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River is the world’s largest sheet of falling water, slowly retreating upriver as it gradually erodes its next precipice. In fact, each gorge the river flows into at the base of the falls was once the location of the falls. Zimbabwe is also a highlight for those interested in Africa’s human history. Great Zimbabwe is the largest ruined settlement found in sub-Saharan Africa. Both countries impress when it comes to the wildlife of course, particularly at Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe, and South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, home to one of the world’s largest populations of leopards.
Namibia
Namibia is a country with the highest sand dunes, located in Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert, and the lowest canyon in the world, Fish River Canyon. Windhoek has historical buildings dating back to German colonial rule. For a touch of the eerie, visit the aptly named Skeleton Coast, the final resting place of numerous ships that have underestimated its waters. For some time out to relax, Swakopmund is an attractive beach resort often referred to as ‘Namibia’s Playground.’ Etosha National Park has an abundance of wildlife and a jeep safari will bring you close to the animals on an African safari. Many of the animals are subspecies unique to Namibia, perfectly adapted to its desert conditions. Another safari destination is the Namib Rand Nature Reserve located in southwestern Namibia. A haunting phenomenon awaits at the Deadvlei near Sossusvlei, where the remnants of black acacia trees rise from the salt plains against the vivid backdrop of orange dunes.
Kenya
Kenya is a country of diverse landscapes with its vast plains, majestic snow-capped Mount Kenya and tropical palm-fringed beaches along the Indian Ocean coast. For game viewing, you have a wide selection of parks to choose from. These include Amboseli, Mount Kenya, Aberdare, Lake Nakuru and the renowned Maasai Mara with its annual wildebeest migration, one of the remarkable wildlife attractions of Kenya. Take a break on the coast in Mombasa with its white sand beaches, coral reefs and lively atmosphere while travelling on African tours.
Tanzania
Tanzania is home to thousands of wild animals and tropical birds to see on an African safari. The Serengeti is the most renowned wildlife reserve bordering Lake Victoria. It is also well known for its animal migration which takes place twice a year. It has the highest concentration of large mammals on the planet and is famous for its lions, the highest concentration found anywhere. Other notable parks include the incomparable Ngorongoro Conservation Area, known also as “Africa’s Eden”, Tarangire National Park with the largest population of elephants in Tanzania and Lake Manyara with its tree-climbing lions and pink flamingos. Mount Kilimanjaro, visible from Nairobi, is a target for trekkers and climbers who want to reach the summit. Just off the Indian Ocean coast is the island of Zanzibar with its winding streets in the old port city of Stone Town.
Where can I go mountain gorilla trekking?
Two East African countries offering a very different style of Africa safari in the form of a gorilla trek are Uganda and Rwanda. Trekking through the mountainous rainforest in small groups, you can enjoy the almost magical experience of seeing gorillas close-up. The experience however varies greatly between the two countries. Uganda is far more accessible, offering a much lower price point for gorilla trekking permits, and a wider variety of sights and attractions in the rest of the country. Rwanda, however, while more expensive, offers a more boutique experience, with tighter regulations ensuring every visitor enjoys a high-quality encounter with the gorillas.
North Africa and Middle East Travel Highlights
Egypt
Egypt, one of the world’s oldest civilizations, is steeped in fascinating history and archaeological finds unlike anywhere else on earth. Cairo offers the world’s most extensive pharaonic collection of artefacts at the Egyptian Museum. And who wouldn’t want to visit the Giza, Memphis and Saqqara pyramids? The best way to capture the essence of ancient Egypt is on a Nile Cruise sailing between Luxor and Aswan while visiting the Luxor and Karnak Temples and the Valleys of the Kings and Queens. From Aswan, take a side trip to Abu Simbel with its huge reassembled edifice.
Ethiopia
It’s not a classical safari spot, but don’t discount a visit to Ethiopia on African vacations. The oldest independent country in Africa is a land of contrasts and remote, wild locations. These include the jaggedly carved Simien Mountains and Lalibela, with its network of old churches hewn out of red volcanic rock. Addis Ababa has many museums including the Ethnological Museum located within Emperor Haile Selassie’s former palace.
Tunisia
Tunisia offers sun-drenched days on the beach as well as historical sites and desert experiences. The beach resorts of Hammamet, Djerba and Sousse are all Internationally acclaimed. For historical sites, head to Carthage with its outstanding Roman amphitheatre and citadel. Also to El Jem, home of possibly the most impressive Roman amphitheatre in Africa. The desert calls with a visit to the town of Douz, the gateway to the Sahara where you can experience camel or jeep rides through amazing sand dunes and under star-filled night skies.
Morocco
Morocco has a mix of excellent beach resorts, snow-capped mountains, cedar forests and the colourful Sahara Desert. Beach resorts include Casablanca, Agadir and Tangier. For something more exotic, head to Marrakech in the foothills of the snow-covered Atlas Mountains with its charming ambience, Rabat with its Kasbah (market), Hassan Tower and Royal Mausoleum and Palace and Fez, one of the best-preserved walled medinas (old city) in the Arab world.
Israel and Jordan
The Middle East is the place to see contrasting neighbouring countries such as Israel and Jordan. Israel is steeped in history and bursting with religious interest which can be found in abundance in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Haifa, the Sea of Galilee, Bethlehem and Nazareth. A visit to the Dead Sea is a unique feature. Jordan offers ancient Roman sites, Crusader castles, interesting churches, excellent beaches and unique desert landscapes. Petra is an important archaeological site inhabited by the Nabateans approximately 2000 years ago.
The Persian Gulf
In the Persian Gulf are three exceptional stopover destinations, Dubai beckons with its stunning white beaches, excellent shopping and the opportunity to go riding in the desert. dunes. Abu Dhabi boasts the captivating and eye-catching Sheikh Zayed Mosque, The quieter Oman offers ancient forts, castles and souks from a bygone era.
Africa and the Middle East with their extraordinary and exciting destinations await your visit! Book one of our Africa tours, an African safari, or a trip to the Middle East today!
"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles
For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!
African Safari: How to Choose Your Ideal Safari Destination
African Safari: The Ultimate Outdoor Experience For Animal Lovers
The Wilderness and Natural Paradise of Tanzania
South Africa's Iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town
Mpumalanga, A World of Wonders in South Africa
Sabi Sands Game Reserve in Kruger, South Africa
Johannesburg - A Great Addition to Your South Africa Vacation
Searching for East Africa's Most Elusive Animals
Discover the History and Culture of Ethiopia
Why Botswana is so Exceptional
....... visit our Globetrotting with Goway blog for more articles
Extend your Trip
After your Africa tours, why not consider one of Goway's Europe tours or perhaps a stopover in Dubai on one of our United Arab Emirates tours.
Southern Africa Odyssey
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Embark on a soul-stirring journey through Southern Africa. Connecting from Cape Town’s cosmopolitan charm to Makalali’s wild majesty to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, this elevated small group journey promises an unforgettable immersion into Southern Africa’s diverse landscapes and captivating wonders.
More DetailsAfrica & Middle East
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Explore Ghana
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Discover one of West Africa’s most sought-after destinations: Ghana. This private tailor-made tour gets off the beaten track and explores Ghana, a West African nation with a long history of warriors, unique art, and amazing nature. Our Groups Only Specialist will be delighted to put together your dream customized trip to Ghana for your group. Note: This is a sample itinerary, which is private and fully customizable for group travelers.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,699
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Explore the Kingdom of Kenya
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Embark on a 9-day group vacation across Kenya, where the animal kingdom roams free. The Swahili word Safari means journey – and there is no better journey to take than exploring the magical realm of Kenya, from the capital Naibori to Samburu National Reserve, Lake Nakuru, the equator, and the Great Plains.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ On Request
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Giraffe Manor and Safari
DELUXE | TAILOR-MADE: This 8-day African safari vacation begins at the iconic Giraffe Manor before venturing into some of Kenya's best National Parks. Make your way from Nairobi to Samburu and the Masai Mara, immersing yourself in Kenya's diverse history, culture, and unique natural settings you won't find anywhere else.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 11,719
- Trip Type:
- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Highlights of Israel: Tel Aviv, Western Galilee, Jerusalem & More
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: Embark on a first-class journey through Israel that showcases the country’s modern innovations and ancient wonders. Experience the modern pleasures of Tel Aviv before delving into the country’s past in Akko, Galilee, and Nazareth, floating in the waters of the Dead Sea, and exploring the religious treasures of Jerusalem.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Classics (Bestsellers), Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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Highlights of Morocco and Tunisia
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Explore the history of Morocco and the splendours of Tunisia on this two-week vacation. In Morocco, you’ll visit Casablanca, Fez, and Marrakech to trace the country’s imperial history. Then connect to Tunisia to see how ancient empires and fascinating desert cultures collided in Tunis, Carthage, and Matmata.- Duration:
- 14 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,277
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- Classics (Bestsellers), Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Hwange and Victoria Falls Escapade
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: See the best of Zimbabwe in Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls. Split your time between two lodges in Hwange and head out on daily game drives to explore the park and spot wildlife including elephants and lions. Connect to the Zambezi River and tour Victoria Falls, the world’s mightiest waterfall system.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,169
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- Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Magical Malawi
FIRST-CLASS | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Madonna may have helped put it on the mainstream map, but Malawi has been one of Africa’s hidden delights for years. Focused on the national parks, this Malawi tour showcases the country’s natural beauty.- Duration:
- 13 Days
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- US$ 6,261
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- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Safaris Worldwide, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Majestic Sights of Morocco
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Discover the wonder of Morocco on this 11-day group vacation. Immerse yourself in the vibrant blend of African, Arab, and European cultures and outstanding hospitality as you travel from Casablanca, Rabat, Chefchaouen, Meknes, Fez, Merzouga, Torda Gorges, Ouarzazate, Marrakech, and more.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,199
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- Specialty Groups & Events
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Morocco for Families
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Experience the cultural charm of Morocco on this magical 10-day Morrocan vacation. Take your family from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the serene beauty of Skoura and the breathtaking landscapes of Tinghir and Merzouga. Unwind in luxury accommodations and indulge in delicious cuisine as you make unforgettable family memories.- Duration:
- 10 Days
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- US$ 3,749
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- Family Vacations, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Nile River Cruise: Sanctuary Sun Boat IV From Aswan: Stays of Distinction
DELUXE | CRUISE: Spend four nights on the Nile on this luxury Egypt cruise between Aswan and Luxor. Explore the ancient temples of Philae and Kom Ombo, along with the Valley of the Kings and the Colossi of Memnon. Return each night to the luxurious Sanctuary Sun Boat IV, with hospitality fit for a Pharaoh on the Nile.- Duration:
- 5 Days
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- On request
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- Cruises & Sailing, Luxury and Beyond, Stays of Distinction
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Nile River Cruise: Sonesta Moon Goddess
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Journey along the Nile from Luxor to Aswan to explore some of the treasures of Ancient Egypt. Stroll through the temples and ruins of Luxor, known as the world’s greatest open-air museum, learn about the legends of Horus at Edfu, and see the engineering feat of the Aswan High Dam outside Aswan.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices:
- On request
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- Cruises & Sailing
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Nile River Cruise: Sonesta St. George
DELUXE | CRUISE: A Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan is the best way to view many of Egypt's most famous sights on land excursions. During the day you'll explore the many temples of the ancient pharaohs and uncover the history of this great civilization before retreating to your deluxe floating hotel for the evening as you sail the Nile.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Nile River Cruise: Sonesta Star Goddess from Aswan
DELUXE |CRUISE: Cruise in style and comfort on the luxury Sonesta Star Goddess on the epic Nile River while taking in the ancient delights of Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu and Luxor. This will be an enlightening experience as the history of the Pharaohs unfolds before you.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices:
- On request
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- Cruises & Sailing
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Nile River Cruise: Sonesta Star Goddess from Luxor
DELUXE | CRUISE: Enjoy a leisurely luxury cruise through ancient history along the beautiful Nile River with stops in Luxor, Edfu and Aswan taking in all the major archaeological treasures of this amazing region. Also included is a visit to the Aswan High Dam, a major engineering feat.- Duration:
- 4 Days
- Prices:
- On request
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- Cruises & Sailing
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Selous Game Park
The Selous is home to roaming elephant populations and some of the last black rhino left in the region. Due to its remote location, it is one of the untouched gems of Tanzania’s parks.- Duration:
- 5 Days
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- US$ 5,010
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- Escorted Coach Touring, Safaris Worldwide, Small Group Touring
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Seychelles Cruise: M/Y Pegasus
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Explore some of the loveliest islands in the Indian Ocean on this intimate cruise. Journeying aboard the M/Y Pegasus, you’ll spot giant tortoises on an uninhabited island, visit a bird sanctuary, lounge on one of the world’s best beaches, and have plenty of time to swim, snorkel, and suntan.- Duration:
- 5 Days
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- US$ 2,949
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- Beach & Island Escapes, Bucket List Travel Ideas, Cruises & Sailing, Family Vacations
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Shongololo Southern Cross: Kruger National Park, Great Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls & More
FIRST-CLASS | RAIL: Experience, on a relaxing train journey, 4 different countries, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, South Africa and Swaziland while taking in Victoria Falls, enjoying several game drives in 3 different wildlife parks including Kruger, exploring canyons, old mining towns and visiting Pretoria, Johannesburg and Maputo, Mozambique’s capital.- Duration:
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 7,669
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Rail Travel Ideas
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Sonesta Moon Goddess: 4 Nights from Aswan
This short Nile cruise from Aswan takes in Upper Egypt’s greatest treasures. Stroll through the world’s greatest open air ‘museum,’ and see architectural marvels, old and new.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Escorted Coach Touring
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Sunrise and Sun Downers in South Africa
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Venture to Africa's southernmost country on this 11-day group South Africa vacation. Explore the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, sample delights from the Winelands, search for the Big 5 at Kruger National Park, discover the history of Johannesburg, and unwind at the iconic Victoria Falls on this trip sure to check off your bucket list.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,799
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Taste of Tanzania
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Embark on a group journey through some of the world's greatest natural wonders and renowned safaris on this 8-day Tanzania vacation. Discover all the wonders Tanzania has to offer, including a safari in the Serengeti, home of the famous Great Migration, and the famous Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact caldera.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices:
- On request
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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The Jewels of Jordan
FIRST-CLASS | SPECIALITY GROUP: Explore Jordan's ancient treasures and dynamic cultures in this awe-inspiring 5-day Jordan vacation. This tour promises an immersive and unforgettable experience from the Dead Sea's natural beauty to Petra's ancient wonder, Wadi Rum's lunar landscapes, Madaba's historical sites, and Amman's bustling energy.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,850
- Trip Type:
- Specialty Groups & Events
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Highlights of Dubai & Israel
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: First, shop and explore the futuristic city of Dubai and head on your food pilgrimage as you walk through the streets of Dubai with your guide, tasting local cruising as you go. Next stop - The Holyland. Israel is a captivating destination and a must-visit for any serious globetrotter. Learn the amazing story of this land and its people.- Duration:
- 11 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 3,359
- Trip Type:
- Classics (Bestsellers), Escorted Coach Touring, Tailor-made Travel Ideas