Journey to Africa

Quebec City, Canada

Fly into Quebec City at your leisure and enjoy this lovely town full of history and culture. We will meet at the beautiful Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

In the late afternoon, there will be a briefing on the Journey including a review of the first flight leg which will take us over Quebec City to Nuuk, Greenland.

This evening we will gather for a welcome cocktail to get acquainted with the group before we enjoy our first dinner together.

Nuuk, Greenland

Reykjavik, Iceland

Our scenic flight across the Atlantic continues to Reykjavik, Iceland. Staying in the heart of the city overlooking the picturesque square of Austurvollur, we are within walking distance of Reykjavik’s iconic landmarks such as Hallgrímskirkja, the striking church that dominates the city skyline, and Althingi, the national parliament, one of the oldest existing parliaments in the world.

The next morning, we will embark on an unforgettable Super Jeep tour through South Iceland, where we will encounter some of the country’s most captivating natural wonders. Our tour begins with a visit to Thingvellir National Park, a breathtaking site renowned for its remarkable geology and historical significance.

Continuing eastward along the mountain road to Lyngdalshei, we’ll marvel at the expansive lava fields that sprawl across the hills above Laugarvatn. Our next stop brings us to Haukadalur, where the spectacular Strokkur geyser erupts with impressive force, sending scalding water soaring into the sky. Take in the mesmerizing sight of these eruptions and explore the surrounding hot springs before we continue to the magnificent Gullfoss Waterfall. Here, witness the powerful cascade of glacial water as it tumbles into the Hvita River below, creating a spectacle of natural beauty.

Shannon, Ireland

Our itinerary takes us to Shannon, Ireland, where our adventure continues with a transfer to the quaint village of Adare. Nestled in the lush heartlands of Limerick County, Adare Manor and Golf Resort awaits, its 840-acre demesne steeped in history and surrounded by medieval ruins. Day one invites exploration of beautiful parklands, trout fishing on the river Maigue, and a renowned 18-hole championship golf course.

Day two offers leisure and discovery amidst the expansive 350-acre Adare Manor Estate. Engage in a variety of activities from horse riding, fishing, and falconry to modern pursuits like golf, cycling, and kayaking. In the afternoon, delve into the world of wine with a private tasting at the Wine Cellars, uncovering exceptional flavors and captivating histories.

The following day, immerse yourself in the majestic world of birds of prey. Skilled falconers introduce you to a diverse array of eight raptors, including owls like “Tiny” the Scops Owl and “Olaf” the Snowy Owl. Experience the thrill of a falcon’s speed and witness a Harris Hawk soar freely to your gloved hand, creating memories to cherish from your enchanting stay in Shannon.

Rome, Italy

Our Journey continues as we fly on to Rome. Set in the Old City of Rome, close to the Spanish Steps and Villa Borghese, the luxury Hotel Eden offers the feel of a private home and a rooftop restaurant providing panoramic views of St. Peter’s Dome and the Eternal City. Situated within a historic building dating back to 1889 and completely renovated in 2017, the hotel is steps from some of the city’s top attractions.

The following day, we will enjoy a visit to the Vatican Museums with a private guide which will unveil all the must-sees in the Vatican, from the Gallery of Maps, to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s. We will have exclusive access to the Cabinet of Masks, an elegant room which hosts roman marble statues and mosaics. This is an unforgettable experience of one of the world’s most fascinating and visited collections. Afterwards, a city tour will unveil the authentic look of the Eternal City. Explore the well-known attractions and iconic landmarks – Piazza Navona, Piazza Venezia, the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon – but also discover hidden gems along the way as our guide reveals some of the city’s fascinating secrets.

The last day in Rome is at leisure to relax or explore the city on your own. Your Journey Director will be available to help you plan your day.

Cairo, Egypt

Today we fly to Cairo, Egypt, “The City of a Thousand Minarets,” for its prevalence of Islamic architecture. Even before Cairo was established in the 10th century, the land composing the present-day city was the site of national capitals whose remnants remain visible in parts of Old Cairo. Upon arrival, we will transfer to Four Seasons Hotel Cairo at Nile Plaza, our home for the next three nights.

The next day, our full-day guided tour begins with a visit the Giza Plateau, where we will visit to the Great Pyramids of Giza, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Enjoy the great Pyramids of Cheops, Chephren and Mycerinus before continuing down to the Valley Temple to visit the guardian of this mortuary complex, the mighty Sphinx. We will have lunch at a local restaurant to experience a variety of Egyptian food. Our tour continues to Sakkara, Egypt’s oldest ancient cemetery. We will visit the world’s first monumental stone building, the Step Pyramid of King Zoser, built by the engineer Imhotep and one of the magnificent Mastabas (burial chamber) of either Ptahhotep, Idut or Mereruka.

Your final day in Cairo is free for you to relax at the hotel or explore on your own. Your Journey Director will be available to help you plan your day.

Luxor, Egypt

Our next destination is Luxor, Egypt. En route, we will make a technical stop in Abu Simbel, where we will visit the Temple of Ramses II (considered the grandest and most beautiful of the temples commissioned during Ramses II’s reign, as well as one of the most beautiful in Egypt) and the Temple of Nefertari.” Then, we will depart Abu Simbel and fly to Luxor, Egypt. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the luxurious Hilton Luxor Resort & Spa, nestled on the east bank of the River Nile in the village of Karnak. This Hilton gem offers stunning views of the river and the historic city of Luxor.

The next morning, we will explore Thebes, Luxor’s West Bank, and its secret tombs. We will discover the Valley of the Kings, home to richly-painted tombs of New Kingdom pharaohs, and the Valley of the Queens, the resting place of pharaohs’ wives and children. Next, we will stop at the Colossi of Memnon, two massive statues that once guarded the entrance to Amenhotep III’s great temple, followed by a visit to the Luxor Museum, which showcases artifacts from ancient Thebes. Following an early dinner, we will visit the Luxor Temple, a marvel of ancient architecture initially crafted by Amenhotep III in 1380 BC.

The following day, we will experience the Sound and Light Show at Karnak Temple, where the temple complex is brought to life with lights and sound, revealing its architectural marvels and the tales of the pharaohs. If the weather permits, we will enjoy a felucca ride on the Nile to Banana Island and Crocodile Island. This comprehensive journey allows us to delve into the rich history of ancient Egypt.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Fly to Addis Ababa, the heart of the Ethiopian capital. You’ll stay at the Sheraton Addis, a luxurious hotel situated on a hilltop with expansive views over the city, nestled safely between the National Palace and the Prime Minister’s residence.

The next day, delve into the vibrant culture of Addis Ababa with a local guide. Discover the city’s rich history as you visit key sites like the Ethnological Museum, Holy Trinity Cathedral, the National Museum, and St. George’s Cathedral.

Kigali, Rwanda

Fly to Kigali where we will enjoy an overnight stay at the Kigali Serena Hotel. Nestled in the heart of Rwanda’s vibrant capital, this property provides a tranquil oasis to unwind and prepare for the excitement ahead. The following day, our anticipation builds as we gear up for a unique experience—a helicopter transfer that promises breathtaking views of the Rwandan landscape.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

We will transfer by helicopter to One&Only Gorilla’s Nest. Cushioned in the foothills of the breathtaking Virunga Volcano Range along the northwestern frontier of beautiful Rwanda, the Gorilla’s Nest is the closest resort to Volcanoes National Park. It makes the magical possible as you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime, personal encounter with the rare and majestic mountain gorilla, roaming free in their own natural habitat.

An exhilarating trek in the footsteps of the rare and critically endangered mountain gorilla – the largest living primate on earth – starts in the dramatic scenery of the Virunga foothills. We will be immersed in the mysterious intimacy of the primeval rainforest, alive with colorful bird calls, ferns, and butterflies. Experienced local trackers are rangers who have spent their entire lives in this forest. Weaving through the overhanging vines, moss-covered hagenia and giant lobelias that thrive in the tropical climate, the rangers soon bring us up close with a gorilla family.

Western Serengeti, Tanzania

We will take a local charter flight to Manyara for our transfer to Grumeti Serengeti River Lodge. Located in the remote Western Corridor of the Serengeti, Grumeti offers a private Serengeti experience with exclusive game viewing in some of the most secluded parts of Africa’s most famous game reserve. The camp’s rustic yet sophisticated safari tents are nestled under the shade of an evergreen forest along the banks of a Grumeti River tributary. Black and white colobus monkeys can be seen in the foliage, while hippos reside in the tranquil pool in front of the camp.

The next day, we’ll participate in scheduled safari activities, known for the big lion pride that can range from 20 to 60 individuals. The western part of the Serengeti is an excellent location for spotting these majestic cats. Game drives from the camp also provide sightings of large lion prides and clans of up to a hundred hyenas, as well as herds of wildebeest and zebra.

Throughout the Journey, we will experience the diverse Serengeti landscapes dominated by vast plains. In addition, we will encounter some of Africa’s largest crocodiles, which are renowned for their presence during the migration crossings when masses of wildebeest and zebra navigate the Grumeti River in search of fresh grazing grounds.

Livingston, Zambia

Our time in Livingstone, Zambia begins with a transfer to the Royal Livingstone Lodge, nestled on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, mere steps away from the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls—one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. We will end the day with a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River, offering close-up views of crocodiles and hippos just upstream from the falls.

The next day promises adventure, beginning with a breathtaking helicopter tour over Victoria Falls, the world’s largest waterfall. One of the highlights is the Devil’s Pool, where, during certain months, you can safely swim right at the edge, protected by a natural rock barrier. Later, we’ll step aboard the Livingstone Express, a beautifully restored steam locomotive featuring polished leather, teak, and brass. This luxurious journey through the national park and along the Zambezi River Valley combines vintage charm with a modern fine dining experience, evoking the romance of a bygone era.

Benguerra Island, Mozambique

We will continue our Journey to Vilanculos, Mozambique, where we will take a helicopter transfer to the breathtaking Benguerra Island. Nestled in the Bazaruto Archipelago, this exquisite paradise is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The island is part of a protected marine conservation area, boasting pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Our lodge, set on a deep lagoon, offers a perfect retreat for swimming and snorkeling, while the nearby Mozambique Channel, famous for its game fish, provides some of the world’s best catch-and-release deep-sea fishing.

The next morning, take your pick from the hotel’s array of activities, such as snorkeling, diving, or horseback riding, or simply relax and soak in the tranquil beauty of Benguerra Island. In the afternoon, we will embark on a traditional dhow sunset cruise, gliding along the crystal-clear waters, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the island’s pristine beaches and vibrant marine life as the sun dips below the horizon.

Okavango Delta, Botswana

We will take a helicopter transfer to Vilanculos, Mozambique, to retrieve our planes before flying to Maun, Botswana. From there, we will board a charter flight to Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, a luxurious retreat in the Okavango Delta. This exclusive camp features spacious tents, elegant décor, and stunning views, providing an exceptional base for exploring the Delta’s diverse wildlife and landscapes.

The following day, we will enjoy thrilling game viewing with expert guides. Exploring the Delta in open 4×4 vehicles, we’ll witness lions stalking antelope, zebra, and buffalo. We’ll also have rare sightings of wild dogs and encounters with leopards, genet cats, and hyenas, benefiting from the guides’ deep knowledge of the region.

On our final day, we will embark on a traditional mokoro adventure with a skilled local guide. As we glide through these tranquil waters, we’ll observe hippos and crocodiles, experiencing the Delta from a serene perspective and learning about the timeless transport methods of the BaYei people.

Cape Town, South Africa

Our Journey continues to Cape Town, South Africa, where we transfer upon arrival to the One&Only Cape Town hotel. Situated in the cosmopolitan Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, the One&Only offers stunning views of Table Mountain and Signal Hill.

The next day, we embark on a full-day tour to explore some of Cape Town’s most renowned attractions. We visit beautiful Clifton Beach, historic Simon’s Town, the renowned Chapman’s Peak Drive, Seal Island, and the African Penguin Colony. Our tour continues to Cape Point Nature Reserve and Kirstenbosch Gardens, inviting us to take in the breathtaking vistas of Cape Point, as well as the beauty of The Cape of Good Hope. From Clifton Beach, Camps Bay, and Hout Bay to historic Simon’s Town and beyond, there are countless picture-perfect moments to capture.

Following the tour, the subsequent day is at your leisure, allowing you time to relax or explore the city independently.

Namib Desert, Namibia

Our adventure continues as we depart from Cape Town and fly to Walvis Bay, Namibia. From there, we will take a local charter flight to Sossusvlei Desert Lodge, nestled against the ancient mountains and offering luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Namib Desert. This sophisticated desert retreat promises a truly exceptional experience.

The following day, embark on an exhilarating quad bike adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Namibia. Feel the thrill as you navigate the vast, undulating dunes of the Namib Desert, where golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see. Experience the raw beauty of this ancient land, with its rugged terrain and dramatic vistas. Whether you’re racing over the dunes or cruising along scenic trails, this quad bike tour offers an unforgettable blend of adrenaline and awe-inspiring natural beauty.

As we continue to explore the area, the unique terrain and wildlife come alive before us. From the open 4Å~4 vehicles, we can admire the vast expanse of the desert and its diverse inhabitants. For a thrilling experience, ascend the massive red sand dunes that characterize the region and take in the awe-inspiring views from the top.

Luanda, Angola

Our next destination is Luanda, the bustling capital of Angola, a city rich in history and culture. Upon arrival, we will transfer to the InterContinental Luanda Miramar, a luxurious hotel perfectly situated in the heart of the city, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the vibrant skyline. As we settle in, we’ll be greeted with warm Angolan hospitality, and the hotel’s elegant design and modern amenities will ensure a comfortable and relaxing stay. This overnight stay will allow us to recharge before continuing our adventure, offering a perfect balance of luxury and convenience in one of Luanda’s most prestigious accommodations.

Malabo, Equatorial Guinea

Our Journey continues to Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. Upon arrival, we will transfer to Sofitel Malabo Sipopo Le Golf, located on the peaceful outskirts of the capital. This elegant hotel offers a relaxed retreat, providing a perfect balance between comfort and the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

The next day, we will explore the majestic Pico Basilé, which at 3011 meters, is the highest mountain in Equatorial Guinea. Get ready for an exhilarating half-day excursion that will leave you breathless! After picking you up from your hotel in Malabo, we will head towards the interior of the island to venture into the mountains surrounding the city. We will drive along the beautiful road that surrounds Pico Basilé, passing through green hills and tropical forests.

Once we reach the Pico Basilé National Park, our exciting adventure will begin. Our expert guide will provide you with detailed information about the flora and fauna of the area and give you useful tips to ensure a safe ascent. Don’t worry, we will drive to the top! The ascent will take us through dense tropical forests until we reach the top of the mountain, where ferns will be the dominant vegetation. Once there, you will be rewarded with impressive panoramic views of the island, where you can admire the natural beauty of Equatorial Guinea from a unique perspective.

As if that wasn’t enough, we will also be able to contemplate the impressive Church of Mother Bisila, as well as its statue at over 2800 meters above sea level. After enjoying the summit, we will descend the mountain and make a stop at a nearby crater. There, we will have the opportunity to explore the inside of a volcanic crater and see its incredible depth.

Accra, Ghana

After flying to Accra, Ghana, we’ll arrive at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, a luxurious haven conveniently situated in the downtown business district. Just minutes from Accra’s national center for culture and art, the hotel provides an ideal base for exploring the vibrant city or simply unwinding after your flight.

The following day, we willl embark on a profound tour into Ghana’s history with a full-day tour guided by a local expert. We will explore the haunting legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, visiting the UNESCO-listed slave castles of Cape Coast and Elmina. These historic sites offer deep insight into the trade’s brutal realities and its lasting impact on the world.

The final day at this destination is at your leisure, allowing you to relax or explore Accra on your own. Whether you choose to revisit cultural sites, shop for local crafts, or simply unwind by the hotel pool, the day is yours to craft as you wish, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration before concluding your adventure in Ghana.

Granada, Spain

The next leg of our Journey takes us to Granada, Spain, and begins with a grand arrival at the exquisite Hotel Alhambra Palace, a majestic gem nestled atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the city. With its opulent decor and impeccable service, the hotel exudes timeless elegance, promising a seamless blend of luxury and comfort for our stay in the heart of this historic city.

The following day, we embark on a full-day city tour, unveiling Granada’s rich history and captivating culture. Our exploration takes us through the magnificent Alhambra Palace, the enchanting streets of the Albayzín district, and the iconic Mirador de San Nicolás, where we soak in breathtaking views. As the sun sets, we’re transported to a world of passion and rhythm at Tablao Flamenco Albayzin, where a mesmerizing Flamenco show captivates our senses, leaving us with lasting memories of this luxurious Journey.

The subsequent day is left at leisure, allowing time to relax or explore the city at our own pace. Our Journey Director stands ready to assist in selecting from the myriad of activities available in this vibrant city.

London, United Kingdom

Fly to Southend, England. Upon arrival, we will transfer to The Dorchester. Located in the heart of London, The Dorchester is an iconic luxury hotel known for its timeless elegance and exceptional service. Offering opulent rooms and suites with stunning views of Hyde Park, the hotel features world-class dining, a serene spa, and exquisite decor that reflects classic British charm, making it a perfect retreat in the city.

On the second day, we will embark on a half-day city tour through London, exploring some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods. We’ll visit the historic Tower of London, where we’ll see the Crown Jewels, stroll across Tower Bridge, and take in the stunning views of the River Thames. Next, we’ll head to the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, followed by a visit to Buckingham Palace to witness the Changing of the Guard. Our tour will also include a stop at Trafalgar Square, home to the National Gallery, and a walk through Covent Garden, known for its lively atmosphere, street performers, and boutique shops. This tour offers a perfect introduction to the rich history and culture of London.

The third day is at your leisure to explore London further or relax at your own pace. Whether you choose to visit museums, shop, or simply unwind, the day is yours to enjoy.

Reykjavik, Iceland

After breakfast, we’ll set off for our over-water crossing to Iceland. Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to the elegant Borg Hotel, located in the heart of Reykjavik. In the evening, we’ll come together for a memorable farewell dinner, celebrating the memories we created.