National Geographic Expeditions has announced a new Southern Africa itinerary for trips in 2026. The itinerary is called Southern Africa: Living History and Legendary Species and is the newest in the company’s Signature Land portfolio. Adventurers will get to explore South Africa and Zambia. Along the way, they will get to experience the wonders of the region and see the beauty of the region as they explore these countries.
When guests experience this itinerary, they will go on a carefully crafted exploration of South Africa that brings the vast history, culture, and wildlife of the region to life. This will be done through the authentic storytelling of National Geographic along with insights from National Geographic Experts. The Experts have specialized backgrounds that range from geography and conservation to photography and filmmaking. They are passionate storytellers who also have a connection to National Geographic and the destinations that are being visited. They are joined by local guides who add to the unique perspectives and experiences to create the trip of a lifetime that both enlightens and inspires guests as they form deeper relationships with the world around them.
“This new offering will allow our guests to immerse themselves into the majesty of Southern Africa while also continuing National Geographic’s extraordinary legacy of global exploration,” said Nancy Schumacher, senior vice president and general manager, National Geographic Expeditions. “We take enormous pride in enabling curious travelers to explore the world while also learning about conservation from our Experts and local guides. This new experience will provide our guests with special access to once-in-a-lifetime opportunities like learning firsthand about the deep traditions of local villagers, observing stunning wildlife while on safari and being awe-struck by the beauty of Victoria Falls.”
Bookings for this itinerary are now open at NatGeoExpeditions.com. This itinerary joins a portfolio of over 150 travel experiences that National Geographic Expeditions currently offer. Below is the specific description of this new adventure.
Southern Africa: Living History and Legendary Species
During this immersive, nine-day itinerary, travelers will take a deeper look at Southern Africa through a captivating blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and inviting hospitality. Guests will have an opportunity to marvel at the region’s most iconic species on safari expeditions, meet with local experts on wildlife conservation, witness the daily life, heritage and history of local villages, and visit two UNESCO World Heritage sites including one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls.
Highlights of the expedition include:
Cape Town, South Africa
- Soaking in the city’s beauty from an aerial cable car at the top of Table Mountain National Park, a part of the Cape Floral Region Protected Area and UNESCO World Heritage Site, for 360–degree views of the Cape Fold Mountains, Cape Town and the Atlantic Ocean.
- Experiencing a poignant visit to the District Six Museum that highlights the impact of Apartheid through the stories of a once-thriving community displaced during this challenging time of conflict.
- Spotting endangered African penguins during a visit to Boulders Penguin Colony. Once home to only two breeding pairs of penguins, the colony has grown to more than 2,200 in recent years due to recovery and rehabilitation efforts protecting Boulders Beach.
Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
- Searching for Africa’s “Big Five” animals along with nearly 1,000 other incredible wildlife species during safari excursions through the protected lands of Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve.
- Joining local guides from Sabi Sabi to learn more about their local communities and the work Sabi Sabi supports to conserve local culture, improve water access and enhance community education programs.
Livingstone, Zambia
- Experiencing the breathtaking beauty of “Smoke that Thunders” at UNESCO World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls. Guests can marvel at one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World on a guided walk where an array of wildlife along the riverbanks waits to be spotted.
- Visiting the working village of Mukuni where the Leya people who have been practicing their customs since the 13th century. Guests will explore the day-to-day life of the community members, enjoy samples of traditional food and drinks and learn more about how they are preserving their culture for future generations.
Booking Information
Bookings for the new itinerary will open today, Jan. 15. To learn more or to book an expedition, guests may visit NationalGeographicExpeditions.com, call 1-888-966-8687or contact a travel agent.
What do you think of this new itinerary? Is it something you would want to experience? What excites you most about it? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
