National Geographic Announces New South Africa Itinerary for 2026

Image: Aerial view of Cape Town, South Africa. (Photo Credit: Daco/Adobe Stock)

by Mia Taylor
Last updated: 4:05 PM ET, Wed January 15, 2025

National Geographic Expeditions has added a new South Africa itinerary to its Signature Land portfolio for 2026 that showcases the history, culture, and wildlife of the region.

The new itinerary, Southern Africa: Living History and Legendary Species, takes visitors to South Africa and Zambia and features National Geographic experts who have specialized backgrounds ranging from geography and conservation to photography and filmmaking.

“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,” Nancy Schumacher, senior vice president and general manager, National Geographic Expeditions, said in a statement.

“We take enormous pride in enabling curious travelers to explore the world while also learning about conservation from our Experts and local guides,” Schumacher added. “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.”

Southern Africa: Living History and Legendary Species

National Geographic's new, immersive, nine-day itinerary will provide travelers with the opportunity to take a deeper look at Southern Africa through its natural beauty, cultural richness and inviting hospitality.

The trip will also allow for observing the region’s iconic species on safari expeditions, meeting with local wildlife conservation experts, witnessing the daily life, heritage and history of local villages, and visiting 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 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 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.

Bookings for the new National Geographic South Africa itinerary opened today, Jan. 15.