National Geographic Expeditions Launches New Nine-Day Southern Africa Itinerary

National Geographic Expeditions has unveiled a brand-new nine-day Southern Africa itinerary launching in 2026, taking travelers through South Africa and Zambia. The curated journey features five bucket-list highlights including Cape Town's historic neighborhoods, safari at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, the thundering expanse of Victoria Falls, and an immersive village visit with the Leya people of Mukuni.

National Geographic Expeditions is launching a new nine-day Southern Africa itinerary in 2026, immersing travelers in the breathtaking landscapes, legendary wildlife, and rich cultures of South Africa and Zambia. From urban Cape Town to safari savannas and one of the world's great waterfalls, the expedition covers five signature bucket-list experiences guided by National Geographic Experts and local specialists.

Discovering Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula

The expedition begins in Cape Town, one of South Africa's most culturally layered cities. Over two days, travelers ride an aerial cable car to the top of Table Mountain National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — for 360-degree views of the Cape Fold Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. A stroll through the Bo-Kaap neighborhood offers a taste of Cape Malay cuisine, while a tour of Company Gardens anchors the experience in colonial-era history. A visit to the District Six Museum provides a poignant look at the communities displaced during the apartheid era, told through firsthand storytelling by local guides.

Up Close with Endangered African Penguins at Boulders Beach

While in Cape Town, travelers visit the Boulders Penguin Colony — a remarkable conservation success story. Once home to just two breeding pairs of endangered African penguins, the colony has grown to more than 2,200 individuals thanks to sustained recovery and rehabilitation efforts protecting Boulders Beach. Guides walk visitors through the nesting burrows and explain the ongoing conservation work that has made this colony thrive.

Three Nights on Safari at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve

The expedition moves deep into the bush with a three-night stay at Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, set within the Greater Kruger National Park. Expert rangers lead morning and evening safaris in pursuit of the famous Big Five — lion, leopard, African elephant, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros — among nearly 1,000 other species that inhabit the savanna. At Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge, travelers explore South African cuisine while learning about the reserve's community programs supporting local culture, water access, and education.

Standing Before Victoria Falls

The itinerary continues into Zambia with a visit to Victoria Falls — also known by its indigenous name Mosi-oa-Tunya ("The Smoke that Thunders"). Stretching more than 5,600 feet wide with an average flow of over 14 million gallons of water per minute from the Zambezi River, it is the world's largest curtain of falling water and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guided walks take travelers to multiple viewpoints, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the Zambezi riverbanks.

Cultural Immersion at Mukuni Village

Rounding out the Southern Africa experience is a visit to the working village of Mukuni, where the Leya people have maintained their customs since the 13th century. Travelers explore daily village life, sample traditional food and drinks, and hear from community members about how they are preserving their heritage for future generations — a fitting conclusion to an expedition built around authentic human connection.

Why This Expedition Matters

The Southern Africa itinerary joins a portfolio of over 150 National Geographic Expeditions spanning all seven continents. Every booking supports National Geographic Explorers worldwide and contributes to the nonprofit National Geographic Society's mission of exploration, research, and education. Travelers can visit NationalGeographicExpeditions.com, call 1-888-966-8687, or contact a travel agent to learn more and book.