Africa Tours in October 2027

Great trip, well lead by Omar who took care of everyone through week. Whilst the trio was tough in parts, Omar made sure that the pace was appropriate for everyone. I would highly recommend the trip.

Having done a safari in lodges in Kenya 20+years ago, we wanted to experience the adventure of a safari under canvas, getting up close to the wildlife of Botswana. Oh boy! We were not disappointed. This was the most thrilling holiday we've ever been on; absolutely sensational. Our leader, Brian, and his team were brilliant, making sure everything ran smoothly and we got the most out of each day. Wild camping is an experience like no other. It's very down-to-earth, can be very hot and dusty, but is a lot more comfortable than you might think. Our party were all 50+years old but adapted to the camping easily. There are lots of early starts, but who cares when you see so much wonderful wildlife. This is an adventure not to be missed.

Wonderful trip, fantastic leader, challenging country with immense poverty, government corruption and inequality. Difficult issues to face when coming from the west and our affluence. Wonderful wildlife and birds and insects. We saw so much and took some fantastic photos. Our leader Charles was the best organised, knowledgeable, helpful and kind person and assisted our every need. FAB

I have wanted to go to Africa since i was a child and this trip was amazing. As a photographer many of my dreams were realized in seeing so many animals but I wanted more. Everyday was filled with animals I had only dreamed of seeing. But to capture their behavior and seeing them love was - a dream come true. Our guide Joe was truly the best with his 20 plus years of experience. We couldn't have had a better more experienced leader on this trip. He knew how to give us the best view for photos without infringing on the animals and keeping in mind there were sometimes other trucks posturing for a view or photos. The accommodations were planned perfectly giving us the super nice Batonka Lodge to begin and ease us into the rough camping, then back for a luxury night in Maun for a real shower, bathroom, pool and dining. Then out again to the houseboat for views on the river. I would have loved a few more days in the rough camp with all the animals rather than the long trip through Namibia heading back to Victoria Falls. As like I said, I wanted more, more, more of the animals. Batonka Lodge staff was amazing and I was very happy to become acquainted with some the staff the took perfect care of all of us. My only disappointment was that I was advised not to bring specialized photo equipment. I was the only person on the tour that was shooting an SLR and long lens. I would have brought an even longer lens for the trip if I had known it was okay and I will know for the next experience. I was the only American on the trip surround by 11 Brits who were all great. I had an amazing time and I'm still wading through my many 1000s of images. I plan on entering the Explore photo contest in hopes of winning a return trip.

The trip to Egypt was absolutely amazing. Our tour leader ( Said or Sayed )was exceptional - bringing the mysteries of Ancient Egypt to life with his knowledge, expertise, storytelling with such charm humility and sense of humour. We learnt so much and were hanging off his every word. The itinerary was perfectly balanced. Full of exciting days normally beginning early but having a couple of hours of free time in the afternoon to relax if that’s what you wanted. The hotels were great and the train ride an experience. It’s not the Orient Express but you are warned about that and we just took it as it was and enjoyed the whole journey to Aswan on the overnight sleeper. . The middle day on the boat travelling to Luxor a welcome break from the hustle and bustle. But it was still exciting watching the Nile go by. There were so many highlights from the Great Pyramids, Saqquara, Abu Simbel, Karnak and hot air balloon ride. We did all the optional extras and they are well worth it. Don’t be put off by the long drive to Abu Simbel - you don’t want to miss that. We spent hours at the Old Cataract Hotel on our free morning in Aswan - full of atmosphere and exquisite colonial charm. You have to pay to go in but it’s worth it and you can redeem that money against tea, cake, beer, and the view is absolutely beautiful. We lived and loved every second. We had a lovely group of 7 and the tour leader Sayed (Said) was the perfect accompaniment making the trip probably the best trip we have ever taken. He gets 10 out of 10! We can’t fault Explore! either - great communication and very well organised. We will definitely use them again.

I have been travelling with Explore for nearly 25 years. I think they are a first class tour company. They are 100% honest and I always feel totally confident when I travel with them. I know I will be looked after by first class guides and I will meet delightful people. I can't fault Explore.