Discover 20 tour packages in South Africa by Encounters Travel, ranging from 6 to 14 days. These trips are backed by many customer reviews and offer savings of up to 20% on select departures.
Physical Rating
Departures
Accommodations
Simple stays with essential amenities. Typically guesthouses, hostels or hotels rated below 3 stars — clean, no-frills, and great for value-conscious travelers.
Comfortable and reliable 3-star stays. Expect private rooms, en-suite bathrooms, and solid amenities — a great balance between comfort and cost.
Upscale 4-5 star hotels and lodges. Enjoy high-end service, refined comfort, and premium locations — ideal for travelers seeking extra indulgence.
Embark on a nine-day immersive journey that masterfully unifies Tunisia's magnificent history, vibrant modern culture, and breathtaking natural diversity. Your adventure begins in Tunis, where you will immediately plunge into the capital's heritage with a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Medina and a hands-on Tunisian Cooking Class, followed by a deep dive into antiquity at the ruins of Carthage and the picturesque, whitewashed streets of Sidi Bou Said.
As the tour moves south, you will explore the country's fascinating regional contrasts. Experience the culinary tradition firsthand with a Harissa-making workshop in Nabeul, then trace centuries of history through the fortified Medinas of Hammamet and Sousse, before witnessing the sheer imperial grandeur of the Roman Amphitheatre of El Jem. The itinerary takes a dramatic turn as you venture into the Dahar mountains, famed for their striking troglodyte architecture. Discover the unique underground homes of Matmata, visit iconic Star Wars filming locations, and enjoy an unforgettable cultural exchange with the empowering Women of GDA El Ferch cooperative.
The core of the experience is an exhilarating Sahara Desert immersion. Leaving the traditional Berber villages behind, you will embark on an exhilarating 4x4 off-road adventure deep into the sweeping dunes of the Grand Erg Oriental. After witnessing a traditional Sahara Bread-Making Demonstration, you will enjoy a delicious dinner and spend a serene night under the stars at a luxury desert camp. Emerging from the sands via the vibrant Douz souk and the shimmering salt flats of Chott el Jerid, the journey concludes in the oasis city of Tozeur. Here, the final days are dedicated to exploring more Star Wars cinematic landscapes and trekking through the surprising beauty of the mountain oases—Chebika, Tamerza, and Mides—before a final day of exploration at the pristine Roman ruins of Sbeitla and the holy, spiritual heart of Tunisia, the Great Mosque of Kairouan, before your return to Tunis. This tour is a comprehensive, authentic, and unforgettable exploration of North Africa's jewel
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This 13-day Tunisian journey offers a rich, immersive exploration that begins and concludes in Tunis. The itinerary immediately heads to the country's northwest, focusing on deep cultural immersion with a hands-on workshop dedicated to the UNESCO-listed Sejnane pottery tradition and exploration of the coastal town of Tabarka. Time is spent relaxing and hiking in the forested Ain Draham Highlands, punctuated by an authentic traditional lunch shared with a local family.
The tour shifts to a profound historical track, taking guests through the Roman era with visits to the subterranean villas of Bulla Regia and the magnificent city of Dougga, North Africa’s best-preserved Roman site, complemented by an olive oil tasting and farm-to-table lunch. Returning to the capital region, the focus is on culture and gastronomy, featuring a guided exploration of the historic Tunis Medina, a hands-on Tunisian cooking class and market visit, and an afternoon among the ruins of Carthage and the picturesque blue-and-white village of Sidi Bou Said.
The second half of the trip ventures south, connecting important coastal Medinas like Sousse with the colossal Roman Amphitheatre of El Jem. The landscape transitions dramatically in the Dahar mountains, where guests explore the ingenious troglodyte houses of Matmata and engage with the inspiring Women of GDA El Ferch cooperative. The ultimate adventure is a 4x4 expedition deep into the Sahara’s Grand Erg Oriental from Douz, culminating in an unforgettable night at a Berber desert camp after a traditional desert bread-making demonstration. The return journey includes traversing the striking Chott el Jerid salt lake, visiting the cinematic Star Wars filming locations and the natural wonders of the mountain oases (Chebika, Tamerza, Mides), before the final historical stops at the Roman ruins of Sbeitla and the holy city of Kairouan, before returning to Tunis for departure.
If you'd prefer a shorter tour of Tunisia, you could also consider our 9-day Tunisian Encounters tour
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on The Grand Tour of Tunisia: History, Desert & Culture, an enriching 9-day journey that perfectly encapsulates the diversity of this North African jewel. Starting in Tunis, you will dive into history by exploring the UNESCO-listed Medina and the ancient ruins of Carthage, balanced with hands-on experiences like a Tunisian Cooking Class and a visit to the picturesque village of Sidi Bou Said. The tour then heads south, pausing for cultural immersion with a Harissa-making workshop and visits to the historic coastal medinas of Hammamet and Sousse, including its museum housing magnificent Roman mosaics, before reaching the colossal Amphitheatre of El Jem.
The adventure deepens as you journey into the desert towards Matmata to explore its fascinating troglodyte underground homes and iconic Star Wars filming locations. You will experience genuine local life through a cultural exchange with the inspiring Women of GDA El Ferch cooperative and visit the ancient Berber villages of Douirette and Guermassa before arriving at Douz, the 'Gateway to the Sahara'. The route shifts to the stunning natural beauty of the Atlas Mountain oases, crossing the shimmering Chott el Djerid (Salt Lake) to explore the canyons and springs of Chebika and Tamerza.
The historical narrative continues with a visit to the beautifully preserved Roman site of Sbeitla, followed by the spiritual significance of Kairouan, the fourth-holiest city in Islam, before concluding with a day of relaxation in the elegant coastal resort of Gammarth near Tunis. This comprehensive tour blends guided archaeological exploration with authentic cultural experiences and the breathtaking scenery of the Tunisian desert and coast.
The route operates during the summer months from June until the end of September. If you are plan on travelling at other times of the year, please see our Tunisian Encounters tour
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an unforgettable 11-day journey through the captivating landscapes and rich histories of Jordan and Lebanon. Your adventure begins in Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital, where you'll be transferred to your hotel upon arrival, with time to settle in before the explorations commence. The following day delves deep into antiquity, starting with a visit to Jerash, renowned for possessing some of the most extensive and well-preserved Roman ruins outside Italy. Returning to Amman, known as the 'white city', you'll explore millennia of history at the Citadel, encompassing the Temple of Hercules and Umayyad Palace, followed by the impressive Roman Theatre. The day is enriched with a lively street food tasting experience in Downtown Amman and concludes with an insightful evening visit to the Wild Jordan Centre, supporting local conservation efforts.
The journey south unfolds along the scenic King's Highway, a route offering picturesque views of deep wadis and rural villages. Stops include Madaba, famous for the ancient Byzantine mosaic map in St. George's Church, and Mount Nebo, offering panoramic vistas towards the Holy Land. After traversing the dramatic Wadi al-Mujib gorge, you'll visit the imposing Crusader fortress of Shobak Castle before arriving in Petra. Here, optional evening activities provide a magical introduction to the city, choosing between the atmospheric Petra by Candlelight experience or a hands-on Jordanian cooking class at the Petra Kitchen (pre-booking recommended). The next day is dedicated entirely to the awe-inspiring Nabataean city of Petra. Following a guided tour through the narrow Siq canyon, revealing the breathtaking Treasury facade carved into the rock, you'll have ample free time to explore this vast site independently. Discover countless tombs, the Roman amphitheatre, and consider challenging climbs to the Monastery or the High Place of Sacrifice for incredible views and a deeper appreciation of this world wonder.
Leaving Petra's rock-hewn marvels, you'll drive into the spectacular desert landscape of Wadi Rum. Experience the magic of the desert with an overnight stay in a comfortable Bedouin camp nestled amongst towering sandstone cliffs. An included jeep safari reveals the dramatic 'jebels' and unique rock formations famed by T.E. Lawrence. Enhance your desert experience with optional activities like camel riding, quad biking, a serene hot air balloon flight at dawn, or stargazing under the clear desert skies after enjoying a traditional Bedouin dinner. The following morning, after further exploration via jeep, the journey continues north to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. Check into your resort on its shores and enjoy ample time to experience the unique buoyancy of the salt-rich waters, indulge in therapeutic mud treatments, or simply relax. For the adventurous (typically April-October), an optional trek through the water-filled canyons of nearby Wadi Mujib is available.
Day six marks the transition to Lebanon, with a transfer to Amman airport for your flight to Beirut (please note this flight cost is not included). Upon arrival in Beirut, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel. The Lebanese leg of your adventure begins by heading north to the stunning Jeita Grotto, a vast system of limestone caves filled with incredible stalactites and stalagmites. Continue to Harissa, taking a cable car up to the mountain-top shrine for breathtaking coastal views. The day also includes a visit to the unique Baatara Gorge sinkhole and waterfall (seasonal), exploration of Douma Village with an included traditional lunch, before reaching the serene Qadisha Valley for an overnight stay in a monastery or local guesthouse.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Qadisha Valley (Holy Valley) the next morning, perhaps joining the monks for prayers, before visiting Becharre, birthplace of Kahlil Gibran, and the iconic Cedars of God reserve. The day concludes in the ancient Phoenician port city of Byblos, another UNESCO site, brimming with millennia of history. Enjoy a free morning exploring Byblos' charming markets and harbour before travelling inland. A highlight is the visit to Ksara Winery, Lebanon's oldest, for a tour of its historic caves and a wine tasting session, before continuing to Zahle.
The penultimate day offers a spectacular immersion in history with a visit to the colossal Roman temple complex at Baalbek (Heliopolis), one of the most impressive Roman sites globally. Afterwards, explore the well-preserved 8th-century Umayyad city of Anjar in the Bekaa Valley, showcasing remarkable early Islamic urban planning, before driving back to Beirut for the final night. Your comprehensive tour concludes on day eleven with free time for last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping in Beirut before your included transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Throughout the tour, breakfasts are included daily, along with specific lunches and dinners as detailed in the itinerary.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Guest House, Hotel, Resort
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cape Town, Amman, Baalbek, Beiru
Cape Town, Amman, Baalbek, Beirut, Petra, Dead Sea, Qadisha Valley, Byblos
Welcome to Vietnam, a country that pulses with life, from the timeless traditions of the northern highlands to the bustling energy of the southern cities. This unique tour invites you to step beyond the well-trodden paths and immerse yourself in the authentic heart of the nation. From the moment you arrive in Hanoi, you'll be greeted with a blend of historical grandeur and vibrant street life, setting the stage for the captivating experiences that lie ahead.
Your adventure truly begins as you leave the urban landscape behind and journey into the serene beauty of the Pu Luong Nature Reserve. Here, you'll find a different rhythm of life, defined by peaceful, terraced rice paddies and the gentle pace of the local Thai ethnic community. This is more than a scenic stay; it's an opportunity for genuine cultural immersion. You will sleep in a traditional stilt house, sharing a communal space with fellow travellers, and wake up to the stunning views of the 'hidden village' of Kho Muong. The days are filled with invigorating treks through the verdant landscape, and the evenings are spent sharing stories over a delicious, home-cooked meal.
As the tour progresses, you'll be treated to a stunning contrast of experiences. The tranquil landscapes of Pu Luong give way to the legendary beauty of Ha Long Bay, where you'll cruise among thousands of limestone karsts, and even ascend a mountain for a panoramic sunset view. Next, you will travel south by overnight train, waking to the sight of lush green fields and water buffalo before arriving in the imperial city of Hue. Here, history comes alive in the magnificent Citadel and a peaceful cruise along the Perfume River. The journey continues to the charming, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can lose yourself in its rich, multicultural history and even learn to make your own souvenir. Finally, you will explore the vibrant and bustling Ho Chi Minh City, with a memorable journey into the rich agricultural heart of the Mekong Delta, where you'll participate in hands-on activities, from making rice paper to fishing, connecting you directly with local life.
This tour is crafted for those who seek more than just sightseeing. It's for the traveller who wants to engage, to learn, and to connect. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the quiet corners of the Mekong Delta, you will discover the rich tapestry of Vietnamese life, culture, and cuisine, creating memories that will last a lifetime. The itinerary's varied accommodation reflects its diverse experiences. Throughout your journey, you will enjoy the comfort and amenities of 4-star hotels in the major cities of Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City. In contrast, your overnight stays in Pu Luong and the Mekong Delta will be in more traditional, rural settings, providing an authentic taste of local life. The tour also includes the unique and unforgettable experience of spending a night aboard a traditional junk boat as you cruise through the spectacular waters of Ha Long Bay
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Eco Lodge, Home-stay, Hotel, Lodge, Sleeper Train
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cape Town, Hanoi, Saigon, Mekong
Cape Town, Hanoi, Saigon, Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City, Mai Chau, Khò Muồng, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An
Discover the soul of Tunisia on this immersive journey through the country's rich, yet lesser-travelled Northwest. Your adventure begins in Tunis, the vibrant capital, before immediately plunging into the captivating cultural heartland. The exploration starts with a deeply enriching, hands-on pottery workshop in Sejnane, a UNESCO-listed experience where you will learn the ancient, wheel-less crafting techniques preserved solely by local women. Following this immersion into craft, the tour sweeps you away to the picturesque coast of Tabarka, where the striking red-rock shoreline and a historic Roman fort offer spectacular views where the forest meets the sea. The day culminates with an ascent into the tranquil highlands of Ain Draham, a refreshing mountain retreat known for its cool air and dense cork oak forests.
The journey continues amidst the serene beauty of the Kroumirie Mountains. In Ain Draham, a guided forest hike, led by a local expert, will reveal the region's rich ecological diversity, weaving through shaded paths and offering insights into the unique flora and fauna. A truly memorable highlight is a traditional, intimate lunch shared with a local family within the forest area, providing a genuine taste of regional cuisine and warm Tunisian hospitality. Moving on, the focus shifts to history as you explore the remarkable Roman city of Bulla Regia, famed for its extraordinary subterranean villas. This historical deep dive is balanced with a visit to the atmospheric Medina of El Kef and a unique bread-making experience at the 'House of Bread', connecting you with the essence of Tunisian daily life.
The historical grand finale is the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site of Dougga, North Africa’s best-preserved Roman town. You will spend the morning wandering amongst the majestic ruins, including the Capitol and the ancient Theatre, gaining a direct perspective on the site's profound historical importance. The cultural exploration is perfectly complemented by a practical, sensory interlude: an organic olive oil tasting and a simple, traditional 'farm to table' lunch at a local estate, allowing you to sample local varieties and learn about the pressing process. The trip concludes with a return drive to Tunis for a final evening before your departure, leaving you with lasting memories of Tunisia’s stunning landscapes, ancient history, and authentic, warm-hearted culture.
We also offer a 13-day version of this tour, combining the North and South of the country: Tunisian Encompassed tour
Explorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This extraordinary eleven-day journey through Southern Africa offers a captivating blend of wildlife encounters, ancient history, and dramatic landscapes. Designed for an intimate experience, this small-group tour, with a maximum of 12 participants, ensures a personalised adventure from start to finish. Beginning at the majestic Victoria Falls, the itinerary quickly delves into the heart of Zimbabwe's premier wildlife reserves. Days are filled with thrilling game drives in Hwange National Park, home to vast elephant herds and diverse species, complemented by an insightful visit to the Painted Dog Conservation Centre, highlighting vital conservation efforts. The tour then shifts to the mystical Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique granite formations, ancient San rock art, and the chance to track rhinos on foot, offering a truly unique perspective on the wild.
The historical thread continues with a visit to the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, an ancient capital showcasing remarkable dry-stone architecture and a rich past. As the journey progresses south, the landscape transforms, leading to the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Conservation Area. Here, travellers explore the Kaoxa Rock Art Shelter, witnessing millennia-old human expression, before embarking on a guided tracking experience in Mapesu Private Game Reserve, learning to read the subtle signs of the wild. The small group size enhances these experiences, allowing for more in-depth interaction with guides and a greater sense of immersion.
The final leg of the trip plunges into the renowned South African wilderness, with multiple safari experiences in and around Kruger National Park, including full-day drives and sunset excursions aimed at spotting the iconic Big Five. The intimate nature of a small group means more flexibility and better viewing opportunities on these drives. Interspersed with the wildlife adventures is a breathtaking drive along the Panorama Route, revealing stunning vistas, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls. The tour concludes in Johannesburg, ensuring guests leave with a profound collection of memories, from close encounters with Africa's magnificent wildlife to a deep appreciation for the region's rich history and diverse natural beauty, all shared within the camaraderie of a small group
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Eco Lodge, Resort
Age Range
8-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Johannesburg, Kalahari, Hwange N
Johannesburg, Kalahari, Hwange National Park, Ghanzi, Maun, Okavango Delta, Moremi, Nata, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Cape Town
Discover Turkey’s vibrant blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes on the 'Discover Turkey' tour—a captivating 8-day group journey ideal for travelers seeking a well-rounded introduction to this fascinating country. Starting and ending in Istanbul, this tour takes you through the enchanting regions of Cappadocia, Konya, and Kusadasi.
Begin with Istanbul’s iconic sights: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Spice Bazaar, Hippodrome, and a Bosphorus cruise. Continue south to Kusadasi on the Mediterranean coast, using this lively town as a base to explore the spectacular ancient city of Ephesus and a local wine-producing village. Discover the importance of Turkish carpet making and visit the surreal, white travertines of Pamukkale.
Journey inland along the ancient Spice Route, stopping in Konya to learn about Sufi traditions before arriving in Cappadocia. Here, explore whimsical rock formations, cave churches, the Goreme Valley, and labyrinthine underground cities. The tour concludes with a scenic drive (or optional flight) to Ankara and back to Istanbul—where you can extend your stay to further explore the city.
What sets this trip apart is its balance of bustling cities, historic sites, and unique landscapes, all complemented by stays in 4-star and boutique hotels. This is the perfect tour package for travelers who want to experience the essence of Turkey in just one week.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
8-95 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Istanbul, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, K
Istanbul, Kusadasi, Pamukkale, Konya, Cappadocia, Cape Town
Dive into the vibrant blue waters of the Maldives with the "Marine Conservation Cruise," a unique 8-day sailing adventure focused on protecting the archipelago’s precious marine ecosystems. This tour is perfect for travelers who care deeply about the environment and want to make a positive impact while enjoying the natural beauty of the islands.
Board the MV Felicity in Male and join marine biologists from the Whale Shark Research Program, participating in responsible snorkeling, marine life data collection, coral nursery work, and educational talks on conservation. Visit local NGOs, snorkel in the South Ari Atoll—the realm of the majestic whale shark—and engage in beach cleanups on remote islands. Experience authentic island life with a Maldivian-themed night on Gulhi and end your journey snorkeling with stingrays and visiting a coral nursery.
This cruise trip’s USP is hands-on conservation—giving you the chance to contribute to real research and leave a lasting legacy. With small group sizes and limited departures, early booking is recommended for this rare opportunity to blend adventure, education, and environmental stewardship in paradise.
Sailing, yachting and motor boating
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Embark on an unforgettable odyssey through the heart of Southern Africa on this exclusive small-group tour, meticulously designed for a maximum of just 12 passengers. This intimate setting ensures a personalised and immersive experience, allowing for deeper engagement with the stunning landscapes and incredible wildlife. From the moment you depart Zimbabwe, your journey westward unfolds towards Namibia's lush Zambezi Region, where river cruises on the Zambezi offer your first taste of the continent's vibrant ecosystems, teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife.
As the adventure continues, you'll traverse remote villages and verdant landscapes, spotting elephants and sable antelope as you make your way to the tranquil banks of the Okavango River. Here, you'll delve into the wonders of Popa Falls and Mahangu National Park, enjoying boat cruises and game drives that reveal Namibia's rich biodiversity. The tour then takes you into Botswana and the legendary Okavango Delta. Prepare for an authentic safari experience with accommodation in rustic mobile fly camps, offering true immersion in the wilderness. You'll explore this unique inland delta via traditional mokoro canoes and exhilarating 4x4 game drives in the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, seeking out the iconic Big Five and countless other species.
The journey culminates with a captivating stop in Nata, where elephants roam freely around your lodge, providing truly remarkable close encounters. Finally, you'll experience the awe-inspiring power of Victoria Falls, known locally as "Mosi-oa Tunya" – "the smoke that thunders."
This small-group approach means more flexibility, more personal attention from your guide, and the chance to forge lasting connections with fellow travellers who share your passion for discovery. This tour isn't just about seeing Africa; it's about experiencing its soul in a truly memorable way
Wildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Guest House, Tent
Age Range
8-85 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Johannesburg, Matabeleland, Kala
Johannesburg, Matabeleland, Kalahari, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Ghanzi, Mahangu, Okavango Delta, Tsodilo Hills, Moremi, Nata
