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Trips

Middle East & Africa

A lone giraffe walks across a golden grassy savanna with scattered trees, showcasing African wildlife in its natural environment.

Explore regions that have profoundly shaped global history, culture and belief. Road Scholar learning experiences in the Middle East and Africa offer thoughtful context, expert insight and meaningful engagement with both ancient civilizations and contemporary life. Browse the collection below to discover opportunities that deepen understanding and invite fresh perspective.

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Kenya/Tanzania
Animals & Wildlife
Get up close to astonishing wildlife — predators, pachyderms, fleet-footed antelope and dazzling birds. Immerse yourself in human stories, too, as you learn about Maasai culture.
Egypt
River Boats
On the ultimate adventure in Egypt, sail along the Nile aboard a modern dahabeya, explore the Valley of the Kings and learn about Egyptian history at the Great Pyramid of Giza.
Tanzania
Animals & Wildlife
Witness one of the world’s most awe-inspiring events as you follow the hoofprints of zebra, wildebeest and other ungulates on their migration from the Serengeti to Maasai Mara Reserve.
Madagascar
Animals & Wildlife
It’s a place like no other — explore the unique landscapes of Madagascar and search for its biodiverse flora and fauna, some of which can be found nowhere else on Earth!
Tanzania
Ages 9 and up
Family Programs
Learn why Tanzania is the best place for animal lovers as you and your family search for big cats on safaris, while also meeting local children to get an inside look into this country.
Morocco
Explore Morocco’s history, culture and environmental initiatives through firsthand experiences in the cities of Marrakech and Essaouira.
Egypt/Jordan
Small Ship
Sail the Red Sea and Suez Canal on a Floating Campus® voyage linking the Pyramids, Luxor and Petra with expert insight and unforgettable ancient landscapes.
South Africa/Zambia/Botswana/Zimbabwe
Explore UNESCO Sites where you’ll encounter the remarkable wildlife, natural wonders and cultures of Southern Africa. Safaris, Victoria Falls, Cape Town — one adventure after the next!
South Africa / Zambia/Namibia / Botswana / Zimbabwe
Birding
Add the birds of Southern Africa to your birding life list as you explore the diverse habitats of four countries with experts, spotting unique wildlife and learning about local culture.
Kenya
Animals & Wildlife
Crisscross the equator on this deep dive into Kenya, where you’ll experience its astounding wildlife and the rich culture of its communities.
South Africa/Zimbabwe/Namibia/Botswana
Train Treks
Journey through iconic countryside by train, and spot an abundance of wildlife while on safari. Plus, enjoy expert lectures on the region’s cultural traditions and natural wonders.
South Africa/Zambia/Botswana
Ages 10 – 17
Grandparent
Search for animals in their natural habitat, make friends with rescued elephants and learn to track wildlife as you explore South Africa, Botswana and Zambia with your grandchild.
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Middle East and Africa Tours

Discover the magic of the Middle East and Africa on guided tours with Road Scholar, offering journeys designed to awaken your sense of adventure while providing comfort and care every step of the way. On our Africa and Middle East tours, you’ll find programs that uncover the history, beauty and culture of this region, from the timeless wonders of Egypt and Jordan to the golden deserts of Oman and Morocco.

Tours to the Middle East and Africa are where history and culture come alive at every turn. On African tours, wildlife safaris in Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana invite you to witness nature in its raw beauty, while escorted tours in the Middle East bring history and ancient stories to life through immersive learning experiences.

Browse our collection today to find unforgettable experiences with thoughtful pacing, expert guidance and opportunities to savor the journey at your own rhythm.

 

Highlights from Our Africa and Middle East Tours

Whether it’s exploring ancient ruins, cruising along the Nile or watching elephants gather at a watering hole, our Africa and Middle East tours reveal landscapes unlike anywhere else on earth. Some of the highlights of these popular destinations include:

  • Iconic landmarks: Stand in awe before the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, stroll through Petra’s rose-red city or admire the ornate mosques and palaces of Morocco and Oman while learning about the history and significance of each landmark from one of our expert guides.

  • Wildlife encounters: On Middle East and Africa tours, you’ll be able to experience thrilling safari drives in destinations like Tanzania, Kenya and Botswana, where lions, elephants, giraffes and zebras roam freely across the savannah.

  • Breathtaking landscapes: From Namibia’s towering sand dunes and South Africa’s dramatic coastlines to Madagascar’s rainforests and Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls, our escorted tours of the Middle East and Africa offer scenery that will take your breath away.

  • Cultural immersion: Visit vibrant souks, taste traditional cuisines and connect with local communities who share their stories, traditions and crafts. Our guided tours offer the perfect opportunity to experience these destinations on a more intimate level and return with a deeper understanding of different ways of life.

  • Relaxed journeys: At Road Scholar, you’ll find Africa and Middle East tours with varying activity levels and paces, offering comfortable accommodations and expert guides who handle the details so you can fully enjoy the adventure.

 

Best Times to Travel and Regional Tips

When it comes to Middle East and Africa tours, timing it right is essential for a comfortable adventure. For North Africa and the Middle East, the best time for many travelers is the spring and fall, which offer pleasant temperatures that make it easier to explore ancient sites and bustling cities like Cairo and Amman without the intense summer heat.

For Southern Africa, the dry season falls between May and October, making it prime safari time when animals gather around rivers and watering holes. Destinations in East Africa, like Kenya and Tanzania, are often most comfortable and exciting between June and October, when visitors can experience the Great Migration and enjoy mild weather.

There are also several regional tips to keep in mind when joining Middle Eastern and African tours:

  • Pack smart: Bring dry, breathable garments, which work for warm days, along with layers for cooler nights, especially in desert regions.

  • Stay hydrated: Both desert drives and safari climates can be dehydrating, so make sure to keep water and fluids handy.

  • Respect local customs: In Middle Eastern countries, modest dress is appreciated, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites.

  • Health and safety: Many destinations recommend vaccinations and malaria precautions. You can visit the CDC’s website for more region-specific information.

 

Senior-Friendly and Accessible Tours

Exploring the Middle East and Africa is an adventure at any age, and at Road Scholar, you’ll find a range of senior-friendly and accessible tours in our collection of experiential learning programs. Each itinerary at Road Scholar balances unforgettable experiences with a comfortable pace, so you’ll have time to enjoy the journey without feeling rushed. Accommodations are also carefully selected for comfort and convenience, and many include accessible options to make your stay worry-free.

Our expert guides are experienced in supporting travelers of any pace or ability, offering assistance when needed through historic sites, market visits and safari outings. Transportation is arranged to minimize long travel days whenever possible, with plenty of opportunities to rest and recharge. Whether it’s a Nile cruise with easy access to ancient temples or a city tour with flexible walking options, these Africa and Middle East tours are tailored to help you see the world with ease.

 

Book Your Escorted Tours in the Middle East and Africa Today

Ready to experience all the Middle East and Africa have to offer? Explore our collection of Middle East and Africa tours, all led by local expert guides who bring the history, culture and landscapes to life through rich and captivating stories. Through our programs, you’ll join a diverse cohort of like-minded learners, where you can enjoy spirited conversations that lead to long-lasting relationships. Book your tour today!