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AFRICA & THE MIDDLE EAST
DESTINATION GUIDE
As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real Africa & The Middle East in a way like no other. Take a journey to the cradle of civilisation, where ecosystems have remained unchanged for millions of years, and our stories were first written on stones. Africa & The Middle East is an unparalleled world of ancient history and living traditions, spread over some of the most remarkable landscapes on earth. Marvel at the Great Pyramids in Egypt, a triumph of humankind, then stand in awe at the power of nature, from the red dunes of Sossusvlei to the mighty Victoria Falls. When you visit Africa & The Middle East with Trafalgar, you’ll explore Jordan’s Petra, one of the world’s first cities, and see Africa’s iconic Big Five, from Kruger to the Serengeti. Every trip is crafted with a connection to the local heritage and shares our love of the region - our iKhaya or ‘home’. From meeting the jumping Maasai warriors, to visiting a Swazi Chief’s village, we’ll show you the real stories of Africa & The Middle East.Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.
Our top 3 things to do in Africa
We’ll show you all the wondrous things to do in Africa and the Middle East, from exploring the world’s best wildlife reserves, to meeting the colourful Maasai warriors in Kenya.
Explore South Africa's oldest national park - Kruger
Connect with nature in Kruger, one of the largest national parks in all of Africa. It’s home to 135 mammal species, ranging from the iconic Big 5 to the Little We’ll take you on an Africa safari through the incredible landscapes, from elephants chewing on mopane trees, to the big cats, giraffe and wildebeest of the open savannas.
Visit a Maasai village in Kenya
When you take an Africa vacation with Trafalgar, we’ll delve deeper into the vivid culture of the continent. In Kenya, we’ll visit a Maasai community, where we’ll meet a village elder to gain a deeper insight into their daily life. Discover a traditional cultural boma and watch the colourfully clad warriors display their incredible jumping prowess.
Ride through the red dunes of Sossusvlei in Namibia
The burning red dunes of Sossusvlei in Namibia is one of Africa’s most extraordinary landscapes. We’ll take you on a journey through the Namib, the world’s oldest desert, to the towering Dune 45 of Sossusvlei. Walk along the sandy peak to see the beautiful red dunes surrounded by camel thorn trees and striking white clay pans.
Best museums in Africa
A Middle East vacation with Trafalgar will reveal exceptional museums like the Luxor, and we’ll delve into the complex history of Africa with moving museums like District Six.
Luxor Museum
The Luxor Museum is one of the best museums in Egypt, with an excellent collection of antiquities gathered from temples and tombs. The artefacts date from the end of the Old Kingdom to the Mamluk period, and you can see the royal mummies of two pharaohs and items from the tomb of King Tutankhamun.
District Six Museum
District Six Museum is a moving tribute to this once vibrant multiracial area that was destroyed during the apartheid in South Africa. The district’s 60,000 inhabitants were forcibly removed in the 1960s and 1970s, and today you can see photographs, records and maps, and hear stories from former residents.
Roman theater
A remarkable remnant of Roman Philadelphia, the Roman theater is a highlight for any trip to Jordan. The theatre was likely built in the 2nd century AD, and has since been superbly restored. The best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset, when the light shifts beautifully across the three tiers.
Best food in Africa
The cuisine is the highlight of any trip to the Middle East and Africa, and we’ll reveal the classic dishes, from githeri in Kenya to fattet hummus in Jordan.The cuisine is the highlight of any trip to the Middle East and Africa, and we’ll reveal the classic dishes, from githeri in Kenya to fattet hummus in Jordan.
Githeri
African food is known for its hearty flavours, and githeri is a delicious example. A corn and bean one pot meal, githeri originates from the Kikuyu tribe of Kenya. You can add any vegetables like potatoes, and spices like paprika, for a warm and comforting meal.
Fattet hummus
Fattet hummus is a beloved Middle Eastern food, found throughout Jordan. It’s made from toasted pieces of pita bread and chickpeas layered in a dish and covered in a garlic tahini yoghurt sauce. With a topping of pine nuts, parsley and olive oil, this is the most delicious snack in the country.
Ndizi Kaanga
Typically served as a snack or side dish, ndizi kaanga is traditional Tanzanian meal made of plantains. The plantains can be grilled and seasoned with salt for a savory dish, or fried with lemon juice and a pinch of sugar for a sweet dessert.
Blank journal
From traversing surreal landscapes, to witnessing ancient rituals, you’re bound to have some inspiring experiences you’ll want to record in a journal.
Scarf
A scarf is one of the most useful items to pack. It protects you from the sun and sand, and can be used to cover your hair or shoulders when entering mosques.
A pair of sunglasses
Summer or winter, a pair of sunglasses is essential. If visiting in the colder months, the reflection of the sun on the white snow will give your eyes a surprising strain.
Versatile clothing
The climate in this region ranges from scorching desert to chilly mountains. Pack a variety of layers so you can easily go from cold morning game drives to blazing afternoon sunshine.
Swimsuit
From the salty waters of the Dead Sea in Jordan, to the tropical islands of Zanzibar, you’ll need a swimsuit for your underwater adventures.
What to pack for Africa
Other things to know before you go
Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Road Trip Adventures
Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!