Overview
Visit the incomparable game lands of southern Africa in the grand tradition of a luxury African safari. This outstanding adventure trip features four uniquely different countries: South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia. Our private plane safari is stunning in its breadth and diversity of landscapes and experiences. You’ll explore five different ecosystems and touch down in some of the continent’s most remote and extraordinary places, including Botswana’s Okavango Delta, spectacular Victoria Falls, and Namibia’s starkly beautiful game reserves, deserts, and coastline. Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities to view the “Big Five,” plus Africa’s superb birdlife, in the company of top wildlife guides and a Smithsonian Expert. This grand African safari is made practical and comfortable through the use of private travel by plane, which whisks you directly to game reserves or small, private airstrips, offering unmatched flexibility and ease of travel. Your once-in-a-lifetime journey also features luxury accommodations, from grand historic lodges to luxury tented camps.Smithsonian Expert
Throughout this tour, travel in the company of an exceptional Smithsonian Study Leader. Don Wilson, a Research Zoologist and Curator of Mammals at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, will lead this amazing safari. Read an interview with Smithsonian Expert Don Wilson.Special Highlights
Enjoy the convenience of private aircraft that whisk you directly to small private airstrips near each game reserve. Plus, throughout this luxury African safari, an expert expedition staff and flight crew will take care of all the details and provide top-notch hospitality.Observe the water holes of Namibia’s Etosha Pan, which draw a vast array of wildlife, including lion, zebra, wildebeest, and springbok.Follow in the footsteps of explorer David Livingstone as you experience the splendor of thundering Victoria Falls.Experience an adventure trip that offers close encounters with the "Big Five," plus a host of other mammals and more than 500 bird species, at parks like South Africa's Sabi Sand Game Reserve.Sample Africa’s luxury accommodations, lodges, and wildlife camps, which offer a soothing oasis after your explorations of the region. Plus, our exclusive game lodges and camps offer magnificent access to the region’s wildlife.Witness the enormity of Botswana’s Okavango Delta from the air and the sheer scale and brilliance of the Namib desert at Sossusvlei Dunes.Don't forget to check out our photo slide show to glimpse the excitement of this special program!
View photos by clicking "Next Photo" at top of page!TRAVELER COMMENT
"The many encounters with animals and birds in diverse habitats in different countries were extraordinary. By far, the best safari experience we have ever had!"
— Mary & Bill McNamara"I always found interesting people to talk with, wonderful planned events and delicious food to eat. The accommodations surpassed my dreams. My every need was met and I had a great time."
— Betty Carlin"The Grand Safari was the best tour I have ever taken. Not only were we in awe of the natural wonders, the animals in their own habitat at such a close range, and the information we received from our study leaders, but the thoughtful, intelligent work of the organizers made this our most memorable trip."
— Grand Safari Traveler"This was the trip of a lifetime! Far above our expectations. We saw all of the Big 5 during the first three days."
— Jim and Marion Jordan
