Deepest, darkest Africa
You’ve seen the wildebeest migration, you’ve sampled South African wine, you’ve climbed Kilimanjaro and you’ve danced with the Maasai, and now you’re thinking ‘what next?’.
Perhaps more than any other continent, Africa offers huge potential for delving into the unknown. There are huge areas that are rarely trodden by locals, let alone visited by travellers. In Tanzania for example, you could swerve the Serengeti and head for the Selous – an impressive wildlife stronghold which receives the same number of visitors per year that the famous parks do in a day. You’ll probably count more pangolins than people! Heading deep into Africa’s interior you could visit the steamy jungles of the Republic of the Congo where gorillas climb through clouds of butterflies. In the west you could discover the lost tribal spirits of Togo and Benin; or you could set sail for São Tomé and Príncipe, known as ‘the African Galapagos’, where new species are still regularly being discovered.
As the saying goes ‘fortune favours the bold’, and if indeed you are bold enough to set foot in these parts, rest assured you will be handsomely rewarded.
Perhaps more than any other continent, Africa offers huge potential for delving into the unknown. There are huge areas that are rarely trodden by locals, let alone visited by travellers. In Tanzania for example, you could swerve the Serengeti and head for the Selous – an impressive wildlife stronghold which receives the same number of visitors per year that the famous parks do in a day. You’ll probably count more pangolins than people! Heading deep into Africa’s interior you could visit the steamy jungles of the Republic of the Congo where gorillas climb through clouds of butterflies. In the west you could discover the lost tribal spirits of Togo and Benin; or you could set sail for São Tomé and Príncipe, known as ‘the African Galapagos’, where new species are still regularly being discovered.
As the saying goes ‘fortune favours the bold’, and if indeed you are bold enough to set foot in these parts, rest assured you will be handsomely rewarded.
You will love
- Glimpses into an unknown world
- Few (if any!) tourists
- Weird and wonderful wildlife
- Astonishing culture, with no charade
- The exclusivity of isolation
- The stories you’ll tell…
Itineraries & set departures
Ghana, Benin & Togo: Festivals and Fetishes
Set Departure | Culture of West Africa
This cultural odyssey will take you to the most remote regions of Ghana, Togo and Benin to discover lost tribal worlds and ancient voodoo spirits. Unique, eye opening and full of magical mystery, this spectacular journey through West Africa it offers a glimpse into a world seen by very few westerners and virtually no tourists. Led by expert guides and with the benefit of good quality accommodation en route, this is an unparalleled experience for true Africa-philes.
In the Footsteps of Dr Livingstone
Inspiration Itinerary | Zambia's wildest reaches
Inspired by Dr Livingstone’s intrepid explorations in 1852, when he began a four year expedition to find a route from the upper Zambezi to the Indian Ocean coastline, this itinerary begins in the Upper Zambezi and follows the course of the river to the Lower Zambezi, then finishes in the South Luangwa National Park - arguably the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa and the birthplace of the walking safari.
Congo Odzala Odyssey
Itinerary Inspiration | Deepest Darkest Africa
Odzala Discovery Camps are pioneers in the eco-tourism industry of Congo and their three camps combine beautifully to present a diverse journey covering three separate habitats, including gorilla forests.
Barefoot Beaches – São Tomé and Príncipe Islands, West Africa
Itinerary Inspiration | West Africa's Islands
Floating in the Gulf of Guinea, the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe are Africa's second smallest nation yet boast impressive history, wildlife and culture. This 12-night itinerary takes in the best they have to offer.
Warm Heart Malawi
Itinerary Inspiration | Malawi's bush & beach
An example itinerary taking in the very best of Malawi with its unique safari experiences, impressive wildlife conservation efforts, beautiful beaches and wonderfully warm welcome.
Expeditions Ducret
Congo Basin Safari Cruise
Until now the Congo basin has remained off limits due to inaccessibility and a lack of infrastructure, but this brand new 4* boat changes everything! A cruise with Expeditions Ducret is an exploration into a fragile world, where nature can be observed in all its immense glory, and these respectful and small group journeys are a key factor in preserving the region’s fauna, flora and indigenous cultures.
Ghana, Benin & Togo: Festivals and Fetishes
Set Departure | Culture of West Africa
This cultural odyssey will take you to the most remote regions of Ghana, Togo and Benin to discover lost tribal worlds and ancient voodoo spirits. Unique, eye opening and full of magical mystery, this spectacular journey through West Africa it offers a glimpse into a world seen by very few westerners and virtually no tourists. Led by expert guides and with the benefit of good quality accommodation en route, this is an unparalleled experience for true Africa-philes.
In the Footsteps of Dr Livingstone
Inspiration Itinerary | Zambia's wildest reaches
Inspired by Dr Livingstone’s intrepid explorations in 1852, when he began a four year expedition to find a route from the upper Zambezi to the Indian Ocean coastline, this itinerary begins in the Upper Zambezi and follows the course of the river to the Lower Zambezi, then finishes in the South Luangwa National Park - arguably the finest wildlife sanctuary in Africa and the birthplace of the walking safari.
Congo Odzala Odyssey
Itinerary Inspiration | Deepest Darkest Africa
Odzala Discovery Camps are pioneers in the eco-tourism industry of Congo and their three camps combine beautifully to present a diverse journey covering three separate habitats, including gorilla forests.
Barefoot Beaches – São Tomé and Príncipe Islands, West Africa
Itinerary Inspiration | West Africa's Islands
Floating in the Gulf of Guinea, the islands of São Tomé and Príncipe are Africa's second smallest nation yet boast impressive history, wildlife and culture. This 12-night itinerary takes in the best they have to offer.
Warm Heart Malawi
Itinerary Inspiration | Malawi's bush & beach
An example itinerary taking in the very best of Malawi with its unique safari experiences, impressive wildlife conservation efforts, beautiful beaches and wonderfully warm welcome.
Expeditions Ducret
Congo Basin Safari Cruise
Until now the Congo basin has remained off limits due to inaccessibility and a lack of infrastructure, but this brand new 4* boat changes everything! A cruise with Expeditions Ducret is an exploration into a fragile world, where nature can be observed in all its immense glory, and these respectful and small group journeys are a key factor in preserving the region’s fauna, flora and indigenous cultures.
Out of the ordinary African experiences
Explore Poto Poto market
At the centre of one of Brazzaville busiest districts lies a sprawling, bustling market that is not to be missed if you want to lap up some culture. Look out for crafts, jewellery and Congolese fabrics as you make your… Read more
At the centre of one of Brazzaville busiest districts lies a sprawling,… Read more
Kayak in the wild Congo Basin
The Lekoli River offers some of the best opportunities to view wildlife in the forest and there is no better way to explore it than by kayak. Paddling quietly through the languid waters allows you to approach squawking parrots, screeching… Read more
The Lekoli River offers some of the best opportunities to view wildlife… Read more
Marvel at rock-hewn churches
A private guide will unearth the mystifying rock-hewn churches of the Amhara region of northern Ethiopia, many of which are still important pilgrimage sites for Coptic Christians. Lalibela is the site of eleven medieval monolithic churches carved in the 12th… Read more
A private guide will unearth the mystifying rock-hewn churches of the Amhara… Read more
Meet the tribes of the Omo Valley
The Omo Delta in southwest Ethiopia is one of the least accessible but most ethnically diverse parts of East Africa. Over ten distinctly unique tribes exist within a 38-mile radius, including the lip plate wearing Mursi, the Hamar famous for… Read more
The Omo Delta in southwest Ethiopia is one of the least accessible… Read more
Learn to hunt with the Hadzabe tribe
The Hadzabe people have lived in an area near the beautiful Lake Eyasi in northern Tanzania for hundreds of years and their way of life remains relatively unchanged. They continue to live as hunter-gatherers in harmony with their surroundings. You… Read more
The Hadzabe people have lived in an area near the beautiful Lake… Read more
Accommodation for Africa-philes
Sangha Lodge – Dzanga-Sangha, Central African Republic
Sublime rainforest escape
With an innovative approach to pioneering eco-tourism at its core, Sangha Lodge affords its visitors an incredibly rare opportunity to discover exotic wildlife as never having seen it before. From Sangha explore the surrounding ancient forests and riverbeds, enjoy gorilla trekking and iconic game viewing at the Dzanga Bai. Read More
Mboko Camp – Odzala National Park
Comfort in the clearing
Situated on the banks of the Lekoli River in an area of lush savannah frequented by forest buffalo, forest elephant and spotted hyena, Mboko Camp offers visitors breathtaking views of the interface between the tropical rainforest and grassland savannah where hundreds of towering termite mounds create an otherworldly environment. Read More
Zambezi Expeditions – Mana Pools
Mobile Camp in Mana Pools
The legendary Mana Pools is known for its wildlife rich floodplains and magnificent views of the Zambezi River. As a fully mobile operation, Zambezi Expeditions offers one of the best ways to experience Mana Pools on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, placing you wherever the action is! Read More
Gheralta Lodge – Tigray
Gateway to the biblical North
Gheralta Lodge is your launch point for exploring the rock-hewn churches and 'land that time forgot' scenery of the northern Tigray region. Low level and built of rock it blends seamlessly into its stony environment and boasts dramatic views across the vast landscape, especially at sunset. Read More
Mwaleshi – North Luangwa National Park
Right in the thick of it
Mwaleshi Camp is situated 10km from the Mwaleshi and Luangwa river confluence - a magnet for wildlife in Zambia's remote North Luangwa National Park. The focus is on walking and exploring the area on foot with expert guides. Read More
Fugitives Drift – KwaZulu-Natal
Step back into South Africa's history
Positioned on a hillside above the Buffalo River Gorge in the Natal Battlefields, Fugitives' Drift is a simple but charming family and owner-run property that offers a unique experience combining wildlife with rich South African history. Enjoy horse riding, game drives, walking, fishing and battlefield tours that bring the epic Zulu wars to life. Read More
Greystoke Mahale – Mahale Mountains
Barefoot Beach & Bush Luxury
On its own secluded beach on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Tanzania sits Greystoke Mahale. The mountains rise up behind camp supporting lush evergreen semi-tropical forest, colourful butterflies, glades of jasmine and around 1,000 wild chimpanzees. Few camps have a more beautiful or secluded location. Read More
Sarara – Matthews Mountain Range
A community venture remote and unspoilt
Sarara is situated in the remote Namunyak Wildlife Conservancy in northern Kenya where the savannah plains and lush mountain slopes are home to rare wildlife and the proud Samburu people. It offers a wild safari in this lesser known and dramatically beautiful ‘northern frontier’ of Kenya. Read More
Limalimo – Simien Mountains National Park
Simien Mountain chic
The first lodge of its kind in Ethiopia, Limalimo is luxurious, design led and sustainable. Architecturally masterminded in clean lines and polished concrete, it perches on the edge of an escarpment in the Simien Mountains National Park with simply stunning views. Rooms are minimal but stylish and communal areas are inviting. Read More
Mwiba Lodge – Serengeti National Park
Front row seats for calving season
Overlooking a rocky gorge amongst stone boulders and acacia trees, Mwiba’s setting in the southern Serengeti has ‘wow’ factor. It plays hosts to exceptional wildlife whilst remaining quiet and exclusive with only a handful of visitors. With a delicate balance of cultural authenticity and remarkable wildlife, Mwiba offers an outstanding safari experience. Read More
Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth MackintoshJulia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford familyWe are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad BalanceThe trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree familyClassic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain JonesWe loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi CunninghamAn amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert TaylorThank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul CozziVery knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert HappellEverything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim BradleyYou can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham FamilyThe trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma JeffcoatAbsolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie AdamsClassic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros WheelerTheir experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip StevensIf you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph HarrisonClassic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison GuthrieClassic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley YatesThe Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette WhileyIt certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean MifsudWould do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan TribeAn absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
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