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Overview

Ecological explorations for the whole family

A blend of culture and history and flora and fauna, this journey provides travelers of all ages the opportunity to see historically significant sites as well as the diverse habitats of South Africa's many native species. We’ll examine the past during a trip to Robben Island, where former president and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and look to the future with visits to conservation projects.

Stay at a luxury eco-lodge on the coast of the Cape Peninsula and spend two days on safari in the incredible Sabi Sands Private Nature Reserve. Grown-ups will enjoy wine tasting at the award-winning Vergelegen Wine Estate, and young explorers will delight in getting up close to wildlife at conservation and rehabilitation centers.

Dates

December 21–30, 2025

Duration

10 days

Price

From $14,095 per person

Trip size

34 participants

Minimum age

6 years
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Faculty leader

A different kind of classroom

With renowned Stanford faculty and scholars leading the way, every Travel/Study trip is a one-of-a-kind educational experience.

Margo Horn

History

Since 1985, Margo has been teaching in the history department at Stanford, where her current research projects concern the history of women physicians in the U.S. and global women leaders.

Share the joy of learning

Meet our Young Explorer leaders

These razor-sharp Stanford grads and former Stanford Sierra Camp counselors love interacting with families and are experts at adapting to the personalities and interests of each Young Explorer. They fuel creativity with thought-provoking discussions and mind-bending games that keep the kids entertained while adults attend lectures. In addition, Young Explorer leaders bring the whole family together for activities such as family Olympics, trivia night and disco bingo.

Itinerary

An epic adventure through South Africa

This introduction to South Africa is filled with activities for all ages. We’ll explore Cape Town’s turbulent past and the end of apartheid and take in a wide range of ecosystems—from the windswept coastline of the Cape Peninsula to the private game reserve of Sabi Sands. Throughout our journey, look closely at conservation efforts that are helping to sustain the incredible wildlife of the region.

  • Cape Town, South Africa

    Upon arrival, transfer to our hotel, located in the prestigious Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Gather with fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner.

    Accommodations:

    Commodore Hotel

    Included meal: Dinner
  • Cape Town

    After breakfast, depart on a leisurely drive to the Cape Point Ostrich Farm for an education into the breeding habits and life cycles of these fascinating creatures. Travel to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve at Cape Point and take the Flying Dutchman Funicular to the summit point to see the old lighthouse and for epic panoramic views. Journey along the False Bay coastline, stopping for lunch, then visit the colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach. End the day with a scenic drive through the historical maritime village of Simon’s Town.

    Accommodations:

    Commodore Hotel

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Cape Town

    See Cape Town’s highlights today, beginning with a boat ride to Robben Island, weather permitting. There, we take a guided tour of the prison that housed political freedom fighters, including former president and peace leader, Nelson Mandela. Visit Mandela's prison cell as well as the limestone quarry. Return for lunch on the waterfront. After a city tour, journey skywards on the cable car to enjoy the cityscapes from the viewpoint of Table Mountain.

    Accommodations:

    Commodore Hotel

    Included meals: Breakfast and lunch
  • Cape Town

    Depart for Cape Winelands and lunch at Vergelegen Wine Estate, where adults taste award-winning wines. Continue to Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a luxury eco-reserve nestled between the mountain and ocean in Hermanus. Kick off our stay with an excursion in Walker Bay, a picturesque, pristine coastal reserve. Enjoy a guided beach walk and visit Klipgat Cave, which was once occupied by Middle Stone Age and Late Stone Age humans. 

    Accommodations:

    Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

    Home to thriving populations of flora and fauna, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is teeming with plant, bird, mammal, reptile and insect life. Embark on an exciting 4x4 botanical safari to learn more about the indigenous fynbos, including conservation efforts to preserve this plant species. Later, participate in an immersive tree-planting experience at the Future Trees Project, which aims to rehabilitate areas that were devastated by the 2006 wildfires. End the day by traveling into the heart of a candlelit forest to experience a traditional African boma-style dinner accompanied by a live marimba band.

    Accommodations:

    Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

    Wake up early this morning for an ocean safari to view and learn about the diverse wildlife and aquatic birds within the region. After a morning on the water, searching for southern right whales and bottlenose dolphins, return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, Young Explorers have the opportunity for treasure hunts through the forest, arts and crafts, and guided pony rides, weather permitting. Finish off the day with dinner at Forest Lodge.

    Accommodations:

    Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Grootbos / Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve

    Head to Cape Town International Airport for our flight to the Skukuza Airport, gateway to Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve. This wildlife oasis, situated in the southwestern corner of the Kruger National Park, is home to a spectacular array of wildlife, including approximately 200 indigenous animal species and some 300 species of birds. Check in to our lodge before a late-afternoon game drive to explore this diverse habitat.

    Accommodations:

    Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve

    With great biodiversity of habitat and no barriers existing between the Sabi Sabi and Kruger National Park, big game is plentiful. Enjoy a full day exploring this wildlife paradise, beginning with a sunrise safari, stopping for a coffee break mid-way through the safari. Return to the lodge for breakfast and spend the rest of the morning enjoying the amenities of the lodge and the surrounding area at a leisurely pace. Opt for a late-morning bushwalk to watch wildlife from the lodge’s huge viewing decks. Later in the day, embark on a safari with the African sunset in the backdrop. Watch as the nocturnal inhabitants begin to stir and witness the African bush come to life after-hours during an unforgettable evening safari. Return to the lodge for dinner.

    Accommodations:

    Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve

    Enjoy leisure time today and opportunities for safari activities within the lodge. Young Explorers gather for fun-filled ranger programs and excursions. End the evening with a celebratory farewell dinner.

    Accommodations:

    Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge

    Included meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Sabi Sabi / Johannesburg / Home

    If time permits, embark on a final early morning wildlife drive. Return for breakfast before departing on a flight from Skukuza to Johannesburg for connecting flights home.

    Included meal: Breakfast

Trip details

Start preparing for the trip of a lifetime

From top to bottom, we’ve taken care of all the details, so you can enjoy a no-stress, worry-free travel experience.

“It was a wonderful mix of learning, exploring, and relaxing. The kids were absolutely engaged in the experiences and had the opportunity to take in the history, culture, and ecosystems in truly meaningful ways.”

—Vicky Marchand, ’89

Pricing

Secure your spot today

The price of your trip covers a comprehensive educational program in addition to meals, accommodations, tours, and excursions. Continue reading for a full list of what’s included.

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