Africa

A dramatic solar eclipse shows the dark moon covering the sun, with a bright burst of light and a glowing ring around its edge.

Total Solar Eclipse: Observed in the Ancient Land of Algeria

Witness one of the longest total solar eclipses of the 21st century from a prime location in Timgad, Algeria, a remarkably preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the "Pompeii of North Africa." On August 2, 2027, the moon’s shadow will sweep across the sky here for nearly six minutes of totality, offering an extraordinary celestial spectacle under Algeria’s typically clear late-summer skies. Before and after this rare event, trace millennia of history at superbly preserved Roman and early Christian sites, wander atmospheric cities shaped by Arab, Berber, Ottoman, and French influences, and savor the flavors of North Africa in a country few travelers have truly explored.NOTE: This itinerary is designed first and foremost as a journey of cultural immersion and destination-focused learning, with eclipse viewing included as a special highlight.

Low-angle view of Petra’s Treasury facade with tall columns and ornate carvings cut into sandstone cliffs, lit by warm evening light and a pink-orange sky.

Around the World by Private Jet

Step aboard a private Boeing 767 jet for an extraordinary journey that links some of the world’s most iconic landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage sites in one seamless itinerary. From ancient stone circles and pharaonic pyramids to rose-red cities, luminous temples and soaring mosques, this uniquely curated tour pairs expert guidance with unforgettable on-the-ground experiences that illuminate humankind’s greatest achievements.

The image depicts a vibrant market scene in Marrakech, Morocco, showcasing colorful spices arranged in conical shapes in bowls. The market is adorned with traditional textiles and lanterns, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. People can be seen in the background, adding to the lively ambiance of the marketplace.

Moroccan Gems featuring Rabat, Fes & Marrakech

Journey through Morocco’s vivid tapestry of colors, cultures, and histories on an itinerary that links Rabat, Fes, Meknes, Casablanca and Marrakech. Wander ornate medinas alive with storytellers and spice vendors, admire soaring minarets and intricate tilework, and travel into the foothills of the Atlas Mountains to meet Berber communities. Along the way, enjoy hands-on culinary and calligraphy experiences and visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites that illuminate Morocco’s African, Arab and European influences.

Leopard sprawled across a thick tree branch, resting in dappled light.

Journey to Southern Africa: Luxury Safaris, Rovos Rail & Cape Town

Travel into the heart of southern Africa on an exceptional journey that links vibrant cities, powerful historic sites, dramatic landscapes, and world-class wildlife. From cosmopolitan Cape Town and poignant Robben Island to thundering Victoria Falls, a refined Rovos Rail journey, and safari days in Zimbabwe and Botswana, encounter the raw beauty and remarkable diversity of South Africa’s most storied regions.

The image shows the Sphinx and the Great Pyramid of Giza under a vibrant blue sky with golden clouds, conveying a sense of ancient grandeur and mystery. The Great Sphinx, Giza

Egypt & the Eternal Nile

Travel through the heart of ancient Egypt with an expert Egyptian guide, tracing a timeless route from vibrant Cairo and the Great Pyramids to Abu Simbel and the Upper Nile. Cruise across Lake Nasser through the old Nubian homeland, then follow the classic course of the Nile from Aswan to Luxor before returning to Cairo, taking in monumental temples, desert landscapes, and unforgettable riverside scenes along the way.

Group of giraffes standing in a dry savanna at sunset beneath dramatic clouds.

Classic Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Experience the magic of safari in two of Africa’s most celebrated wildlife regions as you travel with a small group through Kenya and Tanzania. From sweeping grasslands to volcanic highlands, encounter iconic species, ancient landscapes, and Masai homelands while staying in comfortable, well-situated lodges close to the action.

View through a series of stone arches and columns toward the illuminated Hassan II Mosque and minaret at dusk, with pink and purple sunset clouds over Casablanca.

Casablanca to Lisbon & Andalusia

Sail from Africa to Europe on an extraordinary voyage aboard the exclusively chartered, deluxe World Voyager. Following storied trade routes that once linked ancient empires, travel from Casablanca to Lisbon while exploring historically rich and culturally vibrant ports in Morocco, Spain, Gibraltar and Portugal. Along the way, visit iconic religious and historic sites, wander lively souks and old quarters, and trace the maritime legacy that shaped both continents, with optional extensions in Marrakech and Lisbon for even deeper exploration.

Great Pyramids of Giza in the desert at sunset under an orange sky, Egypt.

Legends of the Nile

Set out on a journey through the eternal allure of Egypt, guided throughout by an expert, licensed Egyptologist who accompanies every excursion. From the mighty pyramids and the enigmatic Sphinx to colossal temples at Abu Simbel and the royal tombs of Luxor, follow the Nile through fertile valleys and desert horizons while immersing yourself in one of the world’s most storied civilizations.

A large African buffalo standing in the grasslands, surrounded by open savanna

African Expedition by Private Train

Explore the diverse sights and thrilling wildlife of four African countries during this private train expedition—an exclusive journey through historically notable cities, inspiring scenery, and legendary national parks.

Diagonal row of large Cambodian statues Devas (gods) statues in Angkor Thom, Cambodia

Around the World by Private Jet 2026

Step aboard a private Boeing 767 jet plane for a once-in-a-lifetime travel adventure to discover some of the world’s greatest icons, destinations, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Stonehenge, the Great Pyramids, Petra, the Taj Mahal, the Jantar Mantar Observatory, Angkor Wat, and the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, to name a few. This uniquely curated program features insight from knowledgeable instructors and planned extraordinary excursions, providing special understanding into some of humankind’s greatest achievements.

Two male lions with golden-brown manes resting in a grassy savanna. One lion is lying in the foreground, gazing directly at the camera, while the other is slightly behind, partially concealed by tall grass

Southern Africa Odyssey 2026

It's a small group journey of astonishing beauty and consummate adventure, one that captures the magnificence of four distinct nations. It’s nature’s showcase come to life: ocean and mountains, desert and plains, waterfalls and wildlife extraordinaire. It’s Southern Africa, where diversity reigns and where visitors are welcomed as never before.

The magnificent fort of the Kasbah Ait Benhaddou. The magnificent fort of the Kasbah Ait Benhaddou

Moroccan Discovery from the Imperial Cities to the Sahara 2026

This land of dramatic contrasts invites us to encounter its ancient ruins and sacred mosques, endless desert and storied mountains, imposing kasbahs and spirited souks. As we travel from the imperial cities of Rabat, Fez, and Marrakech to the High Atlas and vast Sahara, we open our eyes and hearts, to a truly foreign land, an age-old culture, and genuinely hospitable people.

Stay Connected to Berkeley for Life

Local or global, far or wide—wherever you roam, keep a piece of Berkeley with you.

Join Now
UC Berkeley campanile and library
Our Tour Lecturers

Meet the enrichment lecturers who accompany many of our tours and offer fascinating educational details to take your vacation to the next level.

Meet the Lecturers