Journey to Southern Africa

September 1–15, 2027
Tour Operator: AHI Travel
Price per person begins at $10,795
Single supplement begins at $3,995

Please email pll@principia.edu if you would like assistance finding a roommate.

Overview

This exceptional 12-night journey unveils fascinating local culture and raw beauty, where pristine lands teem with exotic wildlife and wonders. 

Begin your journey of South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe in Cape Town, a jewel of the Western Cape. Tour poignant Robben Island alongside a knowledgeable guide and spot African penguins by the Cape of Good Hope. 

Venture to renowned safari destinations: Kruger National Park, Hwange National Park, and Chobe National Park. With expert guides leading the way, search for ambling elephants, resting lions, racing antelope and more while gaining insight into the majestic African bushveld. 

Along the way, visit Nelson Mandela’s former home and other destinations steeped in powerful history. You’ll also connect with two favorite service sites of the Simunye Project, where Principia students have traveled to serve alongside local communities for more than 10 years. Continue your journey aboard Rovos Rail, enjoying a three-night rail experience through some of southern Africa's most spectacular landscapes.

You’ll travel in good company with fellow learners, Principia trip scholar Dr. Peter Dry, and a dedicated Principia host guiding your journey.

From Victoria Falls to Soweto, safari adventures to community encounters, this journey combines extraordinary sights with meaningful opportunities for connection and learning.

Activity Level: Active

This active program is designed for people who are in good health and can comfortably participate in a demanding daily schedule of physical activities. The itinerary may feature full days of ongoing activities, including long game drives on rough roads.

Excursions on this program require:

• Walking on cobblestones, unpaved paths and/or uneven surfaces
• Getting on/off motor coaches, boats, and trains
• Walking through train corridors whether the train is in motion or stopped
• Climbing in and out of safari vehicles

Depending on the excursion, more leisurely alternatives may be available.

Trip Includes

• Visit 3 countries during this program
• 3 nights in Cape Town, South Africa, at the Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
• 3 nights near Kruger National Park at Leopard Sands, Kruger Park
• 1 night in Johannesburg at 54 on Bath
• 3 nights aboard the Rovos Rail
• 2 nights in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, at The Victoria Falls Hotel
• All transfers in the Land Program: flights, train and deluxe motor coaches with baggage handling
• Academic insight from a Principia Lifelong Learning trip scholar 
• Attentive support from a Principia Lifelong Learning host
• Optional Christian Science church services
• Expert guidance by an AHI Travel Director and English-speaking local guides
• Enrichment by expert speakers enhances your insight into the region
• Engaging excursions showcase the local culture, heritage and history
• Elective activities and free time to pursue your individual interests
• 12 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 7 dinners
• Welcome reception and farewell dinner 
• Tea or coffee with all meals
• Tipping of Cape Town and Soweto excursion guides and drivers

Meet Your Trip Scholar: Dr. Peter Dry

Dr. Peter Dry is a South African–born educator, leadership consultant, and founder of The Simunye Project, a service-learning initiative that has taken more than 600 volunteers to Southern Africa and raised over $1 million to support community-led projects. Having led more than 20 trips to South Africa, Peter brings deep personal knowledge of the history, culture, and social landscape of the places we will visit.
 
Peter grew up in South Africa during a time of profound political and social change and later worked as a history teacher before moving into leadership development. His background enables him to connect historical events, cultural traditions, and contemporary realities in ways that make the region come alive for travelers. On this journey he will provide lectures and ongoing commentary to help guests better understand the people, history, and complexities of Southern Africa.
 
In 2006, Peter and his wife, Samantha, founded The Simunye Project after meeting Susan Rammekwa, who was running an after-school program for vulnerable children in the township of Princess Crossing. The experience shaped his conviction that meaningful partnerships can create lasting change while also teaching volunteers powerful lessons about resilience, community, joy, and the African philosophy of Ubuntu—our shared humanity.
 
Peter previously served as Assistant Head of School for Strategy and Innovation at Principia and continues to provide leadership consulting and mentorship to Principia staff and students. His wife, Samantha, is the current Principia Upper School Principal, and together they have three children, all of whom are graduates of Principia School.
 
Today Peter lives in St. Louis, MO with his wife Samantha, but Southern Africa remains a central part of his life and work. Drawing on decades of experience leading groups, building community partnerships, and sharing the region’s stories, he helps travelers experience South Africa not only as visitors, but as informed and thoughtful observers of a remarkable part of the world.