Discover the wonder of Southern Africa through a program that immerses participants in some of the most extraordinary natural environments on Earth. From the sculpted sands of the Namib Desert to the lush channels of the Okavango Delta, this program offers a deep exploration of the region’s wildlife, conservation efforts, and cultural heritage — all enhanced by the insight of a Yale faculty leader and an expert naturalist guide.

Your experience begins in Johannesburg, the dynamic gateway to Southern Africa. From there, continue to Namibia, where the immense landscapes of the Namib Desert stretch to the horizon in hues of red and gold. Stand atop the towering dunes of Sossusvlei as the morning sun transforms the sand into a living canvas, and learn about the remarkable adaptations that allow life to thrive in one of the world’s oldest deserts.

In Etosha National Park, explore a dramatically different ecosystem — vast salt pans and waterholes that attract an astonishing diversity of wildlife. On game drives within Onguma Private Reserve, watch elephants bathe, lions prowl, and giraffes move gracefully across the plains, while your guide interprets the complex balance of this desert ecosystem.

Next, witness the power of Victoria Falls, known to the local people as Mosi-oa-Tunya, “The Smoke That Thunders.” Feel the mist rise from the chasm as the Zambezi River plunges into the gorge, and discuss the cultural and environmental significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Along the river, take in the rhythms of daily life and the natural drama of the African bush during sunset cruises and wildlife excursions.

The final part of the program unfolds in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, one of the most pristine wilderness areas on the planet. Glide silently through reed-lined waterways in a traditional mokoro canoe, observe elephants and antelope at the water’s edge, and marvel at the symphony of birdlife that fills the air. On guided safaris through the Moremi Game Reserve, track big cats and other wildlife while gaining a deeper understanding of conservation strategies that protect this fragile environment.

Throughout the program, participants will engage in conversations about ecology, sustainability, and the human connection to the land — themes that come alive through firsthand encounters and expert interpretation. The intimate group size ensures meaningful discussions, shared reflection, and space to truly absorb the majesty of Southern Africa’s landscapes and wildlife.

As the program draws to a close, watch one last sunrise over the Okavango Delta — a moment to reflect on the profound beauty, resilience, and interconnectedness of the natural world.