African Expedition 2560x1493

African Expedition by Private Train

Explore the diverse sights of four African countries by private train, guiding you through historically notable cities, inspiring scenery, and legendary national parks.

Highlights

  • Travel in style aboard a private train with cozy sleeping compartments, fine dining, and inviting social spaces — your luxurious haven while exploring southern Africa’s captivating landscapes.
  • Visit iconic landmarks like the Nelson Mandela Statue, Cecil Rhodes’ Grave, Great Zimbabwe ruins, and Casa de Ferro, each telling a unique story of Africa’s rich history.
  • Embark on thrilling game drives with expert guides and spot the legendary Big Five — rhino, leopard, elephant, Cape buffalo, and lion — up close in breathtaking reserves and national parks.
  • Witness the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, where cascading water and rainbow-filled mists create unforgettable views, and cruise the Zambezi River for encounters with elephants and hippos.
This is a shared departure operated by Orbridge.

Itinerary

Day 1: Depart U.S. for Johannesburg, South Africa
Day 2: Johannesburg
Day 3: Pretoria
Day 4: Full-Day Aboard Train
Day 5: Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland)
Day 6: Maputo, Mozambique
Day 7: Kruger National Park
Day 8: Drakensberg Mountains
Day 9: Makalali Game Reserve
Day 10: Full-Day Aboard Train
Day 11: Great Zimbabwe
Day 12: Matobo National Park | Bulawayo
Day 13: Hwange National Park | Victoria Falls
Day 14: Victoria Falls
Day 15: Victoria Falls | Depart for U.S.

Host

A person dressed in outdoor clothing stands near a sandy area. Behind them, an orange sand dune rises steeply, with a line of hikers making their way along the top. Two small trees are visible at the front of the scene, and the sky is clear blue.

Patrick Morgan

Chief International Travel Safety Officer, Office of the Provost

U-M Role

I am responsible for enterprise-wide health, safety, and security aspects of U-M international operations, including travel policies and risk management procedures, and crisis response. I also led study abroad programs to India, Taiwan, China, and most recently to South Africa as a co-lead for the U-M Symphony Orchestra tour in Pretoria, Johannesburg, Soweto, and Cape Town.

What Excites You About the Trip?

In 2013, I embarked on my longest road trip abroad: driving from Cape Town, along the South African coast, and up to Sossusvlei, Namibia. With U-M Alumni like you, I anticipate a similarly magical experience and can’t wait to embark on our train journey together.

Waitlist Only
Sept. 20-Oct. 4, 2026

Starting price

$12,995

Deposit per person

$850

Countries Visited

Eswatini, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe

Activity Level

Medium
Sept. 20-Oct. 4, 2026

Starting price

$12,995
*Single supplement applies

Deposit per person

$850

Countries Visited

Eswatini, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe

Activity Level

Medium

Michigan Alumni Travel is an exclusive member benefit. All travelers, regardless of alumni status, must be members to attend our trips. See our full membership options.

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