Welcome to a country that’s so singular and environmentally diverse, you might as well be on a different planet. Experience stunning fjords and breathtaking waterfalls, then travel to a red mountain where mud boils and steam flows out of the earth.  This adventurous trip will keep you moving, climbing, and hiking—and constantly questioning how your surroundings can possibly be real.

In Germany, ties to old-world traditions are everywhere, from Munich’s charming Glockenspiel to the imposing Castle of Heidelberg.France displays its many sides—historic, artistic, scenic—in the monuments of Paris and the antiquities of Avignon. In Spain, Barcelona boldly shows off its creative edge through Gaudí’s surrealist architecture, while Madrid dazzles with its stately elegance.

While this country’s spotted and striped inhabitants are memorable, it’s the social, political, and cultural lessons of South Africa that are sure to leave a lasting impression.  As you explore South Africa’s cultural diversity, remarkable wildlife, and natural landmarks, you’ll begin to understand the story of an entire continent.

Four capital cities offer four unique experiences. London and Paris proudly display models of human ingenuity, from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the remarkable Westminster Abbey. In the Belgian and Dutch capitals, take in the distinct layout of the two cities, from the Grand Palace in Brussels to the quaint canal-lined streets of Amsterdam.