Africa Tours for Young Adults
Africa for young adventurers combines thrills that last for a lifetime. It’s time to head off on safari, looking for the Big Five, visit Victoria Falls, discover Cape Town's nightlife, tour Egyptian pyramids, and truly experience diverse cultures. Meet adventurous backpackers, camp under the stars, see wildlife up close, and understand how Africa for young travelers means adventure and community in ways other continents can't match.
10 best trips for '18 to 30 Somethings' in Africa
Compiled by
NadineAfrica travel expert at TourRadar
- Nairobi to Joburg Overland: Craters & Camping
- Cape to Delta Safari 35 to 45 (35 To 45)
- Essential Botswana
- 20-day South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Explorer (Camping)
- Essential Morocco
- Morocco: Souks & Spices
- Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids
- 16 Day Etosha, Himba, Cape Cross and Surfing Adventure
- Delta & Falls Eastbound: Baobab Trees & River Views
- Southern Africa Northbound: Dunes, Deltas & Falls
Nairobi to Joburg Overland: Craters & Camping
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We covered so much ground but particularly the areas that I wanted to see including Lake Malawi, the Serengeti and, my favourite, Victoria Falls.”
Emma, traveled in July
The adventure combines sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, whitewater rafting at Victoria Falls, and optional bungee jumping. Tailored for ages 20-35, this trip includes beach relaxation in Zanzibar, wildlife safaris, and vibrant nightlife in Johannesburg.
Duration 27 days Destinations Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, South Africa Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From
- US$4,799
Kick off with a MasterChef cooking class in Cape Town, then track the Big Five on sunrise and sunset game drives at Kruger National Park's exclusive Sabie River camp. Later, bungee jump or zipline off Victoria Falls Bridge, raft through Zambezi rapids, and unwind on a sunset cruise with drinks.
Duration 15 days Destinations South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana Age Range Ages 35-45 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Contiki From $4,013
10% Off- US$3,612+$466 upfront costsYou save $401
Essential Botswana
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The itinerary packed in so much within the limited days and the guides were fantastic.”
Katarina, traveled in January
Duration 9 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From $1,385
10% Off- US$1,247You save $139
20-day South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Explorer (Camping)
40 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The tour was packed with so many awesome and memorable activities! This was definitely the trip of a lifetime!”
HaileyJamieson, traveled in September
The rugged beauty of Sani Pass, Drakensberg trails, and immersive cultural experiences await energetic travelers. Scenic camping locations and optional adrenaline activities enhance this African adventure.
Duration 20 days Destinations South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator Acacia Adventure Holidays From $3,095
20% Off- US$2,476You save $619
Essential Morocco
50 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great tour, great group.”
Daniel, traveled in September
African adventures await 18-29 year olds, from Sahara desert camping to Todra Gorge hiking. The journey features Marrakesh's vibrant square and traditional music under desert stars.
Duration 12 days Destinations Casablanca, Meknes, Moulay Idriss, Chefchaouen, Fes, Midelt, Todra Gorge, Boumalne Dades, Ait Benhaddou, Marrakesh Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From $755
15% Off- US$642You save $113
Morocco: Souks & Spices
17 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We have seen and learned a lot. In one word it was AWESOME!”
PaulinevanderSluijs, traveled in October
Young adventurers aged 20-35 will find magic in Merzouga's desert camps, camel excursions, and vibrant medina markets. The Opera Plaza Hotel Marrakesh serves as base camp, with traditional hammams and authentic Berber cultural experiences included.
Duration 11 days Destinations Casablanca, Chefchaouen, Moulay Idriss, Volubilis, Fes, Ifrane, Midelt, Erfoud, Erg Chebbi, MerzougaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-32 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Shared Operator Topdeck From $1,469
10% Off- US$1,322You save $147
Egypt: Pharaohs & Pyramids
49 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We had a great trip and even though there was a slight itinerary change due to weather, it was still an incredible trip!!”
Fiona, traveled in November
The ultimate African journey awaits 18-39 year olds in Egypt. Paddle through the Nile, snorkel in the Red Sea at Hurghada, and sail on traditional feluccas. Marvel at the Great Pyramids, Abu Simbel temples, and Valley of the Kings with guides earning 4.7/5 ratings.
Duration 11 days Destinations Cairo, Giza, Aswan, Philae, Abu Simbel, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Valley of the Kings, Deir el-BahriSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-32 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator Topdeck From
10% Off- US$1,669
16 Day Etosha, Himba, Cape Cross and Surfing Adventure
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“It was a extraordinary experience and I would ask for them to guide me again and again and again.”
Kathrin, traveled in March
Wildlife safaris meet Atlantic surfing in this adventure for ages 20+. Swakopmund's thrilling sports, Etosha's game drives, and lively nights from beach BBQs to local beer gardens create perfect balances.
Duration 16 days Destinations Windhoek, Okahandja, Okonjati, Okaukuejo, Etosha National Park, Halali, Kamanjab, Palmwag Nature Reserve, Skeleton Coast Park, Cape CrossSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator Chameleon Safaris Namibia From
10% Off- US$3,230
Delta & Falls Eastbound: Baobab Trees & River Views
15 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip was clearly beyond my expectation.”
Sören, traveled in September
Active travelers aged 20-35 can paddle mokoro rides in Okavango Delta and try bungee jumping at Victoria Falls. The trip features wildlife walks in Chobe National Park and memorable evenings at Dqae Qare San Lodge.
Duration 9 days Destinations Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From $1,749
15% Off- US$1,487You save $262
Southern Africa Northbound: Dunes, Deltas & Falls
45 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“A once in a lifetime experience, guided by the warmest, professional people who are proud to share their countries.”
Nick, traveled in October
Adrenaline-pumping activities await 20-35 year olds, from sandboarding in Swakopmund to bungee jumping at Victoria Falls. The trip costs around $2,900 and includes wildlife safaris in Etosha, camping under stars at Spitzkoppe, and optional skydiving.
Duration 21 days Destinations South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From
15% Off- US$2,999
What people love about Africa Tours for Young Adults
- 20-day South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Explorer (Camping)
It was an awesome and fantastic experience, mainly because of our phenomenal guide Papa G! I was very impressed by all his background knowledge, about wild life, history, politics and everything! Moreover he has the right spirit to engage the whole group and give everyone a fantastic time. And he is a great chef!!! For my next trip to Africa I would definitely look to book a trip lead by Papa G!!!
- Essential Morocco
Great tour, great guide and great group
- Morocco: Souks & Spices
My tour guide Fouad was one of the best I've had, and I've done a fair few tours. From his knowledge, activity suggestions and assistance, I can't fault my experience. He really is the best of the best and I can't recommend him enough.
What our customers ask about Africa Tours for Young Adults
What are the best destinations in Africa for first-time young travelers?
South Africa Botswana Namibia and Zimbabwe create an excellent introduction to Africa. Start in Cape Town where the V&A Waterfront and Table Mountain provide an easy landing spot. From there move on to wildlife watching in Kruger National Park before heading to Victoria Falls and the Okavango Delta in Botswana. Places like the Waterfront Hotel in Zambia give you front-row views of the falls while the Contiki Safari Camp in Kruger puts you right in the wildlife action. A TourRadar traveler puts it well: "This was the trip of a lifetime. The perfect mix of cities wildlife and adventure activities." These destinations work well for newcomers thanks to good roads reliable services and plenty of travel support.
When is the best time for young travelers to visit Africa?
Different regions shine in different seasons. Southern Africa (South Africa Botswana Namibia) shows its best side from May to October when wildlife viewing peaks and temperatures stay mild. East Africa welcomes visitors year-round but July through September brings the Great Migration. Want better deals and fewer tourists? Try April-May or November. These months still deliver great experiences at lower prices. One TourRadar traveler noted: "We went in May and had perfect weather for both safari in Kruger and beach time in Zanzibar - not too hot and barely any rain."
How much should I budget daily as a young traveler in Africa?
Plan for USD 150-250 per day on organized youth tours. This typically covers your bed transport most meals and basic activities. Set aside extra for special experiences like helicopter rides over Victoria Falls (USD 150) or hot air balloons above the Serengeti. Daily spending money of USD 20-30 handles personal needs. Optional activities range from USD 50-150 each plus country-specific visa fees. A TourRadar traveler shares: "The overall value was excellent - with luxury lodges like Chobe Safari Lodge mixed with authentic camping experiences in the Okavango Delta making it worth every penny."
What type of accommodation can young travelers expect in Africa?
Your nights will vary from city hotels to wilderness camps. One day you might stay at the V&A Waterfront Hotel in Cape Town the next under canvas in the Serengeti followed by basic camping in the Okavango Delta. Most youth-focused tours mix these experiences. You could find yourself at the riverside Chobe Safari Lodge then camping beneath the stars at Spitzkoppe. TourRadar reviews confirm: "The accommodations exceeded expectations - from glamping in the desert to beautiful riads in cities each place had its own unique charm."
What are the must-do activities for young travelers in Africa?
Key experiences include game drives through Kruger National Park and Serengeti watching the Great Migration tackling white water rapids at Victoria Falls sandboarding in Swakopmund and taking mokoro canoe safaris in the Okavango Delta. The sunset cruise on the Zambezi River from The Royal Livingstone Hotel offers a different perspective while places like Elephant Sands Lodge let you camp where elephants roam freely. A TourRadar traveler reports: "The highlight was definitely glamping in the Serengeti - falling asleep to lion roars and waking up to giraffes walking past camp." Tours usually include these basics with options for more adventure.
How easy is it to meet other young travelers in Africa?
The social scene thrives through organized tours and backpacker spots. Most tours gather 12-22 like-minded travelers creating natural friendships during shared moments like Serengeti camping or evenings at Joe's Beerhouse in Windhoek. Social hubs like Backpackers Paradise in Cape Town and group activities like sunset cruises make connecting simple. One TourRadar traveler notes: "From strangers became friends within shortest time. I can't believe but I will really miss these people." African travel naturally brings people together through shared experiences.