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
- Essential Botswana
- Delta & Falls Eastbound: Baobab Trees & River Views
- 12-day Etosha & Okavango Delta Express (Accommodated)
- 20-day South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Explorer (Camping)
- Essential Morocco
- South Africa Adventure
- Egypt: Pharaohs and Pyramids
- Serengeti to Victoria Falls Overland: Night Stars & Spices
- Nairobi to Joburg Overland: Craters & Camping
- Botswana and Falls Overland: Wildlife Walks & Safari Drives
Essential Botswana
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great food, lots of assistance from the guides. Learnt a lot from everyone working on this tour.”
Melissa, traveled in March
Duration 9 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From $1,435
15% Off- US$1,220You save $215
Delta & Falls Eastbound: Baobab Trees & River Views
16 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great organisation, good transport and good mix of activities.”
Mollie, traveled in August
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 $1,599
20% Off- US$1,279You save $320
12-day Etosha & Okavango Delta Express (Accommodated)
4 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Amazing trip! Our trip was only 12 days but it left a lot longer and the group we were with were amazing.”
Jyoti, traveled in May
Young adventurers aged 18+ will find excitement in mokoro safaris through Okavango Delta and optional bungee jumping at Victoria Falls. Game drives in Etosha and cultural exchanges with San Bushmen in Omaheke complement free time in Maun for scenic flights.
Duration 12 days Destinations Namibia, Botswana, Zambia Age Range Ages 18+ Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator Acacia Adventure Holidays From $3,615
25% Off- US$2,711You save $904
20-day South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Explorer (Camping)
40 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Thoroughly enjoyed the mix of safari, nature, hiking, exploring and engaging with the local residents.”
CarolinL, 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
25% Off- US$2,321You save $774
Essential Morocco
50 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I loved this trip! Loved everything about this trip and fell in love with the country and its people.”
Laura, traveled in July
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, Volubilis, Chefchaouen, Fes, Merzouga, Todra Gorge, Boumalne Dades, SkouraSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-35 Physical Rating Easy Room Type Singles, Shared Operator Intrepid Travel From $791
25% Off- US$594You save $198
South Africa Adventure
70 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The trip had such a great mix of experiences: amazing safaris where we saw elephants, lions and giraffes up close.”
Mike, traveled in September
Wildlife enthusiasts will find Big Five safaris in Kruger and sunset adventures at Hlane Royal National Park. The trip includes Cape Town's energetic V&A Waterfront scene.
Duration 12 days Destinations Johannesburg, Soweto, Graskop, Kruger National Park, Eswatini, Hlane Royal National Park, Mkuze, Cape Town, Table Mountain, Chapman's PeakSee all destinations Age Range Ages 18-49 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator INTRO Travel From
25% Off- US$2,899
Egypt: Pharaohs and Pyramids
50 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Very well planned itinerary. Couldn't have asked for more.”
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, Hurghada Age Range Ages 18-32 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Shared Operator Topdeck From
25% Off- US$1,539
Serengeti to Victoria Falls Overland: Night Stars & Spices
15 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This trip was the best experience of my life and I would recommend it to anyone!!”
Rachel, traveled in August
Adventure awaits 20-35 year olds with Victoria Falls whitewater rafting, Zanzibar snorkeling, and South Luangwa walking safaris. The trip features beach parties at Kande Beach and nightlife in Stone Town.
Duration 20 days Destinations Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From
25% Off- US$3,649
Nairobi to Joburg Overland: Craters & Camping
8 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was a true adventure with lovely people and so many amazing things to see and experience.”
Annika, traveled in August
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, South Africa Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From
25% Off- US$4,949
Botswana and Falls Overland: Wildlife Walks & Safari Drives
25 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I had an amazing time with G Adventures and highly recommend this trip. I will definitely book another G Adventures tour.”
Krystina, traveled in October
Young adventurers aged 20+ can opt for bungee jumping at Victoria Falls, sunset river cruises on Chobe River, and mokoro rides in Okavango Delta. The tour includes wildlife walks, communal camping, and vibrant evenings at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg.
Duration 8 days Destinations South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe Age Range Ages 18-39 Physical Rating Moderate Room Type Singles, Shared Operator G Adventures From $1,349
20% Off- US$1,079You save $270
What people love about Africa Tours for Young Adults
- Delta & Falls Eastbound: Baobab Trees & River Views
Top price/performance ratio. Be aware that the routes from A to B are long and there will be some time spent on the bus, as well as that you may be placed on an existing tour group of GAdv.
- 12-day Etosha & Okavango Delta Express (Accommodated)
Amazing trip! Amazing guide! Our trip was only 12 days but it left a lot longer and the group we were with were amazing, everyone got along and helped out. Our guide and driver were professional and outstanding examples of how a tour should be run. Justin was an great cook and knowledgeable about everything. If you get a chance to do this tour do it! Elephant sands and Etosha National Park were the stand outs for me.
- 20-day South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Explorer (Camping)
The experience in Kruger was fantastic, seeing many animals in their natural surroundings. Moyaney and elias were both fantastic. The area we covered was amazing with lots of differet experiences. Sani pass was terrifying but a must do on the trip. Not on the list again. Seeing how people lived in eswantini, lesotho was humbling. The school vist was beautiful. Education has to be paid for which makes a significant difference to childrens futures. The food was mostly good, but dud not like the maize mash, it an acquired taste. There was an alternative. What an amazing shepherds pie we had. 10 out of 10 Moyaney. St Lucia ia memorable fir accomodation, hippos and alternative activities. I would love to have stayed longer. Such a wonderful mix of destinations, camp sites etc, a once in a lifetime trip. Durban was a let dow. Organisation was great, drives at times long but with a good group, music and laughter it was ok. I would have loved more 2 night stays.
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.
























