Set Departures
Set departures
Our small group set departures are something special. We work with just a handful of carefully chosen outfitters, most of whom we’ve partnered with for nearly thirty years — ‘tried and tested’ is an understatement! They’ve earned their stellar reputations by focusing on the things that really matter: travelling to clever, crowd-free locations, hiring only the very best guides, and prioritising boutique, independent accommodation over big-brand names. Their trips are well-paced and carefully curated to emphasise quality experiences, smart routing and meaningful encounters.
Set departures are an efficient, enriching way to explore with a small group of like-minded companions — and ours pack a punch well beyond their price point.
You will love
- 30+ years of trusted experience
- Cleverly curated, carefully paced itineraries
- An efficient way to travel
- Small group of likeminded companions
- Experiences that pack a punch for their price point
Let us design your perfect itinerary.
Itineraries & set departures
South Africa: The World in One Country
Set Departure | From Johannesburg to Cape Town
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through South Africa and Eswatini on this immersive 19-day journey, experiencing the vibrant streets of Johannesburg, the majestic landscapes of Mpumalanga and the cultural richness of Eswatini. Encounter diverse wildlife in Kruger National Park, delve into Zulu traditions, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Cinsta before culminating in the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town....Read More
South Africa – Wonders of the Garden Route
Set Departure | South Africa's Garden Route
Explore South Africa's scenic wonders from Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) to the Cape, including Addo Elephant National Park and the picturesque Tsitsikamma Forest, before concluding your adventure in the vibrant city of Cape Town. Forests, mountains, lagoons and beaches meet on this iconic and stunningly beautiful stretch of coastline!...Read More
East Africa: Migration Discoverer
Set Departure | The Great Migration
This amazingly diverse itinerary sees you witnessing the Great Migration in both Kenya and Tanzania, birdwatching on Lake Manyara, spotting the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, rhinos) in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ngorongoro Crater and hiking foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, all in just 15 days! Operated as a set departure by one of our favourite outfitters, it offers amazing bang for your buck....Read More
MAASAI MARA, NAKURU & AMBOSELI SAFARI : A Kenyan Trilogy
A Kenyan Trilogy
This set departure is a safari in three parts: The Maasai Mara famous for its endless plains and dramatic wildlife encounters, Lake Nakuru with its fabulous bird life; and Amboseli where majestic elephants stroll past a backdrop of snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro. It perfectly encompasses Kenya’s iconic highlights in a seamless set departure, ideal for solo travellers or those who enjoy group travel....Read More
Tanzania: Kilimanjaro’s Machame Route
Set Departure | Climb Africa's Highest Peak
Follow one of Kilimanjaro’s most scenic trails on this classic ascent of Africa’s highest peak. Traversing lush rainforest, alpine meadows, lava towers and glacier-carved slopes, the Machame Route offers exceptional views, diverse ecosystems, and the best chance to acclimatise en route to the summit. Fully supported with expert guides and camp crew, this seven-day trek is both a physical challenge and a deeply rewarding adventure....Read More
The Essence of Tanzania
Set Departure | Essence of Tanzania
Unwind under vast African skies and discover the wealth of Tanzania’s wildlife on this leisurely safari. From Tarangire – famed for its elephant population and impressive baobab trees – to the world famous Ngorongoro Crater and expansive plains of the Serengeti National Park, this itinerary really epitomises the essence of Tanzania....Read More
Uganda & Rwanda: Gorillas Galore
Set Departure | The Gorillas of Uganda & Rwanda
This 12-day small group journey ventures deep into the forests and highlands of Uganda and Rwanda, offering rare encounters with mountain gorillas in both countries. From the misty slopes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to Rwanda’s dramatic Volcanoes National Park, it’s a richly rewarding journey through two of East Africa’s most captivating primate habitats....Read More
Uganda: Gorilla Express – 3-Night Fly-in Safari
Set Departure | The Call of the Forest
A 5-day fly-in safari from Entebbe to Bwindi offers an efficient and exhilarating way to experience one of the world’s most powerful wildlife encounters: trekking to see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Perched on the edge of the forest, your lodge enjoys sweeping views of the canopy, and gorillas and other primates are often seen within the grounds....Read More
Grand Zambezi Safari
Set Departure | A Journey Along Africa's Mighty Zambezi
This small-group lodge safari through Zambia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, starts in Livingstone and ends in Victoria Falls, exploring a huge diversity of ecosystems in just 13 days. Encounter Africa's iconic wildlife, witness the serene beauty of the Zambezi River as it loops through lush plains, then take in its almighty power as it plunges over the iconic Victoria Falls. Natural and cultural wonders await at every turn of this expertly guided safari....Read More
Namibia, Botswana & Zimbabwe: Great Trans-Africa Safari
Set Departure | Three Mighty Weeks Across Africa
Embark on an extraordinary 21-day journey through the heart of Southern Africa with the Great Trans-Africa Safari. Traversing Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, this guided small-group adventure offers an immersive experience into the continent’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife. From the towering dunes of Sossusvlei to the lush waterways of the Okavango Delta, and culminating at the majestic Victoria Falls, each day unveils a new facet of Africa’s natural beauty. ...Read More
Kenya: Maasai Mara on Horseback – 6 & 8-Night Options
Set Departure | Horseriding safari Kenya
A horseriding safari amongst Africa’s animals is an active, exhilarating and adrenalin-fuelled safari. The six or eight night riding safari with Gordie and Felicia Church of Safaris Unlimited traverses the greater Mara Conservancies (adjacent to the Maasai Mara), on a mobile safari that is full of punch and all class. Experiencing this spectacular unfenced and expansive wilderness eco-system on the back of a horse is a journey like no other....Read More
Kenya: Great Walk of Africa
Set Departure | Kenya Mobile Hiking Safari
This is Africa’s definitive walking safari. Hiking for multiple days along two of the most beautiful rivers on the continent, which are the home to the biggest elephant herds in Africa, it’s no wonder this trip has been described as ‘the greatest African bush experience on the continent’....Read More
Botswana: Northern Highlights
Set Departure | Botswana Mobile Camping Safari
A mobile safari is reminiscent of the expeditions undertaken by the early explorers. Each safari is lead by a professional guide who is accompanied by a small convoy of camp staff and the equipment necessary for a self-contained journey through the wilderness. This allows you to access remote wilderness areas within Botswana's national parks and reserves, far beyond the reaches of a morning game drive out of a lodge....Read More
Namibia: Untold
Set Departure | Namibia's Wildlife & Wild Landscapes
Journey deep into Namibia’s untamed wilderness on this fully guided nine-day safari through vast desert, rugged mountains and remote private reserves. From the wildlife-rich plains of Etosha to the wild beauty of Damaraland, the coastal charm of Swakopmund and the sculpted dunes of Sossusvlei, you’ll experience the essence of Namibia in comfort and style. Led by an expert naturalist guide, this is an immersive exploration of Namibia’s most soul-stirring landscapes....Read More
The Soul of South Africa
South Africa's Wildlife & Wine - May 2026
South Africa is a land of striking contrasts – wild coastlines, vibrant cities and untamed safari landscapes – and we’ve handpicked an itinerary that captures its diversity in absolute style! From the coastal charm of the Western Cape to the creative energy of Cape Town, and on to a private Eastern Cape game reserve, you’ll discover a side of the country that is as soulful as it is spectacular. Explore wild places, enjoy fine wine, gourmet meals, fabulous retail therapy and track the Big Five on this fabulous journey....Read More
Into the Heart of Botswana
Bucket List Botswana with Victoria Falls - May 2026
Plunging you deep into the heart of Botswana's iconic landscapes, this bespoke itinerary takes you through the floodplains of the Okavango Delta, the abundant habitats of surrounding game reserves, and the ethereal Makgadikgadi Pans before hopping over the border into Zimbabwe to stand in awe before the magnificent Victoria Falls. Take sunset cruises on the Delta and Zambezi - G&T firmly in hand - and witness a breathtaking array of wildlife and culture.
...Read More
Sri Lanka in Style
Sri Lanka in Style - July 2026
This 17-day ladies-only journey through Sri Lanka unveils a country of timeless culture, diverse landscapes and gracious hospitality. From the bustle of Colombo and the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, to the tea-draped hills of Hatton and the wildlife-rich plains of Yala, you’ll discover an island that surprises at every turn. Blending heritage hotels, tranquil villas and unrivalled elegance, the itinerary balances immersive cultural exploration with moments of indulgence and relaxation, culminating in the charm of Galle Fort’s coastal lanes....Read More
Morocco’s Souks & Sahara – SOLD OUT
Imperial cities & rose-scented desert nights - October 2026
Morocco is an intoxicating mix of colour, culture and cuisine and this year we've cherry-picked some of our old favourites, and added a few new highlights to deliver a truly immersive, awe-inspiring experience. This ladies-only adventure explores all four Imperial Cities - Rabat, Fès, Meknes & Marrakech; and provides the opportunity to sleep beneath a star studded Saharan sky & hike ancient Berber paths in the Atlas Mountains. ...Read More
Shared Experiences
Track black rhino on foot
Track black rhino on foot
Namibia is home to almost half of the world's population of black rhino and almost all of these live in the semi-desert wilderness of Damaraland. This is one of the only places on the planet where you can track these critically en...
Experience world-class walking safaris
Experience world-class walking safaris
Superb guiding, interesting open terrain and an abundance of big game gives Zambia the widest selection of reliably productive walking safaris anywhere in Africa. South Luangwa was the original birthplace of the walking safari and...
Fly camp under the stars of the Makgadikgadi
Fly camp under the stars of the Makgadikgadi
These lunar like Makgadikgadi salt pans are a vast, empty, beautiful place to spend a night under the stars. With no dangerous inhabitants and no mosquitos there is nothing to detract from the immense wonder of sleeping under a sk...
Join the herd on a horseback safari
Join the herd on a horseback safari
Whether you’re galloping across salt pans or splashing through the Okavango Delta, Botswana has abundant, knowledgeable guides; and well-schooled, responsive horses; making it a dream destination for any horse rider.
Explore Zambia’s nocturnal world on a night drive
Explore Zambia’s nocturnal world on a night drive
Unusually for Africa, it is permitted to drive at night in all of Zambia’s National Parks. This means that night game drives can form a major part of any safari here. Since nocturnal creatures are notoriously elusive, sightings ...
Encounter big game on a safari drive
Encounter big game on a safari drive
No trip to South Africa is complete without spending some time on safari. The Kruger National Park and its surrounding private game reserves are some of the largest, best-known and finest wildlife areas in Africa. South Africa als...
Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro
Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro
Adventurers can choose from a variety of routes, which vary in duration and difficulty, to reach the summit Uhuru (which means Freedom). Although thousands of people make it to the top, the altitude and unpredictable weather gives...
An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan Tribe
It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud
The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
Annette Whiley
Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley Yates
Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
Ron & Alison Guthrie
If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
Miriam & Joseph Harrison
Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
Andrew & Pip Stevens
Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!
Ros Wheeler
Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.
Simon & Jackie Adams
The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma Jeffcoat
You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham Family
Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.
Tim Bradley
Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert Happell
Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul Cozzi
An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert Taylor
We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi Cunningham
Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones
The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree family
We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad Balance
Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford family
We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!
Mark Taylor
Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.
Elizabeth Mackintosh
Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip.
Jenny Kidd