In July 2024 we finished a beautiful trip through the Peruvian highlands, asking travelers where they would like El Kaminante to take them in 2026.
Half in jest, half in earnest, someone shouted “I want to go to Africa!” which was widely celebrated by everyone, accompanied even by some attempts at a lion roar or elephant bellow.
That dream had already existed, and despite everything being almost ready back in 2020, the plans were cut short.
So it had to come out this year.
We dusted off the old folders, picked up the rusty contacts again, and got to work.
Unbeknownst to everyone, there was study, preparation, some Google translator… and a lot of grit.
Thus we arrived at the first meeting, with an unexpected turnout: fifty interested people, twenty places available.
“What if there are more of us?”
In the end, despite some fears about the language and a lack of knowledge of such a vast continent, the 20 places were filled just barely.
The adventure far exceeded expectations.
Did we go on a safari?
I felt like we did a thousand. At one point I lost count.
Beyond the exaggeration, each one did between four and six safaris —some optional—, and each one had its charm, its surprise, its standout animal and its particular cover photo.
It really seemed unreal.
It seems crazy to remember today, from the comfort of my desk, that more than once a distant (although not so distant) roar of a lion woke us up in the middle of the night from our deep sleep; that we had to dodge impalas to get to our room; that we petted elephants or that we walked just five meters from a pair of rhinoceroses.
There even came a time when we no longer loved everything as much as we did at the beginning…
But luckily, every now and then, someone would bring us back to our senses by saying:
“What do you mean elephants don’t matter because you’ve seen too many?! Do you see elephants in your house?”
And amidst laughter, we realized how absurd it was to be experiencing all of that.
But it wasn’t all wild animals.
We discovered breathtaking ocean views, deep and amazing cliffs, green, yellow, flowery fields.
We discovered a rich and complex culture that leaves you speechless and wanting to learn more about its history and traditions.
Vibrant cities, almost as vibrant as its wild savanna, and music full of color and flavor.
We learned about tolerance, care, pain, and forgiveness.
South Africa, without a doubt, passed through us.
They left a mark on us.
It reminded us why we travel, why we keep dreaming, and why, every time a group says “what if we go to…?”, the heart of El Kaminante beats stronger.
We know many of you were left wanting more, or that the desire to experience this was sparked by seeing the photos and videos. That’s why we’re already working on revisiting those incredible lands: this time with more experience, but with the same curious mind and a willingness to be surprised.
South Africa left us wanting more. That’s why, for 2026, we not only want to offer you this carefully designed itinerary again, but also invite you to discover other facets of the wonderful African continent.
