Overview of our Africa Trips for Teens

Calling all adventure-seekers: Our Africa programs are perfect for you! With its famed wildlife and fascinating history, you know you’re guaranteed a trip unlike any other. Go on a safari and spot giraffes and lions in Tanzania or wander around the mountainous seaside paradise that is Cape Town. Either way, Africa offers the kind of possibilities you’ve only dreamed about. We offer teen travel programs in South Africa, Tanzania, and Morocco!

Show Me All The Africa Programs

 

What makes a trip to Africa with Travel For Teens special?

Safaris

If you want to get to properly know Africa’s wildlife, there’s no better option than a sarafi! Ride out deep into the savannah to truly experience the beauty of Africa’s landscape — and spot some truly awesome animals along the way.

 

History

Africa is home to beautiful views and wonderful people, but it also offers a complex and fascinating history. Learn about the effects of Apartheid and how it was brought down from former political prisoners who experienced it firsthand in South Africa or go further into the past through the stories of the nomadic Hadzabe Bushmen tribe in Tanzania.

 

Mountains

When you picture Africa, you may not envision mountains — but that’s a mistake. Africa is home to some of the most iconic mountains in the world, like the unusually shaped Table Mountain in Cape Town or Kilimanjaro itself, one of the tallest mountains in the world.

 

Markets

You’ll learn an entirely new meaning for “retail therapy” after strolling through the markets here. Local artisans offer handmade goods and chefs hawk traditional culinary delights in the markets, allowing you to both shop and experience the culture at the same time.

 

Food

Can you really experience another country if you don’t chow down on traditional delicacies? Africa offers an array of delicious dishes unlike the food you’ll find anywhere else. Even better yet, learn to cook these local favorites to bring Africa home with you.

 

Community Impact

Making a difference is at the heart of our journey. From supporting local schools for girls and centers for children with disabilities to working on sustainable agriculture projects, you’ll contribute to long-term, meaningful change. It’s a rare chance to learn from local leaders and give back to the communities that welcome us so warmly.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the age range for student trips to Africa and are they suitable for high school students?

Our Africa programs are primarily designed for students finishing 9th through 12th grade (ages 14 to 18). We organize our groups by age to provide appropriate levels of independence and peer connection, ensuring that high school students have an experience that is both socially and intellectually engaging. These trips are carefully curated to offer a balance of expert-led activities and age-appropriate exploration of Africa’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

What kind of activities are included on a teen tour of Africa?

Activities on our Africa programs are a thrilling blend of wildlife safaris, cultural immersion, and meaningful service. Depending on your destination, you may find yourself spotting the “Big Five” in a Tanzanian crater, exploring the vibrant markets of Marrakesh, or learning about history from those who lived it in Cape Town. From hiking seaside mountains to participating in community-led infrastructure projects, every day is designed to offer a deep and authentic connection to the continent.

Are student trips to Africa safe, and how is the group supported?

Yes, safety is our top priority. Our Africa programs are led by experienced staff trained in international risk management and first aid. We frequently partner with expert local guides, who provide essential regional knowledge and added security during activities such as safaris and city tours. Our staff provides constant support and guidance on local health and safety protocols, and we work exclusively with vetted partners and utilize secure, high-quality accommodations throughout every country we visit.

 

What are the visa and vaccination requirements for a student trip to Africa?

Entry requirements vary by country, but we provide all U.S. citizens with specific guidance on the visa process for their destination. Regarding health, we strongly recommend scheduling a visit with your family doctor or a specialized travel clinic before departure to discuss necessary vaccinations. While we provide pre-departure information on common requirements, your medical professional is the best resource to ensure your student is fully prepared to travel.

What is the food like, and can you accommodate dietary restrictions in Africa?

The food in Africa is a diverse and delicious highlight, and we are fully equipped to accommodate most dietary needs. Students will enjoy a mix of traditional local delicacies—like Moroccan tagines or Tanzanian pilau—and more familiar international fare. While our trip leaders always encourage students to step out of their comfort zones and try new flavors, they always ensure every traveler has something they can eat and enjoy, even for those who are more selective eaters. Our staff is highly experienced in managing allergies and dietary preferences by working closely with our expert guides and lodges. We encourage you to contact us before your trip to discuss any specific dietary requirements in detail so we can ensure the best experience for your student.

Authenticity is ingrained in everything we do. Eat, stay, and travel like a local.

Check out what past travelers have to say about our Europe programs and discover why we are consistently winning awards for Top Youth Travel Organization.

 

 

 

"I went to Tanzania for three weeks and going into this trip I was so excited to meet girls living at a boarding school and to work in an orphanage. I was excited to meet all the people that I would be staying with and going on safaris. What I wasn't expecting was to have my outlook on life changed forever. When we landed in Dar es Salaam after two long flights, we were greeted with the most love and joy I have ever seen and felt. Everyone was smiling and waiting to help us in any way they could. I was so overwhelmed at how amazing these people were. After being greeted we began the drive to our first hotel. On the way, I saw the poverty throughout the capital, but what I also saw was smiles. Smiles everywhere. I saw mothers carrying their children along the streets, with no shoes on; but they were still smiling and talking happily to each other. Not only did I see this is the capital, but I also saw this with the girls and the orphans. These girls had nothing but their uniforms and books, yet they were so happy. They always thanked us for any little thing we did. I will never forget one time a sweet girl about my age (16), cried out of happiness just from me sitting with her and making friendship bracelets. The little kids in the orphanage that had been living there since before they could remember were all joy. All they wanted to do was hold your hand and be next to you. These things will always stay with me, not because I got to go to Africa, or see zebras and lions and giraffes up close, or meet some amazing people who I still keep in touch with today, but because I saw people who realized that life is not about what you have, it's about who is in your life and how you chose to live it."

Madelyn G. Tulsa, OK

"I went on the 21-day Tanzania service trip and it was life changing. Nothing can ever prepare you for the feeling you will get staring into the clearest sky and seeing millions of stars staring back at you. Being immersed in the culture of these inspiring people was such an eye-opener and really taught me to be grateful for what I have. From the exotic animals in Serengeti National Park, to the beautiful, young girls at SEGA school, exploring Tanzania was a soul search I never knew I needed. I personally guarantee your child will have an amazing time on this trip. I recommend it 100% for all ages and all personalities."

Sara Chesak

"I wanted to take a moment to express our gratitude to you for all your help with Loulwa during her trip to Tanzania. SInce she came back, Loulwa has been sharing so many amazing stories with us. It's clear that she had an absolutely wonderful time, and her experiences sound truly unforgettable. From the time at school, to the Safari, to the hike, to Zanzibar, it seems like every day was filled with adventure and learning. She spoke so highly about the staff, and about their kindness and how helpful they both were throughout the trip. Their care and guidance played a major role in making this experience so positive for her. We're immensely grateful that we trusted Travel for Teens with Loulwa's care during this adventure. Thank you once again for everything."

Naji Bala Cynwyd, PA

"Lindsay came home so thrilled to share the details… …of the wonderful time she had in South Africa with TFT, in adddition to the great photography sessions. We are also so amazed by the experiences you offered in such a short amount of time. It is unbelievable how every trip she has been on with TFT has surpassed the previous one, and these memories are sure to color her world in so many ways. It was ‘more amazing than she ever expected,’ and the life lessons while traveling the world with you are invaluable. Many thanks again."

Beth and Joe L.

"This was my second trip with TFT and it was so fun. I went on this trip because I loved the first trip I did, South Africa service. This trip was amazing because there were so many different experiences. My favorite part of this trip was the home stay we did, this was the part I was most nervous about because I had no idea what to expect. But it was amazing, the hosts were so welcoming and it was something I had never experienced before. It allowed me to see how differently people live. Overall this trip was amazing."

Lily Marks

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