By now I’m sure that you’ve noticed a trend in the UOAA alumni tour offerings, specifically the tours that we offer nearly every year, and AHI’s Journey to Southern Africa is one of the most memorable opportunities. Unlike the Chilean Wonders tour spotlighted earlier in this blog, the UOAA has partnered with AHI on this tour for over ten years, and it consistently receives rave reviews.

First, let me tell you why I get excited for this tour year after year. I have a colleague here at the UOAA who spent two years in South Africa as a Peace Corps volunteer after graduating from the UO. When she shares about her inspiring experiences with such passion and admiration, it reminds us all that this region is nothing short of spectacular! From the cosmopolitan and historic city of Cape Town and the City of Gold, Johannesburg, to the ultimate big five safari experience at the Kapama Private Game Reserve, this country offers so many different ways to appreciate the culture and beauty of the region.

AHI’s Journey to Southern Africa offers travelers a way to sample all the magnificence of the area. This tour is also a great adventure for the train enthusiasts in your life, with three nights aboard the famous Rovos Rail, the epitome of luxury train travel in Africa. Additionally, the trip to Robben Island in Cape Town is consistently listed as a highlight of the tour. Personally, as I grew up near Niagara Falls, I’m most excited about visiting Victoria Falls, which is twice as high and twice as wide!

Before we pack our bags and hop on the plane, I mapped out my itinerary to get a little more familiar with the places we'll be visiting. I hope you find these suggestions helpful as you start to prepare for your own journey!

Book Recommendations:

Long Walk to Freedom by Nelson Mandela: This autobiography provides a powerful firsthand account of Nelson Mandela's extraordinary life and his struggle against apartheid, offering insights into South Africa's history and the fight for justice and equality.

The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith: Set in Botswana, this charming novel follows the adventures of Precious Ramotswe, Botswana's first female private detective, as she solves mysteries and navigates life in her beloved country.

Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton: This classic novel set in South Africa explores themes of racial injustice, forgiveness, and reconciliation against the backdrop of apartheid-era South Africa.

Born a Crime by Trevor Noah: In this compelling memoir, Trevor Noah, former host of the "The Daily Show," reflects on his childhood growing up in apartheid-era South Africa as the son of a black mother and a white father, navigating the complexities of racial identity and survival with humor and resilience.

Movie Recommendations:

Out of Africa, directed by Sydney Pollack: This classic film is based on the memoir by Isak Dinesen (pen name of Karen Blixen) and offers a captivating glimpse into colonial-era Africa, set against the backdrop of Kenya's breathtaking landscapes.

Tsotsi, directed by Gavin Hood: This South African film tells story of a young street thug in Johannesburg who steals a car, only to discover a baby in the back seat. As he cares for the child, he begins to confront his own past and search for redemption. "Tsotsi" offers a gritty, authentic portrayal of life in post-apartheid South Africa and won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2006.

The Power of One, directed by John G. Avildsen: This drama is set in South Africa during the apartheid era and follows the journey of a young English boy who becomes involved in the anti-apartheid movement.

Invictus, directed by Clint Eastwood: Based on a true story, "Invictus" tells the inspiring tale of how Nelson Mandela, played by Morgan Freeman, used the 1995 Rugby World Cup as a unifying force to help heal the racial divisions in post-apartheid South Africa, demonstrating the transformative power of sports and leadership in overcoming adversity.

Remember that books and movies can provide glimpses of Southern African life, but nothing beats being there in person to fully appreciate the beauty and energy of these locations. Bon Voyage, my friends! Or as the say in Zulu, ube nohambo oluhle!