Africa and Southeast Asia

Africa and Southeast Asia Tours for Seniors

The countries of Southeast Asia — Cambodia, Vietnam, China, and Bangkok, to name a few — are some of the most culturally rich places to visit in the world. Filled with temples and monasteries, flavorful foods, and geological wonders, the Asian continent is not one to be missed. 

Fifty-four countries comprise the African continent, with 2,000 spoken languages, 1,100 species of mammals, and an astounding amount of cultural diversity. This is the land of wild animals, rich biodiversity, fascinating people, and soil that grows delicious grapes for wine. 

Road Scholar offers dozens of Southeast Asia tours for seniors to experience a once-in-a-lifetime learning adventure through countries such as Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Laos. 

The African tours for seniors take travelers to beautiful countries like South Africa to see places like Cape Town and Knysna, visit gorgeous wineries, and take the Garden Route up the coast to where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. Mingle with the Big Five in Botswana. 

Discover the Charms of Southeast Asia

Some of the most popular travel destinations are found throughout Southeast Asia. Uncover some of the unique experiences you can enjoy on Southeast Asia tours for seniors:

• Rich cultural experiences: Explore ancient temples, bustling markets and traditional performances in countries like Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.

• Scenic landscapes and relaxing environments: Enjoy the serene beauty of rice terraces, tropical beaches and tranquil countryside, ideal for a relaxed pace.

• Culinary delights and local flavors: Savor authentic Southeast Asian cuisine through guided food tours and cooking classes that draw on local ingredients like turmeric, lemongrass, soy and rice.

Embark on an African Adventure

African tours for seniors ensure you have an unforgettable experience filled with enriching experiences that are hard to find anywhere else.

• Unforgettable wildlife encounters: Experience the thrill of African safaris in Tanzania and Botswana, witnessing the Big Five in their natural habitats.

• Cultural interactions and heritage sites: Visit local communities, historical landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites across Africa, such as Victoria Falls, Okavango Delta, Thimlich Ohinga Archaeological Site and Matobo Hills.

• Comfortable and accessible safari lodges: Stay in accommodations designed for comfort, with amenities catering to senior travelers like wheelchair-friendly rooms, quiet areas and transportation services.

Must-Visit Southeast Asian Destinations

Road Scholar has created some of the best Southeast Asia tours for seniors that are great for those wanting to try something wild. Wild animals, landscapes, archeological sites and more await those who are ready. 

• Thailand, the Land of Smiles: View a sight rarely seen as the monks trek and ascend the 309 steps of the Golden Naga staircase to reach the golden pagodas at the sacred Doi Suthep mountain. Through Southeast Asia tours for seniors to Thailand, you can discover Bangkok’s temples, Chiang Mai’s cultural heritage and Phuket’s beaches. Take a lecture with Buddhist monks to learn the philosophy of Buddhism, Buddha, and the way of life of the Buddhist on the 21-day tour, The Best of Southeast Asia: Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam.

• Vietnam: A Tapestry of History and Nature: An adventure to Vietnam opens up a world of adventure. Cruise through Halong Bay, visit Hanoi's Old Quarter and discover the Mekong Delta, all one-of-a-kind experiences you can’t find anywhere else.

• Cambodia: Ancient Wonders: A must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site, Angkor Wat Temple and the Archaeological Park contain the magnificent remains of the different capitals of the Khmer Empire from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Take a 15-day river cruise with Road Scholar on a small group tour of Southeast Asia to explore The Wonders of Cambodia and Vietnam to learn about Khmer history, wildlife and local cultures.

Premier African Safari Locations

Africa is rich in history, culture and wildlife, and African safari tours for seniors give you a unique opportunity to witness some of the world’s rarest animals and inviting cultures. Take a look at African safaris for seniors you can join: 

• Kenya: The Heart of Safari: Perhaps the best African safari for seniors takes you to Kenya, where you can witness the Great Migration in the Maasai Mara and visit local Maasai villages, allowing you to spot the Big Five and immerse yourself in the local culture.

• South Africa: Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife: When we think of South Africa, we may not think of green rolling hills filled with vineyards and wineries producing amazing-tasting wines. Stellenbosch, known as South Africa’s wine country, boasts delicious reds and whites set against stunning mountains. On the 16-day Road Scholar tour, The Best of South Africa, discover the vibrant cityscapes of Johannesburg and Cape Town to learn about the culture, explore the dramatic scenery and taste wine in Stellenbosch.

• Tanzania: Serengeti and Beyond: One of the top African tours for seniors brings you to Tanzania, where you can experience the vast plains of the Serengeti and the unique Ngorongoro Crater.

• Botswana Safari, Africa: Chobe National Park is one of Africa’s wild-game-viewing areas for the Big Five (minus the rhino). Chobe National Park is home to the largest population of elephants in the world and Africa’s most pristine ecosystems and greatest wildlife refuges. Go on a train adventure through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Botswana on a 16-day tour. This African tour for seniors and all ages takes travelers through Chobe National Park in Botswana, Africa, in an open-air 4x4 vehicle with a local expert to catch a glimpse of the Big Five animals on this incredible safari.

Preparing for Your Adventure

Ready for unforgettable Africa and Southeast tours? Keep these preparation tips in mind:

• Health and safety tips for senior travelers: Ensure you receive the latest vaccines required by your destination, such as those for malaria, diphtheria and hepatitis B. Additionally, ensure you pack all prescribed medication, a basic first aid kit and an emergency contact list.

• Packing essentials for different climates: Southeast Asia and African tours for seniors require thoughtful planning. Pack appropriate clothing and layers to accommodate fluctuating temperatures, especially if you’re navigating various altitudes and environments, along with accessories like a reusable water bottle, hat, sunglasses and a camera for capturing memories.

• Travel tips for a comfortable journey: Book lodging and flight arrangements well in advance for better prices, and make sure to keep your mobility needs in mind to ensure accessibility throughout your adventure. Also, spend time understanding cultural considerations by learning basic phrases in the native language and common customs to follow.

Experience the World with Road Scholar

Why go with us? Road Scholar offers tours all over the world, including multi-country Asia tour packages and African tours for seniors. Our expert-led programs and educational experiences pair you with knowledgeable guides so you can enjoy immersive learning opportunities. You will also follow thoughtfully planned schedules with a relaxed pace and accessible options that keep senior comfort and enjoyment at the forefront of your mind. Let us help you plan your trip with these senior travel tips so you can find an adventure today and connect with like-minded senior travelers.