Travel the World with us

Dear Travelers,

Wishing all the adventurous travelers out there a Happy Halloween! Embrace the mystery, celebrate local traditions, and let the spirit of the season guide your next great adventure. As you explore new destinations this spooky season, dive into the eerie traditions and haunting legends that make Halloween so enchantingly unique around the world. Whether you are wandering through haunted streets, uncovering ghostly tales in historic landmarks, or joining lively local festivities under the moonlit sky, let the spirit of the season awaken your sense of adventure. Savor those seasonal treats, snap unforgettable memories, and embrace every thrilling moment along the way.

Safe travels and may your Halloween be filled with

chills, thrills, and unforgettable tales to tell!

Niger, a land where diverse tribes and vast desert vistas meet, offers a rare glimpse into life beneath the golden African sun. Guided by the seasoned explorer Mohamed Halouani, this expedition unveils a country shaped by the ancient Saharan trade routes that have long intertwined Arab and African traditions into a vibrant cultural tapestry.

Home to a mosaic of ethnic groups, including the nomadic Tuareg and Fulani peoples, Niger embodies a living heritage of movement, music, and resilience. In Niamey, the energetic capital, wander through bustling open-air markets where Tuareg, Sonuri, and Fulani traders barter in a kaleidoscope of colorful fruits, textiles, and handcrafted wares. Visit the Niger National Museum, one of West Africa’s finest to immerse yourself in its captivating collection of cultural, ethnological, and archaeological treasures, as well as traditional dwellings that reflect the country’s diverse roots. Don’t miss the Grand Mosque, where a climb to the top of its soaring minaret rewards you with sweeping views over the cityscape.

Venture onward to Kouré, home to the last remaining herds of West Africa’s endemic giraffe subspecies, an unforgettable sight set against the sunlit savannah. Then, drift along the Niger River aboard a graceful pinnace, watching for hippos as you pass villages famed for their traditional pottery lining the riverbanks.

In Agadez, a historic 15th-century market town that once thrived as a crossroads of trans-Saharan trade, you’ll discover one of Niger’s most iconic Tuareg cities. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old quarter, where time seems to stand still amid the striking mud-brick architecture and the towering 88.5-foot minaret of the Grand Mosque, the tallest structure of its kind in the world. Lose yourself in the labyrinthine streets, where every turn reveals echoes of a rich past and the enduring spirit of the Sahara.

Both of our upcoming tours Jan 07 - Jan 18, 2026 and Feb 16 - Feb 23, 2026 are officially a definite go. Our February tour is now sold out, but the good news is we still have a few spots left on the January tour. If you would like to join us for this exceptional experience, simply click the link and fill out the form!

Our spellbinding journey through Benin, Togo & Ghana, where living traditions, sacred rituals, and storied landscapes reveal the vibrant heart of West Africa. Guided by the insightful Mohamed Halouani, opens doors to cultures defined by centuries of resilience, spirituality, and celebration. Your adventure begins along the vibrant coastal regions, where the pulse of African life is felt in the rhythm of music, the energy of bustling open-air markets, and the warmth of local communities. Here, you will meet practitioners of Voodoo, one of the world’s oldest and most misunderstood spiritual traditions. Through intimate encounters and mesmerizing dance ceremonies, you will witness how this sacred practice continues to shape everyday life profound, powerful, and deeply human.

As the journey moves inland, the landscapes transform from lush rainforests to sweeping savannahs and with them, the expressions of culture. In the rocky hills, meet the Taneka people, whose way of life remains rooted in ancient rituals and enduring customs. Their villages and traditions embody a rare continuity between past and present, offering an authentic window into the spirit of the region. Further north, discover the Somba people, famed for their extraordinary fortress-like clay homes, often likened to miniature castles. These architectural marvels are as symbolic as they are practical, reflecting a profound relationship between ancestry, spirituality, and the land. A visit to a mystical witches’ village adds a deeply thought-provoking dimension, illuminating the complex interplay between folklore, belief, & community life.

Crossing into Ghana’s Ashanti heartland, explore the legacy of one of West Africa’s greatest kingdoms. In Kumasi, experience the dazzling Akwasidae Festival, a vivid celebration held every six weeks in honor of Ashanti ancestors. Amid swirling colors, hypnotic drumbeats, and regal pageantry, you will witness a living heritage where history is not merely remembered but re-enacted with pride and reverence. Your journey concludes along Ghana’s historic coast, where imposing European-built castles, including Cape Coast and Elmina stand as poignant reminders of the transatlantic slave trade. Walking through their weathered stone corridors evokes deep reflection on the human stories that have shaped both Africa and the wider world.

This is more than a tour; it is an invitation to connect with the spirit of West Africa in all its complexity and beauty. With the expertise of your tour lecturer, each encounter becomes a bridge between past and present, offering insight into a region that has profoundly influenced global history and heritage.

This tour is confirmed for Jan 08 - Jan 22, 2026, and a few spots are still available! If you would like to join us for this unique experience, simply click the link and fill out the form to reserve your place.

Discover Nigeria, Jan 18 - Jan 27, 2026 Africa’s most populous country, where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with contemporary energy. Your journey begins in Abuja, the dynamic capital, where bustling markets and encounters with local tribes offer an authentic introduction to Nigerian life. Venture to Ushafa, a renowned pottery village celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship, and explore the historic weaving quarters of Ilorin, where centuries-old techniques are still practiced today. In Esie, uncover the secrets of soapstone sculptures, and wander through the sacred grove of Osun in Osogbo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site imbued with profound spiritual significance.

In Abeokuta, ascend the towering Olumo Rock and admire the city’s unique Afro-Brazilian architecture, a testament to its rich cultural history. Conclude your adventure in Lagos, a vibrant metropolis teeming with color, music, and energy. Explore the National Museum, and visit Badagry, a coastal town whose poignant history is intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade.

Throughout your journey, savor the flavors of Nigerian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rhythms of traditional music and dance, connecting deeply with the heart and soul of the country. Join us on this unforgettable odyssey through Nigeria, where history meets modern allure, and every moment promises wonder and discovery. If you would like to join us, you can reserve your spot on the 2027 tour, taking place Feb 1 - Feb 10, 2027. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this memorable journey!

Our West Africa tour, a journey along the Atlantic coast through Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea Conakry, & Guinea-Bissau. This specially curated itinerary offers a fresh perspective on destinations rarely explored, with the optional extension to Senegal & The Gambia, concluding in Dakar providing convenient flights back to the USA.

Embark on a tour that seamlessly blends nature, culture, history, ethnography, and wildlife into a mesmerizing adventure. Witness sacred dancing masks that embody traditional animism, and sail through the enchanting Bijagos Archipelago, a realm of untouched beauty. Immerse yourself in the heritage of the Griots, whose tribal concerts preserve stories and music passed down since the 12th century.

Venture into remote forests and mountains, where encounters with outsiders are rare, and experience the hidden corners of Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. Navigate rivers aboard barges, cross suspension liana bridges to reach secluded villages, and meet the revered “Birdmen” initiates. Gain intimate insights into local customs through council meetings with traditional chiefs, elders, and community notables, and discover the hidden trail to witness diamond diggers at work. Finally, traverse the pristine shores and islands of the Guinea Gulf, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Scheduled for Jan 22 - Feb 09, 2026, and guided by our tour lecturer Michel Behar, this extraordinary journey promises unforgettable experiences, providing a rare and immersive glimpse into the heart of West Africa like never before.

Ivory Coast is home to a variety of tribes, each with distinct customs, histories, and cultural practices. During our exploration, we will meet members of tribes such as the Akan, Krou, and Mandé, learning firsthand about their identity, daily life, and enduring traditions. Dance in Ivory Coast is a profound form of expression and storytelling. Throughout the tour, you will witness traditional performances that convey the values, history, and spirit of each community. From the energetic Zaouli dance to the graceful Ballet Giraffe, these mesmerizing performances offer a window into the soul of Ivorian culture.

Masks are central to Ivorian life, used in ceremonies, rituals, and celebrations. Each mask is a masterpiece of art and symbolism. You will visit local artisans to observe the creation of these stunning works and attend traditional ceremonies where masks play a vital role in bringing communities together. Music forms the heartbeat of Ivorian culture, interwoven with dance and daily life. Experience the vibrant rhythms of drumming, melodic songs, and traditional instruments unique to each tribe. Participate in workshops and engage with local musicians to understand the cultural significance of music in rituals and communal gatherings.

Embark on this unforgettable journey to explore the cultural treasures, where the legacy of tribes, joyful dances, and captivating masks await. This adventure promises to inspire, enlighten, and deepen your appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry of this West African nation. Our Jan 27 - Feb 06, 2026 tour still has a few spots left. Secure yours now by clicking the link and filling out the form this is an experience you don’t want to miss!

Join acclaimed tour leader Michel Behar on a journey through Morocco and the vast deserts of Western Sahara. From bustling Moroccan cities and the majestic Atlas Mountains to the sweeping sands of the Sahara, this 10-day program immerses you in both culture and history. Discover the rich heritage of the region’s Berber and Saharan communities, explore ancient trade routes, and gain unique insight into the geopolitics of Western Sahara—territory administered by Morocco yet still the focus of international discussion. With Behar’s expert guidance, you will navigate historic sites, vibrant markets, desert oases, and dramatic landscapes, all while engaging in conversations that illuminate the region’s complex past and present. The date are Mar 23 - Apr 06, 2026 and there are still spaces available on this tour so secure your spot and explore a region where history, culture, and the desert converge by clicking the link and filling out the form.

This tour can be paired with the Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, taking place from Apr 06 - Apr 16, 2026. These extraordinary cities, perched on the northern coast of Morocco, offer a rare glimpse into a fascinating intersection of history, culture, and contemporary geopolitics. While geographically part of North Africa, Ceuta and Melilla are legally Spanish territories—an arrangement that has long been a point of diplomatic tension between Spain and Morocco. Madrid regards these enclaves as integral to the Spanish state, akin to the semi-autonomous regions on the mainland.

Your exploration will trace the cities’ origins back to the Phoenicians, the ancient maritime traders who first shaped this strategic Mediterranean outpost. Over the centuries, Ceuta and Melilla have experienced numerous shifts in power, including Spanish conquest in 1580, interrupted only by a brief period of Moorish control from 1694 to 1720. Today, their fortified borders face new pressures, as African migrants seek routes to Europe, adding a compelling contemporary dimension to their historic legacy.

Throughout this program, you will immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of these cities’ past, from ancient civilizations to modern political complexities. Beyond history, you will engage with the ongoing geopolitical dynamics that continue to define Ceuta and Melilla, gaining a deeper understanding of their unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Africa.

Join us for this intellectually and culturally enriching experience, a journey where history, human stories, and global issues converge in two remarkable cities.

We have so many incredible adventures waiting for you, far too many to fit into this newsletter! That’s why we invite you to revisit our 2026-2027 Catalogue and let us know where you would like to go next. Also, be sure to check our website for all the latest news and exciting travel updates!

Phone: 1 800 645 3233

 www.mideasttrvl.com