Your Journey, Our Expertise
At PanAf Travel and Tours, we believe that leisure travel should be more than just a vacation—it should be a transformative experience that broadens perspectives, creates lasting memories, and rejuvenates the spirit. Our leisure travel packages are thoughtfully designed to balance iconic must-see attractions with authentic local experiences that reveal the true character of each destination.
Whether you're seeking a luxurious Mediterranean cruise, an immersive cultural journey through ancient civilizations, or an adrenaline-pumping adventure in breathtaking natural settings, our diverse portfolio of experiences caters to every travel style, interest, and comfort level.
What sets our leisure packages apart is our commitment to personalization. We recognize that each traveler has unique preferences and expectations, which is why we offer both carefully curated itineraries and fully customizable options. Our global network, including sister companies in Jerusalem and Addis Ababa, provides insider access and local expertise that transforms ordinary trips into extraordinary journeys.
Discover the unparalleled joy of exploring multiple destinations while unpacking just once. Our cruise experiences combine the comfort and luxury of premium vessels with carefully selected shore excursions that capture the essence of each port of call. From intimate river cruises that navigate historic waterways to majestic ocean voyages that showcase spectacular coastlines, our cruise packages offer the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration.
Through our partnerships with leading cruise lines and our own shore excursion expertise, we create seamless experiences that go beyond typical cruise offerings. Our exclusive shore programs, led by knowledgeable local guides, provide deeper insights and authentic connections that aren't available to the average cruise passenger.
A perfect family getaway combining the ease of cruising with engaging activities for all ages, visiting the most captivating ports of the Mediterranean while offering both family time and age-appropriate experiences.
Destinations: Depending on selected itinerary, may include ports in Italy, Greece, Spain, France, and Croatia.
Family-Focused Shore Excursions: Our exclusive shore programs include options specifically designed for families, such as:
Onboard Experience: We select cruise lines that excel in family programming, featuring:
PanAf Exclusive: Our Family Memory Package includes a professional photo session at a scenic port, a family cooking class featuring regional cuisine, and a customized family travel journal for recording daily adventures.
✓ 7-10 nights accommodation in family-suitable staterooms
✓ All meals and entertainment onboard
✓ PanAf exclusive family-focused shore excursions (one in each port)
✓ Family Memory Package with photo session and cooking class
✓ Pre-cruise preparation materials including age-appropriate destination guides
✓ Onboard credit for additional activities
✓ Port charges and taxes
✓ PanAf travel concierge service throughout the journey
✗ Airfare to/from embarkation port
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Additional shore excursions beyond included program
✗ Specialty dining venues onboard (where applicable)
✗ Alcoholic beverages (beverage packages available)
✗ Gratuities (can be pre-paid)
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
An intimate, luxurious journey aboard a premium yacht or small ship, exploring the enchanting Greek islands at a leisurely pace with access to secluded coves and authentic island communities beyond the reach of larger vessels.
Vessel: Premium yacht or small ship accommodating 12-40 passengers, offering an intimate, exclusive experience with personalized service.
Potential Itineraries:
Exclusive Experiences:
Onboard Amenities: Depending on selected vessel, may include spacious sun decks, jacuzzi, water sports platform, gourmet dining featuring fresh local ingredients, and elegant staterooms with sea views.
PanAf Exclusive: Our Greek Islands Immersion program includes meetings with local artisans, musicians, and storytellers who come aboard in select ports to share their crafts and traditions in an intimate setting.
✓ 8-12 nights accommodation in premium stateroom or cabin
✓ Gourmet meals featuring fresh, local ingredients
✓ Selected wines, beers, and soft drinks with meals
✓ Daily shore excursions with expert local guides
✓ Use of water sports equipment (snorkeling gear, kayaks, etc.)
✓ Greek Islands Immersion cultural program
✓ Port charges and taxes
✓ Gratuities for crew and guides
✓ Transfers between Athens airport and vessel
✗ International airfare to/from Athens
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Premium alcoholic beverages and champagne
✗ Optional activities (spa treatments, etc.)
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
A perfect blend of river cruising and land exploration, combining a classic Nile journey between Luxor and Aswan with a comprehensive Cairo experience, offering insights into one of the world's most fascinating ancient civilizations.
Day 1-3: Cairo
Arrive in Cairo and spend three days exploring this vibrant city. Visit the Pyramids of Giza and the enigmatic Sphinx, the Egyptian Museum with its treasures of Tutankhamun, the medieval Islamic Cairo with its bazaars and mosques, and the Coptic Quarter with its ancient churches. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring traditional Egyptian cuisine and entertainment.
Day 4: Cairo to Luxor
Morning flight to Luxor. Board your premium Nile cruise vessel. Afternoon visit to the magnificent Karnak Temple complex and Luxor Temple, illuminated at sunset.
Day 5: Luxor West Bank
Explore the Valley of the Kings, including the tomb of Tutankhamun, the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut, and the Colossi of Memnon. Evening sailing to Esna, passing through the Esna Lock.
Day 6: Edfu and Kom Ombo
Morning visit to the remarkably preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu. Afternoon sailing to Kom Ombo to visit the unusual double temple dedicated to the gods Sobek and Horus. Evening sailing to Aswan.
Day 7: Aswan
Visit the High Dam, the ancient granite quarries with the unfinished obelisk, and the Temple of Philae, rescued from the rising waters of Lake Nasser. Afternoon felucca ride around Elephantine Island and the Agha Khan Mausoleum.
Day 8: Abu Simbel (Optional) / Aswan
Optional early morning excursion to Abu Simbel to see the colossal temples of Ramses II and Queen Nefertari. Afternoon at leisure to explore Aswan's famous market or visit the Nubian Museum.
Day 9: Aswan to Cairo
Disembark cruise and fly back to Cairo. Afternoon visit to Khan el-Khalili bazaar for shopping. Farewell dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Nile.
Day 10: Departure
Transfer to Cairo International Airport for return flights.
PanAf Exclusive: Our Egyptian Heritage program includes private access to normally closed areas of select temples, meetings with archaeologists working on current excavations (when available), and a special dinner in a historic palace in Cairo.
✓ 4 nights accommodation in 5-star hotel in Cairo
✓ 5 nights accommodation on premium Nile cruise vessel
✓ Daily breakfast, 9 lunches, and 9 dinners
✓ Domestic flights (Cairo-Luxor and Aswan-Cairo)
✓ All transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
✓ Expert Egyptologist guide throughout
✓ All entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary
✓ Egyptian Heritage exclusive experiences
✓ Bottled water during tours
✓ Tips for cruise staff, drivers, and guides
✗ International airfare to/from Cairo
✗ Entry visa for Egypt (available on arrival)
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Optional Abu Simbel excursion
✗ Beverages with meals (except bottled water)
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
Our cultural tours go beyond typical sightseeing to offer genuine immersion in the traditions, cuisines, arts, and daily rhythms of extraordinary destinations. Designed for curious travelers who seek authentic connections and deeper understanding, these journeys balance iconic landmarks with off-the-beaten-path experiences that reveal the true soul of a place.
Led by expert guides who serve as cultural interpreters rather than mere information providers, our cultural tours incorporate meaningful interactions with local communities, hands-on workshops with traditional artisans, and special access to cultural events and institutions. Whether exploring ancient civilizations or contemporary urban scenes, these experiences foster genuine appreciation for the world's diverse cultural expressions.
A sensory journey through Morocco's imperial cities, ancient medinas, and Saharan landscapes, featuring immersive experiences with local artisans, chefs, and musicians that reveal the country's rich cultural tapestry.
Day 1: Casablanca
Arrive in Casablanca. Visit the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest in the world. Welcome dinner featuring Moroccan cuisine and orientation to the journey ahead.
Day 2: Rabat & Fes
Morning exploration of Rabat, Morocco's capital, including the Kasbah of the Udayas and Hassan Tower. Afternoon drive to Fes with a stop at the Roman ruins of Volubilis. Evening arrival in Fes with dinner at a traditional riad.
Day 3-4: Fes
Two full days exploring Fes, the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco. Wander the labyrinthine streets of the medieval medina, visit traditional artisan workshops (ceramics, textiles, metalwork), explore the ancient Jewish quarter, and experience the sensory overload of spice markets and tanneries. Special experiences include a private calligraphy lesson, dinner with a local family, and an evening of Sufi music.
Day 5: Middle Atlas Mountains to Erfoud
Journey through the Middle Atlas Mountains, stopping at the cedar forests near Azrou (home to Barbary macaques) and the Berber town of Midelt. Continue through the Ziz Valley with its dramatic landscapes and palm oases to Erfoud, gateway to the Sahara.
Day 6: Sahara Desert
Morning visit to the fossil workshops of Erfoud. Afternoon transfer to 4x4 vehicles for the journey to the majestic dunes of Erg Chebbi. Camel trek into the desert to a luxury desert camp. Evening under the stars with traditional Berber dinner and music around the campfire.
Day 7: Todra Gorge & Dades Valley
Sunrise in the Sahara followed by return journey to Erfoud. Continue to Tinghir and the spectacular Todra Gorge for a short hike. Visit a nomad family to learn about their traditional lifestyle. Overnight in the scenic Dades Valley.
Day 8: Route of a Thousand Kasbahs to Marrakech
Journey along the "Route of a Thousand Kasbahs," visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ait Ben Haddou, an impressive fortified village that has featured in numerous films. Cross the High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi n'Tichka Pass with breathtaking views. Evening arrival in Marrakech.
Day 9: Marrakech
Full day exploring the "Red City" of Marrakech. Visit the Bahia Palace, Saadian Tombs, and Koutoubia Mosque. Afternoon in the famous Jemaa el-Fna square and the surrounding souks. Special experiences include a cooking class to learn traditional Moroccan dishes and a visit to a hammam for a traditional spa experience. Farewell dinner with entertainment.
Day 10: Departure
Transfer to Marrakech Menara Airport for return flights.
PanAf Exclusive: Our Artisan Connection program includes private workshops with master craftspeople in various traditions, including zellige tile-making, leather work, and textile arts, with the opportunity to create your own keepsake under expert guidance.
✓ 9 nights accommodation (luxury riads and boutique hotels)
✓ Daily breakfast, 7 lunches, and 9 dinners
✓ Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
✓ Expert cultural guide throughout
✓ Local specialist guides in key locations
✓ All entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary
✓ Artisan Connection workshops
✓ Cooking class in Marrakech
✓ Traditional hammam experience
✓ Camel trek and luxury desert camping
✓ Bottled water during tours
✓ Tips for local guides, drivers, and hotel staff
✗ International airfare to Casablanca/from Marrakech
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Alcoholic beverages
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
✗ Any items not specifically mentioned in inclusions
An in-depth exploration of Japan's fascinating contrasts, from serene temples and traditional arts to futuristic cityscapes, featuring unique cultural experiences and insider access to both historic and contemporary Japanese life.
Tokyo Immersion: Three days exploring the many faces of this dynamic metropolis, from ancient temples to futuristic districts. Special experiences include a private sushi-making class, early morning visit to Tsukiji Outer Market, and after-hours access to a digital art museum.
Traditional Arts: Hands-on experiences with Japanese cultural arts, including a private tea ceremony, calligraphy lesson, and workshop with a master craftsperson (options include pottery, woodblock printing, or textile arts).
Spiritual Heritage: Overnight stay at a Buddhist temple on Mount Koya with participation in morning meditation; exploration of Kyoto's magnificent temples and shrines; and visit to the sacred island of Miyajima.
Culinary Journey: Beyond the sushi class, experiences include a street food tour in Osaka, sake tasting at a traditional brewery, kaiseki multi-course dinner in Kyoto, and cooking class featuring regional specialties.
Natural Beauty: Hakone region with views of Mount Fuji, scenic train journey through the Japanese Alps, and exploration of traditional villages with their distinctive architecture.
Contemporary Japan: Exploration of Japan's modern cultural expressions through visits to design districts, contemporary art museums, and an anime/manga experience tailored to your interest level.
PanAf Exclusive: Our Cultural Encounters program includes meetings with local experts in various fields (may include a master gardener, contemporary artist, architect, or cultural historian) for private discussions about their work and perspectives on Japanese culture.
✓ 13 nights accommodation (mix of luxury hotels, traditional ryokans, and one temple stay)
✓ Daily breakfast, 8 lunches, and 10 dinners
✓ 7-day Japan Rail Pass (ordinary class)
✓ Additional transportation as specified in itinerary
✓ Expert cultural guide throughout
✓ Local specialist guides in key locations
✓ All entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary
✓ Cultural workshops and experiences as described
✓ Cultural Encounters program with local experts
✓ Portable Wi-Fi device for duration of trip
✓ Tips for local guides and drivers
✗ International airfare to/from Japan
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Alcoholic beverages (except during included tastings)
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
✗ Any activities listed as optional
A remarkable journey through Ethiopia's extraordinary historical sites and vibrant cultural traditions, operated in partnership with our sister company EthioAmerica to provide authentic insights and meaningful community connections.
Day 1-2: Addis Ababa
Arrive in Addis Ababa. Explore Ethiopia's capital, including the National Museum (home to "Lucy," one of humanity's oldest ancestors), Holy Trinity Cathedral, and Mercato (Africa's largest open-air market). Special welcome dinner featuring traditional Ethiopian cuisine and coffee ceremony.
Day 3-4: Bahir Dar & Lake Tana
Fly to Bahir Dar on the shores of Lake Tana. Boat excursion to island monasteries with their remarkable religious art dating back to the 14th century. Visit the spectacular Blue Nile Falls. Special experience: meeting with traditional Tankwa boat builders and participation in a community development project supported by EthioAmerica.
Day 5-6: Gondar & Simien Mountains
Drive to Gondar, the "Camelot of Africa," to explore its 17th-century royal enclosure with multiple castles. Day trip to the edge of the Simien Mountains National Park to witness breathtaking landscapes and endemic wildlife including Gelada baboons. Cultural experience: traditional music and dance performance with the opportunity to learn basic steps.
Day 7-8: Lalibela
Fly to Lalibela, home to the extraordinary rock-hewn churches carved from solid rock in the 12th-13th centuries. Explore these UNESCO World Heritage marvels with a local priest who explains their religious significance. Hike to the mountain church of Asheten Mariam for panoramic views. Special experience: participation in a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony in a local home, learning the complete process from roasting to serving.
Day 9: Axum
Fly to Axum, Ethiopia's most ancient city and reputed home of the Queen of Sheba. Visit the famous stelae fields, underground tombs, and the church claimed to house the Ark of the Covenant. Archaeological insights: special lecture by a local historian on recent discoveries in the region.
Day 10-11: Addis Ababa & Cultural Immersion
Return to Addis Ababa. Visit the Ethnological Museum to understand Ethiopia's diverse cultures. Explore the studios of contemporary Ethiopian artists who are gaining international recognition. Culinary experience: cooking class to learn how to prepare Ethiopian specialties, followed by farewell dinner with traditional music.
Day 12: Departure
Transfer to Bole International Airport for return flights.
PanAf Exclusive: Through our sister company EthioAmerica, we offer the Community Connection program, providing opportunities to engage with local development initiatives, meet with community leaders, and participate in cultural exchange activities not available through standard tours.
✓ 11 nights accommodation in best available hotels
✓ Daily breakfast, 10 lunches, and 11 dinners
✓ Domestic flights within Ethiopia
✓ Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
✓ Expert cultural guide throughout
✓ Local specialist guides in key locations
✓ All entrance fees to sites listed in itinerary
✓ Community Connection experiences
✓ Traditional coffee ceremonies
✓ Cooking class in Addis Ababa
✓ Bottled water during tours
✓ Tips for local guides, drivers, and hotel staff
✗ International airfare to/from Addis Ababa
✗ Ethiopian visa (available on arrival or e-visa)
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Alcoholic beverages
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
✗ Photography fees at some religious sites
For travelers who seek active, immersive experiences in the world's most spectacular natural settings, our adventure trips deliver the perfect balance of exhilaration and comfort. These journeys are designed for those who believe that some of life's most rewarding experiences come from challenging yourself in extraordinary landscapes, whether trekking through mountain ranges, exploring remote wilderness, or engaging in water-based adventures.
Led by experienced guides with expertise in both the natural environment and safety protocols, our adventure trips accommodate various fitness levels and experience, from gentle adventures suitable for active families to more challenging expeditions for seasoned outdoor enthusiasts. What unites all our adventure offerings is a commitment to authentic experiences that connect travelers deeply with remarkable natural environments while respecting local cultures and ecosystems.
An active exploration of Costa Rica's remarkable biodiversity, combining rainforest hikes, wildlife encounters, volcano exploration, and coastal adventures in one of the world's premier eco-tourism destinations.
Day 1: San José
Arrive in San José. Welcome dinner and briefing on the adventure ahead.
Day 2-3: Arenal Volcano Region
Travel to the Arenal region, dominated by the perfect cone of the volcano. Activities include a hanging bridges canopy walk through primary rainforest, a moderate hike on the lava flows of Arenal Volcano with a naturalist guide explaining the volcanic geology and forest regeneration, and relaxation in natural hot springs. Optional adventure activities include zip-lining through the forest canopy or white-water rafting on the Balsa River (Class II-III rapids).
Day 4-5: Monteverde Cloud Forest
Journey to Monteverde, traveling partly by boat across Lake Arenal. Explore the mystical cloud forest with its extraordinary biodiversity through guided day and night hikes to spot wildlife including the resplendent quetzal (seasonal), monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. Adventure activities include a canopy tour combining zip lines, Tarzan swings, and rappelling, plus a visit to a sustainable coffee plantation to learn about traditional and modern cultivation methods.
Day 6-8: Manuel Antonio National Park
Travel to the Pacific coast and Manuel Antonio National Park, where rainforest meets pristine beaches. Activities include guided hikes in the national park to spot sloths, monkeys, and tropical birds; sea kayaking through mangrove ecosystems; and a snorkeling excursion to explore coral reefs. Free time for swimming, beach relaxation, or optional activities such as surfing lessons or a sunset sailing trip. Final evening features a farewell dinner on the beach.
Day 9: Return to San José
Morning at leisure before return transfer to San José for departure flights.
PanAf Exclusive: Our Conservation Connection program includes special meetings with researchers and conservationists working to protect Costa Rica's biodiversity, providing behind-the-scenes insights into wildlife protection efforts and sustainable development initiatives.
✓ 8 nights accommodation in eco-friendly lodges and hotels
✓ Daily breakfast, 6 lunches, and 8 dinners
✓ Private transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
✓ Expert naturalist guide throughout
✓ Local specialist guides for specific activities
✓ All entrance fees to parks and reserves
✓ Activities as specified in itinerary (canopy tour, kayaking, snorkeling)
✓ Conservation Connection experiences
✓ Bottled water during activities
✓ Tips for local guides and drivers
✗ International airfare to/from San José
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Optional activities (zip-lining, rafting, surfing lessons, sunset sail)
✗ Alcoholic beverages
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
The ultimate East African adventure combining an immersive wildlife safari through Tanzania's legendary national parks with relaxation on the exotic spice island of Zanzibar, offering a perfect blend of adventure and leisure.
Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit: Comprehensive exploration of Tanzania's most renowned wildlife areas:
Wildlife Experiences: Game drives in specially designed 4x4 vehicles with pop-up roofs for optimal viewing and photography. Opportunities to witness the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) plus countless other species in their natural habitats. If timing aligns with the Great Migration, witness this spectacular natural phenomenon.
Cultural Encounters: Visit to a Maasai village to learn about traditional lifestyles and contemporary challenges. Meeting with representatives from community conservation initiatives that balance wildlife protection with human needs.
Zanzibar Relaxation & Exploration: After the safari adventure, fly to the exotic island of Zanzibar for beach relaxation combined with cultural exploration:
PanAf Exclusive: Our Wildlife Conservation Insight program includes special meetings with researchers and conservationists working in Tanzania, providing behind-the-scenes perspectives on wildlife protection efforts, human-wildlife conflict resolution, and community-based conservation initiatives.
✓ 11 nights accommodation (luxury safari lodges/tented camps and beach resort)
✓ All meals during safari portion
✓ Breakfast and dinner in Zanzibar
✓ Internal flights (Serengeti-Zanzibar-Dar es Salaam)
✓ Private 4x4 safari vehicle with expert driver-guide
✓ All park entrance fees and game drives
✓ Wildlife Conservation Insight experiences
✓ Cultural visits as specified
✓ Stone Town and spice plantation tours
✓ Sunset dhow cruise with dinner
✓ Bottled water during safari
✓ Flying doctor emergency evacuation insurance
✓ Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
✗ International airfare to Kilimanjaro/from Dar es Salaam
✗ Tanzania visa (available on arrival or e-visa)
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Alcoholic beverages
✗ Optional activities in Zanzibar (scuba diving, snorkeling trips, etc.)
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
An active exploration of Peru's remarkable diversity, from the high Andes and Machu Picchu to the Amazon rainforest, combining iconic archaeological sites with extraordinary natural environments and living cultural traditions.
Day 1-2: Lima
Arrive in Lima. Explore Peru's capital, including the historic center (UNESCO World Heritage site) and the Larco Museum with its outstanding pre-Columbian collection. Culinary experience featuring Peru's renowned gastronomy, including a pisco sour demonstration.
Day 3-5: Sacred Valley
Fly to Cusco and transfer to the Sacred Valley of the Incas (at lower elevation for better acclimatization). Explore impressive Inca sites including Pisac and Ollantaytambo. Cultural experiences include a visit to a traditional weaving community to learn about ancient textile techniques, and participation in a traditional Pachamama ceremony honoring Mother Earth. Active options include mountain biking or horseback riding through spectacular landscapes.
Day 6: Machu Picchu
Early morning train journey through the dramatic Urubamba Valley to Machu Picchu. Full day exploration of this magnificent Inca citadel with an expert guide, learning about its construction, history, and theories about its purpose. Overnight near Machu Picchu.
Day 7: Machu Picchu & Cusco
Optional second entry to Machu Picchu for sunrise or to hike Huayna Picchu for a different perspective of the site (limited permits, must be requested in advance). Afternoon train and transfer to Cusco.
Day 8-9: Cusco
Explore the fascinating city of Cusco, once the capital of the Inca Empire, with its unique blend of Inca and colonial architecture. Visit the impressive Sacsayhuaman fortress overlooking the city. Special experiences include a chocolate-making workshop using Peruvian cacao and a traditional Andean music demonstration with the opportunity to try various instruments.
Day 10-13: Amazon Rainforest
Fly to Puerto Maldonado, gateway to the southern Amazon. Transfer by boat to a jungle lodge. Immersive rainforest experiences include:
Day 14: Return to Lima & Departure
Return to Puerto Maldonado and fly to Lima for international connections.
PanAf Exclusive: Our Cultural Heritage program includes special access to archaeological sites or museum collections not typically open to visitors, plus meetings with researchers or conservationists working to protect Peru's natural and cultural treasures.
✓ 13 nights accommodation (luxury hotels and jungle lodge)
✓ Daily breakfast, 10 lunches, and 10 dinners
✓ Internal flights (Lima-Cusco, Cusco-Puerto Maldonado-Lima)
✓ All ground transportation including train to/from Machu Picchu
✓ Expert cultural guide in the Andes
✓ Naturalist guide in the Amazon
✓ All entrance fees including two entries to Machu Picchu
✓ Cultural Heritage exclusive experiences
✓ Cultural workshops and demonstrations as specified
✓ Bottled water during tours
✓ Oxygen and first aid kit for altitude considerations
✓ Tips for local guides, drivers, and hotel staff
✗ International airfare to/from Lima
✗ Travel insurance
✗ Huayna Picchu hiking permit (limited availability)
✗ Alcoholic beverages
✗ Optional activities (mountain biking, horseback riding, kayaking)
✗ Personal expenses and souvenirs
While our carefully crafted packages offer exceptional experiences, we recognize that some travelers seek journeys tailored precisely to their specific interests, pace, and preferences. Our Custom Journey Design service provides the ultimate in personalized travel, creating bespoke itineraries that reflect your unique vision.
Working with our experienced travel designers, you'll enjoy a collaborative process that transforms your travel dreams into reality, whether you're seeking a completely customized itinerary or modifications to one of our existing packages.
We begin with a detailed conversation to understand your travel style, interests, must-see destinations, preferred pace, accommodation preferences, dietary requirements, and any special experiences you're seeking. This foundation allows us to create a journey that truly reflects your vision.
Based on your input, our travel designers create a detailed proposal including a day-by-day itinerary, accommodation options, experiences, and pricing. This proposal serves as a starting point for refinement.
We work together to fine-tune the proposal, adjusting elements until the itinerary perfectly matches your expectations. This may involve several revisions as we perfect every detail.
Once the itinerary is finalized, our operations team handles all logistics, making reservations, arranging guides, and coordinating transportation to ensure a seamless journey.
During your travels, you'll have access to 24/7 support from our team, including local representatives in each destination who can assist with any adjustments or special requests that arise.
We created a three-week itinerary for a family tracing their roots across three countries, incorporating private genealogy research assistance, visits to ancestral villages, meetings with distant relatives, and age-appropriate activities for family members ranging from 8 to 80 years old.
For passionate food enthusiasts, we designed a journey through Spain, Morocco, and Italy focused entirely on gastronomy, featuring cooking classes with renowned chefs, market tours with culinary experts, visits to artisanal food producers, and reservations at both Michelin-starred restaurants and authentic local eateries.
For serious photographers, we arranged a specialized safari combining Tanzania and Rwanda, timed for optimal wildlife viewing and featuring specialized photography vehicles, expert photography guides, and carefully selected accommodations with ideal positioning for landscape photography.
For most leisure travel packages, we recommend booking 6-8 months in advance to secure preferred accommodations and experiences, especially for popular destinations during peak seasons. Certain experiences with limited availability (such as gorilla trekking permits, specific Galapagos cruises, or premium accommodations during festivals) may require booking 9-12 months ahead. For custom journeys, starting the planning process 8-10 months before travel allows ample time for the collaborative design process. That said, we can occasionally accommodate last-minute bookings depending on destination and season, so don't hesitate to inquire about availability even for near-term travel.
We take dietary needs very seriously and have extensive experience accommodating various requirements including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, halal, and specific food allergies. Our process includes: detailed documentation of your requirements shared with all service providers before arrival; personal communication with chefs at key restaurants and hotels; selection of accommodations with proven track records of handling special diets; provision of dietary requirement cards in local languages for independent dining; and careful planning of culinary experiences to ensure meaningful participation regardless of restrictions. For severe allergies or very specialized diets, we can arrange calls with specific properties to discuss detailed protocols. We recommend discussing any dietary concerns during the initial planning stages so we can make appropriate arrangements.
Our cultural tours go beyond surface-level tourism through several distinctive approaches: we limit group sizes to ensure meaningful interactions and flexibility; we employ guides who are cultural interpreters rather than just information providers, often with academic backgrounds in relevant fields; we incorporate genuine engagement with local communities through activities like shared meals in family homes, participation in traditional crafts, or involvement in community initiatives; we balance iconic sites with off-the-beaten-path experiences that reveal authentic local life; we provide special access to cultural events, ceremonies, or institutions not available to typical tourists; and we incorporate thoughtful discussions about cultural context, historical significance, and contemporary issues. Additionally, through our sister companies and long-established relationships, we offer insider perspectives and connections that simply aren't available through standard tour operators.
Our adventure trips span a range of physical activity levels, from gentle adventures suitable for reasonably fit travelers of all ages to challenging expeditions requiring specific fitness and experience. Each itinerary clearly indicates its activity level and physical requirements. Most importantly, we can adjust many of our adventures to accommodate different fitness levels within the same group through several approaches: offering alternative activities during more strenuous segments; providing options for shorter or less challenging routes; utilizing support vehicles where terrain permits; adjusting pacing to allow more frequent rest stops; and in some cases, arranging different guides to accompany group members on separate activities based on preference. During the planning process, we have detailed conversations about physical capabilities and expectations to ensure appropriate matching of travelers to experiences and necessary customizations.
We provide comprehensive support throughout your journey through multiple channels: before departure, you'll receive detailed documentation including day-by-day itineraries, local contact information, cultural briefings, packing suggestions, and health/safety information; during travel, you'll have 24/7 emergency assistance available through both our U.S. headquarters and local representatives in each destination; for most packages, you'll be accompanied by expert guides who handle logistics while providing cultural and historical context; in destinations where our sister companies operate, you'll benefit from on-the-ground teams with intimate local knowledge; and for independent segments, you'll have detailed instructions, recommendations, and local contacts. We also provide a digital travel app with real-time updates, important documents, and communication tools. Our philosophy is to offer enough support to ensure peace of mind while allowing the independence and spontaneity that make travel rewarding.
"Our family cruise through the Greek Islands with PanAf exceeded all expectations. The shore excursions were thoughtfully designed to engage both our teenagers and grandparents, with options for different energy levels. The private guide who met us at each port transformed what could have been ordinary sightseeing into fascinating cultural experiences. The pre-trip materials for the kids got them excited about Greek mythology before we even departed!"
"As a solo traveler on the Morocco cultural tour, I was concerned about feeling out of place, but PanAf created an experience that was both socially engaging and allowed for personal exploration. The small group size meant we could visit homes and workshops that larger tours couldn't access. The guide's relationships with local artisans gave us insights that felt genuine rather than staged for tourists. I've traveled extensively, and this ranks among my most authentic cultural experiences."
"The Peru adventure perfectly balanced iconic sites like Machu Picchu with off-the-beaten-path experiences. The special access to archaeological sites not open to regular tourists made us feel like true explorers rather than just visitors. What truly set this trip apart was the seamless handling of complex logistics—from altitude considerations to internal flights and remote accommodations—allowing us to focus entirely on the experience rather than the details."
Ready to explore the world with PanAf Travel and Tours? Our leisure travel specialists are eager to help you find the perfect experience, whether you're seeking a carefully crafted package or a completely customized journey.