2026 – South Africa Safari That Gives Back

From the moment you land in the Emerald Isle, this journey sweeps you into the heart of Ireland and Scotland—two places where old legends and everyday life still mingle in the air. Over eight days, you’ll wander castle corridors, stroll seaside cliffs, and share laughs with locals over homemade scones and strong cups of tea. Our past AFS groups loved this. (I thought everyone had been there, but you asked for it. Heck, I’ve been there dozens of times and still discover new wonders.) Dreamy Ireland, land of shamrocks in 1000 shades of green in springtime.

It all starts with a warm welcome at Dublin Airport and an instant dive into Irish history at EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum. From there, it’s two nights of luxury at Kilronan Castle, where you’ll taste the slow pace of country life. Delight in the Atlantic Sheepdogs showing their talents. You’ll wind along the coast to the wild Cliffs of Moher, enjoy Blarney Castle and Gardens in Killarney, lose yourself in the music and markets of Ennis, and sample the elegance of afternoon tea at Dromoland Castle. Cork offers a taste of Ireland’s food scene and its storied past, while stops at the Rock of Cashel and Newbridge Silverware add even more color to your path back to Dublin.

But the adventure doesn’t end there. Scotland’s vibrant and edgy capital calls. Edinburgh blends the old with the new along cobblestone streets, castle views, and that unmistakable sense of history around every corner. You’ll have time to wander, shop, and soak it all in before gathering for a farewell dinner that celebrates everything you’ve seen.

What makes this trip different isn’t just the castles, the cliffs, or the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone. It’s the feeling of stepping into another era. It’s waking up to mist over an ancient lake, hearing a street bagpiper play a tune you’ll never forget, and discovering that afternoon tea can be a full-blown event.

You’ll find that the real treasures aren’t just in the sights, but in the small moments—quiet morning walks on castle grounds, the hum of a pub in full swing, or the shared laughter over something lost in translation. This trip is about slowing down and letting each place sink in, so you return home with more than souvenirs— perhaps some new friends and favorite stories to tell. Welcome to a journey where every day feels like a postcard, and every memory is yours to keep.