22 days in Madagascar, Tanzania & Egypt Itinerary

Madagascar deserves its reputation as a nature lover's paradise--around 5 percent of the world's plant and animal species are endemic to this island. Lemurs and rainforests, karst landscapes and rich red soil steal the headlines and remain among tops reasons to take a trip to Madagascar. The cultural diversity of the population also provides plenty of intrigue and interest, with distinctive ceremonies, unusual sports, and a varied cuisine all highlights of active, enriching Madagascan itineraries.

Though the size and scale of Tanzania may be overwhelming, the people make it a personable and easy-going place to visit. The bigger cities not only offer good connections to the main natural attractions, but also feature bustling markets where locals sell fresh produce, snacks, and crafts. Smaller villages retain their long-held customs, beliefs, and artistic traditions. With the continent's highest peak, and some of the most animal-rich safaris available, Tanzania holidays tend to dart between the big and bold, and the personal and low-key.

The land of pharaohs, pyramids, sphinxes, and papyrus, Egypt needs little by way of introduction. Visitors find more than a textbook readout of ancient history when visiting the country--the power, scale, art, and mysticism of its centuries-old culture bleed out from each landmark attraction and seep into the everyday life. Bustling markets, the slow-flowing Nile, the vast desert, and inspiring archeological sites often sit right alongside palaces of great excess and historical importance. All ensure you have plenty to see and do during your vacation in Egypt. In the wake of the Arab Spring in 2011, travel to certain areas where conflict and terrorism are deemed likely remains inadvisable for foreign visitors.