The Rowan Chamber of Commerce recently led a group of 24 travelers on an unforgettable journey to Southern Africa from Oct. 21-31. The chamber’s international trips have become a highlight for chamber members and recent retirees, offering unique cultural and travel experiences.

“We had the best tour guides and best group of travelers ever,” Chamber President Elaine Spalding said. “We started our trip in Cape Town, then traveled to Johannesburg, Pilanesberg National Park and finally Victoria Falls.”

Participants on this year’s trip included Cyndi and Ken Osterhus, Joseph and Deidra Dismuke, John and Pamela Softly, Mark and Jackie Curran, Nan and Neil Buehrer, Paul and Marie Martino, Tamara Sheffield and Marnie Stoker, Laura Curran and Jennifer Nelson, Erin Curran, Yvonne Dixon, Richard Spiess, Angela Cox, Pauline Blandford, Bernadette Stansbury, Keyth Kahrs and Spalding.

The group explored several historical and cultural sites, including a boat trip to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and a visit to his home in Soweto. They also experienced dawn and dusk safaris in Pilanesberg National Park, spotting elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, monkeys, hippos, crocodiles and antelope. Other highlights included exploring Cape Winelands and vineyards, strolling through the quaint village of Stellenbosch, visiting the top of Table Mountain in Cape Town, and enjoying a breathtaking sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.

This Southern Africa excursion adds to the chamber’s list of memorable international trips, which have included destinations like Peru, Cuba, Iceland, Italy, Greece, Egypt, Spain and Croatia.

In the fall of 2025, the chamber will embark on an adventure to the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. If you are interested in joining the chamber on future international trips, email info@rowanchamber.com for more information.