In October 2023, 62 travel professionals will embark on the 2026 IMPACT MegaFam, a significant initiative organized by Classic Portfolio. This event features 13 distinct journeys across 10 African countries and marks the largest MegaFam to date, following previous events held in 2016, 2018, and 2023.
Exploring Diverse African Destinations
The MegaFam aims to celebrate the vibrant people and partnerships within the African travel sector. Travelers will experience a wide array of landscapes, ranging from the expansive dunes of Namibia’s NamibRand to the remote beauty of the Bazaruto Archipelago, and from Madagascar’s lush forests to the culturally rich Omo Valley in Ethiopia.
Each itinerary has been thoughtfully designed in collaboration with local lodges, camps, and partners, ensuring that attendees enjoy authentic experiences tailored to each destination. The excursions highlight different aspects of Africa’s beauty, with some travelers venturing into the wilderness of Tanzania’s Ruaha and Nyerere, while others enjoy the idyllic island life or the scenic Cape coast.
Participants will engage with various guides, conservationists, and local communities, gaining insights into preservation efforts, such as those taking place in Gorongosa National Park, and learning about cultural traditions from communities like the Samburu in northern Kenya.
According to Suzanne Bayly, Owner of Classic Portfolio, the MegaFam’s true significance lies not in the destinations themselves, but in the connections and conversations that occur among participants. “Africa is best understood in person,” Bayly stated, emphasizing the importance of meeting guides and communities to truly appreciate the continent’s unique offerings.
The journeys will culminate in a gathering at Boschendal in the Cape Winelands on October 13. Participants will share their experiences, exchange ideas, and reflect on the knowledge gained during the travels. The event will serve as a celebration of collective efforts and partnerships in promoting African tourism.
Classic Portfolio plans to document and share the experiences throughout the coming weeks on social media platforms such as Instagram and Facebook under the handle @classicportfolio, along with the hashtag #MegaFam2026.
Why It Matters: This MegaFam initiative not only showcases the diverse travel opportunities within Africa but also emphasizes the importance of building relationships between travel professionals and local communities. By fostering these connections, the event aims to enhance the understanding and appreciation of Africa’s rich cultural and natural heritage.
