We are thrilled to return to Western Africa on a new and improved itinerary that highlights the very best of this dynamic region. Visit an amazing nine countries and discover the intriguing cultural heritage, storied history, and numerous natural wonders of these lesser-visited African nations.
Mike Messick
Cofounder & Expedition Leader
Mike is one of the original cofounders of Zegrahm Expeditions. He was raised in Switzerland and began working in expedition travel during a summer break from college. He received a degree from Skidmore College in bio/psychology where he graduated in 1985. That same year Mike embarked on a full-time career in adventure travel. With nearly 35 year’s experience, Mike is considered the most experienced expedition leader in the industry. Mike has conducted research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in its onshore laboratory and aboard one if its research vessels, he is a member of The Explorers Club, holds a US Coast Guard captain’s license, and received his scuba instructor certificate from NAUI. When not leading expeditions, Mike lives in Salt Lake City and spends his free time traveling around the globe.
Mike's Blog Posts
Where in the World is Niuatoputapu?
All In for Subtropical Asia
Mike's Upcoming Expeditions
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Tracing the West Coast of Africa
February 8 — February 24, 2021 -
Mediterranean Mosaic: Italy, Corsica, Tunisia, Algeria & Morocco
April 19 — May 3, 2021Exquisite Greek and Roman cities once created a mosaic of flourishing cultural centers around the Mediterranean Sea. Today they stand in silent testimony to that epoch as magnificent ruins far better preserved, far more impressive, and far less crowed than most of the archaeological sites of mainland Europe.
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Circumnavigation of the Black Sea
July 18 — July 31, 2021Centuries of history and splendid architecture come to life as you discover the countries surrounding the Black Sea—Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Romania and Bulgaria. Join our experts to explore busy bazaars, archeological treasures, and stunning landscapes.
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Crossroads of Empires: Cyprus, Israel, Egypt & Jordan
October 22 — November 4, 2021The art, architecture, and archaeological wonders of the eastern Mediterranean are legacies of the world’s most celebrated empires. Over the millennia, a succession of cultures traded, conquered, and settled in these fabled lands, and we follow in their wake, piecing together the pages of the defining chapters of ancient civilization.