Fr. Joe Mitchell, CP
Founder, President and Lead Teacher
January 7-25, 2026 — Northern Route
Cost for 19 days: $3200
We ask you to pay by check if possible to reduce expenses incurred by credit card fees.
Class Description
January 7-25, 2026 — Northern Route The Journey
Kenya and Tanzania are the Africa you’ve always dreamed of. This is the land of vast savannahs, stirring landscapes, abundant wildlife, snow-capped Kilimanjaro, fascinating cultures, and tribal peoples with ancient traditions on the soil where human beings were born. The Earth & Spirit Center sponsors two annual trips to East Africa – the northern route in January and the southern route in July.
This 19-day African journey offers the unique opportunity to combine hands-on activities with breathtaking safaris. Native Passionists will be our hosts and guides, making it possible to experience the culture of Kenya and Tanzania from within.
We will experience Kenya’s dynamic capital and urban center Nairobi. We will visit the remote forest area of western Kenya, overnighting on Lake Victoria and exploring the birthplace of humanity. We will meet members of the famous Maasai tribe and safari in world class game parks. We will build relationships with grassroots community leaders committed to overcoming the heartbreaking poverty of the region. We will foster a network of support and learn how to become responsible global citizens. This journey to Africa is a remarkable opportunity to make your world bigger!
- The African Journey is different from a typical tour. Though we will visit game parks and see many animals, our focus is not primarily on tourist attractions, but on experiencing the vitality and daily life of Africa from within. It is for those who want to get off the beaten track, become involved with local people, and connect with another view of the world.
- Participants must be able to climb at least two-flights of stairs and walk up to one mile.J
- Accommodations will be simple, clean, and safe. This is not for those envisioning 4-star hotels.
- Travel within Kenya and Tanzania will be via bus with African Passionists serving as local guides.
- The African Journey will be led by Fr. Joe Mitchell along with priests and brothers of the Passionist communities of Kenya and Tanzania.
- Registration is limited to 18 people. We cannot always take everyone who requests registration. Preference is given to those who have previously participated in Earth & Spirit Center courses or programs.
Cost for 19 days: $3200
- Cost includes double-occupancy accommodations, meals, all ground transportation within Africa, services of local guides, stipend for Passionist communities, game park and all other entry fees.
- Cost does not include tips, alcoholic beverages, camera fees, any optional services, or expenses of personal nature such as laundry, telephones, etc.
- Cost does not include international airline travel.
- An initial deposit of $600 is due upon registration to reserve a place on the Journey to Africa.
- 50% of payment balance ($1300) is due by August 1, 2025.
- Remaining balance payment ($1300) is due by September 15, 2025.
International Travel
- Each participant will arrange and pay separately for their international air travel, flying into and out of Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport).
- Single entry tourist visas are required for entering both Kenya and Tanzania.
- Some immunization vaccinations are suggested. Consult your local travel clinic for advice.
Cancellation
- Before July 1, 2025 – all but $100 processing fee is refundable.
- After July 1, 2025 – 60% of full payment is refundable.
- After September 15, 2025 – 40% of full payment is refundable.
- After November 15, 2025 – No refund is possible unless your place can be filled by another person.
This gives you a general idea of what to expect day-by-day. In case you feel overwhelmed, please note that most activities are optional, except for community meetings. Unanticipated itinerary changes may be necessary due to local circumstances or needs.
Enclose $600 deposit to request registration for the January 2026 African Journey. Make checks payable to “Passionist Earth & Spirit Center.”
This journey usually fills up to capacity. If your registration cannot be completed, you will receive a full refund.
MAIL TO: Passionist Earth & Spirit Center • 1924 Newburg Road • Louisville, KY 40205 • 502.452.2749