Solo travel is exciting but can also be a little daunting, especially if it is a first solo trip or first time to a region. Africa is an ideal destination for solo travel as it not only offers the opportunity to be immersed in the wilderness, and by its very nature it is also incredibly inclusive. Having enjoyed many solo adventures over the years I can say first hand that you will be beautifully looked after and made to feel welcome and included in all aspects of the trip.
As a solo traveller on safari you will be with like-minded people throughout. After all, you are all there to see the wildlife in the area that you are visiting. So whether you prefer to travel in a small group, spending time getting to know your fellow travellers as you journey through an area, or take a more tailored trip where you combine the camps you want, on the dates which suit you, there are options for everyone.
Small group travel
For solo holidaymakers a small group trip is often very appealing, particularly for a first visit to Africa. Travelling with like-minded people and usually remaining with the same expert guide throughout, you are immersed in the area and get to see and experience everything with others, forming a bond with your fellow travellers whilst having your own space for quiet time as well.
In our experience, some countries are better than others for small group safaris with Botswana, Tanzania and Namibia being ideal destinations. Safari areas run into each other so even on days when you’re moving you are seeing and experiencing the joy the country – its wildlife or landscapes. With groups of just seven people you are assured a very personal and immersive experience as well.
A really good example of an excellent small group safari is in Botswana – Letaka Northern Highlights. This is a nine night itinerary which departs throughout the year. They also offer shorter six night itineraries and specialist photographic or birding safaris as well.
A small group safari is often a more affordable way to travel through a country as well as you are sharing the cost of the vehicle and the services of the guide with the group.
Tailored holidays
For solo travellers who prefer to travel more independently the options are endless. All camps welcome solo travellers and will ensure you are beautifully looked after. You can therefore choose the camps and areas which most appeal to you, for example riding safaris, walking safari or traditional photographic safaris. With safari being inclusive naturally – you tend to share a vehicle and enjoy wildlife viewing activities with others – you are never short of company, and again with people who have a common interest. For those who prefer not to be sociable, many camps offer the chance to have private activities, offering the solitude that may suit some.
Due to its inclusive nature, many safari camps offer communal dining so if you are a solo traveller who would enjoy having others to chat to at dinner, this is easy to accomplish. Similarly, if you prefer your own space to take in the day then private meals can easily be arranged – which some camps do as standard.
Single supplements
When travelling solo one of the main factors to consider is any single supplements being charged. Unlike most city hotels the camps charge per person per night, rather than just per room. This means when there is only one person in a room some camps will charge a supplement. However, there are ways round this so you are not penalised for travelling solo.
- Travel out of peak season. If you are not tied to the school holidays or peak travel times, then travelling out of season will often mean more camps do not charge a single supplement. The wildlife viewing is usually still excellent in the shoulder seasons and as there are naturally fewer people travelling, the camps are not under the same pressure for space and rooms.
- Throughout all the prime safari countries there are camps that do not charge extra for solo travellers at any time of the year. Whilst this then restricts the camps you can choose if you are trying to avoid the single supplement, it does offer the opportunity to travel in peak season without the additional cost.
- Small group safaris – as the costs are generally lower anyway, a single supplement, if charged, tends not to be so onerous. Some do not charge at all.
Safety
Solo travellers, naturally, are often concerned about how safe travel might be to a particular destination or region. When you travel on your own to Africa there will be someone with you every step of the way, ensuring you are looked after and comfortable throughout. In all my years of travel in Africa, often solo, I have never felt unsafe or uncomfortable.
Conclusion
A solo adventure in Africa is a rewarding experience, whether you are wanting to enjoy a riding safari in the Okavango Delta or take a traditional safari in Northern Tanzania to see the migration, the opportunities are endless. Travelling solo should not stop you enjoying this remarkable region.
If you would like to investigate the options for a solo holiday to Africa or the Indian Ocean, or for any other holiday to Africa, please do get in touch to discuss your wishes. We would be delighted to help you.