Solo Safari Holidays: Everything You Need to Know
A solo holiday? In a continent where you know no one and barely speak their language? Yes… We know it sounds terrifying but it will honestly be one of the best things you’ll ever do. And there are lots of advantages that come with it too! It is cheaper, it will push you out of your comfort zone, and it will help you cultivate the most important relationship there is- a relationship with yourself.
We have created this guide to help make your solo holiday to Africa your best adventure yet. In it, you’ll find the best destinations to visit, lodges to sleep in, and tips on how to navigate photography while travelling solo.
But First…
Here’s a Video Overview of the Best Destinations for Solo Safari Holidays
Here’s Where to Contact us to Start Planning your Safari
Call or WhatsApp us at+254-704-532-105 or +254-719-222-430. Or send us an email at safarioffers@kenyaluxurysafari.co.uk, safarioffers@ajkenyasafaris.com or james@ajkenyasafaris.com
Here’s a List of Some of our Most Booked Safari Holidays
The Classic, 10-Day, 9-Night Family Safari in Kenya
£2495 Per Adult
£1310 Per Child
The Magical, 4-Day, 3-Night L. Nakuru & Masai Mara Safari
From £959
The Luxury, 5-Day, 4-Night L. Naivasha, L. Nakuru, & Masai Mara Safari
From £1359
The Super, 5-Day, 4-Night Nairobi & Masai Mara Safari
From £1134
The Magical, 6-Day, 5-Night Amboseli, L. Naivasha, & Masai Mara Safari
From £2234
The Adventures. 7-Day, 6-Night Kenya Wildlife Adventure
From £2060
The Magnificent, 7-Day, 6-Day Kenya Wildlife Safari
From £1945
The Top, 8-Day, 7-Night Kenya Wildlife Safari
From £2078
The Memorable, 5-Day, 4-Night Masai Mara Honeymoon Experience
From £1248
The Magical, 7-Day, 6-Night Honeymoon Safari to Kenya
From £2016
The Luxury, 8-Day, 7-Night Honeymoon Experience in Kenya
From £1948
The Romantic, 14-Day, 13-Night Kenya Honeymoon Safari
From £6317
Key Takeaways
- Pack your sense of adventure and explore Africa’s incredible solo safari hotspots!
- Experience the wild heart of Botswana, Kenya’s captivating parks, and South Africa’s spectacular wildlife.
- Embrace freedom, adventure & personal growth on a thrilling journey filled with unforgettable memories!
Solo Safari Essentials: What Every Solo Traveller Should Know
One of the greatest joys of taking a solo holiday is the freedom to explore the world at your own pace, set your own schedule and build confidence in your own company. But there’s always the question of safety and that’s why we encourage solo travellers to work with travel agents who specialize in solo traveller holidays. These agents not only have first-hand safari experience but they also have a trusted network of suppliers who ensure things run smoothly for single travellers on a singles holiday.
When it comes to packing for your solo adventure, the key is to be prepared for the unexpected while keeping your luggage light. Here are some essential items to consider:
- Clothing that’s suitable for the ever-changing African climate
- A camera to capture the amazing sights
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- A good book for downtime
Having the right gear on hand will make your trip even more enjoyable. And remember, the most important thing to bring with you is your sense of adventure!
Unveiling Africa’s Solo Safari Hotspots
outh Africa offering diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable experiences.
In this section, we provide detailed information about each of these top solo holiday destinations, revealing the hidden gems that make them ideal for adventurous solo travellers.
The Wild Heart of Botswana
Offering the very best in land and water safari experiences, Botswana is truly a dream destination for solo travellers. The country teems with vast, untouched wilderness areas and stunning wildlife, including the iconic Big Five, all of which work together beautifully to ensure solo travellers never experience a dull moment.
Solo travellers can explore the breathtakingly beautiful Okavango Delta, the wild and exciting Moremi Game Reserve, and Chobe National Park for close encounters with huge elephant herds.
Also, Botswana offers the opportunity to gain an insight into Central African cultures and environments, making your adventure all the more enriching. What’s more, some camps in Botswana do not charge single supplement fees, making it an even more attractive destination for solo explorers.
Kenya’s Call of the Wild
Kenya beckons solo adventurers with its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture. Here is a sneak peek of what you can expect;
- To witness the awe-inspiring Great Migration in the Masai Mara
- To take in breathtaking views of Mount Kilimanjaro in Amboseli
- To immerse yourself in the captivating Samburu culture
- To explore the golden beaches of the Kenyan coast, where you can relax and unwind after your thrilling adventures.
- To discover two of the world’s only remaining white rhinos in Ol Pejeta
- To discover huge bird species at the iconic Lake Nakuru National Park
- And to discover huge elephant herds at the Tsavo National Parks
South Africa’s Solo Safari Scene
ith its incredible range of wildlife and amazing things to do, South Africa’s solo safari scene is nothing short of spectacular. Highlights include;
- Exploring the vast expanse of Kruger National Park
- Indulging in the cosmopolitan vibes of Cape Town (Capital City of SA)
- Venturing into the picturesque wine valleys
- Witnessing southern right whales migrating along the Cape South coast between June and November
That, plus there is a great chance of meeting like-minded people with whom you can create lifelong friendships.
Pro Tip: Safety should be a priority when travelling solo in South Africa, especially when visiting remote parks and reserves. Here are some tips to ensure a memorable and secure solo safari experience:
- Stay in well-established accommodations
- Avoid travelling at night
- Follow park rules and guidelines
- Consider using a guide or joining group activities
Navigating Solo Safari Accommodations
Finding the perfect accommodation for your solo safari can be a breeze with the right approach. Some camps and lodges charge a single supplement fee to cover the cost of an ‘empty bed’ in single occupancy rooms, but there is a selection of accommodations that waive or lower these fees under certain conditions. Top-rated safari lodges for solo travellers in Africa include:
- Tena Tena in Zambia
- Sand River in Kenya
- Lemala Kuria Hills in Tanzania
- Mwaleshi in Zambia
When booking your solo safari accommodation, consider the location, amenities, and overall atmosphere. Look for lodges that offer communal meals and activities, as these can provide opportunities to meet like-minded people and share unforgettable moments. Keep in mind that average single supplement fees for safari accommodations can vary, starting from around US$800 per person per day.
Adventure Activities for the Solo Explorer
The African wilderness offers an abundance of activities for the solo explorer, including:
- Exhilarating hot air ballooning over the Serengeti
- Guided walks through the lush forests of Rwanda
- Walking safaris to track wildlife
- Boating trips to see elephants
- Tracking gorillas in Rwanda
Africa also offers a remarkable array of sandy beaches should you feel like venturing off the wild. Some of them include;
- Diani Beach in Kenya
- Nungwi Beach in Zanzibar
- Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt
- Le Morne in Mauritius
Finding Companionship on Solo Safaris
One of the joys of solo travel is the opportunity to meet fellow travellers and form lasting connections. During your solo safari, consider joining group tours and participating in camp activities to connect with like-minded adventurers. Single people should also consider booking singles holidays and who knows- they might just meet the love of their lives in Africa.
Examples of camp activities that promote social interaction include:
- Group excursions and game drives
- Walking safaris
- Cultural activities with local communities
- Group meals
- Campfire discussions
There are also safari camps and lodges in Africa known for fostering a social environment, such as:
- Angama Mara in Maasai Mara, Kenya
- Mwiba Lodge in Serengeti, Tanzania
- Somalisa Camp in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
- Khwai Leadwood Camp in Okavango Delta, Botswana
These lodges offer amazing opportunities for solo travellers to enjoy an inclusive holiday, interact with other guests, make new friends, and participate in social activities.
Maximizing Your Solo Safari Experience
To make the most of your solo safari adventure, you have to embrace spontaneity. This might mean trying new foods, joining impromptu activities, or simply taking the time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Solo Safari Cuisine: Dining Alone, but Not Lonely
Solo dining on safari doesn’t have to be a lonely experience. Many safari lodges offer communal meals, allowing you to share delicious food and engaging conversation with fellow travellers. Some of the dishes you can enjoy on safari include:
- Ofada rice from Nigeria
- Fufu
- Ugali
- A variety of vegetables
- Cereals
- Yoghurt
- Fruit
- Eggs
- Bacon
- Toast
For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, some safari lodges also offer private dining options, such as candle-lit dinners, surprise bush breakfasts, and dining alongside wildlife. Each lodge may have its own unique offerings, so it would be wise to check with the specific lodge you plan to visit for more details.
Solo Safari Photography: Capturing Memories
It’s important to capture photographs during your solo safari to document the beauty of the African wilderness and create lasting memories. Invest in the right camera equipment, such as a camera body with interchangeable lenses and a high-quality telephoto lens, to ensure you can capture a variety of shots. Familiarize yourself with your camera’s settings, such as shutter speed, aperture, and ISO, to achieve the best image quality possible.
Also, it’s important to practice ethical wildlife photography during your solo safari. Here are some tips to follow:
- Photograph wildlife from a hide to capture natural behavior.
- Respect the environment and local customs.
- Ensure you don’t disturb or endanger the animals.
- Consider having a guide by your side for safety and guidance while capturing those once-in-a-lifetime shots.
Journeying Responsibly: Conservation and Community
On your solo safari, responsible travel means lessening your environmental impact, aiding local communities, and respecting wildlife. Choose safari operators that prioritize conservation and community development, and follow ethical guidelines such as staying on designated paths, not disturbing animals, and not littering. By journeying responsibly, you’re not only creating unforgettable memories but also contribute to the preservation and protection of Africa’s incredible wildlife and ecosystems.
You can also support conservation efforts during your safari by:
- Joining group safaris
- Choosing eco-friendly accommodations
- Patronizing local tour operators
- Supporting organizations that preserve and protect wildlife
This not only enhances your travel experience but also ensures that future generations can enjoy the beauty of the African wilderness.
Embracing the Solo Safari Lifestyle
The solo safari lifestyle offers a unique blend of freedom, adventure, and personal growth. As a solo traveller, you’ll have the opportunity to set your own pace, experience new activities, and connect with like-minded individuals. Embrace the challenges and rewards of solo travel, such as finding the perfect balance between ‘we-time’ and ‘me-time’, enjoying tailored experiences catered to solo travellers, and joining group excursions and solo adventures suitable for individuals to participate in. Make the most of your solo breaks by immersing yourself in these enriching experiences.
Other benefits of solo safaris include;
- The freedom of getting to where you want, when you want to go
- Self-reflection
- Development of invaluable life skills like decision-making and problem-solving
- Discovery of new perspectives
These experiences will stay with you long after your adventure has ended.
Summary
In conclusion, solo safaris offer an extraordinary opportunity to explore the African wilderness, connect with like-minded travellers, and create lasting memories. From essential tips and top destinations to responsible travel and personal growth, embracing the solo safari lifestyle is an unforgettable adventure you won’t want to miss. So, pack your bags and embark on the journey of a lifetime – the African wilderness awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, we answer some of your most frequently asked questions.
Can you go on a safari alone?
Yes, you can go on a safari alone. Travelling solo can be an incredibly rewarding experience! With careful planning and the right team to support you, it is very possible to make your dream solo safari a reality. It’s a great opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle, spot some incredible wildlife, and even make some new friends along the way.
What is the average age for solo holidays?
The average age for solo holidays is 47, with 84% of those travellers being female. 12% of 18-24 year olds are also travelling solo. So why wait – take a solo trip today!
What are the top African solo safari destinations?
Some of the top African solo safari destinations include Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Namibia, Uganda, and South Africa.
What adventure activities can I enjoy on a solo safari?
Some of the activities you can enjoy while on a solo safari include hot air ballooning, guided walks, tracking wildlife, and exploring the African wilderness on horseback.
How can I practice ethical wildlife photography on a solo safari?
Practice ethical wildlife photography by photographing from a hide, respecting the environment and local customs, and ensuring you don’t disturb or endanger the animals.