Solo Safari: tips for independent travellers

With these five tips in mind, discover the world on your own time, explore your passions safely and escape the stress of everyday life on a solo safari.

With no one but yourself to please, take time to really consider your itinerary, and what you want to spend your time and money on. A solo trip with Wilderness, planned by experts in solo safari travel, makes all the difference.

Tailor-made itineraries cater to your preferences, ensuring seamless transitions between accommodations, activities, and transfers, taking the hassle and stress out of travelling alone. Whether you're drawn to game drives, walking safaris, or cultural experiences, make sure your itinerary reflects your desired activities, after all, the only person you have to please is yourself. With our personalised guidance, you can navigate the intricacies of solo travel, maximising your adventure while minimising logistical hurdles.

Safari accommodations typically factor in costs for two guests sharing a room or tent. For solo travellers, this often entails paying a single supplement, ranging from 25% to 75% of the per-person-sharing rate. Essentially, solo travellers end up paying more than a couple or individuals travelling together who share a room. 

The good news is that for travel in periods outside of the high and festive seasons in 2024 and 2025, Wilderness has waived the single supplement fee for solo travellers. This means no extra fees for a single traveller, that solo friend traveling with a couple, or an older child travelling with parents.

Optimal safari experiences aren't solely determined by high seasons. Green or low seasons (typically the months, November to March) offer different wildlife sightings and more affordable rates, making them ideal for solo travellers. With fewer people around, take the opportunity to really connect with yourself.

During these periods, when rates tend to be lower, see the bush come to life in what is often known as the ‘green season’. Watch a mighty thunderstorm roll across the plains, and marvel at rivers and waterholes, brimming with life-giving water.

Solo travel in Africa demands a careful balance between adventure and caution. Recent surveys reveal that women represent a significant portion of solo travellers, accounting for a majority of bookings across various age groups. Naturally, safety is a concern. When you travel with Wilderness, you’re travelling with peace of mind. Thanks to our meet-and-greet services and 24/7 support, your safety and wellbeing are paramount. Share your itinerary with loved ones, adopt safety precautions, and embrace the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Many solo travellers cite the freedom to explore at their own pace and the opportunity to experience new cultures without compromising on their preferences, as some of the reasons they travel alone. Whether you seek camaraderie or solitude, solo safaris cater to a range of preferences. Participate in group activities for social interactions, or relish private moments in nature. Book a private Wilderness guide if you seek real solitude and ownership of your itinerary, or join other guests for game drives, boat rides, or cultural excursions when you want to meet like-minded travellers, then retreat to your private suite to rest.

Embarking on a solo safari is not just about witnessing Africa's breath-taking landscapes and iconic wildlife; it's a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Come alone and enjoy the exclusivity of private tours with industry-leading safari guides, or adventure together and enjoy shared experiences with other compatible travellers.

Embrace the solitude of the nature, disconnect from technology, and immerse yourself fully in the sights and sounds of nature. Keep a journal to document your experiences, take time to reflect, and savour each moment of your safari adventure.

It was Hellen Keller who said “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all”. So book the trip. Plan the adventure. A trip to Africa may be outside your comfort zone, but we think you’ll find it extremely comfortable with Wilderness.