Why a solo safari in Africa might be the best trip of your life
Planning a solo safari in Africa? Discover why it’s safe, rewarding, and empowering—and how bespoke safari planning can turn your solo travel dreams into reality. Perfect for single travelers seeking adventure and luxury.
Key Takeaways: Solo Safari in Africa
- Solo safaris are safe when booked through a reputable, bespoke safari planning company.
- You won’t feel alone—many lodges offer group activities, shared drives, and communal meals.
- Your safari is fully customizable, built around your pace, interests, and personality.
- Single supplements can be avoided—there are lodges that offer no extra charge for solo guests.
- Solo travel is for everyone—not just young backpackers. Many travelers over 40 are booking solo African safaris for self-connection and adventure.
- Top solo-friendly safari destinations include South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana.
- Expert support means less stress—you don’t have to plan it alone: a professional safari planner ensures every detail is handled so you can focus on the experience.
Thinking of a solo safari in Africa? Here's why it's worth it.
There’s something powerfully liberating about solo travel. You set your own pace, follow your curiosity, and create an experience that’s entirely yours. If you’re dreaming of an African safari for solo travelers, you’re in good company—this style of travel is growing rapidly, especially among adventurers who value freedom, reflection, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
But before you book your ticket, it’s normal to wonder: Is a solo safari safe? Will I feel out of place? What are the best safari options for solo travelers? And how to avoid single supplements on accommodation?
With the help of a bespoke safari travel advisor, your journey can be tailored not only for luxury and excitement—but also for comfort, connection, and complete peace of mind.
Top concerns solo travelers have about safaris (and how we solve them)
1. Is it safe to go on safari alone?
Absolutely. Many people assume that solo travel in Africa is risky, but when your trip is professionally planned, solo safari travel is extremely safe. You’ll be staying in secure lodges, guided by experts, and transferred with precision from place to place. With more and more "Wander Women" traveling to Africa, we're confident that traveling alone in Africa is absolutely possible.
How we help: We only work with hand-picked lodges and guides who have exceptional reputations for safety, professionalism, and guest care. Advising on the safest African safari destinations, we will ensure your peace of mind throughout your travels. You’ll never have to worry about logistics or navigating unknown places alone – we do all the logistics planning for you.
2. Will I feel lonely as a solo traveler on safari?
Not at all. The beauty of an African safari for single travellers is that it offers built-in opportunities to connect with like-minded people. Shared game drives, bush dinners, and campfire chats often lead to unforgettable conversations. The key is to select safari lodges with excellent service and staff - committed to making your stay as great as it possibly can be! Prefer solitude? We’ll tailor your trip with more private time.
How we help: Whether you’re seeking a social group safari for solo travelers or a private guided safari for solo adventurers, we’ll build a trip that fits your personality and pace. We’ve got regular small group safaris that cater to those wanting to keep costs low, but adventure high. If you worry about isolation or vulnerability when venturing into remote wilderness areas, you can choose to travel with one of our experienced private guides.
One of our frequent travelers, Chris, explains why he chooses to travel with Wild Wonderful World Founder and private guide, Michelle: I’m often travelling alone, so having a safari specialist travelling with me adds great value in terms of company but also experience and knowledge of the countries and regions we are visiting. Michelle made sure that our experience was what we wanted it to be, which wouldn’t have been possible if I had been on my own – not knowing the country and all the different possibilities!"
3. What if I want a unique itinerary?
When you’re not tied to others’ preferences, the world is your oyster. You can choose a photography safari, spend an afternoon birding, or linger with a lion pride without watching the clock. Your trip is 100% customizable. Solo safaris are perfect for travelers looking to learn more about themselves and furthering self-growth. From unique wildlife encounters, immersing into local culture and taking time to be in nature, an African safari really is traveling meaningfully.
How we help: Every solo safari we design is built around your interests—whether that’s wildlife tracking, walking safaris, conservation volunteering, or just soaking in the silence of the bush.
“The bespoke character of Wild Wonderful World safaris and trips is a huge selling point for me. Michelle always finds a solution and makes sure that we get exactly what we are looking for in a holiday. I would phrase it like this: You get what you pay for, rather than paying for what you get. The difference may be subtle, but it can make or break a trip in my experience!” - WWW traveler Chris
4. What about single supplements?
Many lodges charge extra for single occupancy, but we know which ones don’t! There is no need to pay extra if you don’t want to. Saving you the hassle of endless online scrolling and sifting through the fine print, we’ve rounded up the best lodges in each safari destination – without a single supplement charge.
How we help: We can advise you on the various no single supplement safari options in Africa, especially during low and shoulder seasons. Whether you're seeking an adventurous bucket-list safari or a luxurious and tranquil escape, we’ll find the best option for you.
5. What if I’m not a typical “adventure traveler”?
Solo travel isn’t just for the ultra-brave or ultra-young. In fact, more and more of our travelers are booking a solo safari over 40—looking to reconnect with themselves, explore nature, or tick off a lifelong bucket list dream. With the popularity of sleepcations on the rise, we couldn’t think of a better option than a solo African safari for some much-needed R&R alone time. Solo travel so much more than just going to see the world. It can be because you're celebrating a major milestone in life, or simply looking for new experiences.
How we help: Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or trying your first solo adventure, we provide the guidance and support you need to feel confident and cared for from start to finish.
Best safari destinations for solo travelers in Africa
While many destinations work beautifully for solo safaris, here are some top picks:
- South Africa – Great for first-time solo travelers, with top-tier lodges and excellent infrastructure.
- Botswana – Perfect for luxury private safaris and water-based wildlife experiences.
- Kenya & Tanzania – Ideal for safari packages for singles who want to join others on classic game drives and cultural tours.
- Rwanda & Uganda – A unique solo journey through rolling green hills, jungles and encounters with Great Apes like Gorillas and Chimpanzees.
We’ll help you match the destination to your travel personality—whether you’re a quiet observer, a wildlife photographer, or a spirited explorer.
Solo safari, fully supported: ready to plan your solo safari in Africa?
Choosing to go on safari alone doesn’t mean doing it alone. With a dedicated safari planning company by your side, you get all the freedom of solo travel, with none of the stress. From safety and social connection to itinerary design and single traveler deals, we’ll handle every detail. All you need to do is pack your bags—and prepare to be amazed.
Whether you're dreaming of a luxury safari for solo travelers, looking to join a small group safari, or simply want a one-of-a-kind trip planned just for you, we’re here to make it happen.
Contact our team today to start planning your unforgettable solo safari adventure—designed with you in mind.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it safe to go on a safari alone in Africa?
Yes, when your trip is organized through a trusted safari planner. You’ll be staying in vetted lodges, traveling with expert guides, and supported every step of the way.
2. Are safaris suitable for single travelers?
Absolutely. Many lodges cater wonderfully to solo travelers, offering shared game drives and communal experiences, as well as the option for privacy and personalized attention.
3. Do I have to pay a single supplement?
Not always. Many safari lodges waive the single supplement, especially in low or shoulder seasons. We’ll help you choose the right safari lodges to avoid this additional cost.
4. Will I be lonely on a solo safari?
Not unless you want to be! Safari experiences often include shared meals and game drives, making it easy to connect with others—while still giving you time to unwind on your own.
5. Can I join a group safari as a solo traveler?
Yes, many group safaris are perfect for singles. We can recommend curated group trips where you’ll meet like-minded travelers without sacrificing comfort or exclusivity.
6. What’s the best African safari destination for solo travelers?
Top destinations include South Africa for its accessibility, Kenya and Tanzania for iconic wildlife, Botswana for luxury solo travel, and Namibia for off-the-beaten-path adventures.
7. I’m over 40—am I too old for a solo safari?
Not at all! Many solo safari travelers are 40+. It’s a fantastic age to reconnect with nature, enjoy luxury travel, and explore Africa with confidence and curiosity.
Written by Evelyn Poole
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