Traveling solo on an African safari vacation can be quite relaxing and enjoyable! Whether you’re single, recently divorced, or simply need a break from it all, a trip to Africa, by yourself, is one of the most refreshing and rewarding experiences you could give to yourself. In fact, many would argue that it’s actually more enjoyable than having travel partners around 24/7.
So then what are the benefits of traveling solo to Africa and what can you expect? See below for some insight:
Benefits of being a single traveler on a trip to Africa:
Do only the things YOU want to do: Want to unwind with a massage after an exciting morning game drive? Or perhaps you want to experience a private walking safari to search for the elusive black rhino. Whatever you desire to do with your time, there is no one else to satisfy and entertain but yourself.
Make new friends with guides and other travelers: At all of the boutique properties that you’ll be staying at, there will be a handful of other travelers visiting at the same time. Many of the smaller accommodations host meals at a large table or several shared tables where travelers sit together and can enjoy conversation amongst each other. These properties also offer intimate group safaris so you’ll be on game drives with a few other travelers. There is always someone to share your experiences with at the more intimate camps and lodges, so they are perfect for single travelers.
Enjoy alone time for reflection: Relax on your private veranda as you overlook the watering hole where elephants, zebra, and gazelle enjoy a drink of water. Here, all you’ll hear are the delicate sounds of nature—perfect background noise for self-reflection or for writing in your journal.
Get the bathtub all to yourself: Many of the boutique camps and lodges have a separate bath and shower in your private suite and after afternoon game drives, the accommodation staff will turn your room down and fill your bath with bubbles and hot water and light candles. So when you return home from an exhilarating game drive, you can soak and relax in the tub before heading to dinner. And there is no one else to fight with over who gets to take a bath that evening!
What to expect when traveling solo in Africa:
We have planned dozens of trips for single travelers and all of them return home saying they never felt lonely or bored! In fact, see what one of our recent single travelers had to say about her African safari vacation:
“People tell you Africa changes you. It is impossible to put it into words. It is an experience everyone should have in their lifetime. In Africa you feel grounded in an indescribable way because by choice I had no connection to the outside world or technology. It forces you to be in the moment because you don’t know what the next minute will bring. There is a constant sense of awe and surprise. I traveled alone, yet I never felt unsafe or lonely. Sandy and her staff went above and beyond with cards and small treasures at each destination. They are absolutely an amazing team. Beyond brilliant!” – Karen Banks
When you start planning your African safari vacation, we always suggest booking through a safari specialist to ensure that you are well looked after during your entire trip. You will feel more comfortable if you have someone meet you at the airports and escort you to your accommodations. You’ll also want to make sure that you have all of your tours booked in advance so that you know exactly what you’ll be doing each day and how much down time you will have. An African safari specialist can also recommend the best tours and activities for a single traveler.
