Best Safari for Solo Travellers in 2025
Planning the best safari for solo travellers? Explore our 2025 guide to Kenya and Tanzania for safety tips, costs, and top tours. Plan your adventure
Are you dreaming of wide-open savannahs, incredible wildlife, and an adventure that’s all your own? A solo trip to Africa might be just what you need. But where do you even start?
You’re in the right place.
This guide is your ticket to planning the best safari for solo travellers, focusing on two of East Africa’s most stunning destinations: Kenya and Tanzania. We’ll cover everything from the best parks to visit, what to pack, and how to stay safe, all while making sure you have the adventure of a lifetime. Get ready to explore breathtaking landscapes and create unforgettable memories.
Why Kenya and Tanzania Offer the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
So, why are we focusing on a Kenya and Tanzania safari combo? It’s simple. These two countries offer some of the most iconic and rewarding safari experiences on the planet.
Think about it.
You get world-famous parks like the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, mind-blowing wildlife spectacles like the Great Migration, and a well-established tourism infrastructure that makes solo travel a breeze. Many camps and lodges here are designed with solo adventurers in mind, offering a great mix of private moments and social opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a luxury African safari for singles or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll find it here.
Unparalleled Wildlife Encounters for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
Both Kenya and Tanzania are home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo), but the experience goes far beyond that. You’ll see vast herds of wildebeest, graceful giraffes nibbling on acacia trees, and cheetahs scanning the plains. It’s a non-stop wildlife documentary, and you have a front-row seat.
Well-Established for Solo Travellers
Because these destinations are so popular, they have solo travel down to a science. You can easily join group tours, which is a fantastic way to meet new people and cut down on costs. Many lodges also offer communal dining, so you’ll never feel lonely unless you want to be. This setup is why they’re often considered the best African safari for solo travelers.
Cultural Richness
A trip here isn’t just about the animals. You’ll have the chance to interact with the Maasai people, learning about their ancient traditions and deep connection to the land. These cultural exchanges add a rich, human element to your adventure that you won’t soon forget.
Pro-Tip: Book your trip with a reputable tour operator that specializes in solo travel safari packages. They can handle all the logistics, from transfers to accommodations, ensuring a seamless and safe journey from start to finish.
Finding the Best Solo Travel Safari in Kenya
Ready to dive into a solo travel safari in Kenya? This country is a classic for a reason. From the legendary Masai Mara to the stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli, Kenya delivers jaw-dropping moments at every turn.
Masai Mara National Reserve: The Main Event for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
The Masai Mara is often what people picture when they think of an African safari. Its rolling grasslands are packed with wildlife, making it a top choice for a Kenya wildlife safari for solo travelers. Between July and October, you can witness the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra make their dramatic journey across the plains.
What can you do here?
- Take a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise for a breathtaking perspective.
- Visit a Maasai village to learn about local culture.
- Enjoy game drives with expert guides who can track the Big Five.
Amboseli National Park: Elephants and Kilimanjaro
Can you imagine a more iconic photo than a herd of elephants with the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro in the background? That’s the magic of Amboseli. It’s famous for its large elephant herds and stunning scenery. Its proximity to Nairobi also makes it an easy addition to any Kenya solo female travel itinerary.
Lake Naivasha: A Haven for Bird Lovers for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
Just a short drive from Nairobi, Lake Naivasha offers a different kind of safari experience. Here, you can take a boat trip to see hippos and a stunning variety of birds. You can even go on a walking safari on Crescent Island, where you can stroll among giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest.
Pro-Tip: If you’re worried about the solo travel Kenya cost, consider traveling during the “green season” (March to May). You’ll find lower prices and fewer crowds, and the lush landscapes are beautiful for photography.
Your Ultimate Tanzania Safari Adventure
Tanzania offers a safari experience that is just as epic as Kenya’s, with landscapes that feel even more immense and wild. From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the unique ecosystem of the Ngorongoro Crater, a Tanzania safari is a bucket-list dream.
Serengeti National Park: The Great Migration Continues
The Serengeti is the heart of the Great Migration from around November to June. The park is enormous, offering a sense of true wilderness. Following the herds in a mobile camp is one of the most immersive ways to experience this natural wonder. This is a must-do for any safari holiday for solo travellers.
Ngorongoro Crater: A Self-Contained Eden
The Ngorongoro Crater is a massive volcanic caldera that is home to an incredible concentration of wildlife. It’s one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five in a single day. Descending into the crater feels like entering a lost world. The density of animals makes it an unforgettable part of any Kenya and Tanzania safari combo.
Tarangire National Park: Land of Giants for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
Famous for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire is a fantastic park that’s a little less crowded than the Serengeti. It’s a great spot for solo travellers who want a more off-the-beaten-path feel without sacrificing amazing wildlife sightings.
Pro-Tip: For a unique beach-and-bush experience, add a few days in Zanzibar to your itinerary. A Zanzibar Tanzania solo female travel trip is a perfect way to relax on beautiful beaches after your safari adventure.
Managing the Solo Travel Safari Cost
Let’s talk money. A safari can be expensive, and costs can add up when you’re traveling alone. But don’t let that stop you! There are smart ways to manage your solo travel safari cost.
What is a Single Supplement for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers?
Many safari lodges price their rooms based on two people sharing. When you travel alone, they may charge a “single supplement” to cover the cost of the empty bed. This fee can range from 25% to 75% of the per-person rate.
How to Find a Safari with No Single Supplement
The good news?
More and more companies are offering safari no single supplement deals. Here’s how to find them:
- Travel in the Shoulder or Low Season: Demand is lower, and lodges are more willing to waive the fee.
- Book in Advance: Lodges that waive single supplements often have a limited number of rooms for this offer.
- Join a Group Tour: Solo travel packages Kenya and Tanzania often group individuals, which automatically eliminates the single supplement and reduces costs for transport and guides.
Daily Costs to Expect for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
How much does a safari cost per day in Kenya? A budget safari might run you $150-$250 per day, while a mid-range trip could be $300-$500. A luxury African safari for singles can easily exceed $700 per day. These costs typically include accommodation, meals, park fees, and game drives.
Pro-Tip: Use a travel agent who specializes in African safaris. They have relationships with lodges and can find you the best deals and no-single-supplement options that fit your budget.
Essential Safety Tips for Solo Female Travellers
Is it safe to travel to Kenya alone? What about Tanzania? The answer is a resounding yes, especially when you’re prepared. Both countries have a long history of tourism and take visitor safety seriously. Here are some key tips for a safe and empowering trip.
Is Kenya Safe for Female Solo Travellers?
Yes. Popular tourist areas and safari destinations like the Masai Mara are very safe. Always book with reputable companies, listen to your guide’s instructions, and take common-sense precautions. Kenya solo female travel is a popular and rewarding experience for many women.
Is Tanzania Safe for Solo Female Travellers?
Absolutely. Tanzania is politically stable and friendly to tourists. The northern safari circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro) is particularly safe. As with any travel, stay aware of your surroundings, especially in cities like Arusha or Dar es Salaam.
General Safety Advice for the best safari for solo travellers
- Trust Your Guide: Your guide is your most valuable resource. Their knowledge of wildlife and local customs is essential for your safety.
- Stay in the Vehicle: Never get out of the safari vehicle during a game drive unless your guide says it’s safe.
- Secure Your Belongings: Use the safe in your room for valuables and avoid flashing expensive items.
- Dress Modestly: Especially in Tanzania and on the coast (like a solo trip to Mombasa or Zanzibar), it’s respectful to cover your shoulders and knees when in public areas.
Pro-Tip: Share your itinerary with a friend or family member back home and register with your embassy before you travel.
What to Pack for Your Solo Adventure
Packing smart is key when you’re on your own. You want to be comfortable without overpacking.
Clothing
- Neutral Colors: Think khaki, brown, and green. Avoid bright colors, white (it gets dirty fast), and dark blue or black (which can attract tsetse flies in some areas).
- Layers: Mornings and evenings can be cool, while midday is warm. Pack light long-sleeved shirts, t-shirts, a fleece, and a light jacket.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll want closed-toe shoes for game drives and any walking activities.
Gear
- Binoculars: A must-have for getting a closer look at wildlife.
- Camera with a Zoom Lens: You’ll want to capture those amazing moments.
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential.
- Insect Repellent: Choose one with DEET for the best protection against mosquitoes.
Pro-Tip: Pack a portable power bank. Electricity in camps can be limited, and you’ll want to keep your phone and camera charged.
Making Friends and Embracing Solitude for the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
One of the biggest questions people have is, “Will I be lonely?” The beauty of a solo safari is that you get to choose.
Opportunities to socialize for the best safari for solo travellers
You’ll have plenty of chances to meet people. Group game drives are a great way to bond with fellow travellers. Many camps have communal dining tables and campfires where you can share stories from the day’s adventures.
The Joy of Being Alone
There is also something deeply powerful about experiencing the African bush on your own terms. Watching a sunrise by yourself, listening to the sounds of the night, and taking as long as you want to frame the perfect photo are all priceless moments of self-discovery. This is your adventure, and you get to shape it.
Pro-Tip: Keep a travel journal. Documenting your thoughts and experiences can be a wonderful way to process your journey and create a keepsake you’ll cherish forever.
Can you Self-Drive a Safari in Kenya?
While it is technically possible to self-drive safari in Kenya, it’s generally not recommended for first-time visitors or solo travellers. The roads can be challenging, navigating parks is difficult without local knowledge, and you miss out on the expertise of a professional guide who knows how to find the best wildlife sightings. For safety and the good experience for the best safari for solo travellers, a guided safari is the way to go.
Pro-Tip: If you crave independence, consider a private guided safari. You’ll have your own vehicle and guide, giving you complete flexibility over your daily schedule.
Best Time to Go on a Solo Safari
When is the best time to book your trip? The best safari for solo travellers depends on what you want to see.
- July to October: This is the dry season and peak time for the Great Migration in the Masai Mara. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife is easier to spot around water sources.
- November to May: This is the “green season.” You’ll see fewer crowds, lower prices, and lush, green landscapes. It’s also a great time for birdwatching and seeing newborn animals. The “long rains” in April and May can make some roads muddy.
Pro-Tip: For the best of both worlds, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons (June or November). You’ll get good weather, decent wildlife viewing, and better prices than in peak season.
Answering Your Top Questions on the Best Safari for Solo Travellers
Let’s tackle some of the most common questions about planning the best safari for solo travellers.
Which safari is best for solo travellers?
Kenya and Tanzania are fantastic choices because of their well-developed tourism infrastructure, group tour options, and numerous solo-friendly lodges. They offer the quintessential safari experience with abundant wildlife.
Is it safe for a solo female to travel to Kenya or Tanzania?
Yes, both countries are considered safe for solo female travellers, especially within the main safari circuits. Booking with a reputable tour operator and following standard safety advice will ensure a secure and enjoyable trip. Is Nairobi safe for solo female travellers? Like any major city, it requires caution. Stick to safer neighbourhoods like Karen, avoid walking alone at night, and use reputable taxi services.
Is 27 too old to solo travel?
Absolutely not! If you are looking for the best safari for solo travellers, there is no age limit to solo travel. You’ll meet people of all ages and backgrounds on a safari, from young adventurers to African safaris for single seniors.
Which country is the cheapest for safari?
While no safari is truly “cheap,” Kenya often offers more budget-friendly options compared to Tanzania or Botswana, especially if you join a group tour or camp.
Is Masai Mara safe for solo female travellers?
Yes, the Masai Mara is very safe and best safari for solo travellers. The area is dedicated to tourism, and camps and lodges have excellent security and professional staff who are accustomed to hosting solo travellers from around the world.
Which is better, Kruger or Serengeti?
Both are incredible and offer the best safari for solo travellers! The Serengeti is known for its vast, endless plains and the epic scale of the Great Migration. Kruger National Park in South Africa offers excellent self-drive options and very reliable Big Five sightings in a more compact area. For a first-timer seeking that classic “Out of Africa” feel, the Serengeti often has the edge.
Ready for an unforgettable adventure?
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Let the experts at Thrill Bound Adventures handle all the details for your safari booking so you can focus on making memories. From thrilling game drives to custom-tailored Kenyan expeditions, we bring your dream trip to life.
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