Solo travel on an African safari is increasingly popular, offering incredible personal growth and the freedom to explore at your own pace. While safaris are often associated with couples or families, many operators and lodges are adapting to cater to single adventurers. The main hurdle for solo travelers is often the “single supplement,” an additional fee charged to cover the cost of a room or vehicle space that would otherwise be shared by two people.

Best Safari Tours & Destinations for Solo Travelers

The “best” for solo travelers often means good group-joining options, destinations known for safety, and places where a single supplement might be waived or reduced.

1. Group Joining Safaris (Most Popular & Budget-Friendly):

   This is by far the most common and cost-effective way for solo travelers to experience a safari. Many tour operators, especially in East Africa, run scheduled group departures where individuals can book a spot. You’ll share a safari vehicle (usually a 4×4 with a pop-up roof) with other solo travelers or small groups, splitting the fixed costs of the vehicle, guide, and often accommodation.

   • Destinations:
     • Tanzania: Popular for group safaris to the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara.
     • Kenya: Ideal for group safaris to the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli.
     • Uganda: Excellent for combining group safaris with gorilla trekking (see below).
   • Benefits: Significantly reduces costs, offers companionship, and provides a safe, organized experience. You’re never truly “alone” in the bush.

2. Uganda (for Gorilla Trekking & Safaris):

   Uganda stands out as the best choice for solo travelers wanting to combine a safari with gorilla trekking.

   • Affordable Gorilla Permits: Uganda’s gorilla permits are USD 800 (as of June 2025), significantly less than Rwanda’s USD 1,500. This makes a huge difference to the overall trip cost.
   • Group Trekking: Gorilla treks are always done in small groups (8 people per gorilla family), so you’ll automatically have companions for this activity.
   • Accessible Parks: Parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park are well-suited for solo travelers, offering a variety of wildlife and activities (game drives, boat safaris, chimpanzee trekking) that can be done as part of a group tour.
   • Budget Accommodation: Uganda generally has more budget-friendly lodge and camp options compared to some other safari destinations.

3. Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe):

   These countries also offer excellent solo safari options.

   • South Africa (Kruger National Park & private reserves): Many lodges, especially in the private reserves bordering Kruger, offer excellent value and sometimes waive single supplements during certain seasons. There are also self-drive options around Kruger’s main park for the more independent traveler, though solo self-driving requires careful planning.
   • Botswana (Okavango Delta, Chobe): Known for premium, small-group experiences. While often more expensive, some operators and camps offer no-single-supplement deals, particularly in low season. Mobile safaris are a good option here for group cohesion.
   • Zambia (South Luangwa, Lower Zambezi): Famous for walking safaris, which are inherently small-group activities. Several camps in Zambia are known for waiving single supplements, especially during the green season.

Strategies for Budget-Conscious Solo Travelers

• Embrace Group Travel: This is the most effective way to share costs. Look for “scheduled departures” or “group joining safaris.”
• Travel During Low/Green Season: Many lodges and tour operators waive or significantly reduce single supplements during the low season (e.g., April-May, November-early December). While it might be rainier, the landscapes are lush, prices are lower, and there are fewer crowds.
• Choose Solo-Friendly Accommodations: Some lodges and camps are specifically designed with solo travelers in mind, often featuring communal dining tables or social common areas, making it easier to meet other guests. Some also have specific “solo traveler rates” or waive the single supplement for a limited number of rooms.
• Consider Shorter Safaris: A 3-day or 4-day safari will always be more affordable than a longer one. Focus on one or two key parks.
• Opt for Camping Safaris: For the ultimate budget experience, participation camping safaris are significantly cheaper than lodge-based safaris.
• Be Flexible with Dates: The more flexible you are with your travel dates, the better your chances of finding solo-friendly deals or group tour availability.
• Book Well in Advance: Especially if you’re looking for specific lodges with no single supplement or trying to secure a spot on a popular group departure, early booking is key.
• Work with a Specialist Tour Operator: Many safari companies specialize in solo travel and can advise on the best destinations, operators, and lodges that cater to single travelers, often finding deals or negotiating single supplement waivers.

Solo safaris are empowering and incredibly rewarding. By choosing the right destination and strategy, you can embark on an unforgettable adventure, connecting with nature and often, with like-minded fellow travelers.