Solo Explorations
GO SOLO Not Alone
Africa’s bucket list wildlife and experiences, interesting mix of ancient and modern cultures and range of active and relaxing adventures offers something for everyone.
Traveling solo in Africa is a transformative experience. You will never regret the thrill of seeing Africa’s wildlife in the bush or meeting some of the friendliest people on earth.
While you may go solo you’ll never feel alone. You will be guided into the heart of Africa to live your African dream.
YOU DESERVE The Best
You deserve the best when planning your dream African safari. We have partnered with luxury safari operator African Travel, Inc. because of their passion for Africa and experience in crafting unforgettable solo safaris.
Together we have created this guide to help you plan your journey. Let us create the experience - you create the memories!
What is the African Travel difference?
LOCAL HERE & THERE team in US and Africa with extensive knowledge & access
FAMILY OF BRANDS taking care of every detail
TAILOR-MADE safari customized to your style & budget
ONE-STOP-SHOP for air, the best hotels, camps & lodges
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences with a positive footprint SERVICE with VIP amenities & 24/7 concierge
IS A SOLO SAFARI Right for You?
A LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE
Is the thought of visiting Africa a daunting notion? Worried about what to do on your own?
If you’re looking to do any of these experiences then an African safari and a journey across this great continent is right for you.
PURSUE A PASSION
Africa is filled with very creative and engaging experts. There are various opportunities to practice photography, participate in a conservation projects to help your favorite animal, or meet specialists in African art or history and learn about a new culture. Are you interested in discovering new dishes and local drinks? We know how to connect you with local experts who will guide you into the heart of Africa and help you learn something new.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Going solo is an excellent opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. Without the distractions of traveling with others, there are plenty of ways to get to know yourself and others better.
When traveling alone, there is the freedom to set your own schedule and do things at your own pace especially on one of our custom safaris.
African Travel pledges to MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® and each safari features an experience that benefits both the guest and locall communities.
You can explore these experiences in our Sustainable Journeys guide.
CONNECT WITH NATURE
There is ample time for silence and solitude on a safari. Spending time alone in nature is a luxury that we don’t get to indulge in often enough. Listening to the sounds of the wild and feeling the immense sense of space can be a cleansing experience. From riverside hammocks to tranquil massages, our safaris offer no shortage of peaceful spots in which to enjoy a little ‘you’ time.
You can also be as active as you want. Go on a guided walk, horseback ride by zebra grazing, run with the Maasai, or try a yoga class with stunning views.
MEET NEW PEOPLE
Even though you are traveling alone, you are never alone on an African Travel safari. A local Guest Services team is easily reachable 24/7 via WhatsApp and mobile. Consider them your new friends.
Adventures into Africa always bring like-minded souls together, and there are plenty of ways to make meaningful connections whether it’s dining at the communal table, visiting the Samburu homestead of your safari guide, or sharing stories around a campfire.
Joining one of our Classic Collection set departures is a great way to meet new people when you travel in a small intimate group.
Explore our Classic Safari Collection.
TOP TIPS for Singles
FIND THE RIGHT AFRICA FOR YOU
African Travel’s award-winning safari consultants have over 45 years of experience guiding solo travelers on their ultimate adventure. Each traveler has unique requirements, and our team specializes in tailoring the ideal safari to each guest’s needs. Here are a few tips to consider when planning a safari.
BOOK IN ADVANCE
Lodges and camps that wave single supplement charges do so on a limited basis. The earlier you request, the better your chances of securing that room.
BE FLEXIBLE IN MID OR HIGH SEASON
APRIL - JUNE
You may just pick up an extra spot in a jeep or on a charter flight flying between camps and save some money. Most transfers and bush flights depart with a minimum of two.
CRAFT A TAILOR-MADE ITINERARY
Not all safari accommodations are a great fit for singles. We know exactly which lodges and camps to book, and slot in seamless transfers and activities.
Choosing one of the set group departures is another great option, giving flexibility enjoy group rates while having free time to add your own experiences.
BE CLEAR ABOUT PREFERENCES
Consider the following and share answers with a safari consultant:
• Do you prefer to dine alone or communally?
• Is there a specific reason for a safari such as exploring one’s heritage or photographing a wildlife event?
• Is a scheduled departure tour with a group or a fully independent trip preferred?
• Share your level of adventure, like do you prefer to try hot air ballooning or maybe stay on the ground with a nice hike.
JULY - SEPTEMBER
• Are honeymooners or families okay where you stay or do you prefer camps with age restrictions?
• Are bigger hotels and lodges or smaller, more intimate accommodation preferred?
WHY ARE THERE SINGLE SUPPLEMENTS ON SAFARI?
Safari accommodation rates are typically based on two guests sharing a room or tent, and include meals, investment in wildlife and community projects, and staff salaries.
OCTOBER - DECEMBER
For solo travelers, some lodges and hotels charge a “per person” rate with a single supplement, usually ranging from 25-75% of the “per person” rate, to cover costs.
Don’t be afraid to share any concerns or specific goals, as well as any budget limitations.
Africa’s ACCOMMODATIONS
We’ve tried and tested the places we recommend, which means you can count on great service, a warm welcome and solo-friendly settings when you stay at any of the hotels, lodges and beach resorts in our collection of Africa’s best single traveller vacation accommodation.
TENTED SAFARI CAMPS Wild Africa
Enjoy the glow of lantern light on canvas walls and drift off to sleep to the sounds of the bush.
Options range from Kenya’s Angama Mara, one of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa. Or in Botswana’s Khwai Leadwood Camp, an elegantly designed camp offering luxury accommodations. Solo travellers can enjoy shared game drives, walks and mokoro safaris and even hot air balloon trips.
BUSH LODGE
Flexibility and Space
Boutique-style lodges offer the best of both worlds, where you can join the staff and other guests on game drives, at hosted meals and at pre-dinner drinks around the camp fire.
You can enjoy plenty of ‘me’ time, in the form of spa treatments, and lounging on your private deck enjoying the views.
BOUTIQUE HOTELS
Home Away from Home
Chosen for their prime locations in Africa’s major cities, these internationallyrecognized four and five star hotels and resorts provide a wide range of services and amenities for solo travelers.
Guests enjoy a more exlusive experience with a focus on personal service.
SOUTHERN AFRICAN Highlights
Explore Cape Town on a private guided tours. Spot leopards, lions, zebras and more on safari drives in the Kapama Game Reserve near the Kruger National Park. Be awed by the majesty of Victoria Falls.
AFRICAN TRAVEL Experiences
Enjoy award-winning accommodations and dining in Cape Town and pleasant safari lodging with uninterrupted views in the bushveld.
Discover Kapama Private Game Reserve on twice daily game drives, off-roading, in search of Africa’s iconic Big Five.
Experience a tranquil sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and watch the sun bid adieu in a heart-wrenching display of color.
11 DAYS
4 NIGHTS CAPE TOWN | 3 NIGHTS KAPAMA PRIVATE RESERVE
1 NIGHT JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
2 NIGHTS VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE
This safari showcases the can’t miss highlights of Southern Africa. Discover Cape Town, Kapama Game Reserve and the “Smoke that Thunders” - Victoria Falls.
DAY 1 ARRIVE IN CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA
Welcome to Cape Town, South Africa. You will be transferred to the five-star Table Bay Hotel, nestled on Quay Six in the heart of the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
The Table Bay
DAY 2 CAPE TOWN
Be swept away on a full day guided tour of the stunning “seascapes of “The Fairest Cape”. Take a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain then explore the Cape Peninsula on a guided tour as you snake your way along Chapman’s Peak Drive, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, and the colony of penguins at Boulders Beach. (B)
The Table Bay
DAY 3 & 4 CAPE TOWN
Enjoy your day at leisure. Embraced by the Atlantic Ocean and flanked by imperial mountains, Cape Town hosts a dazzling display of bright lights and architecture reflecting both the beauty of the past and modern innovation. Simply step outside your hotel and explore the city’s grandeur, vibrant cuisine, and compelling history. (B)
The Table Bay
DAY 5 CAPE TOWN / HOEDSPRUIT / KAPAMA
Bid adieu to Cape Town - you’re off to the Kapama Private Game Reserve! Arrive in time for an indulgent lunch before your first game drive. The reserve offers panoramic views of the nearby Drakensberg Mountain range with a wide variety of wildlife including elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros, and a large population of giraffe, impala, blue wildebeest and kudu.
Every experience on this journey gives greater insight into Africa’s wildlife conservation and its people. Make Travel Matter at Kapama Private Game Reserve where you will learn about their exciting wildlife conservation initiatives. (BLD) Kapama Southern Camp
SOUTHERN AFRICAN Highlights
DAY 6 & 7 KAPAMA PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
Twice-daily game drives, accompanied by expert guides and trackers, provide plenty of opportunities to witness the plethora of local wildlife. Witness an African sunset while sipping a sundowner before celebrating with a communal dinner back at the lodge. (BLD)
Kapama Southern Camp
DAY 8 KAPAMA / JOHANNESBURG
Take one last early morning game drive before embarking on a flight to Johannesburg. You will be transferred to the DaVinci Hotel and Suites for a night stay. (B)
DaVinci Hotel and Suites
DAY 9 JOHANNESBURG / VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE
After breakfast, transfer from your hotel to Johannesburg Airport for your flight to Victoria Falls. Arrive at your hotel in time to enjoy a tranquil sunset cruise on the Zambezi River followed by dinner at Makuwa-Kuwa restaurant. (BD)
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
THE RAINBOW Nation
Cape Town is filled with a variety of experiences. Spend 3-4 days, visiting the Table Mountain, Bo Kaap, Winelands, Cape Peninsula, Robben Island and other hidden gems and coastal wonders.
DAY 10 VICTORIA FALLS
Take a guided tour of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and witness the Cataracts, Livingstone’s statue, and an endless variety of birds and plants. Enjoy a unique African experience with dinner at The Boma Restaurant. During your stay, learn about the recycling project where plastic, paper, glass and cans are recycled and turned into candle holders, wine glasses, tumblers and more. (BD)
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
DAY 11 VICTORIA FALLS / DEPART
After a farewell breakfast, you are transferred to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight back to Johannesburg. You may be leaving Africa behind, but you’ll return home with memories that will live on in your heart forever. (B)
KENYA Wildlife Safari
Explore some of the most prolific game viewing areas in all of Africa and see wildlife found only north of Africa’s equator. Every detail is taken care of including flights from New York to Nairobi.
AFRICAN TRAVEL
Experiences
Explore the grand Maasai Mara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Kenya’s top wildlife destination
Visit our favorite sights in Nairobi including the Scheldrick Wildlife Trust
Enjoy panoramic views of the picturesque Lake Nakuru right from your lodge
11 DAYS
Home to the birthplace of the modern safari, Kenya provides a wealth of rewarding experiences. Relax while we take care of all the details including international flights.
DAY 1 DEPART NEW YORK, USA
Depart New York on your Kenya Airways flight to Nairobi. Sit back, relax, and prepare for an exhilarating adventure.
DAY 2 ARRIVE IN NAIROBI, KENYA
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to Sarova Stanley Hotel. Relax and enjoy the remainder of your day.
Sarova Stanley Hotel
DAY 3 NAIROBI
Enjoy the highlights of Kenya’s capital. Today your visit helps amazing wildlife conservation efforts and supports local artisans. Enjoy a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Elephant Experience at the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and its pioneering orphan’s project. Next stop at the Giraffe Center and the Karen Blixen Museum. Tour another MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at the beautiful Kazuri Bead Factory which provides jobs to the local woman of Nairobi and contribute to the fair trade market. Kazuri means “small and beautiful” in Swahili, and that’s exactly what kind of beads they produce. (BL)
Sarova Stanley Hotel
DAY 4 NAIROBI / SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
Head north, crossing the equator, spotting wildlife on your way to the Samburu area. Enjoy the view over the Ewaso Nyiro River, a lifeline for the local people. Here you may spot a crocodile, elephant, lion, or even the elusive leopard. (BLD)
Sarova Shaba Game Lodge
DAY 5 SAMBURU NATIONAL RESERVE
This morning after your game drive searching for wildlife, experience a unique dining experience, while your chef prepares an al fresco breakfast against the backdrop of the Ewaso Nyiro River and Shaba game park. (BLD)
Sarova Shaba Game Lodge
NAIROBI | SAMBURU NATIONAL PARK LAKE NAKURU | MAASAI MARA, KENYA
THE GREAT MIGRATION
The migration of wildebeest and zebra is cyclical, traveling between Tanzania’s Serengeti and down to the Masai Mara between August-October before returning back to the Serengeti.
KENYA Wildlife Safari
DAY 6 SAMBURU / LAKE NAKURU
Travel to the famous Great Rift Valley’s Lake Nakuru, home to over one million flamingos. Then arrive at the lodge for lunch and an afternoon game drive in search of both black and white rhino, hippo, Colobus monkey, and 450 species of birds. Celebrate the day with a sundowner drink. (BLD)
Sarova Lion Hill Game Lodge
DAY 7 LAKE NAKURU / MAASAI MARA
After breakfast, you will be driven to the Maasai Mara National Reserve, backdrop to the “greatest wildlife migration on earth,” arriving in time for lunch at your lodge, followed by an afternoon game drive in Kenya’s most popular reserve. This evening’s bush dinner is enjoyed under a star-studded African sky. (BLD)
Sarova Mara Game Camp
DAYS 8 & 9 MAASAI MARA
Spend the days on safari in one of Africa’s richest wildlife viewing arenas with morning and afternoon game drives. The Mara is home to the largest population of lions in Kenya. Spend the evening dining under the stars with colorful Maasai dancers and cultural performances (BLD)
Sarova Mara Game Camp
DAY 10 MAASAI MARA / NAIROBI / DEPART
Enjoy a final game drive on the way to the airstrip. A short flight takes you back to Nairobi and on to your airport hotel. After lunch freshen up, repack and relax in your day room. This evening transfer to Nairobi’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport with plenty of time to check-in for your onward arrangements. (BL)
DAY 11 ARRIVE NEW YORK, USA
Arrive home with a lifetime of memories!
THE GREEN SEASON
In April and May the rains usually arrive in Kenya resulting in less crowds and beautiful green landscapes that serve as stunning backdrops.
There are also a few no single supplement fees on this safari during this time.
TANZANIA Explorer
Explore Tanzania’s prolific parks in comfort and style. The vast plains of the Serengeti and the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater are just two of the areas you will encounter Africa’s wildlife, while on expertly guided safari drives.
AFRICAN TRAVEL
Experiences
Explore UNESCO’s Serengeti Plains, renowned for the greatest wildlife spectacle on earth - the great migration of wildebeest and zebra. The resident population of lion, cheetah, elephant, giraffe, and birds is also impressive.
Discover the Ngorongoro Crater, hailed as one of the Natural Wonders of the World.
11 DAYS
ARUSHA | TARANGIRE | LAKE MANYARA SERENGETI | NGORONGORO CRATER, TANZANIA
The best of Tanzania’s wonders is matched by the warmth and hospitality of each African inspired lodge which represents each area’s own cultural heritage.
DAY 1 ARRIVE IN ARUSHA, TANZANIA
On arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport, transfer to Arusha Serena Hotel & Spa. Relax and enjoy the remainder of your day.
Arusha Serena Hotel, Resort & Spa
DAY 2 ARUSHA / TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast drive to Tarangire. Lunch at Tarangire Sopa Lodge. This afternoon join your expert safari ranger for your first game viewing activity. The grassy acacia woodlands and gigantic baobabs make for spectacular vistas. (BLD)
Tarangire Sopa Lodge
DAY 3 TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
Enjoy your morning at leisure with an optional balloon safari. After lunch depart on a game drive in the Tarangire National Park. Your guide is an experienced wildlife expert whose knowledge and ability to spot the animals and birds will astound you. Not knowing what you’ll see next is all part of the fun of a safari! (BLD)
Tarangire Sopa Lodge
DAY 4 TARANGIRE / LAKE MANYARA
After breakfast arrive at Lake Manyara Serena Lodge in time for lunch. Enjoy a game drive in this scenic gem, with a setting praised by Ernest Hemingway as “the loveliest I had seen in Africa”. Return to lodge in time to freshen up before dinner. (BLD)
Lake Manyara Serena Hotel
Limited NO SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
There is a limited number of no single supplement on all 2023 and 2024 departures.
TANZANIA Explorer
DAY 5 LAKE MANYARA
Enjoy a morning at leisure and an afternoon game drive in search of the famous tree-climbing lions, blue monkeys, dik diks, gazelles, hippos, giraffes, impalas, flamingos and nearly 400 bird species found in the area. Make Travel Matter®, plant a native tree and create shade for the community after a tour of the villae with a local guide. (BLD)
Lake Manyara Serena Hotel
DAY 6 LAKE MANYARA / SERENGETI
Arrive at the Serengeti in time for lunch. Enjoy an afternoon game drive and watch territorial hippos lounging in the water, giraffes foraging in the tree tops and lions relaxing in the shade before the evening hunt begins. (BLD)
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
DAY 7 SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Depart during the early morning splendor of an African sunrise for your first game drive of the day. This afternoon, relax at the lodge until the day cools down and the animals become more active for your afternoon drive. Before retiring, stretch out and listen to the sounds of the wilderness and watch the illumination of the infinite African sky. (BLD)
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
DAY 8 SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
During morning and afternoon game viewing activities, your ranger continues to lead you to spectacular locations of outstanding natural beauty where you can observe the wildlife at your leisure. (BLD)
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge
DAY 9 SERENGETI / NGORONGORO CRATER
Continue your journey to the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of Africa’s best-known wildlife areas. Visit a local Maasai village to observe the tribe’s way of life and learn about their culture and beliefs. (BLD)
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
DAY 10 NGORONGORO CRATER
Descend 2,000 feet through the early morning mists, to explore the crater floor of this extinct volcano. You’ll be in awe of the profusion of wildlife concentrated here. Enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to your lodge. Share the day’s magical moments with your safari companions as the sun sinks below the horizon. (BLD)
Ngorongoro Serena Lodge
DAY 11 NGORONGORO CRATER / ARUSHA / DEPART
Savor the last morning in Tanzania. After breakfast transfer to Arusha. Enjoy lunch and a place to relax at a day room reserved for your use. Later this afternoon transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your international departure flight.(BL)
Arusha Serena Hotel, Resort & Spa Dayroom
BEACH & BUSH Escape
Following a safari, consider a few days relaxing on one of Africa’s beaches or tropical islands. The exotic spice island of Zanzibar is a nice compliment to any Tanzania journey.
OUR Destinations
Like the stripes on a zebra, no two safaris are the same which is why all our itineraries are tailored to your needs.
SAFARI, YOUR WAY
You can create your own journey visiting any one of the 15 destinations we feature.
Trek with gorillas in Rwanda, indulge in a land and water safari in Botswana, or venture across the continent from the Cape to Cairo. The options are endless!
We will find the right Africa for you!
Click on the video to see what a day on safari is like.
FIVE-STAR SERVICE
When you travel with a full-service partner like African Travel every detail of the journey can be taken care of including flights from the US, Canada, Middle East and Europe and all land services.
Enjoy extensive choices and luxurious amenities, including safari gifts and surprise and delight moments during the journey.
You’re never alone with our meet and greet service transfers, including our Platinum Airport Experience on custom safaris.
Space is limited so reserve now.
INSPIRING IDEAS
Click on a destination to go deeper into the heart of Africa.
Or scan the QR code to view the African Travel brochure for inspiring itineraries.
VIEW BROCHURE OR CLICK HERE
Kenya
Tanzania
Rwanda
Seychelles
Madagascar
Mauritius
Mozambique
South
Africa
Namibia
Bot swana
Zimbabwe
Zambia
Eg ypt
Morocco
ADDITIONAL SAFARI INFORMATION
Southern Africa
INCLUSIONS
• Intra-Africa airfare as stipulated in the itinerary
• Accommodation as stipulated in the itinerary
• Transportation in luxury air-conditioned vehicles
• Game drives in open-sided vehicles as specified in the itinerary
• Meet & greet services and arrival and departure transfers
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Kenya & Tanzania
INCLUSIONS
• International airfare as stipulated in the Kenya Wildlife Safari itinerary only plus air taxes and fuel surcharges
• Intra-Africa airfare as indicated in the itinerary
• Accommodation as stipulated in the itinerary
• Transfers and game drives includes English-speaking driver/guide(s). Guaranteed window seat in a maximum 7-passenger vehicle.
• All park fees and government taxes and levies
• Meet & greet services and arrival and departure transfers
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary
EXCLUSIONS
• All international airfares, air taxes and fuel surcharges
• All items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, phone calls, etc.
• Gratuities/tips for hotel & lodge staff, game rangers, tour guides & drivers
• All services not included in the itinerary
• Cost s of obtaining passports and/or Visas
• Travel protection
EXCLUSIONS
• International airfare, air taxes and fuel surcharges on Magical Kenya and Tanzania Explorer itineraries
• All items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, phone calls, etc.
• Gratuities/tips for hotel staff and lodge staff, game rangers, tour guides and drivers
• All services not included in the itinerary
• Cost s of obtaining passports and/or Visas
• Travel protection
