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Solo Safari in East Africa

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

East Africa has a range of destinations ideal for a solo safari. Whether you dream of travelling across savannah landscapes to spot big cats or gorilla trekking in surreal rainforests, East African solo safari tours will surpass your wildest expectations.

Why Should You Go on a Solo Safari in East Africa?

Solo traveller at Lake Kivu, Rwanda
Solo traveller at Lake Kivu, Rwanda | Photo: Getty

Abundance of Wildlife

The East African nations of Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda are well-known in the safari world for their abundance of wildlife. From the herds of herbivores in the Great Migration travelling across Tanzania and Kenya to the gorillas and chimpanzees in Rwanda and Uganda, the animal opportunities are abundant.

A Holiday Tailored to You

Are you a birder looking to check a range of species off your list? Or are you a keen photographer always looking for that perfect shot? Perhaps you’re an adventure traveller itching for unique safari experiences. Your East African safari – including accommodations and experiences – can be tailored exactly to your preferences.

Immersion in Nature and Self-Discovery

African safari tours for solo travellers allow you the opportunity to immerse yourself in beautiful natural settings, including grasslands that stretch into the horizon and sunlight-dappled, verdant forests. This type of experience in the wilderness is the perfect opportunity for rest, rejuvenation, and self-discovery.

Best Destinations for a Solo Safari in East Africa

View of a giraffe from a game drive vehicle | Photo credit: Basecamp Adventure
View of a giraffe from a game drive vehicle | Photo: Basecamp Adventure

Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania

A solo safari in Tanzania can take place in a variety of different locations, one of the best being the Ngorongoro Crater. This destination is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and natural wonder with an incredibly high concentration of wildlife, including the endangered black rhinoceros – all within a compact area – making for incredibly rewarding game drives.

Masai Mara, Kenya

The Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most famous safari destinations thanks to its prime location along the Great Wildebeest Migration route. Thanks to the expanse of grassy plains here, the reserve hosts many herbivores, which in turn supports an impressive number of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. This is an ideal Kenya safari for a solo traveller wanting to focus on spotting big game.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is well-known for being one of the best places to go on gorilla trekking safaris, but it’s also an incredible birding destination. A solo birdwatching safari here can include checking off Albertine Rift endemics and species found nowhere else in the country.

Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

An adventure in Volcanoes National Park is the perfect African safari for solo travellers wanting to see mountain gorillas. This misty, densely vegetated forest is a haven for these primates. Here, you can trek to see these giants yourself (as well as other species like golden monkeys), while enjoying the supreme luxury of some of the world’s most innovative safari lodges.

5 Tips for a Solo Safari in East Africa

Gorillas in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is renowned for its dense, ancient rainforest | Photo: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

1. Plan Your Solo Safari With an Expert

Discover Africa safari experts have in-depth knowledge of the lodges and safari destinations in East Africa. We use these insights to advise you, the safari goer, on the best places possible for the ultimate solo adventure in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda. This can help ensure a seamless and secure journey.

2. Embrace Group Activities

While you’re travelling solo, you don’t have to be alone all of the time. Many lodges offer shared game drives, communal meals, and campfire gatherings. These are fantastic opportunities to meet fellow travellers, share experiences and sightings, and even find companions for future activities.

3. Pack Smart and Light

Safari vehicles and bush flights often have strict luggage limits. Prioritise practical, versatile clothing in neutral colours, avoiding colours that make you stand out in the bush. Layering is key for varying temperatures. Don’t forget essentials like a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera with extra batteries.

4. Prioritise Health and Safety

Consult your doctor well in advance for recommended vaccinations (e.g., yellow fever) and discuss anti-malarial medication. In the bush, always follow your guide’s instructions – they are experts in animal behaviour and your safety is their top priority.

5. Budget for Single Supplements

While some lodges waive single supplements (an additional fee charged to solo travellers who book accommodation designed for two or more people), many still apply them. Factor this into your budget.

East Africa Tours

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What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us

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"Justin helped us with the safari and Victoria Falls portion of our trip to South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. The lodges were fantastic and ground transfers perfectly executed. We had an amazing time!"

Kelly Headrick, United States02 Jun 2026

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"We had a truly magical safari experience perfectly planned & organised for us by Susan Veldman at Discover Africa. We flew from Cape Town to Hoedspruit and then seamlessly transferred to the most beautiful lodge in the Karongwe private game reserve. ..."

David Forbes, United Kingdom03 Feb 2026

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"We have just returned from the most incredible 2 week trip in Africa, travelling to Kruger National Park, Cape Town and Victoria Falls - it was made all the more special by the incredible guidance, planning and organisation of Discover Africa, specifically ..."

Anita Panikkar, Australia10 Jan 2026

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"We truly cherished every moment of our trip—there are countless experiences and memories that words can hardly capture. Cape Town was a vibrant and thrilling city, full of upscale shopping and exceptional dining. Jock Lodge stood out with its charming, rust..."

Christine Zastrow, United States14 Oct 2025

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"Cayleigh responded almost immediately to every question or concern that I had and resolved the issue quickly."

John M, United States08 Oct 2025

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"I started planning my Africa safari/vacation about two years ago with the help of Diane, and was transitioned to Chrizaan about halfway through my timeline. There was zero issues with changing my guide, and both ladies were SUPER lovely to work with. I was ..."

Kaleigh Gray, United States02 Oct 2025

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