Amazing Safaris

Amazing African Safaris (Safe + Ethical for Solo Women Travelers)

So you’re dreaming of going on safari… but wondering if it’s safe (and enjoyable) to do solo? Good news: it absolutely is. Across Africa, there are well-established, conservation-minded safari operators who welcome solo women travelers and some even design experiences with us in mind.

Whether you’re chasing the thunder of the Great Migration, tracking rhinos across desert plains, or floating through a wetland wilderness in a dugout canoe, these safari experiences combine jaw-dropping wildlife with trusted guides, ethical practices, and accommodations where you’ll feel both inspired and safe.

Here are 5 unforgettable African safaris that are solo-travel tested and approved:

1. South Africa – Shamwari Private Game Reserve

Why it’s amazing: A luxury, malaria-free safari experience in the Eastern Cape, known for Big Five sightings, lush lodges, and serious conservation cred.

Solo-friendly vibes: High-end comfort meets exceptional safety. Shamwari’s main lodges often waive single supplements during shoulder seasons, and staff are used to hosting solo guests with care.

Ethical creds: Home to the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary and several wildlife rehabilitation programs. You’ll feel good about every photo you take.

Solo tip: Book a package that includes airport transfers and guided game drives—it makes everything seamless and stress-free.

🗓️ Best time to go: May–September

2. Botswana – Okavango Delta with Letaka Safaris

Why it’s amazing: The Okavango Delta is one of the most stunning and untouched safari destinations on Earth. Think: elephants bathing at sunset, lion footprints in the sand, and game viewing by mokoro (dugout canoe).

Solo-friendly vibes: Letaka Safaris is known for small group mobile safaris that attract adventurous solo women. They even run a “Sisters of the Safari” itinerary for women-led expeditions!

Ethical creds: Locally owned and committed to conservation and female guide training. You’ll learn as much as you’ll see.

Solo tip: Ask about upcoming women-only or solo-friendly departures with limited group sizes.

🗓️ Best time to go: June–October

3. Tanzania – Serengeti Safari with G Adventures

Why it’s amazing: The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater deliver some of the most iconic wildlife encounters on Earth—lions, elephants, giraffes, oh my!

Solo-friendly vibes: G Adventures is tailor-made for solo travelers. Their small-group tours are built to connect like-minded adventurers while keeping safety and comfort in check.

Ethical creds: Tours support local communities and the Planeterra Foundation. Lodges are often eco-certified and locally staffed.

Solo tip: Choose the lodge version for extra comfort, or go with the classic camping adventure if you’re game for starry skies and story-swapping around the fire.

🗓️ Best time to go: June–October or January–March (calving season)

4. Namibia – Etosha & Dunes with Wild Women Expeditions

Why it’s amazing: Namibia is dramatic, otherworldly, and surprisingly solo-friendly. Expect wide open deserts, surreal landscapes, and wildlife in every direction—from oryx to rhinos to elephants.

Solo-friendly vibes: Wild Women Expeditions is a women-only travel company that designs for solo female travelers from the start. No single supplements. No awkward pairings. Just adventure.

Ethical creds: Female guides, eco-conscious stays, and support for local women-led cooperatives throughout the journey.

Solo tip: Add a few days in Swakopmund for sandboarding, coastal walks, and excellent coffee shops.

🗓️ Best time to go: May–October

5. Kenya – Masai Mara Safari with Asilia Africa

Why it’s amazing: The Masai Mara offers unbeatable wildlife density and a front-row seat to the Great Migration (and year-round predator drama).

Solo-friendly vibes: Camps like Asilia’s Naboisho and Encounter Mara are intimate, luxurious, and regularly welcome solo women travelers.

Ethical creds: Asilia works directly with Maasai communities to protect land and wildlife, and to ensure local benefits stay local.

Solo tip: Inquire about shoulder season rates. Some camps waive the single supplement and offer more intimate group sizes.

🗓️ Best time to go: July–October (Great Migration) or December–February for fewer crowds

A Few Final Solo Safari Tips:

Pack neutrals, not neons, and don’t forget a good pair of binoculars and a journal for post-sundowner reflections.

Book through trusted companies with solo-friendly reviews and a commitment to ethical practices.

Ask about single supplement waivers—many operators offer them during low or shoulder seasons.

Choose lodges or groups with communal dining or shared game drives. They’re perfect for meeting fellow travelers.