East Africa Solo Travel  Guide : What You Should Know

Solo travel is the new luxury worldwide. The shift from group-focused trips is happening everywhere.

Whether for short or long trips around the world.

Traveling alone requires extensive knowledge of places and planning.

It may seem like a challenge at first, but it will become routine after your first trip.

Many people dream of traveling alone but never do because of fear and uncertainty.

Traveling solo can be the best way to discover yourself and grow your confidence.

Are you planning to travel alone to East Africa?  You might be thinking of many things about East Africa.

Where is East Africa?  Is it safe? What to see in East Africa? Where to visit while in East Africa?

In this article, we will discuss in detail solo travel in East Africa.  And how Solo Travel can enjoy these beautiful destinations.

Where is East Africa?

East Africa is made up of seven  (7) countries. Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Congo, and Southern Sudan.

What makes East Africa so special for solo travel?

East Africa is the heart of wildlife safaris, with well-known destinations such as the Serengeti, the Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro.

Apart from wildlife safaris. East Africa is home to Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania.

The beautiful beaches of Diani, Kenya, and Zanzibar. These are the key features of these countries.

The Mountain gorrila in Rwanda and Uganda is the best experience ever while in East Africa.

The authentic culture of East African people. It is one of the top attractions for many visitors to these countries.

A culture such as the Maasai’s caught the attention of many visitors to these regions.

As a solo traveler visiting East Africa, you need clear information about these countries before you go.

Either for safari, cultural experience, or Mount Kilimanjaro climbing.

9 Things to Know Before Travelling Solo to East Africa

Is East Africa Safe for solo travelers?

The answer is yes. East African countries are generally safe, with no political instability or civil wars.

The people of East Africa are very kind and welcoming to new people.

Whether you plan to visit Kenya or Tanzania, there is nothing to fear as a solo traveler.

Peace and security are maintained across East African countries.

This is proved by the increasing number of tourists each year.

A sense of respect and safety for foreign guests is cultivated among local people.

In an emergency, the government has established a tourism police unit.

This unit is responsible for escalating travel-related issues.

So, as solo travelers, feel free to report incidents that you think are not safe and need attention.

When is the best time to visit East Africa as a solo traveler?

Suppose you’re interested in wildlife, beach tourism, or mountain climbing. The best time to visit these countries is during the dry season.

The dry season always starts from June to October and from December through February.

The dry season is the best time for game viewing because vegetation is sparse.

But also because of less rainfall, climbing mountains like Kenya’s Meru and Kilimanjaro has become easier and safer.

For the best beaches of Zanzibar Island, Diani Beach in Kenya, and Saadani in Tanzania.

And other best beaches along the Great Lakes of Victoria and Tanganyika.

The dry season is also the best time to visit, when the sun is hot and the sky is clear, creating an incredible paradise.

Read more about the Best Time to Visit Tanzania 

How much does it cost to visit East Africa as a solo traveler?

Traveling to these countries solo can be either expensive or less expensive. What matters is the type of trip and the services you choose.

For example, choosing a budget camping safari. It could differ in price from a luxury lodging safari.

However, note that many factors determine how much cash you should carry as a solo traveler in East Africa.

If you book with a tour agency in advance, it will save you from traveling with cash.

On average, for a mid-range safari, you’ll need to set aside $250-$450 for a luxury safari plan for $500- $2000 per day and even more.

You should ask tour operators to customize your trip. This will help you save costs while traveling to East Africa as a solo traveler.

Learn more about  how much it costs to visit Tanzania

What should you pack as a solo traveler?

Great news, you are planning on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure in East Africa.  Now you are wondering what to pack.

We have compiled a comprehensive list of everything you will need to consider for your solo trip to an East African safari.

Practical items

Passport.Travel documents. (visa, flight tickets, etc.) .Vaccination certificate (if needed).US dollars / local currency. ATM/credit cards(let the bank know you are  traveling prior)

Clothing

Socks. Underwear. Tank tops.Short-sleeved t-shirts. Long-sleeved t-shirts. Shorts. Long pants, Fleece jacket. Rain jacket/windbreaker.Swimsuit. Pajamas

Footwear

Pair of comfortable gym shoes/sneakers. Pair of sandals/flip-flops

Accessories

Sun hat. Warm hat (beanie). Bandana. Sunglasses

Technology

Camera & extra batteries.Travel adaptor.Cellphone.Powerbank.Binoculars.Small flashlight/headlamp

Extra (optional) items

Favorite snacks. Reading and writing material. (journal) .Reusable bags to protect certain items or  for dirty clothes

Personal & medical items

Toothbrush and toothpaste. Lip balm. Insect repellent. Malaria tablets. (East Africa is a malaria zone. Sanitary products. Shampoo/conditioner.Deodorant. Hand sanitizer. Suncream. Tissues / wet wipes

Remember, you’re going on vacation and not moving! Your luggage should be lightweight and easy to handle, as you’ll be traveling alone.

Light packing is the ideal plan. You can learn more about what to pack for safari in Kenya or Tanzania. 

What types of clothing are required when traveling solo in East Africa?

There are significant differences between cultures in developed and developing countries.

Either you’re in Rwanda or Uganda. People in these regions remain very different in terms of culture.

You should learn to wear formal or respectful clothes. Avoid wearing short clothes that display most of your body.

No bikinis are allowed on public beaches, and no shorts or miniskirts are permitted along the street, especially on Zanzibar beaches.

Also, remember to pack light, loose clothing, and fabrics such as cotton, linen, and silk that are easy to wash and wear again.

If you’re visiting East Africa for wildlife safaris, avoid wearing black, blue, or other dark colors.

This is because Tsetse flies are attracted to such colors. Their bite can transmit African sleeping sickness.

What are the best places to visit for solo travelers in East Africa?

This question needs an article to cover in detail where to visit in East Africa. These countries offer numerous opportunities for solo travelers to explore.

Whether you’re interested in nature, beaches, mountains, wildlife, or culture. Despite all the options, below is the list of the best places to visit as a solo traveler in East Africa

TANZANIA

What are the best places to visit solo in Tanzania?

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park is a natural wonder of Africa. Serengeti National Park is Africa’s leading wildlife destination.

It has the highest number of wild animals of any other park on Earth.

The well-known great migration of wildebeest every year attracts thousands of people.

From around the world, see the wildebeest migration in the Maasai Mara, Kenya.

As a solo traveler, you can arrange a short trip to this park.

You can either fly from Nairobi, Kenya, or arrive in Tanzania. Serengeti is accessible from Arusha, Zanzibar, or Mwanza.

Traveling alone to this park can be expensive if you prefer luxury options.

The good news is that Serengeti is well developed in terms of accommodations.

You can either stay at the Seronera campsite or book budget– or mid-range camping safari accommodations.

As a solo traveler, you should also plan your trip with tour operators.

The peak season for Serengeti National Park runs from June to October. And from December to  February.

Prices during this time tend to be high for hotels, lodges, and tented camps.

Being solo does not limit you to joining other groups traveling to the same destination.

While in Tanzania, you can ask a tour agency for open groups to the Serengeti.

Group join safaris help you save costs and make new friends while having fun on your holiday

Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m)

Mount Kilimanjaro is an iconic destination in Africa. It is one of the world’s free-standing mountains at 5,895 meters.

Climbing Kilimanjaro is one of the best self-achievements you can make in life.

As a solo traveler, you can choose to climb Kilimanjaro for either 5, 6, 7, or 8 days. Depending on your time for the East Africa trip.

Mount Kilimanjaro offers six routes for climbing. The well-known and recommended climbing routes for Kilimanjaro are Lemosho, Machame, Marangu, and Rongai.

If you have a tight budget and want to climb comfortably, choose the Marangu route, either 5 days or 6 days.

You can stay in mountain huts rather than on routes that offer camping options.

Other routes include Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai. Learn more about Mount Kilimanjaro and how you can combine it with wildlife safaris.

Zanzibar Island

There is no doubt in Africa about Zanzibar Island as a paradise for solo travelers.

The beautiful sand beaches. The sun and vibrant Swahili culture are the island’s key features.

Zanzibar offers solo travelers thousands of options to enjoy themselves during their trip.

You can visit Stone Town for historical tours. Visit Jambiani, Jozani Forest, and Prison Island.

You can do spicy tours, Safari Blue, dolphin tours, or even snorkeling.

Zanzibar Island is among the top safari destinations in Africa. You spend as many days as you can on this beautiful island.

We recommend 3, 4, 7, or even 14 days to fully explore this paradise in Africa.

We have covered many topics about this island on our Zanzibar Travel Advisory page.

Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is home to the endangered black rhino.  This beautiful crater is in Northern Tanzania.

Provide ample food year-round for the other African Big Five.

Visiting these parks as a solo traveler is an ideal safari plan for either one or two days.

You can either overnight within the parks or outside the park in the small town of Karatu.

Ngorongoro Crater offers a variety of hotels, lodges, and camps.

Prices vary by accommodation. If you’re looking for something luxurious or budget-friendly on your safari, we’ve got you covered at Ngorongoro.

The good news about visiting Ngorongoro is that you can combine it with other parks, including Serengeti, Tarangire, or Lake Manyara.

Enjoy epic game drives in Africa. Learn more about Ngorongoro Crater. 

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park never disappoints for solo travel.  Situated 140 km from Arusha city.

This park is the best option for day trips and for extended stays of up to 2 days.

Tarangire is an alternative to Serengeti National Park for wildlife viewing in Tanzania.

You should book with tour companies in Tanzania.

Avoid falling into the trap of tour guides who pretend to take you on a safari.

Ask many questions, including about company licenses.  Online reviews can be fabricated to attract new visitors to these destinations.

Tanzania cities

Tanzania is well known for three (3) major cities: Arusha, Mwanza, and Dar es Salaam.

As a solo traveler, you should decide which city you want to visit in Tanzania.

Arusha is well known as a gateway to Tanzania’s top destinations. While in Arusha, you can visit the Serengeti.

Tarangire, Manyara, Mount Kilimanjaro, Arusha National Park, and Ngorongoro Crater.  Read more about things to do in Arusha.

Mwanza City is the best city in Tanzania. The beautiful weather and extended beaches of Lake Victoria add spice to this city.

Mwanza is less developed than Arusha and Dar es Salaam. But it is a paradise for solo travelers who do not want the noise of cities.

While in Mwanza, you can visit the southern Serengeti: Rubondo Island National Park, Saanane Island National Park, and Bujora Cultural Museum.

Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s business capital. Please don’t confuse it with the capital city, which is Dodoma.

Dar es Salaam has a long history of trade dating back to the 18th century. No wonder it is more developed than places in Tanzania.

As a solo traveler, this city offers you many opportunities to explore.

The marine reserve along the Indian Ocean. National Museum of Tanzania, short trips to Bagamoyo and Saadani National Park.

Don’t forget that Dar es Salaam is a vibrant city for nightclubs. Festivals like Fiesta and many dining outlets get you refreshed.

We have covered this city on our other page. Learn more about Dar es Salaam.

There are many places to visit in Tanzania—more than 200—and many activities to do.

If you need more information about Tanzania, please contact us.

KENYA

What are the best places to visit alone in Kenya?

Masai Mara

The Masai Mara is an iconic destination in Kenya.  Don’t forget to add to your list while traveling solo in East Africa.

The Masai Mara shares an ecosystem with the Serengeti. It is the best place to visit while in Kenya.

You can enjoy the wildebeest migration from September to October and November.

You can combine the Masai Mara and other parks, including Amboseli National Park.

This park is home to the Big Five and more than 400 bird species.

But while in the Masai Mara, don’t forget to take epic pictures of an African sunset.

Like other parks in East Africa, the Masai Mara offers a range of accommodation options.

From budget camps, Mid-range lodges, and luxury hotels and lodges. Consider that on your budget.

You can stay in the Masai Mara for 2 to 6 days, depending on your solo trip timeframe in East Africa.

Amboseli National Park

The park is renowned as the best place in Africa to observe free-ranging elephants and other wildlife.

Other attractions of the park include opportunities to meet the Maasai people.

But also the spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world.

When planning your solo trip to Amboseli, consider visiting during the dry season.

Although Amboseli can be visited at any time of the year.

The best time to visit is from June to October and from January to February, during the dry months.

Wildlife viewing is better during the dry season. Visitors have a better chance of seeing the abundant wildlife the park offers.

From July to October, wildlife gathers around watering holes in Amboseli.

This park offers a range of activities for solo travelers, including game drives and birdwatching.

Maasai cultural experience, Kilimanjaro peak views, and birdwatching. Learn more about Amboseli safari packages 

Diani Beach- Mombasa

Diani is the gemstone of East African beach tourism. Diani is home to multicultural visitors from around the world.

Diani Beach is an outstanding beach paradise in Mombasa, Kenya.

As a solo traveler with an interest in beach tourism, you get covered here. While in Kenya, you can take a flight from Jomo Kenyatta Airport or Wilson Airport to Mombasa.

But you can also take a train, with fares under $20 for economy and $30 for first class. Diani Beach, like many beaches worldwide, offers a range of excursions for visitors.

Enjoy a historical tour in Mombasa. Visit Fort Jesus, Mombasa Marine Park, Cultural centers, Haller Town, and Old Town.

We have covered Mombasa in our other articles about Historical Sites in East Africa.

Kenya cities

Kenya’s cities have developed more than those in other East African countries, with major cities such as Nairobi and Mombasa.

No doubt, Kenya’s economy is advanced compared to other countries.

The nature of the settler economy introduced by the British colony was the primary catalyst for its development.

Traveling to Nairobi city as a solo traveler offers you many opportunities. To enjoy and make fun of your safari in East Africa.

While in Kenya, you can arrange a safari to Nairobi National Park. Lake Nakuru, Tsavo National Park, and Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

Kenya is the proud father of eco-tourism. When it comes to where to stay, this country offers many options for visitors.

Suppose you’re looking for solo-friendly accommodation. Then Kenya is worth visiting for your solo trip to East Africa.

Suppose you’re planning a solo trip to East Africa. Welcome to Magical Kenya. Feel free to reach out to our team today.

RWANDA

What are the best places to visit solo in Rwanda?

Akagera National Park

Akagera National Park is Rwanda’s best park. Located in the eastern region of the country.

The park is named after the Akagera River. It is considered one of the remote sources of the world’s largest river, the River Nile.

The Akagera River traverses through the park. Feeding an extensive lake system making up the floor of Akagera.

Including Lake Ihema, Rwanda’s second-largest lake.

As a solo traveler in Rwanda, you can enjoy a variety of activities in Akagera Rwanda.

Enjoy activities like sunrise game drives, sport fishing, Bird watching, Boat safaris, and Helicopter tours.

Where to stay as a solo traveler in Akagera National Park?

When traveling alone, you should prioritize safety and quality. Here is the list of recommended accommodations.

Ruzizi Tented Lodge. Akagera Game Lodge. Dereva Hotel and campsites such as Muyumba, Mutamba, and Shakani.

You can customize these Rwanda trips to fit your solo trip plan.

Volcanoes National Park

This is the best destination for solo travel in East Africa. Volcanoes National Park is known as a gorrila haven.

For the rare and endangered mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.

It’s composed of 5 of the eight volcanoes of the Virunga Mountains, including Kirisimbi, Bisoke, Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo.

Despite being known for being a Mountain Gorilla. This park is also home to endangered golden monkeys. It is the best destination to visit in Rwanda.

Getting to Volcanoes National Park is either from Kigali or via Gisenyi.

The drive to the park is typically 2 hours from Kigali.  Making it possible to view mountain gorillas and return to Kigali by road after the trek.

You can request more information from our team. Or you can re-customize these safari packages in Rwanda.

Kigali city

Kigali is a clean, safe, and beautiful city in East Africa. Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda.

It is one of the best safari destinations for solo travelers and families.

Kigali offers a range of options for solo travelers to explore. If you are traveling alone, you may need to visit cultural centers.

Museums are ideal places for dining and socializing.

Kigali city is a vibrant city in East Africa. It offers direct flights to Nairobi or Zanzibar, and Kilimanjaro Airport in Tanzania.

If you want to stay in either hotels, lodges, or luxury camps.

Suppose Kigali city is the only choice for your solo trip to East Africa. Talk to our safari experts for more information.

UGANDA

What are the best places to visit alone in Uganda?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Declared a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its ecological uniqueness.

And natural beauty, roughly half of the world’s total gorilla population lives in this park.  Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s richest ecosystems.

Located in southwestern Uganda, for solo travelers, this park offers a variety of activities to make your solo trip enjoyable—Gorrila Trekking, Forest walking tours, and Cultural tourism.

While in Bwindi, you can have the best chance to experience the Buhomwa and Batwa communities.

The good news is that you can combine this park with other East African safari destinations.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park.  It is home to the famous tree-climbing lions in Uganda’s Ishasha sector.

In 1952, it was renamed after Queen Elizabeth II, who visited the park to commemorate her visit.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most scenic. Making it the most visited, with a wide variety of habitats.

Including savanna grassland mixed with tropical rainforests. Different swamps and volcanic features.

It comprises volcanic cones, deep craters, and many other crater lakes.

While traveling solo in Uganda, you can enjoy game viewing on boat safaris.

Exploration of crater lakes. Primate tracking, forest/nature walk in Kyambura Gorge, and kalizu forest.

Uganda offers a lot to solo travelers. You can visit Jinja and Kampala cities: the Nile River, Kibale Forest National Park, and the Equator.

How about the crime rate in East Africa?

Safety should be your priority anywhere in the world. Crime occurs in cities worldwide, not only in East Africa.

The best way to keep yourself safe is by being the first guide on your solo trip before anyone.

We recommend booking your trips with reliable tour operators. Make sure you trust the travel agency you book your solo trip with.

Request for compliance permits and even cross-check on government sites. For the countries you’re going to visit.

Suppose you’re visiting Tanzania for a Safari or climbing. Request a TALA license, or search for the company name on the Tanzania Tourism website.

( TTB) or even the Ministry of Natural Resources and Tourism. If the company is not listed, don’t trust it or its agency.

Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and other countries do the same. Don’t rely solely on online reviews when making your final decisions. People post fake reviews to scam visitors.

Avoid wearing your expensive jewelry; leave it at home. Avoid walking at night or through lonely streets. Safety comes first.

How to save money while traveling solo in East Africa?

Ask for safari joining groups.

This is the best way to save money while traveling on budget safari packages.  These trips can be for a Tanzania camping safari or a luxury lodge safari.

No matter the type of trip, traveling in a group of 3 to 4 people significantly reduces costs by sharing hotel or lodge expenses.

Bargain for discounts

Many tour operators set prices slightly higher than the actual price. It is common for curio shops, malls, and car dealers to offer discounts.

Don’t feel shy, requests for discounts can save you some bucks to spend while on a safari in Tanzania.

Exchange your currency for Tanzania shillings (TZS)

This will help you while shopping in town or dining at local restaurants or bars. Sometimes the exchange rate for dollars or euros could be much better.

Then, use the local currency to save more on your trip.

Conclusion

To conclude, we hope you enjoy your time in East Africa.

Note the costs and the amount of money you will need in East Africa for a solo trip.

We recommend researching the best tour operators and booking your package in advance.

If you choose to pay as you go, you should also focus on contacting reputable tour companies.

Safety comes first when traveling solo in East African countries.

Having your insurance in place is more important than anything else.

If you enjoyed reading, feel free to share this guide about Solo Travel in East Africa.

What Next? Africa safari is calling …

Traveling alone or with a group outside of your comfort zone can be frustrating.

Doubtful, and even terrifying. Don’t worry about that; we all feel anxious and afraid of new changes or challenges.

We are all human, and we can not run from our emotions.

That is why we are here to help. Our experienced team of East African specialists knows exactly what to plan for Solo Travel.

Either for a budget safari or luxury tours in East Africa.

With Blessing Safaris, you’re in safe hands. We are very attentive to detail to ensure your satisfaction.

We create bespoke tours in collaboration with our clients. So, what are you waiting for? Contact us today.

Are you ready to start planning?

You can proceed with booking by filling out the form below. Let’s make your adventure unforgettable!