East Africa Solo Travel  Guide : What You Should Know

Solo travel is the new luxury in travel around the world. 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 can be seen as a challenge in the first place, but it will become a custom 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 like Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro.

Apart from wildlife safaris. East Africa is home to the highest Mountain in Africa. 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 best attractions for many people visiting these countries.

A culture like the Maasai caught the attention of many visitors to these regions.

As a solo traveler visiting East Africa. You need to get clear information about these countries before you visit.

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 safe countries with no political issues 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 developed in the minds of local people.

In case of an emergency, the government has set tourism police unit.

This unit is responsible for escalating issues related to travel.

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

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

If 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.  Since the vegetation becomes so sparse.

But also because of less rainfall, climbing mountains like Kenya, Meru, and Kilimanjaro. becomes so easy and safe.

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 to create a wonderful 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 services you decide to choose.

For example, choosing a budget camping safari. It could be different in terms of price with a luxury lodging safari.

But also bear in mind that. Many days determine the amount of cash you should carry as a solo traveler in East Africa.

If you decide to book with a tour agency in advance will save you from traveling with cash.

On average, if you’re on a safari, you need to set $250 – $450 if you choose the budget for a mid-range safari. For a luxury safari plan for $500- $2000 per day and even more.

You should ask tour operators for customization of 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 put together a full list of everything you will need to consider for your solo trip to the 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 since you’ll be all alone.

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

What kind of clothes are required while traveling solo in East Africa?

There is a big difference between cultures in developed and developing countries.

Either you’re in Rwanda or Uganda. People of these regions are still very different when it comes to 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 allowed along the street, especially on Zanzibar beaches.

But also remember to pack light.  Loose clothes and fabrics like cotton, linen, and silk can be easily washed and worn again.

If you’re visiting East Africa for wildlife safaris.  Avoid wearing clothes in black, blue, and dark colors.

This is because Tsetse flies are attracted to such colors. And their bite can give African sleeping sickness.

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

This question needs its article to be able to cover in detail where you should visit in East Africa.

These countries offer endless opportunities to explore for solo travelers.

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 the leading wildlife destination in Africa.

With 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 different parts of the world to see the wildebeest migration to the Maasai Mara in 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 a well-developed park in terms of accommodations.

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

But also, as a solo traveler, you should plan with tour operators for your trip.

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 to save costs and even make new friends. Have fun is your holiday

Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895m)

Mount Kilimanjaro is an iconic destination in Africa. It is one of the world’s free-standing mountains on Earth 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 wish to climb comfortably, then choose for Marangu route either for 5 days or six days.

You can stay in mountain huts compared with routes that offer camping options.

Other routes are the Machame, Lemosho, and Rongai routes. 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 key features of this island.

Sansibar offers solo travelers thousands of options.  To enjoy and have fun while on the 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 at the top list of 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 if you want to explore to the fullest this paradise of Africa.

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

Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is home to the endangered species of Black Rhino.  This beautiful crater is in Northern Tanzania.

Provide plenty of food throughout the year 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 different number of hotels, lodges, and camps.

The prices vary from one accommodation to another.

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. You can combine it with other parks, including Serengeti, Tarangire, or Lake Manyara.

Enjoy epic game drives Africa has to offer. 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 even extended stays of 2 days.

Tarangire is an alternative to Serengeti National Park.  If your focus is on 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 faked to attract people who are new to these destinations.

Tanzania cities

Tanzania is well known for three (3) major cities, including 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 the gateway for travel to the best destinations in Tanzania. While in Arusha is possible to 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 not as well developed as Arusha and Dar es Salaam. But it is a paradise for solo travelers who do not want the noise of cities.

While in Mwanza is possible to visit the southern Serengeti. Rubondo Island National park, Saanane Island national park, and Bujora cultural museum.

Dar es Salaam is the business capital of Tanzania. Don’t confuse it with the capital city, which is Dodoma.

Dar es Salaam has a long trade history since the 18th century. No wonder why is quite developed compared with 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 so many places to visit in Tanzania. More than 200 places and activities to do.

If you need more information about Tanzania. Feel free to contact us.  Tanzania Unforgettable

Kenya

What are the best places to visit alone in Kenya?

Masai Mara

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

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 different levels of accommodation.

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

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

Amboseli National Park

The park is famous as the best place in Africa to get close to 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.

While planning your solo trip to Amboseli, you should consider visiting during the dry season.

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

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

Wildlife watching can be better during the dry season.

And the visitors have a better chance to view the abundant wildlife that the park boasts.

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

This park offers many activities to solo travelers, including game drives and birdwatching.

Maasai culture experience, Kilimanjaro peak view, and bird watching. 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, which is less than $ 20 for the economy and $30 for first class.

Diani Beach, like other beaches around the world, offers different excursions to 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 developed more than other cities in East Africa.  With big cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.

No doubt that the economy of Kenya is advanced compared to other countries.

The nature of the settler economy introduced by the British colony was the main 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 is possible to organize a safari to Nairobi National Park. Lake Nakuru, Tsavo National Park, and Maasai Mara Game Reserve.

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

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

If you’re planning your solo trip to East Africa, then welcome to Magical Kenya, and 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 the best park in Rwanda. Located in the eastern region of the country.

The park derives its name from the Akagera River. It is considered one of the remote sources of the world’s largest river, the River Nile.

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

Including Lake Ihema, the second-largest lake in Rwanda.

As a solo traveler in Rwanda, you could enjoy different 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?

While traveling alone, you should consider safety and quality while on your trip. This is the list of accommodations recommended for you.

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

You can re-customize these trips in Rwanda 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 8 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 from Kigali city or through Gisenyi.

The drive to the park is usually 2 hours from Kigali city.  Making it possible to view mountain gorillas and drive back to Kigali 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 travel and family safaris.

Kigali city offers different options for a solo traveler to explore. As you travel alone, you may need to visit cultural centers.

Museums and the best places for dining and socializing with other people.

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.

If 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 the richest ecosystems in Africa.

Located in southwestern Uganda.

For solo travelers, this park offers different activities to make your solo trip fun. 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 the Ishasha sector in Uganda.

In 1952, it was renamed after Queen Elizabeth 2 when she visited the park to commemorate the Queen’s visit.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most scenic of all. Making it the most visited with a big 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. 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. 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. Crimes prevail in different cities across the globe 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 have confidence in 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.

If you’re visiting Tanzania for a Safari or climbing. Ask for a TALA license or even search for the company name on the Tanzania Tourism site.

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

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

Avoid showing off your expensive pieces of jewelry if possible; leave them 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 and travel in budget safari packages.  These trips can be for a Tanzania camping safari or a luxury lodge safari.

No matter what type of trip it is, being in a group of 3 to 4 people cuts a lot of costs down. Because of the shared costs for hotels or lodges.

Bargain for discounts

Many tour operators set prices a bit higher compared with the actual price.

It is normal for either in curio shops, malls, or even 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 around in town or even dining out at local restaurants or bars.

Sometimes the exchange rate for dollars or euros could be much better.

Then the local currency, take advantage of it, and save more on your trip.

Conclusion

To conclude, we wish you to enjoy yourself to the fullest while being in East Africa.

Take note of the cost and the amount of money you will need in East Africa while on a solo trip.

We recommend you do your research for the best tour operators and book in advance for your package.

In case you choose to pay as you go, you should also focus on contacting reliable tour companies.

Safety comes first while on a solo trip in East African countries.

Having your insurance cover is more important than anything else you should think about.

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 just what to plan when it comes to Solo Travel.

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

With Blessing Safaris, you’re in safe hands. We are very conscious of details for your satisfaction.

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