Beyond the Basics: 10 More Insider Tips for the Solo Safari Traveller

These aren't just "generic travel tips" you'll find on every blog. They're real-world insights from people who've actually travelled solo on safari — including our own team's personal lessons learned (and sometimes learned the hard way).

From the best time of year to book, to avoiding rookie luggage mistakes, here's how to make your solo safari smoother, cheaper, and more memorable.

High season = top wildlife viewing, great weather, and more travellers. Low season = fewer crowds, better lodge deals, and sometimes waived single supplements.

But here's the solo traveller twist:

• High season reduces the risk of paying for an extra seat on charter flights (many require a minimum of two passengers).
• Low season is ideal if you're lodge-hopping overland or staying somewhere accessible by road — the savings can be huge.

It's not just about cost — your morning wake-up calls and daily routine shift with the seasons.

• Summer (wet season) means earlier mornings but lazy afternoons to enjoy lodge life.
• Winter (dry season) offers later starts, earlier evenings, and cooler temperatures — especially in southern Africa.

Choose the rhythm that matches your travel style (and sleep preferences).

In some parks, wet season mornings can be misty and atmospheric, while dry season evenings are crisp and perfect for campfires. We help solo travellers choose not just a month, but a rhythm — especially if you want to combine your safari with other activities like wine tasting or beach time.

Rocking up at 9 a.m. might sound efficient—until you're stuck in the lounge while housekeeping prepares your room.

Aim to arrive around lunchtime — you'll check in, unpack, and be fresh for your first afternoon game drive.

This timing also lets you ease into the rhythm of the lodge without feeling rushed or out of sync. We often book transfers so solo guests arrive just before lunch — it's the perfect window to meet fellow travellers naturally before heading out together.

Tell your travel planner everything — dining preferences, tolerance for kids or honeymooners, must-see species, preferred activities, and budget.

The more honest you are, the more your trip will feel tailored, not generic.

For solo travellers, we also ask about social preferences — do you want a convivial, chatty campfire atmosphere, or a quieter, more intimate setup? Lodges have personalities, and matching yours to the right one is an art we've perfected.

Not vibing with your vehicle crew? Politely ask to change groups. Lodges usually only need to shuffle one seat — and as a solo traveller, that's easy to arrange.

Your guide and vehicle mates set the tone for your drives — from how much time you spend at sightings to whether the vibe is chatty or quiet. Don't feel guilty for seeking a better fit; your comfort can make the difference between a good safari and a great one.

Stay more than a few days, and you may end up with a "private" drive when other guests check out.

Use this time to go beyond animal facts — ask about your guide's life, conservation challenges, and hidden bush secrets. It's one of the best perks of travelling solo.

Guides often have favourite spots for coffee breaks or scenic sundowners they won't always share with a packed group. Build rapport, and you might find yourself in the perfect position for that once-in-a-lifetime leopard sighting — because your guide knows what you've been hoping to see.

Safari luggage limits can be strict — especially on light aircraft transfers (often 15 kg checked + 5 kg hand luggage, in soft-sided bags only).

Avoid hard-shell or wheeled suitcases — they don't play well with bush airstrips or sandy lodge paths. A sturdy duffel is your best friend.

Remember, many lodges offer daily laundry, so you don't need to bring a week's worth of outfits. We always recommend packing versatile layers rather than multiple bulky items. The right bag makes transfers smoother, and the right clothes make your trip infinitely more comfortable.

Yes, really. Some East African lodges don't wash underwear — for cultural reasons and because laundry is done by hand. A small sachet of detergent means you can handle it yourself without fuss.

It's one of those small things that saves awkward moments. We've seen guests relieved to find they can do a quick wash in their bathroom sink rather than risk a faux pas. Having said that, if you're unsure about certain items, please don't hesitate to ask at the camp. The staff are friendly, and you won't be the first guest to have asked.

Neutral layers are king. Avoid camouflage (often banned) and bright blues (tsetse fly magnets). Pack warm gear for winter, a wide-brimmed hat with a chin strap (you wouldn't believe how many hats we've seen blown off in the wind on the back of a safari vehicle) and both sturdy shoes and sandals.

Ladies — in Muslim or rural areas, cover shoulders and knees. In cities, casual is fine, but avoid overly revealing outfits.

Your clothing isn't just about comfort — it can influence your interactions with locals and your safety in the bush. We guide our guests on fabrics, colours, and accessories so they blend in, stay comfortable, and keep luggage weight down.

WiFi in the bush is… optional. Tell your contacts in advance, carry hard copies of travel documents, and don't count on posting Instagram stories in real time. Hard copies are a lifesaver when you reach passport control only to discover your phone can't access your eVisa because the signal is down.

For many, this is the best part of safari; a forced digital detox. If you need to check in regularly, we know which lodges have the most reliable connection… and which ones are gloriously disconnected.

Travelling solo on safari is far from a lonely experience; it's an opportunity to fully immerse yourself in Africa's wild beauty on your own terms. With the right planning, a trusted safari operator, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected, you'll find that solo safaris offer not just incredible wildlife encounters, but also rich human connections and moments of deep personal discovery. Whether you're after the thrill of close-up big cat sightings, the serenity of an African sunset, or the camaraderie of new friends around a campfire, these tips will help ensure your journey is safe, rewarding, and unforgettable.

Want to cover all the bases? Check out Part 1 of our solo safari series, The Beginner's Guide to a Solo Safari: 12 Survival Tips from the Pros, for the essential fundamentals, then layer in the deeper, behind-the-scenes advice you've just read here in Part 2. Together, they'll set you up for a smooth, memorable, and truly personalised adventure.

Ready to plan? Our safari specialists can help design a trip that fits your style, pace, and wishlist — without hidden costs, credit card surcharges, or booking obligations. Contact us today to get started.