Solo Safaris is dedicated to providing a comprehensive resource for planning African safaris. As passionate advocates for wildlife conservation and ecotourism, our team of expert guides is committed to sharing their first-hand insights and ensuring all our readers enjoy adventures of a lifetime that also give back to local communities.
If you’re dreaming of spotting the Big Five, experiencing the wilderness, or learning about Africa's rich cultural heritage, Solo Safaris has the tips to make any safari goal a reality. Here is a thorough overview of what makes us unique, the variety of safaris we cover throughout eastern and southern Africa, helpful trip planning tips, and some of our editors' favorite memories to inspire your next safari.
A Commitment to Conservation and Community
At the heart of Solo Safaris is our dedication to preserving Africa's wild places for future generations. We partner directly with small, community-run reserves and camps that invest tourism revenue into Education, anti-poaching initiatives, and sustainable development projects.
By choosing our recommendations, you can feel good knowing your visit contributes to protecting wildlife populations and empowering local people. Some of the conservation efforts we actively support include:
- Anti-poaching Patrols and Snare Sweeps to safeguard vulnerable species from poachers.
- Wildlife Monitoring and Research to better understand animal behaviors and help endangered species.
- Reforestation Programs to restore degraded habitats and connect fragmented ecosystems.
- Scholarships for Secondary Education to provide skills training and combat poverty.
- Water and Sanitation Projects to improve health and access to resources.
We also focus intently on minimizing our environmental footprint. Most of our recommended camps and lodges utilize solar power wherever possible and commit to Leave No Trace principles. It's just one more way Solo Safaris ensures memories from your adventure will live on positively impacting the communities and conservation efforts that inspired them.
Types of Safaris
From beach escapes to bush adventures, Africa has countless ways to experience its magic. Here are the main types of safaris that Solo Safaris can customize itineraries for.
Beach Safari (Coastal Kenya/Tanzania). Balance relaxing shorelines with sighting marine life and rare coastal bird species in remote shoreline reserves. Swim with dolphins, and snapping turtles sunning themselves on sandbars, and watch fishermen in traditional dhows.
Wilderness Safari (Botswana, Zambia, Namibia). Get up close to Africa's wildlife in vast unfenced reserves with day and night game drives. Pulse races as you track lions stalking their next meal or admire the elegant figures of giraffes and elephants against vast horizons.
Mobile Safari (Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa). Private pop-up camps set riders up for intense wildlife encounters throughout seasonal migration routes with large prides, herds, and wild dogs on the move. Sleep under glorious starscapes with no light pollution.
Cultural Safari (Rwanda, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania). Cultural immersion into communities, townships, and historical sites enlightens alongside evenings of song, dance, and local cuisine. Volunteer opportunities are also available.
Luxe Safari (Botswana, South Africa). Ultra-luxurious tented camps and lodges spoil guests with top-notch amenities, guides, activities, and dining in remote unspoiled concessions. Ideal for honeymoons and anniversary trips.
Combination Safari. Customize an itinerary blending the best of multiple regions, parks, and activities for the ultimate African experience.
Top Parks and Regions
If you're looking to see the Big 5 or just chill out in the African sunshine, there are lots of different places to explore. Here are some great spots to consider for your trip.
| Region | Key Attractions | Highlight Species |
|---|---|---|
| Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater (Tanzania) | Massive herds, volcanoes, old baobab trees | Lions, wildebeests, zebras, leopards |
| Okavango Delta (Botswana) | Floating islands, palm-fringed channels, elephants | Elephants, hippos, lions, wild dogs |
| Kruger National Park (South Africa) | Diverse landscapes, tropical forests, stunning scenery | Lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos |
| Maasai Mara (Kenya) | Epic wildebeest migration spectacle, rolling plains | Big cats, hyenas, cheetahs, giraffes |
| Etosha National Park (Namibia) | Salt pan views, watering holes, 114 mammal species | Lions, elephants, rhinos, springboks |
No matter what you want to see, Solo Safaris can craft an itinerary hitting Africa's top parks with the highest wildlife concentrations and most scenic settings. Be sure to check our destination guides for insider travel tips.
Top Activities
Aside from game drives, Africa has a wealth of unique activities to enhance any safari experience. Here are some of the most memorable ways to insert yourself in the landscapes and cultures:
- Game Walks & Hiking
- Hot Air Balloon Rides
- Fly-in Safaris
- Helicopter Safaris
- Village Visits
- Canoeing & Kayaking
- Underwater Sea Walks
- Star Gazing
- Photography Workshops
With lots to enjoy, Solo Safaris makes sure every moment is a memorable adventure. And don't forget to schedule some time for relaxing on the beach or at the spa!
Trip Planning Tips
An African safari is a major investment that requires extensive planning. To help manage the details, here are some expert tips:
| Start 12+ Months Out | Research Regulations | Tailor to Your Interests |
|---|---|---|
| Competition for top camps fills up fast during peak season (June-Nov). Book early for the best availability and rates. | Obtain necessary visas, permits, health precautions, and COVID testing/vaccine requirements well in advance of travel dates. | Our experts help craft unique itineraries optimized to your must-see species, parks, or cultural interests. |
| Travel Light: Most lodges provide amenities, so pack minimally focusing on comfortable clothes/shoes for activities with only essential electronics. | Extend Your Stay: Multi-country trips allow more wildlife viewing and cultural immersion than rushing between destinations. Pace yourself. | Grab a Guidebook: Read up on destinations, conservation issues, history, and culture before embarking to enrich your experience. |
| Connect with Us: Our team is here to answer questions and offer pre-/post-trip advice to make planning easy. |
Following these tips will ensure a fulfilling African adventure you'll remember for lifetimes to come. And who knows one trip may just inspire a return for more safari magic!
Plan Your Dream Safari Today
To begin customizing your dream safari to Africa, contact one of our expert trip designers today.
If you know exactly what you want or need help deciding between destinations, our team will work closely with you to draft an itinerary tailored to your interests, budget, and travel dates.
We offer an extensive selection of safari packages covering the top wildlife destinations on the continent. Or, for the ultimate flexible experience, choose our fully customized option to build your perfect safari from the ground up.
Simply fill out our quick trip planning form or get intouch, and we'll take care of all the details to deliver memorable encounters with Africa's wildlife and heartfelt cultural experience.
