Safaris for solo travelers
Ethical safaris for individuals who want to see the world
Going on a solo safari adventure truly is a gift to yourself and can be a deeply rewarding experience, but some travelers are understandably intimidated by the idea of planning a solo trip and the costs that may be associated.
We offer solo travelers three types of safari experiences at varying price points: join a small group tour, embark on a tailor-made package, or indulge with a private guide who accompanies you throughout your tour.
You can browse our small group safaris below. If you’re keen for something more personalized, simply get in touch to discuss your idea!
Upcoming tours without a single supplement surcharge
Join a handful of other travelers on a shared adventure with a private guide
Pre-organised small group tours offer guests companionship through communal dining, experiences and shared game drives (don’t worry, we limit the number of guests on tour, so everyone gets a ‘window’ seat!), often resulting in lasting friendships.
These tours are priced for individuals. We won’t charge you for traveling solo!
Dates flexible
Zakouma Wilderness Escape: Private Safari in Chad
9 Days / 8 Nights
Explore Zakouma National Park’s wild beauty with elephants, lions, rare giraffes, game drives, canoeing and vibrant cultural experiences in Africa’s hidden gem. Privately guided by Tayla McCurdy.
Min guests: 6
Max guests: 7
Starting from USD $13,500 pp (no single supplement surcharge)
Get trusted advice
We have a deep respect for solo travelers and love helping you find the right safari.
Whether you’re a lone photographer who needs the space and flexibility to get the perfect shot or a solo adventurer seeking new experiences and peace of mind, get in touch to explore your options.
Safari itineraries for small groups
Get in touch to register your interest to join one of our small group tours, or loop some friends into the trip and make it your own! Dates are flexible, booked on demand.
Dates flexible
15 Nights on India’s Tiger Trails
16 Days / 15 Nights
Embark on a thrilling 15-night journey through India’s premier tiger reserves, exploring Satpura, Pench, Kanha and Bandhavgarh.
Starting from USD $7,300 pp sharing
Dates flexible
Kenya: Ultimate Highlights
8 Days / 7 Nights
Discover Kenya’s wildlife and culture on an safari through Nairobi, the stunning Kalama Conservancy and the wildlife-rich Mara Naboisho Conservancy.
Starting from USD $9,000 pp sharing
Dates flexible
7-day Timbavati and Sabi Sand Safari in South Africa
7 Days / 6 Nights
Experience stunning wildlife, gourmet dining and relaxation at premier lodges for an unforgettable journey through iconic Big Five territories.
Starting from R140,000 pp sharing
Dates flexible
Northen Tanzania Explored
9 Days / 8 Nights
Experience diverse wildlife, including elephants, tree-climbing lions and the Great Migration across iconic landscapes.
Starting from USD $6,100 pp sharing
Dates flexible
Waterways of Africa: Exploring the Okavango, Victoria Falls and Lower Zambezi
10 Days / 9 Nights
Journey through lush wetlands and channels with mokoro safaris, explore Victoria Falls and discover abundant wildlife in Lower Zambezi National Park.
Starting from USD $12,600 pp sharing
Dates flexible
Zambia: Best of Two Rivers
9 Days / 8 Nights
From thrilling predator sightings and walking safaris to peaceful Zambezi River canoe trips, this safari pairs adventure with tranquility.
Starting from USD $8,567 pp sharing
Dates flexible
Journey Through Zimbabwe’s Iconic Landscapes
9 Days / 8 Nights
Explore Zimbabwe’s iconic landscapes on an 8-night adventure from the thundering Victoria Falls to serene Lake Kariba and lush Mana Pools.
Starting from USD $6,222 pp sharing
Dates flexible
9-day Malawi Explorer
9 Days / 8 Nights
Experience Malawi’s Big Five, scenic Shire River and Lake Malawi’s clear waters. Explore wildlife, enjoy water activities and connect with local culture.
Starting from USD $5,000 pp sharing
Dates flexible
Odzala Discovery 8-day Expedition (Congo)
8 Days / 7 Nights
Explore the rainforest, savanna and waterways in Odzala Kokoua National Park, tracking western lowland gorillas with kayak and walking tours.
Starting from USD $14,730 pp sharing
Personalized safaris for solo travelers
Co-create a tailored safari itinerary
A customized itinerary is a more mid-range option that can be catered to your unique budget and interests. Choose from more affordable experiences and lodging options to top-end luxury – or a bit of both! Leverage the knowledge and experience of local travel experts who know which lodges cater to individuals to help minimize single supplement fees.
Tell us what you have in mind, and we’ll get the ball rolling!
Indulge in a privately guided safari
Those with larger budgets have the luxury of affording an expert private guide to join them throughout their tour. We’ll first discuss what you’re interested in doing and seeing and then handpick a guide who can deliver the best experience, local insights and companionship for your safari goals.
Considerations and tips for solo travelers
Traveling on your own can feel intimidating at first, but with the right knowledge and support, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience to be the master of your dreams – and inspiring to others.
Did you know a portion of every Aperture Travel safari helps fund emergency wildlife conservation efforts?
To help guide your planning, here are some key things to consider:
Look out for the single supplement charge
It’s common for lodges to price their rooms assuming two guests, and solo travelers often face a ‘single supplement’ fee to make up for the difference. Our local experts know which lodges are particularly friendly to individual travelers, either by not charging a single supplement or offering the option to ‘twin share’ a room with other solo travelers.
Safety considerations
Credible lodges and camps have well-established safety protocols, including private transfers, secure accommodation and trained local guides to give guests peace of mind and allow them to enjoy their adventures. We have plenty of experience running safe small group tours and private 1:1 tours, including for single female travelers who are amongst our repeat guests.
Define what activities interest you
Knowing what you want out of your trip is an important first step to finding the right tour. Consider the wildlife you want to see, the time of year you can travel, what countries you’re interested in explore safari destinations , and the experiences that excite you (walking tours, hot air balloon rides, conservation experiences, etc.). If you want to book with us, we’ll ask for this information early on.
Group vs. private tours
Deciding whether to join an organized small group tour or go fully private is often dependent on budget and companionship requirements. Group tours give you the opportunity to meet other travelers, dine communally and make memories together. Going on a private, tailor-made tour, on the other hand, offers 1:1 companionship with your guiding team (or more solo time, if that’s your preference) and allows us to cater to your specific wishlist.
Meet our guides
Our team of guides have years of experience running private tours with solo travelers. They each offer their own unique experience based on their local knowledge of the land and skills.
Tayla McCurdy
Lead safari guide
Our South Africa-based co-founder and lead guide has 12+ years of guiding experience across Southern and Eastern Africa and Sri Lanka. She is a semi-professional photographer and regularly volunteers her time for local conservation efforts.
Andrew Macdonald
Lead photographic guide
Dedicated to helping clients capture extraordinary photographs, Andrew’s goal is to provide guests with more than just remarkable images but with moments that will last a lifetime.
Jay Collier
Photographic guide
Jay is a renowned photographic educator and tour leader with over 20 years of experience in guiding photographic tours all across Africa, Australia and Antarctica. With Jay, you’ll leave your safari with a hard drive full of outstanding images.
Mike Rosati
Safari guide
Mike is a seasoned naturalist and professional field guide with over 14 years of experience in the safari industry. He has worked extensively across Africa, where his passion for nature conservation and ethical guiding has driven him to deliver immersive, transformative experiences for his guests.
Ready to start planning?
We love your spirit! Let us know what style of trip you’re after, and we’ll recommend a small group tour or tailor-made itinerary that will fit your individual goals.
Credit: Tayla McCurdy
