Traveling solo seems like a distant idea. It screams the world ‘challenge’ and ‘unfamiliar’. However, traveling solo as a female can lead you to lots of surprises and positive things. It can broaden your horizon, test your boundaries, and make you say, “I can do it!” So, exploring the world as a female solo traveler is highly recommended for all the fearless queens out there. Then, we know why you are here! It is likely that you are searching for ‘solo travel Africa‘ to level up your trip.
Africa is an extravagant continent to explore. It has a dazzling beauty that you cannot find anywhere else in the world. Vast golden savannah, endless deserts, verdant jungles covered in mystery, and elegant mountains are what Africa has to offer. You might heard myths about traveling to Africa that make you have goosebumps. However, let’s do a myth-bust and start planning your awesome trip to Africa with this Solo Travel Africa Guide for Female Travelers!
Solo Travel Africa for Female Travelers – Summary
- Safest Countries to Visit in Africa for Women
- Solo Travel Tips for Female Travelers
Safest Countries to Visit in Africa for Women
Africa has tons of wonderful places to visit. The natural beauty, incredible wildlife, and magnificent culture of Africa are something that you shouldn’t miss. Thus, if you are a female traveler who dreams to go on a solo trip to Africa, some countries are perfect to start. Besides the fact that they are astonishing, these countries are relatively safe and friendly to tourists. Check out these safest countries to visit in Africa to put on your solo travel bucket list!
Malawi
Pristine and laid-back, Malawi is a hidden gem in Africa. It offers enchanting natural beauty, ranging from misty savannah to glimmering lakes. Moreover, Malawi becomes more charming because of its people and culture. People in Malawi are very friendly and welcoming. You won’t find it hard to smile back at them! For that reason, Malawi is one of the safest countries to visit in Africa for solo female travelers.
Mauritius
If you want to solo travel to Africa, we highly recommend visiting Mauritius. Sunny, peaceful, and friendly – those are some words that describe Mauritius. This vibrant country boasts picturesque beaches, delightful flavors, and charming yet laid-back towns. Moreover, Mauritius is a multicultural country. For that reason, accepting differences and being friendly is something Mauritians excel at. Thus, remember to be respectful while traveling to the country.
Namibia
This Southern African country is one of a kind. Namibia becomes world-famous for the Namib Desert, which offers breathtaking scenes and an unreal setting. Thus, there is another reason to visit Namibia. This country is recognized as the safest country in Africa, with very low rates of crime. Moreover, Namibia has a lot of facilities that you can enjoy as a tourist. So, if you are going on solo travel to Africa as a woman, Namibia is great to visit.
Rwanda
Safe and secure, that is what Rwanda looks like. This landlocked country is generally relaxed and humble with low crime rates and friendly locals. Although often overlooked by tourists, Rwanda has one of the best activities to do in Africa.
Thousands of mountain gorillas call the lush jungles of Rwanda ‘home’. Therefore, you can see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. As a solo female traveler, you can join guided group tours or book a private guide to see the gorillas.
Solo Travel Tips for Female Travelers
So, are you taking a dauntless step to finally go for a destination you really want? You go girl! Then, if you are going for a solo travel to Africa, here are some tips that you can note down. It is important to stay safe, respectful, and caution during traveling as a female solo traveler. Last but not least, remember to have a lot of fun!
1. Be confident
We feel this should be your motto in and outside of traveling, especially for solo travel as a female! Having confidence is one of the best keys for ensuring you have enjoyable your travel days. Don’t doubt your decisions and trust yourself a little more than usual when navigating yourself through a new destination.
2. Plan the first night
At minimum, be sure to book a place to sleep on the first night of every destination during your trip. It’s important you give yourself daylight time to find your hostel or hotel to avoid any unwanted interactions while you walk around trying to find your sleeping spot. Avoid arriving at night.
3. Keep quiet
The fact is that solo travel as a female to third-world countries is quite dangerous, therefore, you should think of your accommodation as your safe spot. To be safe, don’t tell people where you are staying, even if they seem trustworthy or nice. If they ask, give them a roundabout answer without giving it away, for example, “I am staying close to the center”.
4. Blend in
It’s unfortunate we have to worry about such things, but one of the easiest ways to attract negative attention is to wear clothing that gives off the wrong ideas, or that makes you stick out as a tourist. Most of the time, the attention we get is warm and inviting, but it is always best to stay safe and be aware. We recommend to try to blend in with the locals, dress conservatively, or simple clothing to avoid being singled out as a potential target.
5. Meet other women
You will be surprised to see that you are not alone and a lot of other women embarked on the same journey through Africa. Take this opportunity to meet them and share the same exciting experience hand in hand. You can build strong friendships with women all around the world, that you may never have had the chance of meeting before. While having a solo travel as a female, it is a good idea to post your trip to JoinMyTrip and see if any other women want to join you!
Otherwise, you can also find female travel buddies by joining travel groups on social media. Find out the best ones here!
6. Stay connected
Well, solo travel as a female does not mean that you are completely isolated. Keep family and friends rest to sure that you are safe and having the time of your life. Letting people know where you are acts as an extra safety blanket – while friends and family can follow along, you are also leaving a safety trail and reassure everyone you’re safe and enjoying your travel days.
7. Keep possessions to a minimum
We know how nice it is to have all electronics on hand while traveling, but you must remember this is only going to attract more attention from thieves. Try avoid flashing these items around and only take them out of your bag when it’s absolutely necessary. Perhaps, its a good idea to leave the laptop at home if you can manage without it.
8. Avoid too much alcohol
This one may be obvious, but let this be a friendly reminder. Enjoying a drink or two with a new travel buddy is great, but it can quickly turn dangerous if you over do it. Drink in moderation and always be aware of your surroundings. If by chance, you do over do it, never walk home alone and have a walking buddy to safely get you to your hostel or hotel.
Traveling as a solo woman can be a mixture of emotions, but it’s an exciting experiences. On the other hand, it is always nice to meet other solo female travelers during traveling. You can find them before the trip by checking out JoinMyTrip. We have a collection of handpicked trips, crafted specially for all the amazing wander women! The trips are hosted by passionate female solo travelers, just like you. Of course, what could be better than traveling with awesome girl friends?
Check out JoinMyTrip and find your dream girls trip! Our trips are running out fast, so secure your seat now!
