Travelling solo might seem daunting at first but in reality, it may just be the most laidback trip you’ve ever been on.
If you’re anything like us, it often feels like you need a holiday to recover from the holiday, especially when you’ve been travelling en famille or with a group of very different opinions, paces and tastes. When it’s just you, your days can be as jam-packed or easygoing as you’d like – and if you come across a fantastic new activity or destination, slipping it into the itinerary takes no discussion at all. It’s your chance to step out of your comfort zone and find out what you really love to do when no one else’s thoughts are in the mix.
Although, if you’re feeling social, a solo trip is also fantastic for meeting new people from across the globe, whether it’s over wine tasting or sharing epic moments on a game drive. You may even find other solo travellers along the way. You’ll also get to know your guides and hosts, which often becomes a really special part of the trip, and you may just learn some of the local languages.
South Africa is a wonderful start for breaking into travelling solo, from Cape Town’s lively atmosphere and road tripping down the Garden Route to the luxury and intimate camps in Kruger’s concessions. Read on for two of our favourite trips for solo travel in South Africa.
Wine, wildlife & exploring the Cape
Your trip begins in South Africa’s Mother City, Cape Town, where the cosy comforts of Welgelegen House await. Thanks to its central location just off Kloof Street, discovering the endless charms of Cape Town comes very, very easily. If it’s adventure you seek, there are guided hiking trails to the top of Table Mountain and across its beautiful National Park. On the other hand, you might prefer to find the softest stretch of sand and soak up the sun from one of Cape Town’s world-class beaches, or wind your way down Chapman’s Peak and head for Boulder’s Beach where penguins swim and waddle just metres away. Then there’s the endless list of scrumptious cafes, restaurants and markets to keep you replenished…
Your next stop is La Fontaine, a debonair guest house in the centre of Franschhoek, from which you can explore the town’s artisanal spots or hop on the Wine Tram for a jaunt from vineyard to vineyard. La Fontaine will happily organise a private tour of the valley’s finest wine estates, pairing their famous reds and whites with local treats, or lunch at one of the many fabulous restaurants. Should you fancy getting out and about, enjoy the mountain scenery on a hike or horseback ride, then return for a dip in the secluded pool.
Your South African journey ends at nThambo Tree Camp in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve in the Greater Kruger area. With just five stilted chalets, the experience at nThambo is personal and immersive, and the activities are completely flexible. The guides and trackers are some of the best in the country and they will join you on all game drives and walking safaris, seeking out members of the Big Five, African painted dogs and sensational birdlife. Should you fancy a night drive, hyena, porcupine and aardwolf may appear too… After sunset, you’ll find the Boma area abuzz with other guests, where you’ll swap stories from the day in the firelight.
Southern Africa’s highlights all-in-one
On this epic trip, you’ll combine Cape Town and an unforgettable safari with one the Seven Natural Wonders of the World: Victoria Falls. Find your feet in Cape Town, strolling from funky vintage shop to tasty bistro and the Skittle-coloured houses of the Bo-Kaap to the historic and poignant District Six Museum; hiking mountain trails; paragliding from the top of Lion’s Head; driving the scenic route to Cape Point; and wine tasting in the picturesque Constantia Valley. Afterwards, the characterful Welgelegen House (one of our Cape Town favourites) will be waiting to welcome you back.
You’ll see an entirely different side to South Africa when you arrive in the Klaserie Nature Reserve, the largest private reserve on the borders of the iconic Kruger National Park. Completely in tune with the wild surroundings, the rooms at nThambo Tree Camp fulfill the treehouse dreams of your childhood with roll-up walls revealing a 180° view. Your safari begins before leaving the camp as wildebeest, zebra and impala arrive at the nearby waterhole – and elephant may even join you at the pool for a drink. The majestic Drakensberg Mountains watch over you whilst exploring by 4×4 or foot, led by your all-knowing guide, ready to spot giraffe, hippo, lion (and the rest of the Big Five) and the highly-coveted African painted dog.
Your final stop is the enthralling Victoria Falls, which you can admire from various viewpoints, each more gasp-worthy than the next. Otherwise, enjoy a cruise along the Zambezi River or take to a helicopter and hover high overhead for a different view. The mighty ‘Smoke that Thunders’ plunges into the gorge with such force that its rising mist can be seen from almost 50 kilometres away and rainbows often appear within it. You can make a similar plunge with a thrilling bungee jump or take on the rapids on a white water rafting excursion. Following a day like this, there’s nothing better than a hot, bubbly soak in the tub and hearty dinner beside the fire at Bayete Guest Lodge.
