When thinking about a solo trip to broaden your horizon, travelling solo in Tanzania will give you more freedom and drive you out of your comfort zone. There’s also less pressure to be constantly on the go, as everything is up to you.
Furthermore, solo travel also empowers you to be more independent and adventurous. However, it can’t be helped to think negatively, mainly if it’s your first time doing solo travel.
You might wonder if travelling solo in Tanzania is safe, especially if you’re a solo female solo traveller. Let’s find out!
Is it safe for solo travellers to visit Tanzania?
Yes! It’s safe to travel solo in Tanzania. This African country has often been rated as the safest African country to visit, particularly for female solo travellers.
But there are still a few essential things to remember when you decide to be one of the solo female travellers who do African expeditions in Tanzania. It’s best always to be careful of your surroundings, especially when you explore various locations at night.
Read our travel tips below before exploring this fantastic African country’s major cities, iconic parks, beautiful beaches, and wildlife safaris.
Tanzania safety travel tips for people who love to travel solo
Since you’re travelling alone, it’s best not to draw unwanted attention. As much as possible, try to blend in and thoroughly immerse yourself in different cultures in Tanzania.
Furthermore, never go out alone at night, and drink alcohol to prevent putting yourself in trouble. There’s no perfect place on earth, and danger could be looming around the corner, so it’s best to mind your behaviour whenever you go out alone.
As much as possible, be aware of your surroundings and never let your guard down. Here are some helpful Tanzania travel tips for solo travellers to help you evade dangerous places and respect local culture:
Travel solo tip #1: Be modest in Zanzibar
Although this country is liberal and very relaxed, it’s still an Islamic country. Thus, modesty should be seriously taken into consideration.
As much as possible, dress modestly, especially if travelling to Stone Town in Zanzibar. The women there dress conservatively, as Islamic practices remain steadfast.
Travel solo tip #2: Avoid walking around with jewelry
Never walk around with high-value electronics, jewellery, or other wealth indicators; it’ll attract unwanted attention. Carry only a minimum amount of cash you need whenever you go out.
Moreover, consider bringing a credit card instead of a debit card, as a credit card offers much better protection against fraud.
Unsure what to wear? We have you covered.
Travel solo tip #3: Keep your distance from the road
Another helpful solo travel tip is to keep your distance from the road. Although Tanzania is safe for solo travellers, bag snatching can be expected. A thief on a car or motorbike drives close to the road and snatches bags from unsuspecting tourists when they pass.
Keep your distance from the road and carry your bag close to you to prevent this.
Travel solo tip #4: Research and choose a reliable local tour operator
If you’re planning a unique and beautiful hike up Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru, research and choose one of the reliable local operators in Tanzania. Ensure that your selected operator uses reliable gear and knowledgeable guides.
It’s also important to know that altitude sickness is a real risk in the Mt. Meru and Kilimanjaro treks. So, choosing a longer route is best to give your body enough time to acclimate. The same applies to the various national parks around Tanzania.
If you book with a shady tour operator, your safari lodges may be overbooked, or your safari vehicle may break down in the middle of the lion-infested Serengeti.
Solo travel tip #5 Avoid walking on secluded beaches and places
Exercising common sense when travelling alone is crucial, especially in popular tourist destinations like Pemba and Zanzibar in East Africa. To ensure their safety, solo female travellers should avoid walking on remote beaches alone. Additionally, consider leaving other valuables at home, even in a group, to minimize the risk of loss or theft.
Solo travel tip #6 Buy a local sim card
Buying a local SIM card is best if you plan to stay in the country for a long time, as public WiFi is rare in Tanzania. Though few upscale restaurants have WiFi, it’s much safer as a solo female traveller to stay connected wherever you go.
Exciting places to visit in Tanzania
As you land at Kilimanjaro Airport, your travel solo adventure begins. Here, you can do amazing things like visiting Dar Es Salaam—a major city and commercial port on Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coast.
You can also visit the main towns of Arusha, where Mount Meru is located and the primary starting point of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the towns of Mwanza, Dodoma, Mbeya, Zanzibar, Dar Es Salaam, and more!
Travel solo to Serengeti National Park
With an overwhelmingly large concentration of wildlife, Serengeti is a head-turner for everyone who visits Tanzania. Massive herds of elephants, predators, and The Great Wildebeest Migration make this national park a must-visit destination.
Travel solo to Mount Kilimanjaro
Although the Ngorongoro Conservation Area isn’t technically part of the renowned Serengeti, it’s worth visiting. You can see black rhinos, buffalos, lions, elephants, leopards, and other exciting animals.
Furthermore, this site houses the Ngorongoro Crater—the sixth-largest intact volcanic caldera in the world—and the Olduvai Gorge. Although the Ngorongoro Conservation Area isn’t technically part of the world-renowned Serengeti, it’s time-worthy to visit it.
You can see black rhinos, buffalos, lions, elephants, leopards, and many other animals that will surely catch your interest—a genuinely excellent game-viewing experience.
Furthermore, this site houses the Ngorongoro Crater—the sixth-largest intact volcanic caldera in the world and the Olduvai Gorge.
Travel solo to Ngorongoro Crater
Although the Ngorongoro Conservation Area isn’t technically a part of the renowned Serengeti, it’s time-worthy to visit the area. You can see black rhinos, buffalos, lions, elephants, leopards, and many other animals that will surely catch your interest.
Furthermore, this site houses the Ngorongoro Crater—the sixth-largest intact volcanic caldera in the world and the Olduvai Gorge. Although the Ngorongoro Conservation Area isn’t technically a part of the renowned Serengeti, it’s time-worthy to visit the area. You can see black rhinos, buffalos, lions, elephants, leopards, and many other animals that will surely catch your interest. A truly excellent game viewing experience.
Furthermore, this site houses the Ngorongoro Crater—the sixth-largest intact volcanic caldera in the world and the Olduvai Gorge.
Travel solo to Lake Manyara
For single travellers, Lake Manyara offers beautiful and almost unreal views of pink flamingos. This park also has over 400 bird species, many migrants, and waterfowl. The park is renowned for its impressive tree-climbing lions and vast elephant packs.
Walking safari tours are also a popular option in Lake Manyara.
Travel solo to Tarangire National Park
Have you ever wanted to watch animals drink from an African watering hole beside ancient baobab trees? During the dry season, game drives and day tours are trendy when the wildlife teems around the watering holes. Be sure to only go with experienced guides; they’ll know where to take you for unique close-up experiences.
Travel solo to Prison Island
The beautiful yet controversial Prison Island is another place worth visiting as a solo traveller! The site acted as a coal mine, a prison for rebellious people in the 1860s.
The island is pretty close to Stone Town and cheap, too! You can rent a boat and visit this spot to see the giant tortoise and do water activities like snorkelling.
The view is incredible, and the stunning turquoise ocean is calm and clear!
Conclusion: A solo safari holiday is safe
If you use discretion and mindfulness, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about when visiting Tanzania. Whether you’re here to sink into tropical beaches or for a few safari trips, Tanzania has much to offer fellow travellers.
Are you on a tight budget? Our team of safari experts can give you all the tips you’ll need to curate a daily budget and can also assist you in crafting a customized itinerary for your next adventure. So what are you waiting for? Contact our Solo Travel expert today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Tanzania safe for solo travellers?
Tanzania is widely regarded as a safe destination for solo travellers, including solo female travellers, but it’s wise to exercise caution and awareness. Trust your instincts and be mindful of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas or remote locations.
Choosing reputable tour companies and knowledgeable guides can improve your safety and offer valuable insights into local customs and traditions. Joining organized tours or travelling with a group can provide companionship and added security as you explore Tanzania’s varied landscapes and cultural heritage.
2. What are some popular tourist destinations for solo travellers in Tanzania?
Tanzania is celebrated for its captivating natural beauty, spanning from the vast plains of the Serengeti to the pristine coastlines of Zanzibar. Solo travellers can explore diverse landscapes, including towering mountains, dense forests, and wildlife-rich national parks.
With such varied terrain, there’s no shortage of adventure opportunities, whether hiking through lush rainforests or embarking on thrilling safari experiences. From the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro to the enchanting Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania offers solo adventurers many unforgettable experiences in its breathtaking natural settings.
3. How much natural beauty can I expect to see in Tanzania?
Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, including the vast savannahs of the Serengeti and the picturesque beaches of Zanzibar, make it an enticing destination for solo travellers. Exploring towering mountains, verdant forests, and wildlife-rich national parks provides solo adventurers countless opportunities for discovery and excitement. Whether embarking on a challenging trek or simply relaxing on the sun-drenched shores, Tanzania’s breathtaking natural beauty captivates solo travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.
4. Is it safe for solo female travellers to visit Tanzania?
Let me provide the remaining three sentences: Traveling in groups or joining guided tours can offer additional safety and companionship for solo female travellers exploring Tanzania.
Taking advantage of transportation services arranged by accommodations or reputable tour operators can also enhance safety while navigating the country. By embracing common sense precautions and seeking support when needed, solo female travellers can have a rewarding experience in Tanzania.
Taking care of these permits shows that climbers and tour operators care about responsible tourism. Climbers should work with their tour operators to get the necessary permits. This way, their climb to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro will go smoothly.
5. What cultural attractions can solo travellers explore in Tanzania?
Travelling in groups or joining guided tours can offer additional safety and companionship for solo female travellers exploring Tanzania. Taking advantage of transportation services arranged by accommodations or reputable tour operators can also enhance safety while navigating the country.
6. How can I travel between destinations in Tanzania as a solo traveller?
Solo travellers in Tanzania can utilize various transportation options, including domestic flights, buses, taxis, and organized tours. Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport is a primary gateway for international and domestic travel, providing convenient access to popular destinations across the country.
From Dar es Salaam, travellers can easily reach other vital locations such as Arusha, Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar via domestic flights or ground transportation. Buses are a common and affordable mode of travel for solo adventurers, offering routes that connect major cities and towns throughout Tanzania.
7. What are some recommended day tours for solo travellers in Tanzania?
Solo travellers can take various day tours in Tanzania, such as visiting Arusha National Park to explore its diverse landscapes and wildlife. They can also take a guided walking tour in Stone Town to discover its rich history and cultural heritage.
Consider a day trip to local markets or nearby attractions for an immersive experience. Joining a guided tour ensures safety and provides valuable insights into the destination’s history, culture, and traditions.
8. How can solo travellers ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in Tanzania?
Solo travellers can enhance their experience in Tanzania by seeking local advice, staying informed about safety recommendations, and choosing reputable tour companies or guides. It’s essential to research destinations, plan activities in advance, and maintain an open mind while embracing the spirit of adventure.
Engaging with locals can provide enriching insights into Tanzania’s culture, traditions, and hidden gems, making solo travel more rewarding. Additionally, solo travellers must prioritize safety by avoiding isolated areas at night and being cautious with their belongings.
9. What precautions should solo travellers take when exploring national parks in Tanzania?
When exploring national parks in Tanzania, solo travellers should adhere to park regulations, stay on designated trails, and avoid approaching wildlife too closely. It’s advisable to join organized tours or hire experienced guides for wildlife safaris, ensuring safety and maximizing the opportunity for wildlife sightings.
By following these precautions, solo travellers can enjoy a memorable and enriching experience while minimizing the risks of encountering wild animals. Additionally, solo adventurers should familiarize themselves with the park’s layout, potential hazards, and emergency procedures to stay prepared for any situation.
10. Can solo travellers visit the National History Museum in Dar es Salaam?
Solo travellers can visit the National History Museum in Dar es Salaam to learn about Tanzania’s rich cultural and historical heritage. The museum features exhibits on the country’s natural history, archaeology, and ethnography, providing valuable insights into Tanzania’s past and present.
Visitors can explore various artefacts, including fossils, traditional crafts, and archaeological findings, showcasing the diversity of Tanzania’s cultural heritage. Additionally, guided tours are available for those seeking a more profound knowledge of the exhibits and their significance.
11. Is Arusha National Park a suitable destination for solo travellers?
Arusha National Park is an ideal place for solo travellers. It offers different activities, such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching. Solo adventurers can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and Mount Meru, Africa’s fifth-highest peak.
12. How can solo travellers explore Stone Town in Zanzibar?
Solo travellers can explore Stone Town in Zanzibar by taking guided walking tours to discover its narrow alleyways, historic buildings, and bustling markets. It’s advisable to visit famous attractions such as the House of Wonders and the Old Fort, immersing oneself in the city’s vibrant culture and history.
13. Are there tour companies that cater to solo travellers in Tanzania?
Tanzania’s tour companies cater to solo travellers, offering customized itineraries, group tours, and day excursions. Solo travellers can choose from various options tailored to their preferences, budget, and interests, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience in the country.
14. What precautions should solo travellers take when travelling from Julius Nyerere International Airport?
Tanzania’s tour companies cater to solo travellers, offering customized itineraries, group tours, and day excursions. Solo travellers can choose from various options tailored to their preferences, budget, and interests, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience in the country.
