can you travel south africa alone

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Solo travel , South Africa

Complete guide to solo female travel in south africa.

Table of Contents

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When I talk to people about solo female travel in South Africa, I feel like there’s a question they want to ask. Sometimes they just blurt out ‘But isn’t that really dangerous?’ Well, not necessarily. There are many myths around solo travel and I’d argue this is one of them. But it does bring me to the question, is South Africa safe for solo female travellers and how do the advantages and disadvantages of travelling alone compare in this destination?

Read my other solo travel guides to Asia and Europe

I’d say there are two parts to this question.

Is South Africa a safe country?

Well, no. Poverty levels are high so understandably crime levels are, too. If you put yourself in the wrong situation, it could indeed be dangerous.

Can you have a safe and glorious solo trip to South Africa?

YES! Without a doubt. Bad things happen everywhere and the problems in South Africa are usually restricted to the areas you won’t be visiting. I spent two months travelling in South Africa and will treasure the memories forever.

Read next: 101 solo female travel tips

Solo female travel in South Africa

South Africa isn’t the world’s easiest destination for solo female travel so it may not be optimum for first-timers. I visited South Africa solo after having built up my confidence travelling solo in Europe and Southeast Asia. With that said, there’s no doubt it’s doable. If you’ve travelled alone before, you can absolutely travel solo in South Africa. It’s simply about playing by the rules and looking out for yourself that bit more than you would in stereotypically safe places for solo female travel like Southeast Asia . As long as you’re safe and sensible, you’re going to have a fantastic time. For someone from a small town in England, it feels unnatural to take precautions on a daily basis, but you adjust because your priority is safety as a solo female traveller . It’s a small price to pay to experience a country as jaw-droppingly beautiful and culturally rich as South Africa.

Solo travel in South Africa – the positives

Affordability.

South Africa is a really affordable place to travel. I would say things are about half the price of the UK. It’s not as cheap as Southeast Asia or Mexico but it’s still far cheaper than Europe or the US. This reduces the cost of calling a taxi or staying in a private room while travelling solo in South Africa.

Plenty of hostels

My solo travels in South Africa were enhanced by the quality of the hostels. It was easy to meet other travellers and find people to socialise with. In terms of safety, staying in hostels felt extremely secure. Front doors always needed a keycard or physical key to enter and many of the larger ones in Cape Town had full-time security guards.

English is widely spoken

While South Africa has 12 official languages, English is the lingua franca for media, government and tourism. This makes South Africa an easy place for solo travellers to communicate and ask for advice and tips should they need them.

Solo travel in South Africa – the challenges

Need for security.

While you can absolutely travel as a solo female in South Africa, it has its risks. One is crime so you’ll want to call taxis at night and keep your valuable belongings secure. I’ll offer specific tips as we go along.

Limited public transport

While there is public transport around Cape Town and South Africa, it’s not as good as some places. While staying in the suburbs with a friend, I ended up spending a lot on Ubers because there wasn’t a bus into the city. This wasn’t ideal for a solo traveller without someone to split the costs with.

Best places for solo female travel in South Africa

There were a few places I would recommend for solo travel in South Africa. These are…

Where to start with Cape Town? There’s excellent food, lively nightlife and endless hikes. There are a few very opulent, glitzy parts of Cape Town like the V&A Waterfront, as well as some upmarket areas for socialising like Camps Bay. There are also some up-and-coming areas like Woodstock with street art and food markets. Cape Town has plenty of green open spaces like the Company’s Gardens, Green Point and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Wildlife experiences include seeing penguins on Boulders Beach and seals in Hout Bay. There are so many hikes, the most popular being Lion’s Head for sunrise or sunset. Bottom line, solo travel female in Cape Town is a great idea provided you’re sensible and stick to safe neighbourhoods.

The Garden Route

The Garden Route is the section of South Africa’s south coast running between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. This is a great place for travelling solo in South Africa because it’s very safe and relaxed with low levels of crime. You can get around easily by car or the Baz Bus and none of the journeys are too long meaning it’s easy to arrive in daylight. There are plenty of hostels in the main ports of call, Mossel Bay, Wilderness, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Stormsriver and Jeffrey’s Bay. Some of the best things to do while backpacking the Garden Route include beaches, surfing, hikes and nature experiences.

The Wild Coast

Another destination suitable for solo female travel in South Africa is the stretch of coastline from Port Elizabeth to Durban. While the Wild Coast is home to relaxed beach locations like Coffee Bay, I found this section of coast more rugged and intriguing than the Garden Route. You can make a few inland excursions to Hogsback (known for its sweeping forest views and Instagrammable outside bathtub) and the Drakensberg mountains, on the border with landlocked country, Lesotho . Travel by car or Baz Bus. I explored this region of South Africa solo and felt perfectly safe.

South Africa’s third-biggest city is Durban, boasting upmarket neighbourhoods, beach areas, culture and nature. Windermere is one of the best Durban neighbourhoods and the Florida Road is the best place to stay, not far from the beach. Durban is home to a large Indian population so it’s a great place to learn about their culture in South Africa and try their unique cuisine not found elsewhere in the world.

Note about Johannesburg – I didn’t visit Joburg myself and it has one of the worst safety reputations as South Africa cities go. However, lots of travellers I met enjoyed their trip so I’m directing you to this solo travel guide to Johannesburg if you’re keen to visit.

Not sure you’re ready for solo travel in South Africa?

I get it. The idea of solo female travel in South Africa is more overwhelming than in Europe or Southeast Asia, especially for women. There are pros and cons of solo travel vs group tours but in South Africa, they’re a great idea due to the extra security they provide. I started my South Africa travels along the west coast on a G Adventures camping tour I’d been on for the past six weeks, beginning in Kenya. I’d recommend G Adventures for the organisation of the tours and knowledgeable local guides. Browse G Adventures tours here .

GetYourGuide tours: These day trips are great when you’re travelling solo in South Africa and want structure to your days and the chance to meet people. I’ve taken GYG tours around the world and they’re very affordable. Browse South Africa GYG tours here .

Feeling confident to travel solo in South Africa? YAS! Let’s dive into my female travel tips for South Africa…

Packing tips for solo female travel in South Africa

South Africa isn’t a particularly conservative country. Like anywhere, you might receive more attention if you show more skin but you don’t need to worry about covering up while travelling solo in South Africa. But do wear suncream.

While I’d suggest bringing shorts, dresses, t-shirts and whatever else you’d usually wear, you’ll benefit from a few extra layers as it gets dark early in South Africa and cools down quickly.

Dress for the season

Summer in South Africa is December to February and this is the season to expect high temperatures and droughts. March to May is autumn and a lovely time to visit as its cooler but not cold. You can wear shorts and dresses throughout the day but remember a sweater for the evenings. Winter is June to August and spring is September to November. Winter temperatures are around 63 degrees Fahrenheit / 17 degrees Celsius so you’ll need a jacket.

Hiking & safari clothes

A solo trip to South Africa isn’t all about Cape Town. It’s worth packing a few practical outfits for hiking in South Africa as well as outfits to wear on safari. For these, muted colours are best and you should bring an extra later for early starts and windy weather.

If you’re wondering whether you need proper hiking boots, it depends how much hiking you plan on doing. I did a lot, all in old running shoes. These hikes included Lion’s Head, Tsitsikamma National Park and Robberg National Park. I didn’t feel the need for proper hiking boots but then again, I did sprain my ankle. It’s up to you.

During past solo travels in Southeast Asia, I’ve become accustomed to dressing down for nights out. Cape Town is a place where the locals look stylish, especially in areas like Camp’s Bay. If you head for cocktails or dinner in one of the cooler suburbs, you’ll want to bring a few dressier outfits. I remember going for sushi in a cool bar shortly after arriving in Cape Town from my camping overland trip and feeling like such a (not-so hot) mess.

Check out my resources page for all the essential items I take travelling with me.

Tips for getting around

Have your arrivals figured out.

Aim to arrive new places during daylight hours. Check bus timetables and driving distances to ensure you’re checked into your accommodation by the time it gets dark. Even if you hire a car in Cape Town, it’s best not to drive in cities at night; take a taxi instead. If you arrive by public transport at any time of day, know the way to your accommodation, keeping your phone alive for any impromptu taxi journeys. The exception would be if you’re using the Baz Bus , a backpackers bus service taking you to the hostel door.

Plan your journey from the airport

Public bus: There’s an efficient airport bus that runs between Civic Centre Bus Station (Hertzog Boulevard) and CPT Airport. Look out for MyCiti Bus route #A01 which departs every 20 minutes between 5am and 9.30pm and takes 30 minutes to complete its journey. It costs between 48 and 80 ZAR depending on the time of day. Uber: You can also call Uber when you arrive at the airport. The designated Uber pick-up area is Parkade 1 on ground level. Expect to pay around 200 ZAR. Airport pick-up: If you’d prefer to have your transfer securely booked when you land, I would recommend a Private Airport Transfer from GetYourGuide .

Get the taxi apps

Uber was my godsend while travelling solo in Cape Town as it’s really cheap. You can also try Taxify which is popular in Cape Town. It was great to know I could call a cab while still inside a bar or friend’s house rather than wander the street looking for one. Make sure your phone has battery and consider investing in a power bank so you know that you’ll always have juice to get home. I use the  Anker PowerCore 15600 mAh  power bar.

Plan how to get around South Africa

There are the most popular ways to get around for solo travellers in South Africa. Car hire: To hire a car in South Africa, you just need a valid driver’s license and an International Driver’s License if your license isn’t in English. Hiring a car in South Africa is affordable and simple although it’s obviously cheaper if you have someone to split the costs with. You may be able to find other travellers to fill the seats while staying in hostels. Since I didn’t hire a car in South Africa , check out this guide linked. Baz Bus: I took this backpackers bus service while travelling solo in South Africa and found it safe and secure. For each journey, I was picked up from my hostel and dropped off at the door of the next one. You just have to confirm your journey the day before and tell them which hostel you’re staying at. The Baz Bus isn’t a tour and although you may get chatting to other guests and find yourself staying in the same hostel, there are no organised activities and you’re entirely on your own schedule.

You can opt for an 8, 14 or 21-day Baz Bus ticket or a hop-on-hop-off pass based on where you’re going. The options for this are Cape Town to Port Elizabeth; Cape Town to Durban; or Cape Town to Johanneberg, either single or return. You can also upgrade for Kruger safaris. The only downside of the Baz Bus is that it only travels every other day. Often I felt like two days in a place was optimum but I either had to stay one or three. Public bus: The third way to get around South Africa is by public bus. The main ones are Greyhound, Intercape and Citliner. They’re much cheaper than the Baz Bus and, while they have positive safety ratings, you’ll be dropped off at bus stations and have to find your own way to your accommodation. I met a few solo male travellers who had taken them but not solo females. In addition, these buses only travel between cities. You wouldn’t be able to reach beach towns along the Garden Route or Wild Coast. For that reason, they’re the least popular option for solo travellers in South Africa.

Solo female safety tips for South Africa

Avoid protests.

During elections and times of instability, South Africa has a history of rallies and protests that can cause problems. Check on the status of these and avoid travelling on protest days. Hotel staff and tour operators will be the best people to ask.

Don’t walk at night

I wouldn’t recommend doing this anywhere in South Africa as a solo female traveller. It’s just best to be safe. Call Uber in cities that have it, and ask hostel staff to call you a taxi elsewhere. In smaller Garden Route towns without Uber, I usually headed for an early dinner if I hadn’t met anyone to dine out with, aiming to head home by the time it got dark. You can always cook in your hostel or Airbnb if you’d rather.

But do socialise in the evenings

There’s no need to confuse ‘don’t walk at night’ with ‘don’t go out at night’. South Africa has fantastic restaurants, bars and clubs. A night partying on Kloof Street should be on your Cape Town bucket list . It’s fine to socialise, dine out and party while travelling solo in South Africa; just make sure you have an eye on your belongings, avoid bad neighbourhoods and have your journey home planned.

Check before visiting a new area

Don’t get me wrong, most countries and cities in the world have good and bad areas. But South Africa is a place where they often sit beside each other, for example Imizamo Yethu township located a three-minute drive from upmarket Hout Bay. While it’s incredibly unlikely you’ll wander into a bad area provided you have your senses switched on, it’s worth being aware that troubled areas exist and having a clear idea of where you’re headed. Hostel or hotel staff know the area inside out; take their advice. Ask them if you’re unsure about visiting a certain area you’ve not been before.

Suss out hikes

You should definitely do some hiking in South Africa, solo or otherwise. Most national parks have popular hiking trails where you’ll pass others and feel totally safe. However if you’re considering a hike you don’t know much about, I would suggest asking your hotel or hostel staff for advice. Firstly, they may lend you a map or give you some helpful tips. Secondly, they can tell you if there are any safety concerns, either due to natural elements or crime. Like hiking anywhere, it’s a great idea to tell someone where you’re going before a solo hike just in case you get lost or stuck.

Keep your belongings safe

An essential item for solo travel in South Africa is a cross-body bag or bum bag for your cash and phone. When you’re eating in a restaurant or cafe, it’s always best to keep your bag closeby, even if that means between your feet rather than behind you at the table. When in public, don’t flash your valuables. Put your camera back in your bag rather than walk down the street with it visible.

Get travel insurance

True Traveller are my top pick for travel insurance (European travellers only). They cover all regions and have different options for valuables and gadgets. It’s easy to get in touch and make claims. Get a quote now. For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Have an emergency purse

I was never victim to crime during two months of solo travel in South Africa but, like anywhere, it’s best to be prepared. Aim to have a few backup cards (my favourites for UK travellers are Starling, Monzo and Revolut) and only have one on you at a time. If ever your card’s pinched, cancel right away on the app and switch to your backup. In addition, don’t carry too much cash and, if you do, have it in a secure cross-body bag. It might be worth having an ’emergency purse’ in your accommodation with your spare cards and cash.

During solo travel in South Africa (or anywhere else), always give away your purse or phone rather than trying to fight and keep them. Your safety is more important!

Get a Vodacom SIM card

I always feel safer when I have a SIM card as I can hop online if I need anything and call Uber to exit any situation where I feel uncomfortable. SIM cards in South Africa are really affordable and can be purchased and topped up in any Vodacom store.

Update – there’s a new game-changer in the e-SIM industry: Airalo offering downloadable SIM cards for 200+ countries and regions. Browse their South Africa packages and connect when you land.

Lock car doors

This safety tip is pretty self-explanatory for solo travel in South Africa. Carjackings and break-ins aren’t uncommon so lock the doors when you’re in and out of the car.

Check sunset times

This is an important tip for solo female travel in South Africa. Plan your day’s activities around sunset. I’d walk around almost all areas of Cape Town (aside from townships) alone in the daytime but once it got dark, I’d make sure I wasn’t still wandering. There’s no need to be locked in your room: it’s safe to visit bars and restaurants at any time of day as long as you have your journey there and back planned.

Be aware of townships

Townships in South Africa are tightknit urban areas usually made of shanty houses. Many people would recommend you stay out of them altogether but actually, you can have a rewarding visit if you go with a reputable tour operator.  In fact, many townships like Johannesburg’s Soweto have booming businesses set up by the locals themselves and your visit can support their livelihoods. However, it’s not recommended to venture inside one without a guide.

Ethical tips for solo travel in South Africa

This is something I feel strongly about. Unethical tourism in South Africa, and many other countries, is damaging to its people and communities all around the world.

Be wary about township tourism

Do your research and find an ethical company to ensure you don’t pay into poverty tourism . There’s nothing worse than rich people oggling over poorer people, especially when it’s White People objectifying People of Colour for the sake of their travel experience. If you’re wondering about the ethics of township tours in South Africa , I would recommend finding a tour that empowers the locals by shopping and purchasing goods or services from businesses in the townships. Paying to tour them simply to observe people’s lifestyles isn’t helpful or empowering, especially since the money you pay a tour guide is unlikely to reach the residents.

Avoid unethical animal experiences

Unfortunately, there are lots of unethical practices when it comes to wildlife in South Africa. While poachers are the first thought that comes to mind, it can be more complex than this. Many companies who pledge to protect animals keep them captive for the purpose of tourism. Animal activities to avoid in South Africa include elephant rides, shark cage diving, ostrich riding and any kind of big cat walks or photoshoots.

One of the best ways to travel ethically in South Africa , and in fact anywhere in the world, is to support local livelihoods rather than corporations. This means stay in local guesthouses over global hotel chains, shop in local markets and eat and drink in local restaurants and coffee shops wherever you can. Buy directly from artisans if possible.

Use reputable tour agents

Ensure any tours you book are with responsible tour operators. Check the itineraries don’t involve slum tours, orphanages or unethical activities with animals. If in doubt, ask before booking. Read past customers’ Trip Advisor reviews rather than believe what the companies’ websites and social media channels say about themselves.

Cape Town solo female travel tips

Since I spent over a month in this incredible city, I have plenty of tips for solo travel in Cape Town. These include…

Stay in a good neighbourhood

Stay near Kloof Street, the V&A Waterfront or Green Point if you want a safe but central location. Although it’s a little further from town, the area from Camp’s Bay through Clifton and Sea Point is relaxed and near the beach. However, this is best for solo female travellers in South Africa with cars as public transport isn’t great. Central hostel: I liked never@home in Green Point. As well as a lounge, garden area, restaurant, Wi-fi and airport shuttle, it was a social place for solo travel in Cape Town.

Set aside enough time

There are so many things to do in Cape Town for solo travellers. If you’re thinking of swinging by for two days before getting on the road, I would adjust your schedule. I spent a month in Cape Town and didn’t do everything. Personally, I think 5-7 days is the bare minimum. Set aside a day for wine tasting in Stellenbosch, a morning or afternoon to hike Lion’s Head, a day to road trip the Cape Peninsular , half days for Robben Island, visiting Bo Kaap and the V&A Waterfront… Then there’s Kirstenbosch National Park, quirky Woodstock neighbourhood, seal boat trips in Hout Bay and checking out the Clifton Beaches, Camps Bay and Sea Point. It never ends!

Climb Lion’s Head with a buddy

If you’re summiting Lion’s Head for sunrise or sunset (which I’d highly recommend as it’s the most beautiful time to do it), you’ll either be climbing up or down in the dark. It’s not unheard of for thieves to target lone hikers. Another reason to hike with a friend is that if you fall and sprain your ankle (AKA if you’re me and clumsy), you’ll have support. I attempted to hike Lion’s Head for sunrise and fell on the way up, meaning my new hostel buddies had to sit and watch sunset with me on the side of the mountain. I felt guilty but it was better than being stranded alone and injured in the dark.

While travelling solo in Cape Town, buddy up for the hike. Consider a GetYourGuide tour for security.

The biggest bucket list experience I had in Cape Town was paragliding from Lion’s Head in the early morning!

Don’t eat at the Waterfront – unless it’s the market

In my opinion, the V&A Waterfront is a lovely place to wander around and soak up the city. But like many cities in the world, there are touristic restaurants which are overpriced. While I’d recommend dining in other areas, you can make an exception for the V&A Market which is stacked with all kinds of deli goods, street food, cheeses, desserts, coffees and more. It’s not super cheap but since it’s all takeaway, at least you won’t end up running up a huge restaurant bill.

Solo wine trips

Solo travel and wine tourism don’t necessarily go hand-in-hand as you don’t have a designated driver. But it would be a shame to miss fantastic wine regions like Constantia, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch while travelling solo in Cape Town. There’s no public transport connecting Cape Town to these places so you’re best off booking a day tour which also means you’ll have new friends to drink with. GetYourGuide have some great options for Stellenbosch and Franschhoek :

Use MyCiti bus

As I mentioned, the public transport isn’t amazing in Cape Town but it does exist. Between some places, like the city centre and Camps Bay, it’s easy to jump aboard MyCiti bus. They even have an app so you can check timetables. I would suggest using the bus whenever you can and taking Uber the rest of the time.

Solo female travel on the Garden Route, South Africa

Travelling the Garden Route solo is very different to exploring Cape Town solo. The Garden Route is less about cool neighbourhoods, nights out and third-wave coffee shops and more about hikes, beaches, nature and small surf towns. I’m glad there were plenty of backpackers hostels otherwise travelling solo on the Garden Route could have been a bit lonely.

Read next: complete backpackers guide to the Garden Route

These are the best stops for solo female travel on the Garden Route:

Mossel Bay: This relaxed beach town is a great first stop after leaving Cape Town. Do: Hike the St Blaize Trail spotting furry rock hyrax and dolphin. Eat: The Merchant. Drink coffee: Blue Shed Coffee Roastery. Wilderness: This is one of the best stops for nature and outdoor activities. Do: Hire a canoe from Eden Adventures and paddle to Kaaimans Waterfall; hike to the hippie caves; visit the Map Of Africa View Point. Eat: Zucchini Restaurant, Caroline’s Chocolate Haven. Hostel: Beach House Backpackers .

Knysna: This slightly larger stop on the Garden Route has all your amenities. Do: Cycle to the Knysna Heads, watch sunset at the waterfront, walk across the bridge to Thesen Islands. Eat: Caffe Mario. Hostel: Jembjo’s Knysna Lodge & Backpackers . Plettenberg Bay: This chilled town near the coast is good for nature excursions. Do: Snorkel with seals at Offshore Adventures, hike in Robberg National Park. Eat: Market on Main. Hostel: Albergo For Backpackers .

Stormsriver: This tiny place is a good stop for hikers. Do: Hike in Tsitsikamma National Park. Hostel: Dijembe Backpackers (if you don’t mind a basic place with lots of character). Where to eat: Mugg & Bean. Jeffrey’s Bay : Chill out in surfer’s paradise. Do: catch some waves! Hostel: Island Vibe Backpackers . Eat: JBay Bru Co.

Solo South Africa essentials

Copy of Lonely Planet Cape Town & the Garden Route . A handy bumbag to keep your belongings secure. A reusable water bottle that you can fill up with filtered water (your accommodation will have this). Metal straw and cloth bag set to reduce the use of plastic straws. Travel luggage – I use the Mountain Warehouse Traveller Backpack (60L with 20L detachable backpack). A camera – I use the Sony DSC-HX350 Digital Compact Bridge Camera which I think is one of the most affordable options based on the zoom and quality of photos. Solo travel pick: a tripod or mini GorillaPod to get yourself in the shot – I use the Manfrotto tripod and Joby GorillaPod .

Safaris for solo females

This is where solo travel in South Africa isn’t ideal. You can self-drive around Kruger but I understand wanting company. One option is rounding up other travellers in hostels and hiring a car together. Another option for solo travel in Kruger is staying in a lodge in the greater park that offers game drives. However, this is not a budget option! Alternatively, you might want to join a hop-on-hop-off or overland tour like G Adventures or African Budget Safaris . If you’re travelling on the Baz Bus, check out their Kruger add-ons.

What to budget for a solo trip to South Africa

A month in South Africa set me back around £800 ($1000 USD / 17,000 ZAR). I travelled on a hostel budget, often cooked my own meals in hostels but did splash out on the occasional brunch and hipster coffee. I enjoyed free hikes and beach days having had my fill of ‘bucket list’ safari experiences on my previous camping tour from Kenya. For safaris, you’ll need to increase this budget.

Budget for accommodation: Budget 200 ZAR per night for hostels and 350 ZAR upwards for Airbnbs. You get great fantastic value in some really gorgeous properties. Budget for food: Main dish in a mid-range restaurant – 80-200 ZAR. Coffee in a cafe – 40 ZAR. Budget for activities: Activities in South Africa are affordable compared to many other regions in the world but still priced towards tourists. I paid 900 ZAR for two hours of snorkelling with seals. Budget tips for solo travel in South Africa – most hostels have kitchens and South Africa has decent supermarkets. You can buy pasta and cook a basic meal or indulge in affordable supermarket steaks and bottles of wine! (No judgement about doing this solo; I did). Buy food with a shelf life of more than a day or two so that you have time to eat it.

Events in South Africa

You may want to include a festival or event in your South Africa solo trip. Some options include: AfrikaBurn – this celebration of culture is South Africa’s answer to California’s Burning Man. AfrikaBurn tickets sell for around 1000 ZAR and the annual festival is held in April. While you’ll need to be part of a camp and bring enough food and water for the duration of the festival, there are always Facebook groups that organise events for foreign travellers. Durban Film Festival – this September festival has been running for 40 years. As well as celebrating South African cinema exploring themes around innovations and the world we live in, Durban Film Festival runs alongside writing, dance and poetry festivals. National Arts Festival – this culture festival held in Makhanda is the largest of its kind in Africa attracting 50,000 guests each year. There are arts, crafts, dance, music, theatre and many other kinds of entertainment. The National Arts Festival is held each year in July. Lastly, my overall piece of advice for South Africa…

Don’t get hung up on statistics

Yes, South Africa has high crime rates. But the majority of these happen in certain areas and in communities of people who know each other. In Cape Town’s five safest neighbourhoods (where you’re likely to be) there have never been any murders ever. If you’re on the fence about solo travel in South Africa, be realistic about the neighbourhoods you’ll be visiting, rather than considering the country as a whole. You don’t need to become a new person or live your life in an entirely different way to travel South Africa solo: you just need to set your habits accordingly. As soon as you arrive, you’ll get into the swing of how locals and other tourists act and it’ll become second nature. Enjoy your solo trip to South Africa. It will be amazing and you will be fine!

Thanks for reading!

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading my guide to solo female travel in South Africa and feel confident and excited about doing so. If these tips helped, please share this blog.

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Check out my other South Africa posts:

• The ultimate guide to Cape Town
• The Garden Route travellers guide
• A trip to Bo Kaap: Cape Town’s most colourful postcode
• Cooking the local food in Cape Town
• A guide to the Woodstock street art
• Where to eat in Cape Town

And my solo female travel posts:

• 101 solo female travel tips
• 10 advantages of solo travel
• How to take solo travel photos
• How to overcome solo female travel challenges
• Group tours vs solo travel: the pros and cons
• 10 myths about solo travel you should ignore

Solo travel in the Americas:

• Mexico solo female travel guide
• Is Mexico City safe for solo female travellers?
• Travelling alone in Cuba – what you need to know
• Solo travel in Guatemala
• Solo travel in Belize, is it safe?

Solo travel in Asia:

• The best destinations for solo travel in Asia
• Solo travel in Bali
• The best places for solo female travel in India
• Is solo travel in India safe?
• Tips for travelling alone in Malaysia
• Is Taiwan safe for solo female travellers?
• Solo female travel in Vietnam
• Solo travel in Thailand
• Guide to solo travel in South Korea

Solo travel in Europe:

• Where to travel alone in Europe
• Ultimate guide to solo female travel in Europe
• How to maximise a solo trip to Italy
• Solo travel in Lisbon
• Solo female travel in Portugal
• Croatia solo female travel
• Is Albania safe for women?

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked these tips for solo female travel in South Africa? Pin this for later!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

6 thoughts on “ Complete Guide To Solo Female Travel in South Africa ”

Very informative and lots of good advice and tips.

Thanks Betty!

thank you so much for sharing it is really gonna help for my trip that im planing to take this year for the first time.

Glad it helps, enjoy!

Lots of great content, ideas and reassurance. Thanks so much for publishing this, Rose!

Good reading, advice and tips! Thank you!!!

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• South Africa
• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveller’s Guide to South Africa

South Africa is a kaleidoscope of diverse people and natural wonders – not for nothing was it named the ‘Rainbow Nation’ by Archbishop Desmond Tutu after apartheid ended in 1994. You’ll fall in love with the beaches, rugged mountains, inspiring hikes, exciting native wildlife, vibrant cities and delicious wines, all at a price almost half of what you’d pay in the UK.

The south africa low-down for solo travellers.

The biggest misconception is safety. You can travel – with friends or solo – with no issues, as thousands of visitors do annually. Use your judgment as you would anywhere in the world and stick to safe neighbourhoods, especially for accommodation. Don’t wear flashy jewellery , and always visit a township (or shanty town) with a reputable local guide. You’ll get the facts on the place and eat the best local foods. South Africa has 11 official languages, including English. Learning some South African words, such as howzit (hello) and dankie (thank you), will instantly connect you with locals.

A South Africa trip overview

Most people fly into Cape Town or Johannesburg (Joburg) – both deserve a week minimum. Cape Town brims with great food and wine; it’s beautiful, artsy, adventurous and diverse. Table Mountain reigns supreme, offering magnificent views from the top. In Joburg, learn about apartheid, Soweto and multiple Nobel Prize winners. Braamfontein showcases the Neighbourgoods Market, an open-air food-and-design market, and historical and contemporary African art at Wits Art Museum. Also, Joburg has a winery – Gerakaris Family Wines, next to leafy Delta Park.

Around Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, there are several private reserves that protect many species from trophy hunters. For spotting the Big Five, consider Amakhala Game Reserve.

Coastal Durban has expansive beaches, warm weather year-round and high-rises reminiscent of Miami. Stop at KwaZulu-Natal on the way, if driving from Joburg, and hike to view Tugela Falls – among the tallest waterfalls in the world – dropping from the Drakensberg. The craggy landscape along the Wild Coast shelters the idyllic towns of Port St Johns, Coffee Bay and Chintsa.

One of the prettiest drives is the Garden Route between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. Discover some of the quaintest towns in the country. Surf at Jeffreys Bay and stroll the stunning beaches in Plettenberg Bay and Sedgefield. Also, spend a few days with wine in Stellenbosch. A 30-minute drive from Cape Town, it’s abuzz with architecture, history and boutique hotels. Join a wine tour so that you don’t have to drive.

Where to stay in South Africa as a solo traveller

In South Africa, many excellent hostels have private rooms at unbeatable rates. Some of the best are along the Garden Route. Try Afrovibe Beach Lodge in Sedgefield and Buccaneers Lodge and Backpackers in Chintsa.

Hotels are better options in Joburg. Try boutique classic 54 on Bath in Rosebank; it has large classy rooms and stunning historical decor. There are also good-value hotels close to exciting bars and restaurants in Norwood, Melville, Newtown and upmarket Sandton.

For something unique, stay in a rooftop vintage Airstream trailer at the refurbished Grand Daddy Hotel on Long Street, Cape Town. The views are fabulous.

What to do in South Africa as a solo traveller

South Africa is known for being home to the Big Five, but there are many other cool things to tick off…

Try paragliding off Table Mountain and cage diving with great white sharks in Mossel Bay or crocodiles in Oudtshoorn. Snorkel with seals in Hout Bay, and surf and paddleboard with penguins off Boulders Beach, Simon’s Town, between checking out the baboons and ostriches at Cape of Good Hope. Segway, zip line and bungee jump in Storms River, and swing from Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. Alternatively, enjoy a more sedate sunset helicopter flight over Cape Town, or in the morning, soar over Paarl vineyards, the vastness of Joburg or nearby Crocodile River Valley in a hot-air balloon. All are superb.

You’ll partake in a Dyer Island marine safari and another free day at Storms River as part of Culture Trip’s exclusive 10-day Rainbow Nation road trip .

Take it easy

Rest, relax and soak up the history of Cape Town and Joburg on a hop-on, hop-off bus. Discover what shaped this beautiful country and its people at its various iconic stops.

Shop and see art

Visit artisans at work in the Watershed by V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. Money spent on purchases goes directly to their communities. Find the best designer wares, chic boutiques and Sunday markets in Maboneng, Joburg.

Eating and drinking in South Africa

The food in South Africa is as diverse as the landscapes and people. From high-end French to authentic Indian, Asian, Middle Eastern and South African meat lovers’ fare, it’s excellent value. Game meats (kudu, zebra, warthog, ostrich) are top-notch; springbok is a must. If you miss it at a traditional braai (barbecue), try it in a restaurant, including Marble Restaurant in Joburg.

Like Indian curry? Bunny chow, which originated in Durban, comes in a hollowed-out loaf of bread and is eaten with your hands. Combine a walking tour with Cape Malay cooking classes in historic Bo-Kaap.

Other South African specialities include biltong (dried beef), boerewors (spicy sausage), rooibos tea (red and bitter) and Amarula, a deliciously smooth liqueur similar to Bailey’s.

Go wine tasting on the wine tram in Franschhoek or the hop-on, hop-off Vine Hopper in Stellenbosch, the birthplace of pinotage, a home-grown smooth, earthy red grape. The local chenin blanc is also a standout and absurdly cheap.

Craft breweries and microbreweries are also widespread. Sample a range at Drifter Brewing Company in Cape Town. Combine your ale tasting with sightseeing on a craft-beer city tour. Soweto Brew Co in Joburg is as eclectic as the beer and barbecue it offers.

You’ll try Tsitsikamma Micro Brewery craft beer when staying at Tsitsikamma Village Inn as part of Culture Trip’s exclusive 10-day Rainbow Nation road trip .

Getting around in South Africa as a solo traveller

There are ample domestic routes and flight options – try budget airline Kulula. In addition, Intercape and Greyhound operate comfortable buses around the country. In cities, use UberBLACK or a private driver, which is much cheaper than in Europe or the USA.

Cultural need-to-knows

It’s easy to meet people in South Africa; they’re open, friendly and warm. A smile usually seals the deal. Be thoughtful with what you wear, but you needn’t worry about culturally covering up in funky places such as Camps Bay, Cape Town and Rosebank in Joburg. On safari, you don’t need a whole new khaki wardrobe – black and neutrals are fine.

Fancy exploring the Rainbow Nation with a small group of like-minded travellers? Sign up for TRIPS by Culture Trip’s 10-day adventure Cape to Cape: Discover South Africa’s Wildlife, Winelands and the Garden Route . You’ll enjoy highlights such as stand-up paddleboarding with penguins and climbing Table Mountain.

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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Solo Female Travel in South Africa — Is it Safe?

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South Africa is one of my favorite places on the planet — especially to travel alone. It’s a country I fell in love with instantly, a country I’ve gone on to travel extensively on three different trips. South Africa fills me with a deep happiness that I’ve found very few places in the world.

But is it safe?

That’s the question most people ask about South Africa. And for good reason — South Africa has a high crime rate and you have to guard against theft and assault in ways that you wouldn’t even need to think about in other countries.

Is it crazy for a woman to consider traveling to South Africa alone? No. It’s not crazy. I firmly believe that with the right research and preparation, almost any destination on the planet can be traveled safely by a woman on her own. I wrote this guide to serve as a strong resource for your research.

There are lots of South Africa travel guides for women that either downplay the dangers (“Just have common sense, you’ll be fine!”) or are overwhelmingly fearmongering (“DON’T GO THERE, IT’S NOT SAFE!”). I disagree with both approaches. The truth is in between, and there are a lot of safety issues specific to South Africa. You need to be cautious of panhandlers who don’t just stay in one place but follow you. You can take the Gautrain, sure, but the Metrorail can be dicey. And vacuum-wrapping your luggage is usually unnecessary, but you should do it if you’re flying through Johannesburg.

I have traveled South Africa several times and spent some of that time traveling alone. I’ve stayed safe and had a good time — then again, I’m a very experienced solo traveler who writes about solo female travel for a living. I think traveling solo in South Africa is best for experienced women travelers with a lot of solo travel experience under their belts.

Table of Contents

Why Travel to South Africa?

Because it is one of the most beautiful countries on the planet. I believe this fervently. South Africa doesn’t get enough credit for its astounding natural beauty. The coastline, the mountains, the deserts, even Kruger is gorgeous. And Cape Town is one of the most beautifully situated cities on the planet.

Because it has some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. Kruger National Park is one of the outstanding wildlife destinations on the planet. There are tons of animals, from elephants to giraffes to zebras to lions to rhinos, and they’re highly concentrated. Safari guides say that you shouldn’t plan on seeing the Big Five — leopards are always the toughest — but it’s a lot easier here than some of the other safari hotspots in Africa.

Because the adventure activities are outstanding. New Zealand might have the reputation of being the world’s adventure capital — but South Africa has a LOT to offer (and it’s cheaper here, too). Bungee jumping off the bridge in Storms River, crocodile cage diving in Outdtshoorn, paragliding off Lion’s Head in Cape Town, cage diving with great white sharks in Mossel Bay, leaping off one of the world’s scariest swings in Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.

Because the wine is some of the best in the world. South Africa is actually my favorite wine country! If you don’t think you’re a fan of chardonnay, wait until you try South African chardonnay, with its magical vanilla notes. Chenin blanc and Pinotage are two local standouts, and it’s absurd how cheap the bottles are.

Because it’s extremely affordable. South Africa is an affordable country to begin with, and on top of that, the local currency has taken some hits in the past few years. You can visit South Africa and have an outstanding, adventure-filled trip for far less than what a trip to Australia or New Zealand would cost.

Is South Africa Safe?

There is a lot of fearmongering about South Africa, particularly in my home country of the United States. If you watch American cable news, you’d think that it’s a hotbed of carjackings and robberies and that apartheid ended yesterday.

That’s overblown, of course — but once you arrive and see that every home has a giant fence built around it, that may unnerve you a bit. Then talk with middle-class South Africans and hear about how much they talk about their security systems and it will unnerve you more.

South Africa has a high rate of crime, including violent crime like rape and murder. Much of it is localized (particularly in neighborhoods where no tourists will go). Here is GOV.UK (the British government’s travel advisory site, which I find to be less alarmist than the US site) with what they have to say about South Africa:

South Africa has a very high level of crime, including rape and murder. The risk of violent crime to visitors travelling to the main tourist destinations is generally low. The South African authorities give high priority to protecting tourists and tourism police are deployed in several large towns. The risk of crime increases in urban areas across South Africa, particularly in central business districts in major cities, and townships on the outskirts of major cities. A higher state of awareness is required if travelling through these areas. Most cases of violent crime and murder tend to occur in townships remote and isolated areas. Consult a reliable tour guide if you visit a township.

And there are outlying incidents — when I was on the Blue Train back in 2012, one of most luxurious trains in the world, farmers protested by throwing rocks at the train, breaking the windows of some of the cabins. Nobody was hurt, though glass shattered all over my friend’s cabin. (I was in the shower and missed the whole thing.)

One thing I find in my travels is that so many people associate 90s conflicts with today. Colombia is a perfect example of that — people assume that the drug wars and kidnappings of the 90s are still in full swing. So a lot of people, particularly of older generations (i.e. your parents) haven’t heard much about South Africa on the news since the end of apartheid, and those images are burned into their head.

In the past decade, only two stories about South Africa got mainstream coverage in the US: the death of Nelson Mandela and Oscar Pistorious murdering his girlfriend. Not exactly stories that extol the beauty of the country.

South Africa can be traveled safely — but you need to know about this context. Read on for how to stay safe in South Africa.

Is South Africa Good for First-Time Solo Female Travelers?

I do not recommend South Africa for first-time solo female travelers. This is a country where you have to be on your guard constantly, particularly when it comes to theft, and I think first-timers are better off getting their feet wet in another destination.

Instead, if you have your heart set on South Africa, I recommend that you join a group tour instead.

G Adventures offers dozens of tours to South Africa.  I have traveled with G before and recommend them, as they employ local guides, focus on sustainability, and keep their tour sizes small. They’re a lot of fun, too! Here are some of their South Africa tours:

• South Africa & Swazi Quest (17 days, Johannesburg to Cape Town) — This budget, 18-30-somethings trip covers most of the major highlights in South Africa, including safari in Kruger, with a quick Swaziland detour. You can also do the Johannesburg to Durban half (9 days) or the  Durban to Cape Town half (10 days) .
• Hiking South Africa (17 days, Cape Town to Johannesburg) — This trip takes you to some of the most stunning parts of the country and includes hiking in the Drakensburg Mountains, the Tsitsikamma Rainforest, plus stops in Lesotho and Swaziland.
• Mozambique, Kruger, & Swazi Discoverer (13 days, from Johannesburg) — This tour combines safari time in Kruger and Swaziland with beach time in Mozambique.
• See all their South Africa tours here.

A less structured tour option is the Baz Bus.

The Baz Bus is a hop-on, hop-off backpacker bus that travels along the coast and drops you off at hostels. While I have never used it, several of my female colleagues have and they’ve loved it. I’ve always wanted to try the Baz Bus, and I would definitely use it if I planned a South Africa trip that traveled along the route.

• The hop-on, hop-off bus route travels from Cape Town to Johannesburg and reverse, including popular towns along the Garden Route and harder-to-reach spots like Cintsa and Coffee Bay on the Wild Coast.
• You can add on a Kruger National Park safari or a number of other day tours, rounding out the most challenging part of traveling solo.

Is South Africa Good for Experienced Solo Female Travelers?

Yes! South Africa is fantastic for women who have already traveled solo! I did my first solo travels in South Africa after I had a few years of solo travel experience under my belt (as well as 10 days traveling with a group in South Africa) and I didn’t have any issues whatsoever.

If you’re an experienced solo female traveler, you can do whatever you want. Nothing in South Africa is too touristy for you. Oh, and don’t think you’re too good for the hop-on, hop-off bus in Cape Town — I actually think it’s one of the best ways to see Cape Town! I’ve done it on two different trips!

How to Get Around South Africa as a Solo Traveler

It can be a challenge to get around South Africa — the public transportation here isn’t nearly as good as Europe, for example.  Public transportation is limited in some destinations and nonexistent in others. So what’s the best way to get around the country?

You can get around by flying and using public transportation.  If you’re basing in a few areas during the trip, you can get by this way. South Africa has tons of domestic airline routes, including on budget airlines like Kulula. I went on safaris that picked me up from Hoedspruit airport; I got around using Uber in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Stellenbosch; and while a local friend drove me the hourlong journey from Cape Town to Stellenbosch, I could have hired an Uber or private car to do the same.

In Johannesburg I enjoyed taking the Gautrain, a sleek, modern train running between the city center and the airport. I do not recommend taking the Metrorail, the train system in and around several South African cities, due to the poor infrastructure and risk of theft.

For longer distances, you can get around on South Africa’s bus networks. Two bus lines are Greyhound South Africa and Intercape. I took Intercape from Cape Town to Knysna and back, and though it was a long ride (eight hours each way!), it was fairly comfortable. (Interestingly, Intercape is a Christian business and there’s a prayer before the journey.)

You can rent a car.  South Africa is such a great country for a road trip — I loved my road trip along the Garden Route! It gives you the maximum freedom, and so much of the fun is stopping at the bizarre places along the road ( you MUST read about my visit to Ronnie’s Sex Shop ). Keep in mind that in South Africa they drive on the left.

If you rent a car, avoid driving in the major cities at night. While carjacking is no longer as big of a threat as it used to be, it still happens in rough neighborhoods today. Some of my South African friends don’t stop for red lights in certain neighborhoods at night. Since you don’t know the neighborhoods, avoid driving in the major cities at night.

Smash-and-grab car robberies are not uncommon. For that reason, keep valuables out of sight in your parked car. In fact, you might want to avoid keeping ANYTHING in your car altogether.

Finally, there’s the Baz Bus, a backpacker bus that takes you along the coast and from hostel to hostel. The good thing about the Baz Bus is that it stops exclusively in destinations for tourists, it connects you to a network of travelers, and it takes you from hostel to hostel so you don’t have to worry about additional transport. (And South African hostels often have private rooms if dorms aren’t your thing.)

I’ve never taken the Baz Bus, but I’ve always wanted to! If I plan another trip along the route that the Baz Bus takes, I’ll definitely try it.

Travel and Safety Tips for South Africa

My #1 tip for solo female travel in South Africa is to not put yourself in isolating situations.  Every time I go to South Africa, this is something that locals frequently warn me about. If I were riding a motorbike around Thailand or Italy and saw a gorgeous empty beach, I wouldn’t hesitate to go down and take some photos — but this is something that I wouldn’t do in South Africa due to the risk of robbery or sexual assault.

Stay in places where people are around. That’s the single best thing you can do to keep yourself safe.

Get a SIM card from Vodacom.  SIM cards are important because they help you navigate around cities and allow you to call Ubers. Get a big data package — it’s cheap here. Remember to bring your passport to the store.

Use UberBLACK when you can. Uber was a game-changer for South Africa — it made it possible for locals to get reliable taxis. While UberX is dirt cheap, UberBLACK is staffed by professional drivers. Rides on UberBLACK cost twice as much as UberX, but they’re still cheap enough to be worth it. Uber is available in most major cities in South Africa, including Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Stellenbosch.

I had one scary experience with an UberX driver in Cape Town who didn’t know what he was doing and got lost. I demanded he take us back to the restaurant where he had picked us up. After that, I only hired UberBLACK drivers and didn’t have any incidents.

Do not walk around alone after dark. This is often given as advice to women traveling alone anywhere, which I think it ridiculous — most cities are perfectly safe to walk around alone. I wouldn’t think twice about walking alone at night in Paris or Buenos Aires or Bangkok or New York, where I live. But South Africa is different. You shouldn’t really walk around alone after dark at all; if you’re in doubt, ask a staff member at your accommodation or restaurant. Just use Ubers for ridiculously short distances; drivers are used to it.

Panhandlers will often get up and follow you in South Africa, sometimes for a long time. This is unusual and it scared me the first time it happened, but my local friends kept me calm. If this happens to you, just ignore them and keep walking. 99% of the time they will eventually lose interest and leave you alone.

People will often scam you by offering to help you in an airport or finding an ATM in a tourist area, then will ask you for a tip. If you say no, they’ll become angry and make a scene until you give them money. If anyone offers to help you in a tourist zone, you can say yes, but be prepared for this to happen.

Consider vacuum-wrapping your luggage if you’re transiting through O.R. Tambo Airport in Johannesburg. I never wrap my luggage anywhere else, but I do here. It’s not uncommon for luggage to be burglarized while in transit, but thieves are less likely to choose a wrapped bag and make it obvious. As always, keep all your valuables in your carry-on luggage.

Know that late afternoon can be a popular time for petty crime.  Not everywhere — but some neighborhoods, including the highly Instagrammable neighborhood of Bo-Kaap in Cape Town, tend to have more crimes take place during the late afternoon hours. If you’re in one of these neighborhoods, the locals will tell you that you should get going.

Driving requires extra caution. Smash-and-grab robberies in cars are common; you’re best off keeping nothing in view in your car when it’s parked. Carjacking still happens today, though it’s less common than it used to be and is usually confined to certain neighborhoods. It’s best not to drive in cities at night.

Don’t visit a township without a guide. Plain and simple. Visiting a township alone opens you up to the risk of theft.

There was a drought on the Western Cape a few years ago, so bad that public restrooms in Cape Town offered hand sanitizer in lieu of water. These regulations were relaxed in October 2018 when the situation improved, but you should make an effort to minimize your water usage while in South Africa.

Listen to your safari guides. It may seem safe on safari, but that’s only because your guides are in control of the situation. NEVER get out of the safari vehicle unless your guide tells you it’s safe to do so. Be careful about standing up unless you’re in a vehicle with a roof.

Many of South Africa’s beaches have strong currents but there is often no signage reflecting this. Only swim in the ocean after you confirm with locals that it’s safe to do so.

Be careful about your drinking.  Drink less than you ordinarily would at home — two drinks is a good limit. Only take drinks from bartenders, never take a drink from a stranger, and always keep it with you and keep an eye on it.

Be cautious about wine tourism in South Africa. Getting intoxicated means that you lose your inhibitions, which may make you susceptible to theft or assault. I recommend doing wine tasting as part of a tour — there are lots of great wine tours based in Cape Town , as well as the the hop-on, hop-off Vine Hopper wine tasting tour in Stellenbosch — but try to keep your consumption low. There’s no shame in not finishing your sampler glass — or spitting!

Don’t flash your valuables or wear expensive jewelry. If you’re out taking photos with an expensive-looking camera, be extra cautious. Only take out your camera and phone when you need them — don’t walk around absentmindedly with them in your hand.

Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.  If you carry a purse, hold it close to you. I recommend a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. I recommend many purses in this post.  Never let it hang behind you — always keep it in a place where you can see it, and keep your hand on it if you’re in a crowd.

If you carry a wallet without a purse, don’t keep it in your back pocket. This is obvious to thieves and they will grab it and run.

If you use a small backpack, lock it. I use a Pacsafe backpack where you can lock the compartments shut.

If someone robs you, GIVE THEM WHAT THEY WANT.  Things can be replaced. Nothing is worth your life.

Keep your valuables locked up in your accommodation and only take with you what you need that day.  I do this with my Pacsafe Travelsafe and I consider it the most important thing I pack . Keep an extra debit card and at least $100 hidden in obscure parts of your luggage.

Get an extra debit card. You should have two debit cards to two different bank accounts. If you only have one, I recommend you get a debit card from Transferwise . Keep a few hundred dollars in your account, hide the card deep in your luggage, and use it if your primary debit card is stolen.

Bring a Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf.  These scarves are one of the best ways to hide your valuables. They come with a secret pocket for your passport or other valuables that no thief will ever know about.  Check out the ones I designed here.

Never leave your bags anywhere unattended. Even if you’re used to asking someone to watch your things while you use the bathroom in a coffeeshop at home, don’t do that in South Africa. Take your belongings with you. If you’re keeping your bag under the table or otherwise out of sight, keep it between your feet or hook the strap around one of the chair legs.

Don’t carry tons of cash around with you. You can use credit cards almost everywhere in South Africa, and carrying lots of cash leaves you vulnerable to theft. Don’t be the traveler who loses her wallet and the $500 in it.

Only use ATMs at banks during the day, indoors. Don’t use standalone ATMs in convenience stores. Not only do they leave you susceptible to robbery, if your card gets eaten, it’s a lot easier to retrieve it from a real bank’s ATM. If you can’t find a bank, use an ATM in a shopping mall.

The internet in South Africa is not great. It’s a lot better than it used to be, but lots of hotels and businesses offering wifi still have absurdly low data caps. Know this if you’re planning to work or do a lot of uploading in South Africa. I find having a SIM card with a big data plan can be a good substitute for this, especially if you tether.

Are you gluten-free? You can definitely survive in South Africa (and my gluten-free friend Beth ate well), but know that a lot of people in South Africa follow a wheat-free diet as opposed to a gluten-free diet. It’s a bit bizarre that a lot of restaurants know how to avoid wheat but don’t know anything about gluten, so make sure you explain your allergy.

Malaria is present in a few parts of South Africa, including Kruger National Park. This is the South Africa malaria map from the Center for Disease Control in the US. Some travelers choose to take malaria pills and some choose not to. Some people choose to get a yellow fever vaccine as well. I’m not going to tell you what to do because that’s a conversation you and a medical professional should have. I recommend seeing a travel doctor.

Get a digital guidebook and keep it on your phone.  Even today, I always keep a guidebook PDF on my phone — it’s great for calculating approximate time of journeys, knowing what days places are closed, and it lists medical centers you should go to in case of emergency. I’m a big fan of Lonely Planet guidebooks — get the digital version of Lonely Planet South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland . If you’re traveling in Namibia, Botswana, or other surrounding countries, check out Lonely Planet Southern Africa .

Spend extra money on staying safe. If it costs you money to take an Uber rather than walk a short distance, or to stay in a hotel in a nicer neighborhood, do it. It’s worth the peace of mind. Don’t pinch pennies on your safety.

Most importantly, you have no obligation to be nice to anyone. Women often feel the need to be nice and please people at all costs. You don’t have to anywhere — especially so in South Africa. If anyone is making you feel uncomfortable, just leave. Trust me — you won’t be the rudest person they meet that day. And so what if you were? You’re never going to see them again.

Top 10 Travel Safety Tips for Women

Traveling Ethically in South Africa

Many people traveling to South Africa plan to visit a township, volunteer, or do some kind of work that helps the less fortunate. While many people have the best intentions, acting on these desires can often cause more harm than good.

Look out for slum tourism masquerading as a cultural activity.  In South Africa slum tourism often takes the form of township tours. I’ve personally visited townships in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Knysna, pictured above (all as part of campaigns with South Africa Tourism). While some township tours are based on genuine cultural exchange and provide much-needed income to the community, others treat locals like human zoos or don’t compensate them fairly.

It’s not easy to discern whether or not a township tour is ethical. When researching try to find out where the money goes, if the company is partnered with a local organization, and the size of the group (small is ideal). Small, local companies are best. One company I’ve seen highly recommended is  AWOL Tours in Cape Town .

Be very wary of voluntourism. Many people want to go to South Africa so they can volunteer and make the world a better place. Unfortunately, too many of these tours have amateurs performing work that should be done by professionals. When you’re building a school with no masonry experience, locals will often have to tear down badly built walls and do it themselves.

The best kind of short-term voluntourism is by skilled professionals performing their work for people who don’t usually have access — like healthcare professionals.

Do not photograph children.  And definitely do not post their photos on the internet. Children are too young to consent, and they do not exist for your entertainment. I personally no longer photograph children unless their faces are obscured or they’re part of a crowd scene.

Do not visit orphanages. This is one of the most destructive, cruel, and ego-driven activities in travel. Wealthy white travelers get their photos hugging smiling poor black orphan kids (who might not even be orphans, and are kept from their families to keep the sympathy money rolling in. Best case scenario, if it’s a legitimate and decent orphanage, you’re hurting the kids by getting close to them and then departing, leaving them to struggle with forming relationships in the future. Do not go to orphanages — not in South Africa or anywhere else on the planet.

Be very wary of animal activities. The ideal animal activities have you observe the animals and not interact — activities like safaris. The worst activities involve you walking with lions, or getting up close with sleeping (likely sedated) animals for photos, which I did once and now regret.

Do not geotag rhinos. Rhinos are an endangered species susceptible to poaching. Revealing their geographic location — like on Facebook or Instagram — can put them in danger. However, some of the private reserves openly advertise their rhinos and have them guarded 24/7. Talk to your safari guides and see what they suggest.

What people need the most is resources for their own people to build a better future.  Kids should grow up with role models who look like them and are from their community — not strangers who drop in for photo ops. And the best way to do this is to donate to a legitimate local charity so they can use the money themselves. Charity Navigator is a good resource for researching charities.

The Best Experiences in South Africa

Seeing animals in the wild. I yelped with joy the first time I saw a herd of impala leaping across the grass. There’s something about seeing these animals in the wild that turns you into a child again. Baby elephants are so playful; lions are so regal. Seeing endangered rhinos is particularly moving.

Seeing Cape Town from a helicopter. Some cities are better to see from a helicopter than others — and in my opinion, Cape Town is the BEST city on the planet to see from above. Go in the late afternoon for the best light over the city.

Swinging from the top of Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. This is one of the most terrifying-looking swings in the world — not for the faint-hearted! An adrenaline rush like no other. If you’re not into it, watch your friend do it and giggle at their screams.

Cage diving with crocodiles in Oudtshoorn. Get lowered into a pool filled with crocodiles as they lazily swim around you — and later, get told that you’re crazy by your friends and family.

Stopping at wineries and sampling the libations. South Africa not only has some of the most delicious wines in the world — it also has excellent value for money. If you’re road tripping, consider dropping by little wineries and having samples costing the equivalent of a few dollars.

Watching the penguins play in the surf at Boulders Beach. Just south of Cape Town on the Cape Peninsula is a beach where penguins play! Boulders Beach is a great spot in between visiting Hout Bay and the Cape of Good Hope. The penguins even surf!

Trying some animals you’ve never tried before. Ever had zebra steak? Or kudu? Or springbok? Or warthog? This is the place to do it. They are all delicious.

Finding the perfect souvenirs at the Watershed . One good reason to save Cape Town for the end of your trip is to go souvenir shopping at the Watershed by the V&A Waterfront, which is filled with more than 150 booths by local artisans. The stuff here is NICE. You can get everything from clothing to jewelry to housewares to kids’ toys, all from local creators.

Where to Go in South Africa

It’s so hard to narrow down my favorite places in South Africa! I have tons that I love.

Cape Town — Truly one of the world’s magnificent cities, and so beautiful that it will make your heart ache. Cape Town is gorgeous and artsy and adventurous and filled with good food and wine. The top of Table Mountain provides one of the best Instagram spots in the entire nation. Cape Town’s neighborhoods are pretty diverse as well, and there are so many good day trips within a short distance.

Kruger National Park — If you’re coming to South Africa for the first time, you should prioritize going on a safari, and this is where to do it. Kruger itself is the size of Israel or New Jersey, but it’s surrounded by private wildlife reserves with safari lodges. Do a day trip into the park itself if you can; I found the wildlife there to be the most concentrated of all.

Johannesburg — Is it worth it to go to Johannesburg? It’s not for everyone, but I actually like this city a lot! Johannesburg is home to the Apartheid Museum, worth visiting to understand the context of South Africa today, as well as the only street home to multiple Nobel Prize winners (Vilakazi St. in Soweto), and I love the boutique-and-restaurant-filled Parkhurst neighborhood. Johannesburg also home to one of my favorite boutique hotels in the world, 54 on Bath .

The Garden Route — The Garden Route is a collection of small towns strewn along the Western Cape, between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. This route is home to gorgeous scenery, excellent little towns, and some of the best hostels in the country. I particularly love the forested town of Knysna, the beachside town of Plettenberg Bay, the endless beach at Sedgefield, the Tsitsikamma Forest in Storms River, the surf spot of Jeffreys Bay, and though some don’t consider it part of the Garden Route, the dusty, ostrich-filled town of Oudtshoorn.

Durban — This city is often compared to Miami — it’s a city with high-rises, a huge beach, and warm weather year-round. Durban is also home to South Africa’s Indian community, and you can get delicious Indian food anywhere you look here. Be sure to try a bunny chow (curry in a hollowed out loaf of bread) — you’re supposed to maul it while holding it in your hands!.

The Wild Coast — This stretch of the Eastern Cape earned its name — the sea has carved out the landscape into craggy nooks, and just getting here on the bumpy roads can be a challenge. I particularly love the town of Cintsa; the towns of Coffee Bay and Port St. Johns are worth visiting too.

Stellenbosch — This is the center of wine in South Africa, and it’s also a fun university city. Stellenbosch is a great place to visit at the end of your trip, where you can spend your days chilling out, wine tasting, and eating good food. Nearby Franschoek makes a nice side trip.

A Guide to Stellenbosch: South Africa’s Wine Region

Where to Go After South Africa

If you’ve already traveled this far, why not see another country or two?  You can easily spend a month in South Africa seeing new places every day, but if you want to visit another country, South Africa pairs very well with the following destinations:

Namibia. Namibia’s brilliant sand dunes make a great contrast to South Africa. Visit the Sossusvlei for incredible photos of the sand and the famous Deadvlei (dead trees), then head to Swakopmund for adventure on the coast, or continue the safari fun with a trip to Etosha National Park.

Victoria Falls. Located on the Zambia/Zimbabwe border (yes, you can visit both), the thundering falls are home to dozens of adventure activities, from whitewater rafting to microlighting to bungee jumping. It’s possible to do a side trip to Botswana’s Chobe National Park from here.

Botswana. If you want more elephants in your life, Botswana is one of the best destinations in the world for seeing them. Chobe National Park and the Okovango Delta are both rich in elephants, as well as other wildlife. Botswana is some to some excellent high-end safari resorts.

Mozambique. Mozambique is home to the most brilliant white sand beaches in Africa. Travel in Mozambique is rough and takes forever — if you want it to be easier, do as South Africans do and plan a beach getaway at a resort near Vilanculos or Inhambane.

Eswatini (Swaziland) and Lesotho. The two small countries nestled up against South Africa are each worth visiting in their own right — Eswatini (it renamed itself in 2018, but the name change has been slow to pick up internationally) is home to outstanding safari and wildlife opportunities; Lesotho good to visit for mountain views and pony trekking.

How to Meet People in South Africa

If you’re looking to meet people in South Africa, you’re in luck — South Africans are awesome!  They are so warm and friendly and open to meeting people. Befriend a local and you’ll be invited to a braai (barbecue) in no time.

Consider staying at a social hostel. You don’t have to stay in a dorm — South Africa has tons of excellent hostels with private rooms, for surprisingly good rates. Two of my favorite social hostels in South Africa with private rooms are  Afrovibe Beach House , right on the beach in Sedgefield on the Garden Route, and Buccaneers Lodge and Backpackers , right on the beach in Cintsa.

Go on safari. When you’re on safari you’ll probably be sharing a vehicle with the same people twice a day — it’s a great way for friendships to spring up. I’m still in touch with a lot of people I met on safari.

Join tours.  Tours are a great way to meet new people! I probably made the most friends on my Vine Hopper wine tour in Stellenbosch, then promptly forgot them by the next day. Ha.

Look for Couchsurfing meetup events in South Africa. Couchsurfing isn’t just for free accommodation — they also put on meetup events where everyone is welcome. I’ve gone to these kinds of events all over the world.

Join a meetup on  Meetup.com . Whether you’re into travel, running, movies, board games, or just want to meet a group of nice people, there’s a Meetup for that.

Put out feelers on social media. Often a friend of yours will have a cousin or friend living in South Africa who will offer to meet you for coffee, just so you know someone. Take advantage of this if you can.

Tinder. If you’re looking to date or hook up, have fun! South Africa is full of beautiful people.

What to Wear in South Africa

There are lots of countries where you need to dress carefully, but South Africa is not one of them. You should be thoughtful in what you wear, but you don’t need to dress up for a fashion-conscious country, like in Italy, nor do you need to be hyper-focused on covering up, like in more conservative countries.

That doesn’t mean that South Africans don’t have style — FAR from it! Go out in Rosebank in Johannesburg or Camps Bay in Cape Town and you’ll see fashionable people dressed to the nines in brightly colored patterns! You can have fun with fashion in Cape Town and Rosebank, but you won’t feel left out if you keep things simple.

Safari is one place where you should pack carefully. You can’t exactly pop into H&M when you’re in the middle of the bush! Since safaris take place at dawn and dusk, the temperature will vary enormously and you’ll want to wear layers for the different temperature changes.

Neutral colored, layered clothing. This doesn’t mean you need to go out and buy an all-khaki outfit for safari! Black works just fine; blue jeans are fine. Just don’t wear a neon yellow-and-pink-striped top. I usually wear dark green jeans, a tan t-shirt, a light tan jacket and my black puffer jacket on top.

Uniqlo down puffer jacket. I LOVE this little jacket! It’s so versatile and packs down so small. It was the perfect top layer for safari.

Boots.  I brought a pair of Steve Madden combat boots , bought secondhand on Poshmark. You can get away with sneakers.

Sun protection. Bring a wide-brimmed hat (preferably one that has a strap or holds tight to your head), sunblock, SPF-containing lip balm, and sunglasses. Pull your hair back; your hair will go crazy in the wind if you leave it down! I usually wore mine in a braid.

What else should you pack for South Africa?

Comfortable shoes. I have bad arches so almost everything I own is from  The Walking Company . Depending on where you go in South Africa, I highly recommend their orthotic flip-flops (yes, orthotic flip-flops exist and they are a GAME-CHANGER!), black ABEO flats (this brand is outstanding and they have excellent arch support) or a pair of boots . If you plan on hiking, you’ll want to bring hiking boots.

Speakeasy Travel Supply scarf.  These beautiful scarves are designed and sewn by my friend and have a hidden passport pocket in them that no thief will know exists. I love these scarves ( I even designed my own! ) and they are so good at keeping your valuables hidden.

Crossbody purse.  I recommend using a crossbody purse, made out of a tough material like leather or fake leather, that zips shut. This is the kind of purse that is much harder for thieves to snatch.  I recommend many purses in this post.

Light jacket. I found my little leather moto jacket to be ideal for South Africa in the winter — warm enough when paired with a scarf on a chilly but clear July day in Cape Town. On safari, where we were in the cold more often, I preferred my Uniqlo down puffer jacket .

Travel Insurance for South Africa

Travel insurance is vital for trips to South Africa — or any other country. If you get appendicitis while in Durban or break your ankle while hiking up Table Mountain, travel insurance will help you in your time of need and protect you from financial ruin. If you need to be flown home, it could save you well over $100,000.

And it’s not just about injury. If you get robbed, travel insurance can refund you for what was stolen from you. If your flights are cancelled due to weather, travel insurance can refund you. And if you have a death in the family and need to get home immediately, travel insurance will help you get home fast.  I use and recommend World Nomads travel insurance for trips to South Africa.

The Worst South Africa Travel Tip and What to Do Instead

I often see the book Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee recommended for people traveling to South Africa. It’s a book by a South African author taking place in South Africa, and it won the Nobel Prize in Literature, so why not read it?

The truth? THIS IS THE WORST BOOK YOU CAN POSSIBLY RECOMMEND. It’s about a professor sexually coercing his much younger student, then he loses his job, then his daughter gets gang-raped in the countryside. It’s literally the book I would give to someone I wanted to scare away from ever traveling in South Africa.

If someone recommends that book to people planning a trip to South Africa, either they haven’t actually read it or they are grotesquely tone-deaf.

Instead, read Born a Crime: Stories of a South African Childhood by Trevor Noah. This book is so good it’s unreal . Trevor Noah has a unique story — as the son of a black mother and white father born in 1984 during Apartheid, his existence was literally a crime. He had to live in the shadows for much of his life until Apartheid ended.

This book is about Noah’s search for identity and his unusual upbringing. Hustling and performing as a kid, being the odd one out in his large family, protecting his mother from domestic violence. It’s riveting — and as he’s a comedian, the book is both heartfelt and hilarious. There is no other book like this, and it gives you an introduction to so many aspects of South African life.

I particularly recommend getting this as an audiobook. In the audio version Noah does so many different voices, accents, and speaks different languages — it’s a pure joy to hear.

South Africa is waiting for you!

I am so jealous that you’re about to embark on your first trip to South Africa. It was an experience I’ll never forget — and that’s why I keep returning. Every trip is wonderful, but there’s nothing like the magic of your first time.

South Africa requires more preparation and safety consciousness than other countries, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it. For experienced solo female travelers, South Africa is a beautiful, thrilling, and memorable destination.

Go have the time of your life in South Africa. Then come back and tell me all about it!

The Ultimate South Africa Road Trip Itinerary

Adventurous Kate’s Offbeat Guide to Cape Town

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Solo Travel in South Africa

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 .

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9 Things You Need to Know Before You Travel to South Africa Solo!

by Ashleigh Page Last Updated: Nov 4, 2023 South Africa , Africa , Travel Destinations

Page Contents

South Africa is a beautiful place to travel.

The incredible landscapes, people and animals, it makes for a broad and unforgettable experience.

Truth be told, it was one of my favourite destinations in Africa, however there are several things you MUST consider before you travel to South Africa as a female or solo travelle r.

1) Many of the Locals Speak English

South Africa is one of the greatest cultural melting pots in Africa , therefore there are many different languages spoken, especially in cities like Cape Town.

Given a lot of the population speak good English it makes it easier to get around and communicate with the locals which is awesome!

2) How to Stay Safe in South Africa

The high murder rates and negative media have caused many to perceive South Africa as a dangerous travel destination. And sure, crime definitely continues to be an issue.

In most cases however, the really bad incidents often occur in areas that aren’t frequently visited by tourists.

That’s not to say tourists aren’t targets of petty crime, but from my experience i f you keep to the touristy spots in the city, stay away from the “burbs” or city outskirts and take the right precautions, you should be ok.

If you’re planning to travel to South Africa, you should be on your guard most of the time. There are some places in Johannesburg for example, that I wouldn’t touch with a 10-foot pole.

In those areas you MUST be really careful, cautious or avoid entirely, especially as a female or when travelling solo.

Related Articles:

• Is Cape Town Safe for Solo Travellers? 
• The 5 Best Wine Regions in South Africa for Wine Lovers!
• Is Solo Travel Safe? Our Top Safety Tips for Solo Travellers

3) Don’t Be Careless with Your Belongings in South Africa

My third tip that you need to know before you travel to South Africa, is to be careful with your belongings.

Please remember that you are not in your home country. Stolen handbags, cameras and phones are a regular thing in South Africa.

When I was in Cape Town, I met some locals who were warning me of the importance of not being on my phone in public. Initially I thought it sounded paranoid, but she soon told me about her personal experience.

One time, she had her phone snatched FROM HER HAND whilst on a phone call in the street. A man literally came up from behind her, grabbed her phone, jumped straight into a taxi and took off.

She didn’t see it coming and never saw her phone again.

I also met a traveller in my hostel who was freaking out because she’d had all her stuff stolen on New Year’s Eve. 

Her passport. Her bank cards. Her Cash. EVERYTHING!

At the time, I was thankful that it wasn’t me and felt absolutely terrible for her. But, we later found out that her negligence and naivety were partly the reason for her things being stolen.

Firstly, she had been drinking, dancing and partying all night on the beach. Second, she left her hand bag (with all of those critical items inside it) unattended on the sand.

An absolute NO GO in South Africa.

Anti-Theft Travelling Tips 101:

• NEVER EVER leave your passport and other critical documents in your handbag unattended.
• ALWAYS have backups of cash, credit cards and even a photocopy of your passport in your luggage.

That way, if something gets stolen you’re not completely F**CKED.

The “snip and run” tactic is also very common when it comes to over-the-shoulder handbags. That’s why I like to make it a habit to hold my hand on my bag or position it at the front of my body whilst walking through the city / in public places.

4) Pick Your Accommodation Wisely Before You Arrive in South Africa

When booking your accommodation, I highly suggest that you do some research on the safest areas of the city before you go.

You DO NOT want to get stuck in a position where you think you’re staying in a safe hostel or neighbourhood, but upon arriving realise that you’re in a super shady or dodgy area of the city.

This can be one of the scariest experiences you have when travelling. Trust me, I know!

5) Public Transport in South Africa

Public transport in South Africa is not like that of other developed countries.

It’s practically non-existent.

To my surprise, Uber was actually a really common and safer form of cheap transport in South Africa. Just ensure that the person you book with has a good number of positive reviews.

When you have met a couple of other travellers and want to explore the city together, Uber can be a great option. 

It’s cheap, trackable, the money transaction happens over an app, and drivers are given reviews so you know who you’re jumping a car with.

If you’re not keen on ordering an Uber, you can always use a taxi.

You can also walk around parts of the city where there are lots of tourists. Based on my experience, I spent a lot of my time walking between the main tourist sites and didn’t have any problems.

6) Driving in South Africa

One of the best ways to travel around South Africa is to hire a car and road trip.

But in certain parts of South Africa, a lot of crime and car hijacking happens when people are stopped at traffic lights (robots), intersections or stop signs. Especially at night.

Driving at Night

Car theft in general, is a big problem in some South African cities, such as Johannesburg.

In Johannesburg as an example, it is very uncommon for locals to actually stop their car at a red traffic light or stop sign when driving at night.

Doing so put you at risk of becoming prey to a carjacker.

My friend in Johannesburg told me that the government even started removing vegetation and bushes from the side of road intersections because car-jackers were using them to hide behind.

Leave significant space between other cars

It is also recommended that you leave significant space between yourself and the driver in front, especially at the traffic lights.

That way if a car tries to block you from behind or from the side, there’s always enough gap between you and the front car to escape.

Please be cautious and wary of this if you hire a care to drive around in South Africa.

Keep an eye on your rear-view mirror

Always keep an eye on your rear-view mirror.

If you think that someone is following you, avoid driving back to your accommodation as they could use that as an opportunity to box you in.

Drive around in circles as needed until they get bored or realise that they’ve been noticed.

Other Driving Tips:

• Like Australia, South Africans drive on the left.
• Don’t get out of your car or leave your car on the side of the road to take photos
• Leave enough space to the car in front so you can escape if needed
• Don’t stop at traffic lights, top signs or intersections at night
• In an intersection without street lights, the first vehicle that arrives has the priority.

7) You’ll Need to Venture out to see Wildlife

If one of your biggest reasons for travelling to Africa is because you want to see the BIG 5 (eg. Lions, Elephants, Rhino, Leopard & Buffalo), you’re going to need to venture outside of the cities to do so.

Lions, giraffes and elephants don’t just roam through the city.

In most cases, you’ll need to book a proper tour or safari to one of the many National Parks in South Africa to get a good look at the animals in their natural habitats.

Related Article:

• 5 Best National Parks in South Africa for Safari Drives

8) South Africa Cities vs. Western Cities

When I was travelling to Cape Town, I was really surprised by how similar Cape Town felt to cities in Australia.

It was the perfect place for me to start my backpacking journey through Africa, because I experienced less of a culture shock compared to if I flew straight into Tanzania, for example.

Cape town particularly, created a nice transition for me as you generally have access to western comforts, lots of safe activities and an African vibe and culture.

9) Living Costs in South Africa are Relatively Affordable

In South Africa, most tourists find that the cost of food and alcohol is really well-priced compared to a lot of Western countries.

I personally found that food options were diverse and cheap, which made for a very delicious trip.

Accommodation is also very affordable, whether you opt for a hotel-stay, a guest house or self-catering unit.

You can browse and book accommodation in South Africa via Booking.com or HostelBookers.com.

But I did find that some tourist activities were SUPER expensive.

When I was in Cape Town, I was actually surprised at how expensive some of the tourist activities were, such as shark cage diving, safaris etc.

Therefore, if planning on doing a lot of touristy activities and tours in Cape Town, you may want to take this into account in your travel budget.

• 10 Cool Things for Solo Travellers to do in Cape Town

In general, South Africa is a fantastic place for solo travellers, and is one of my favourite travel destinations in Africa.

As mentioned in this article there are however, numerous things you must know and consider before you travel to South Africa solo.

Particularly when it comes to crime and safety.

If you need help organising your first trip to South Africa, here are some great resources to check out to help you get started.

• How to Create a Travel Budget That Actually Works! 
• Solo Travel: How to meet people & make friends while travelling
• Travel Gear for Solo Travellers

If you’re interested in travelling to South Africa, here are some great tours and activities you can check out for some trip inspiration.

In Summary:

9 things you need to know before you travel to south africa solo..

• Many of the locals speak English
• Staying safe is the #1 Priority in South Africa
• Don’t be careless with your belongings 
• Pick your accommodation wisely before you travel
• Be aware of how local transport works
• Be aware of key driving tips when in South Africa
• You’ll need to venture out of the main cities to see wildlife
• South African cities often have a similar feel to some Western Cities
• The living costs in South Africa are relatively affordable

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South africa’s best solo trip destinations.

Travelling solo can be a very daunting experience. A lack of proper planning and a bad destination choice can lead to much regret. However, the flip side of the coin is that a solo trip can also be a fondly unforgettable and pleasurable experience.

In fact, solo travel can be viewed as the ultimate self-indulgence. You get the chance to bond with self and to partake in activities that your loved ones may find boring. It is also a great way to meet new people.

South Africa has many parts that are suited to solo travel. Here are some of the best:

City life and buzz in Cape Town

When in the Mother City, it is highly unlikely that you will feel lonely. As such, it is the perfect destination for solo travellers. Whether you’re looking to connect with self or meet some new people, it’s the right place to be. There is plenty to do and explore including visiting popular landmarks and partaking in activities that tickle your fancy.

If you’re lucky enough, you may even bump into other solo travellers who are willing to spend time with you around any of Cape Town’s  pristine beaches. For some alone time, you can have a solo date at one of the many stunning restaurants, or head to one of the city’s luxurious spas for some peace and pampering.

Taking it easy in Umhlanga

Close to King Shaka International Airport, the upmarket suburb of Umhlanga has an all-year round holiday feel. As a solo traveller, you can enjoy a peaceful walk around the promenade, try out interesting restaurants and even spend some time at the beach. Gateway Mall is also not too far, so you can catch a movie or satisfy your inner shopaholic.

Due to the number of tourists who are usually around the area, you’re also bound to come across new and interesting people who may be solo travellers like yourself.

The scenic Garden Route

Keen for an experience you won’t regret along a scenic stretch of coastline? The Garden Route is for you! Embarking on a solo roadtrip along the Garden Route is nothing short of marvellous. Places such as Plettenberg Bay and Knysna which are along the route have a lot of beauty and fun to offer, including unique restaurants which you can try out as a solo diner.

A tranquil  Mpumalanga safari

Mpumalanga is a lovely and tranquil destination to visit. The province has a lot of great safari lodges, affording you some much needed time off in the quietude of nature. For wildlife sightings, you can join into group game drives. This way, you can meet new people and share your Safari experience.

There is also never any shortage of fellow travellers wanting to chat about their own sightings, restaurant visits and overall experience in and around the area. After all, being alone doesn’t have to amount to an experience of unbearable loneliness.

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Wanderlust Movement | A South Africa Travel Blog

Backpacking South Africa Alone: The Perfect One Month Itinerary

March 1, 2017 by Lauren Melnick

Last Updated on March 30, 2024 by Lauren Melnick

Backpacking South Africa alone is a thought that never crossed my mind.

I was forever dreaming about exploring far-flung countries in Asia or the lost civilisations of South America. However, after spending six months in Thailand , it hit me how much I had seen there and how little I had explored my country. So in December of 2016, I decided to remedy this by setting off on my first solo backpacking trip in South Africa.

It was an incredible month. I saw landscapes I never knew existed and got to see how international tourists experience my country. As corny as it sounds, it was eye-opening, and I recommend it to anyone – whether you are a local like myself or a tourist who wants to sink their teeth into this amazing country.

Here is my complete one-month backpacking South Africa itinerary for solo travellers!

Table of Contents

Backpacking South Africa One Month Itinerary

Top things to see and do in johannesburg:, where to stay in johannesburg:, how to get to the drakensberg:, top things things to see and  do in the drakensberg, where to stay in the drakensberg, how to get to durban, top things to see and do in durban, where to stay in durban, how to get to umzumbe, top things to see and do in umzumbe, where to stay in umzumbe, how to get to coffee bay, top things to see and do in coffee bay, where to stay in coffee bay, how to get to hogsback, top things to see and do in hogsback, where to stay in hogsback, how to get to port elizabeth, top things to see and do in port elizabeth, where to stay in port elizabeth, how to get to tsitsikamma, top things to see and do in tsitsikamma, where to stay in tsitsikamma, nature’s valley & wilderness: 2-4 days, top things to do and see in cape town, where to stay in cape town, johannesburg: 2 days.

Affectionately nicknamed Jozi, or the City of Gold – South Africa’s biggest city has it all. From a thriving live music scene to delicious food and a rich cultural history , this bustling city has a unique character that has a vibe unlike any other city in the country.

While it does have a reputation for being one of the most unsafe areas in the country, if you keep your wits about you as you would anywhere else in the world, you will be okay.

• Start your day at Greenside Cafe with one of their delicious vegan breakfasts .
• If you are looking to understand South Africa’s tumultuous history, make a stop at the Apartheid Museum.
• Explore The Cradle of Mankind , a World Heritage site and discover what life was like for our ancestors more than 3 million years ago.
• Unleash your inner art freak and explore the creative melting pot that is Maboneng District .

Read More:  10 + Best Hiking Trails in Johannesburg (A Local’s Guide)

Once in Joburg is one the top-rated backpackers in South Africa and is located in CBD within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, Kitchener’s and the monthly cultural event First Thursdays.

Drakensberg: 3 days

The Drakensberg is one of the most beautiful parts of South Africa. Its amphitheatre is regarded as one of the most impressive cliffs faces on Earth , and it is the perfect stop for backpackers in South Africa who love the outdoors.

• Mainline buses like Intercape stop in a town called Harrismith. Amphitheatre Backpackers then offers a shuttle bus from Harrismith right to their door.
• The most expensive option is BazBus which goes straight from Johannesburg to one of their listed Drakensberg backpackers.
• Hike Tugela Falls in the Royal Natal National Park
• Visit Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve . It is home to the largest indigenous forest in the Drakensberg and 3, 900 rock art paintings.
• Sign up for rock climbing day trips to the Swinburne area or the high berg for more advanced climbers.
• Border hop over to Lesotho for a day trip.

Read More:  The Best Drakensberg Hikes That’ll Take Your Breath Away

I stayed at Amphitheatre Backpackers  and could not recommend it enough. The backpackers has hiking trails on the property, incredible views of the Drakensberg mountains in the distance, pool, restaurant, beautiful accommodation and a tour desk to organise all of the above.

The only thing that I did not like was the poor WiFi connection and the fact that it wasn’t free.

Durban: 1 Day

I’ll be honest with you. I did not like this city at all. Besides having shit weather the entire time I was there, the only thing that left an impression on me was my couch-surfing host. We had the best time, and I’d recommend ditching the hostel route and meeting up with a host if you can. How this place got featured as 7th out of 52 places to visit in 2015 by The New York Times, I’ll never know.

• Take the BazBus from Amphitheatre Backpackers straight to Durban.
• Take the backpacker shuttle back into Harrismith and catch a mainline bus to Durban.
• Explore the city on foot with one of Curiocity Backpackers walking tours.
• Get wet with the Durban’s variety of water sports.
• Visit The Chairman , a sophisticated jazz bar and one of the best-kept secrets of the city.
• Head to Cool Runnings on a Thursday and take part or watch their epic drum circle event.

I spent one night at Curiocity Backpackers in Durban. I loved the decor, the dorm rooms were huge, and my windows opened up onto the busy streets of the CBD. The hostel also organises different communal events daily such as a braai night and plenty of comfortable couches. I miss those couches. However, I did have the same issue I had with Amphitheatre. The WiFi situation is lacking; I am not for this system of limiting me to x amount of data each day.

Umzumbe: 3 days

Umzumbe wasn’t on my radar until my couch surfing host told me all about Mantis and Moon backpackers. It quickly became one of my favourite spots on this trip and is an ideal stop for backpackers in South Africa looking to chill and take things slowly for the next couple of days.

• Southern Shuttle buses have pick-up points around Durban CBD and can drop you right outside Mantis and Moon on request.
• Take a mainline bus into Umzumbe but will have to either walk to your accommodation or organise a lift.
• BazBus will take you straight to a backpackers on their list.
• Take part in one of the daily yoga classes at Mantis and Moon’s on-site studio, surrounded by the forest.
• Learn how to surf  while backpacking South Africa with a professional instructor at Mantis and Moon.
• Explore the Umzumbe blue flag beach and keep a lookout for dolphins, whales, crabs and plenty of other sea life.
• Take a day trip to Lake Eland and choose from a self-drive safari,  gorge swinging, abseiling and a zip line that reaches speeds of 160 km/h.

Read More:  50+ Genius Ways To Save Money for Travel

I stayed at Mantis and Moon Backpackers in Umzumbe. My first night was spent in one of their treehouse dorm rooms before I moved into a glass treehouse for the next three days. The location and the property itself is a private jungle that feels like something out of a fairy paradise. At night you can hear the waves crashing, and the hostel has a lively bar area for those looking to party the night away.

Read Next: 9 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Lake Eland Game Reserve

Coffee Bay: 3 days

Located on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, this small town has a lot to offer travellers backpacking South Africa. The landscapes are incredible, the town has a rustic feel to it, and for those looking to trip balls, it is the only place in all of South Africa that drug dealers have ever tried to sell me drugs.

• The roads to Coffee Bay are not in good condition . So if you are driving make sure your car can handle dirt roads as you dodge cows, sheep, horses and potholes.
• While the BazBus website claims Coffee Bay is on their list, it is not. Baz will drop you off at a small town called Umtata and then you will need to organise and pay for another shuttle with Coffee Shack Backpackers to get into town.
• Backpackers can also take a mainline bus to Umtata, but will once again need to contact the backpackers to get a lift into Coffee Bay.
• Learn to surf, hire out gear or go on a day trip to some of the best local surf spots.
• Hike or drive to the area’s most famous landmark – The Hole in the Wall.
• Explore the Mpuzi Cliffs , check out the Bat Cave and bring your GoPro along for some awesome cliff jump shots.

Coffee Shack Backpackers is right by the beach and a gorgeous cliff face that drops off into the ocean. This hostel does have a reputation for legendary parties, so I decided to skip staying in their dorms and spend three nights at one of their authentic Xhosa rondavels.

The WiFi situation here is pretty bleak, and Coffee Shack only gives you 50 MB per day. The silver lining? It’s a chance to disconnect from the virtual world for a few days, as you backpack through a part of South Africa where the WiFi is weak, but the views are strong.

Hogsback: 4 days

A bath on the edge of the forest? Yup! You can find this beauty at Away With The Fairies in Hogsback, South Africa.

Hogsback is hands down one of the most magical places in South Africa. Surrounded by the beautiful centuries-old Amathole mountains, staying here is a must for nature lovers and those of us that still believe in fairies.

• The easiest way to get to Hogsback if you’re backpacking South Africa without a car is to catch a mainline bus into East London or Chintsa . Away With The Fairies Backpackers has a daily shuttle bus that runs between East London, Chinta, and Hogsback.
• Once again, BazBus does say Hogsback is on their list, but you’ll be fetched from Umtata and dropped off in East London or Chinta. And you will still need to pay for the shuttle into Hogsback.
• Hike a subsection of one of the best hiking trails in South Africa – The Amatola Trails.
• Choose from 1- 8-hour hiking trails starting from the bottom of Away With The Fairies garden.
• Rock climb one of the 60 bolted routes in the area and abseil down the beautiful 35m Madonna and Child waterfall.
• Visit the Crystal Corner and enjoy a stunning photo gallery, stone circle, and labyrinth.

I spent an entire week at Away With The Fairies Backpackers in Hogsback, and it was not long enough. This rustic hostel has a hot water outdoor bath that overlooks the valley below, delicious pizzas, and is within walking distance of all the restaurants and amenities in town. I stayed in their dorms as well as The Dragon’s Lair.

The WiFi situation is fast and free, but the backpackers do turn it off after 6 pm to encourage socialisation.

Port Elizabeth: 2 days

Port Elizabeth is one of the major cities in South Africa and is an award-winning wildlife destination . It is known as the only place in the world home to the Big 7 and has a 40km stretch of protected beaches.

• From Hogsback, you’ll want to take the Away With Fairies shuttle back into East London and then hop onto a mainline bus to Port Elizabeth.
• Addo Elephant National Park is the only place in the world where you can see the Big 7 and is home to over 500 elephants.
• Adrenaline Addo boasts South Africa’s longest zip line.
• Go on a three-hour sandboarding adventure and ride some of the biggest dunes in the Eastern Cape.
• Hit the water and surf, snorkel and dive in one of South Africa’s highest-rated cold water dive locations.

Read More:  How to Visit Addo National Park: A Complete Self-Drive Safari Guide

I couch surfed for the three days I spent in Port Elizabeth, but I have heard great things about Hippo Backpackers and Lungile Backpackers from fellow travellers.

Tsitsikamma: 3 Days

Tsitsikamma is one of the beautiful spots along South Africa’s famous Garden Route . This coastal reserve is known for its lush indigenous forests, dramatic coastline and one of the most popular hiking trails in South Africa – The Otter Trail .

• The easiest way to get to Tsitsikamma is to catch a mainline bus to Storms River. Dijeme Backpackers can then organise a shuttle to fetch you from the Engen petrol station and take you into town.
• Alternatively, you can use the BazBus to go from your backpackers in PE to Storms River.
• Hike the first 3km of the famous Otter Trail or explore the suspension bridges inside Tsitsikamma National Park.
• The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour takes you through the indigenous forest canopy on an exhilarating two-hour tour.
• Jump off a 126 m high bridge – the World’s Highest Commerical Bungy Jump.
• Scuba dive, snorkel or go on an eco-marine safari inside the national park.
• Experience an exhilarating rush by River Tubing down Storms River.

I chose to stay with Dijembe Backpackers in Storms River after hearing backpacker after backpacker tell me I had to stay there. I was not disappointed. The hostel provides free pancakes for breakfast , unique accommodation, a decent free WiFi connection and goes out of its way to create a social and communal vibe.

Read More:  An Epic One Week Garden Route Itinerary (Detailed)

I, unfortunately, injured my knee in Tsitsikamma and had to cut my backpacking South Africa one month itinerary short by two destinations. Nature’s Valley and the Wilderness were the final two spots I wanted to visit on my month-long backpacking trip. If you plan to follow my route or a similar one, don’t give them a miss.

Both locations are exceptionally beautiful and ideal for backpackers who love hiking and getting outdoors.

Cape Town: 4 days

Before ending your backpacking South Africa trip, make sure you leave enough time to explore Cape Town ! The Mother City is a bustling metropolis that needs at least four days with its epic hiking trails, delicious wines, a thriving live music scene and a social schedule that will not leave you feeling bored.

• Hike up Lions Head or Table Mountain to watch the sunset.
• Explore Cape Point National Park and drive through the Southern Peninsula.
• Go to one of the many summer trance parties or Kirstenbosch summer concerts .
• Try some award-winning cup of joe at Truth Coffee.
• Go on an inner-city walking wine tour with Tuning the Vine.

Read More:  The Perfect Cape Town Itinerary for One Incredible Week

Once in Cape Town is one of the best backpackers in the city. Located on Kloof street, it is right in the epicentre of Cape Town’s nightlife. The Backpackers boasts a bar and a DJ with numerous day trip and nightlife ideas posted on notice board every day.

After backpacking South Africa for a month, it made me realise how big this place is and how much more I still have to see. I hope you found this itinerary helpful and use either use some or all of it to create your own amazing backpacking experience in South Africa!

If you’re looking to add more items to your backpacking route, check out my Ultimate South African Bucket List . Not sure what to pack in your backpack? Here’s a South Africa packing list that will have you prepared for all kinds of adventures!

Read More:  Where to Stay in Cape Town: A Guide to the Best Neighbourhoods

Is backpacking South Africa on your bucket list? Do you have any tips for exploring the Rainbow Nation? Sound off in the comments below!

Psst…Want more South Africa travel inspiration? Check out my other posts below:

• The Perfect Cape Town Itinerary for One Incredible Week
• 18 Most Instagrammable Places in Cape Town
• The Perfect Itinerary for an Epic South Africa Road Trip
• The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary
• The Ultimate South Africa Bucket List: 40+ Amazing Places to Visit
• 45 Awesome Things to Do in Cape Town: A (Hella Long) Local’s Guide

?If you like it then put a pin on it?

Thinking about backpacking South Africa solo? Here's a complete guide on how to get from Johannesburg to Cape Town and all the epic spots in between! 

About Lauren Melnick

Lauren Melnick is the founder of Wanderlust Movement, Wander to Here and is a South Africa travel blogger. She's been travelling the world as a full-time freelance writer since 2016 and has visited over 40 countries.

When she isn't typing up a storm, you can find her conquering overnight hikes around the Western Cape, rock climbing, and hosting sold out group travel trips around South Africa, Namibia and Morocco.

Reader Interactions

March 13, 2017 at 4:36 pm

Great post Lauren! I would probably add Kruger & Blyde River Canyon to the list – though I realise they’re not that accessible without a tour or self-drive.

March 14, 2017 at 7:04 am

I agree! I haven’t done the Panorama Route yet and it’s high up on my SA bucket list 🙂

March 15, 2017 at 9:48 pm

Hi both! I’m a Spanish girl who was in South Africa last January for a couple weeks. I was based in Cape Town but also had the chance to travel through the Garden Route. I loved your country so much I am definitely returning this year to stay for some months and explore as much as possible! I even set up a blog to write about it: I’ll hopefully see you around!Almudena

March 16, 2017 at 7:22 am

So happy to hear you enjoyed your time in SA and you are coming back 🙂 I’ve been wanting to go to Spain, your coastline looks breathtaking!

March 16, 2017 at 11:59 am

Spain’s coastline is amazing, but there are also beautiful regions inland. If you ever need any info or advice to travel Spain, I’ll be happy to help :-).

March 20, 2017 at 11:26 am

Sad that you got bad weather in Durban and didn’t enjoy it. Its got the coastline and the tranquil valleys further inland; its full of culture, the foodie scene is growing, and the people are some of the nicest and most laid back in the country. It’s not the hustle and bustle of Joburg or the cosmopolitan buzz of Cape Town but Durban has its charm and it ‘s one of the nicest places to visit or live in South Africa if you give it a chance 🙂

March 20, 2017 at 3:00 pm

I agree the people are amazing Durban, my couch surfing host was the highlight of my trip that side, but the city itself is not for me. In terms of the lifestyle, I need the stimulation that I get from living in Cape Town where there is always something going on, no matter what day it is. But I do really like the nature outside of Durban and wouldn’t mind spending time more north to visit Richards Bay and Sodwana Bay next time I’m in there area 🙂

January 13, 2018 at 12:33 pm

Hi, just discovered your blog. Very informative, looks amazing over there. Just wanted to ask what kind of budget one would need for this kind of month? Seems quite action packed. We are looking to go there in Febuary…. in a few weeks for one month. Thanks

January 13, 2018 at 5:58 pm

Hey Stevie,

I can’t remember my exact budget as I did this over a year ago, but I know I didn’t spend more than R10k. I’d suggest looking up the prices of accommodation, transport and activities so you have 2018 prices as whatever I did pay in 2017 would have changed by now.

January 16, 2018 at 1:33 pm

Hey Lauren,

It was great meeting you the other day atop lion’s head.

What are the chances that I based a lot of my itinerary on this wonderful blog entry of yours and then I meet you on the second last day of my time in SA on top of a mountain for a sunrise viewing.

I hope to it’s handy to know that what you write meets people all the way on the other side of the Indian Ocean. Thanks for the ride back to Obz. Hit me up if you ever find yourself in Sydney. I’d love to repay the favour and show you around.

All the best, Beryl

January 16, 2018 at 1:40 pm

Thanks for getting in touch 🙂 I actually took a photo of you yesterday when I was setting up a shot for Taryn. It’s on my Instagram stories at the moment, let me know if you want it and I can email it to you.

And I’ll definitely let you know when I’m in Sydney! My boyfriend is a bit obsessed with Brisbane at the moment, so I’m sure it will happen soon.

February 3, 2018 at 4:29 am

Hey Lauren, sorry that i’m getting back to you so late. Coming back to my life has been like being hit by a mack truck. I would love that photo. It looks amazing. Can you access my email through this message?

July 30, 2018 at 11:37 am

You have no idea how useful this is for me! I just decided to go to South Africa 2 weeks ago and plan to spend a month there backpacking. I will follow your itin or close to it. I wonder if there are any immunization shots or clothing suggestions you can make for September travel? Especially footwear and protective clothing against bugs or whatever… And what can I expect in terms of snakes along your route. Are they always something to ge cautious about it only certain places along your route? I appreciate your insight on daily cost average and also best way to carry cash and whether credit cards can ge used at the hostels etc.

July 30, 2018 at 2:49 pm

So glad to hear you have found this blog useful 🙂

I can’t help you with immunisations. It’s best to ask your doctor about that (I’m also from South Africa).

In September, temperatures will be rising as it’s spring but it will still get a bit cold at night. I think if you have long pants, a long-sleeved shirt and a warm hoodie you should be fine. But layers will be your best friend so you can adjust as the day goes on.

You aren’t really going to see snakes unless you go hiking. Even then, you probably won’t see any. If you’re going into the wilderness just pack a decent pair of hiking boots. I’d recommend waterproof ones as some places will be wetter than others in the spring.

In terms of bugs, depending on where you are mosquitos will be more active. Just cover up as much as possible in the evenings and early mornings. You can buy mosquito repellent from any of the convenience stores.

And for safety, just don’t wander off on your own where there aren’t lots of people or at night in the big cities. Don’t flash your money or belongings around and just be aware of pickpockets. People won’t know you aren’t South African unless they hear your accent. But hiking in Hogsback is safe to do by yourself, but always check with your accommodation as they will have up to date information.

South Africans pay with most things via card in the big cities. As you go to the smaller towns and into the rural areas you will need cash as there might not be a signal for a card machine. But just email the hostel or hotel before you arrive and ask if they have credit card facilities so you don’t carry too much cash on you.

March 28, 2019 at 6:40 am

I love how detailed this post is! Thanks Lauren. When do you think is the best time to visit South Africa and try this itinerary? Looking forward to your reply. I’m saving this as reference for our future travels this year.

March 28, 2019 at 12:20 pm

I did this at the beginning of January which is half-way through South Africa’s summer months. December to February is when you’re going to get the best weather (but Hogsback can get quite cold due to its high altitude). The only downside is the hostels will be charging their high season rates.

If you want to avoid the crowds, I’d try to come in February. It’s when all the South Africans are back to work and the schools are in session. Otherwise, if you don’t mind the weather being cooler, the autumn and spring months are good. You would just need to plan around the school holidays and public holidays as flight prices get crazy and the long distance buses fill up.

October 15, 2021 at 9:55 am

Hi! I’m thinking of doing this trip in January 2022, but opposite way, from Cape Town to Johannesburg. Is there any reason, saying that from Joburg to Cape Town it is better? I can only think of the left side traffic, which means that driving from Joburg to Cape Town keeps me closer to the coast 🙂 Another thing is the safety. I will arrive to Cape Town alone and probably be looking for a companion to share a car. Is it easy to find one on the spot (in hostels)? Eventually, driving the car by the coast, is it safe to sleep in the car in the middle of nowhere? I know, that Joburg and Cape Town are not safe cities and carjacking is common, but my question concerns rural areas. Does actually carjacking happen also to basic rented cars or only to the fancy ones? When I finally arrive to Joburg, should I drop the car off in the center area or rather airport, meaning safety. Also it is difficult to pretend to be a local when you have a big backpack on you. On the Hostelworld I saw there are many hostels allocated within the CBD, while in some article I read it is better to avoid CBD. What is Your opinion about it? I usually navigate with maps.me or google.maps, keeping smartphone in my hand. I guess, I will have to change the habit in SA, by planning my routes in advance. Last and least question, If 2 or 3 weaker guyes without any weapons try to mug me, should I give in or try to defend? Best wishes and thanks in advance for replying 🙂

October 15, 2021 at 12:57 pm

1.) It doesn’t matter which way you start. You can drive along the coast both ways. 2.) I’m a local and I drive alone with my car on road trips in SA. Don’t know what finding travel buddies in the hostels is like as I haven’t experienced it. 3.) Car jackers target any type of car. 4.) JHB city center is not safe, drop it off at the airport. 5.) I don’t know why foreigners want to go to Joburg CBD and stay there tbh. 6.) Just wear headphones and listen to directions or go into a shop to look at your phone quick. Take an Uber or keep your phone out of sight in the car. 7.) That’s up to you and how much you want to gamble with your life / deal with going to hospital.

October 15, 2021 at 2:52 pm

and how about safety in rural areas of SA?

October 15, 2021 at 3:04 pm

shit can happen or not happen wherever you are. just be street smart and aware of your surroundings and you should be okay.

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Solo in Cape Town: Your Complete Guide

When I first visited Cape Town solo I had a very limited view on how safe it is to travel alone in South Africa. Much of what I read online discouraged solo travellers, however since living in Cape Town I can certainly say it safe to be solo in Cape Town.

Now that I’m living in the heart of Cape Town, I have seen first hand how safe it is to visit this city on your own. For the most part, Cape Town is safe. There are isolated incidences of course, as there are in all cities. We’ve put together a complete guide to help you plan your solo visit to Cape Town to make sure you feel safe and make the most of your stay.

Where to Stay: Neighbourhoods

Whether you’re visiting Cape Town for a few days or a few weeks, there are a lot of ways to stay busy in this city that meets the sea. Cape Town is an active and adventurous city with many hiking trails, running trails and mountain bike trails close to the city. Put simply: the more time you have, the better!

Sea Point is one of the best choices for where to stay in Sea Point. It is a walk away from the beach, incredibly safe and has everything you need nearby. There are a tonne of shops, restaurants and grocery stores so everything you need will be within reach. If you choose to stay in Sea Point, I’d recommend finding a small one bedroom apartment on Air Bnb . There are plenty to choose from.

Tamboerskloof

If you would prefer to be closer to the action, Tamboerskloof is full of great Air Bnbs to rent for one person and is the closest you will get to Cape Town’s Kloof Street. Kloof Street is where you will find most restaurants, bars and cafes worth visiting in Cape Town. It is the heart of the action and a great suburb to base yourself.

De Waterkant/Green Point

Another great suburb to base yourself is a combination of the best of Sea Point and the best of Tamboerskloof. It is close to the city but also close enough to the beach to walk. This is the suburb I live in and we find it incredibly safe – especially during the day. Of an evening I would still recommend not walking around on your own at night.

What to Do: Solo in Cape Town

There are so many fun things to do in Cape Town that you could easily spend a week here on your own. I’ll start with my favourite handpicked things to do in Cape Town that are perfect for solo travellers.

Clifton Beach

If you’re looking for a beach to visit that is central and full of locals, our favourite beach is a series of beaches at Clifton. There are 4 beaches in total, with the closest to town being Clifton 1 and the furthest being Clifton 4. The first Clifton beach is the quietest, the second is my personal favourite and Clifton 4 is the famed “see and be seen” beach.

Llandudno Beach

My favourite beach in Cape Town is only possible to visit if you have a car or transport. Llandudno is 15-20 minutes out of town, but it is undeniably the most beautiful beach in Cape Town.

Hike Lion’s Head

My favourite short hike in Cape Town is to summit Lion’s Head in time for sunset. This is a safe hike to do solo as there are always a number of people on the trail and it takes just 45 minutes to reach the top.

Take the Cable Car up Table Mountain

Another great hike in Cape Town is to summit Table Mountain, however due to ongoing reports of muggings I would suggest skipping the hike and taking the cable car instead. The views over Cape Town are incredible, especially at sunset!

Day Trip to Boulders Beach

If you don’t mind renting a car and driving yourself down the coast, you will be rewarded with one of the most memorable days on the Cape! Boulders Beach is less than an hour drive out of Cape Town and it is the famed “penguin beach” you’ve probably already heard about. If you don’t feel comfortable driving, you could consider hiring a driver for the day or joining an organised tour.

Walk around Bo-Kaap

One of the hot spots to visit while in Cape Town is the colourful and quirky Bo-Kaap, a neighbourhood that has plenty of history behind it. Bo-Kaap is the centre of Cape Malay culture and a beautiful display of how vibrant, fun and full of life Cape Town can be.

Tips to Stay Safe

Cape Town is an incredible city to visit and even more so when you travel alone. There are some great neighbourhoods to base yourself and explore the city while remaining safe. Here are our top tips to stay safe in Cape Town:

Ubers are cheap and readily available

If you are concerned about walking, consider jumping in an uber. Ubers are incredibly cheap in Cape Town ranging from a couple of dollars to travel across town.

Use ATM’s in shopping centres

If you plan to get cash out, opt to do so from a shopping centre instead of on the street. Some of the latter machines can be tampered with.

Stay in after sunset

As with any city, the risk of being alone after dark becomes higher. Unless you are meeting people you know, consider staying in after dark.

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Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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The 20 Best Locations for Solo Travel in Africa

So, you’re thinking of planning a once in a lifetime sol adventure to Africa? Congratulations! Traveling to Africa solo has got to be one of the most courageous trips you can take by yourself. I’m sure you have a whirlwind of questions on your mind, most of which I hope to answer in this blog post. But before we get to the nitty-gritty, I should mention that I have traveled to Africa solo too many times to count. Is it scary the first time? A little bit. But I wouldn’t keep running back there if I wasn’t completely head over heels in love with the continent. So if you’re wondering where are the best locations for solo travel in Africa, read on. Believe me when I say I know first hand!

1. Sossusvlei, Namibia

You may have heard of Sossusvlei before as it is perhaps Namibia’s most well-known attraction. And for good reason! This incredible part of Namibia translates to “dead-end marsh” in English, as it is where dunes come together to prevent the Tsauchab River to flow any further. However, most years the river doesn’t even come close as the area remains bone dry. So if you’re thinking it sounds hot, you’re absolutely correct! Sossusvlei temperatures regularly reach 105.7°F during the day, before the desert cools off toward the evening. If you can beat the heat, this secluded part of Namibia is great for solo travelers as it provides plenty of time to pause and reflect. Namibia is also one of the safest countries in Africa to visit and makes for a great road trip adventure.

Suggested Itinerary – Namibia Flying Safari 

2. Cape Town, South Africa

There’s a special place in my heart for the city of Cape Town as this is where I spent a year of my life enjoying this vibrant city in Southern Africa. Affectionately known as the Mother City, Cape Town has so much to offer travelers, especially if you are riding solo. You’ll find endless activities on offer including renowned restaurants, rooftop bars, a lively beach culture and endless hikes to discover. While you might have heard this city can be unsafe, take it from someone who has lived there that you can entirely have a safe and fun experience in Cape Town. This city is also a great base to explore more of the Western Cape, arguably the prettiest part of the country.

Suggested Itinerary – The Best of South Africa 

3. Cape Winelands, South Africa

If you visit Cape Town you absolutely must visit the Cape Winelands . And what can you expect from the winelands? Wine, but of course! This area of South Africa is renowned the world over, for it is here where you can visit an endless choice of cellar doors, sample direct from the vineyard and afterwards make your way to a gastronomic restaurant for a dining experience to remember. And if you’re worried about driving between the vineyards solo, fear not! There is even a wine tram that will take you from vineyard to vineyard in a hop-on, hop-off style tour. Does it get any better than that?

4. The Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

Ethiopia has never been the first country I thought of when traveling to Africa. But after years of venturing back and forth to Africa and constantly seeking new cultural experiences, I put this country on my travel list. And I was not disappointed! The entire experience was unlike any other in Africa. One of the highlights of my trip was to venture far beyond the cities and visit the Danakil Depression, sharing a border with Eritrea. This is said to be the hottest place on earth and home to an underground volcano that never surfaced, causing this incredible phenomenon that looks somewhat like Mars. Excursions to the Danakil Depression will take a few days from the nearest city, making this a great choice for solo travelers looking to join an organised tour.

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

If I had to pick just one favourite destination in Africa, it would be Botswana . This country has some of the most secluded lodges for safaris and there is a real authenticity that you won’t get anywhere else. And of all the places I have traveled within Botswana, my heart remains in the Okavango Delta . This area of wetlands is one of the best places on the continent to have wildlife encounters. The animals are in abundance in the wet season especially, when travelers can journey by water in a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe). I first visited the Okavanago Delta solo and have since been back twice, so suffice it to say it is pure magic!

Read more: These are the Best Isolated Lodges in the Okavango Delta 

6. Masai Mara, Kenya

If you are looking for an ideal location for a quintessential African safari, look no further than the Masai Mara in East Africa. It is no secret the Mara is one of the best national parks to experience a safari, especially if this is your first time. This park runs like a well-oiled machine, attracting some 300,000 visitors each year. This makes the Masai Mara a great choice for solo travelers as you will likely meet many other people on your journey and have ample lodges and camps to choose from.

Suggested I tinerary  –   The Masai and Serengeti 

7. Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

If you’re looking for a destination a little more off the beaten path then you really can’t go wrong by visiting Uganda . This country is famed for being home to the incredible mountain gorillas, alongside their more popular neighbour Rwanda. In fact Lake Bunyonyi is itself located very close to the Rwandan border, tucked away in southwestern Uganda. Part of the appeal in swapping more popular Rwanda for Uganda is that the tourism industry in Uganda is flying slightly more under the radar. This means you can take advantage of more affordable options and experience lesser known destinations like Lake Bunyonyi.

Suggested Itinerary – Trekking with Mountain Gorillas 

Another great choice for a lesser-known destination is the landlocked country surrounded by South Africa, Lesotho. This is a great choice for adventure travelers who prefer going off the grid and immersing themselves in nature, as there are endless opportunities for day hikes or multi-day treks. Despite how small the country is geographically, there are some great opportunities here to see a lot in a small amount of time. If you are looking for a more affordable safari destination over South Africa, Lesotho has some great camps to cater to a tighter budget.

Malawi is known amongst those who have visited as one of the friendliest countries in Africa. Indeed, it might be one of the friendliest countries in the world! Apart from the welcoming nature of the locals, the next thing you will notice is how beautiful and ethereal these landscapes are. The country is as pretty as a picture book, with vivid colours and vibrancy every way you look. A great destination for solo travelers is to visit Lake Malawi, Africa’s third largest lake. The lake is incredibly large, making it a great choice for water activities like diving, snorkelling and kayaking.

10. Marrakech, Morocco

There’s no other city in the world quite like Marrakech. This vibrant Moroccan city has quickly become a favourite among travelers and increasingly, it has become a popular location for solo travel in Africa. With a huge influx of tourism, the city has become more and more solo traveler friendly. Perch yourself up in the medina in a luxury riad and spend your days wandering the vibrant souks. Or we can plan a little something extra for you in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains if you prefer a slower pace.

11. Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

If there’s ever a time to visit the Serengeti it is during the great migration. But in all honesty, there’s never a bad time to visit! This is one of Africa’s most visited national parks and once you arrive, you will soon see why. If you are looking for a traditional style safari in East Africa, the Serengeti is a great choice for solo travelers. There is an abundance of lodges and camps to choose from so we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your travel style. Ready to book?

Read more: African safari tips for solo travelers

12. Victoria Falls, Zambia

Ever pictured yourself on top of the world’s largest waterfall? Well if you haven’t, you might be now. Victoria Falls is an impressive sight from afar, but on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River you can not only see the falls, but you can fly above them in a microflight. If you dare, of course!

Suggested Itinerary – Waterfalls and Wildlife 

13. Zanzibar

I’ll never forget my trip to Zanzibar . I was traveling alone throughout South Africa and coming to the end of my trip when I realized I wasn’t ready to go home yet. So I quickly changed my flight to a later date and booked a whirlwind five day adventure to Zanzibar. Now if this is your first time, I’d suggest you spend at least a week in Zanzibar. This island has so much to explore and uncover, so you’ll never be short of activities. There’s a real vibrance and depth to the culture here, as well as a dark history for once being at the centre of the slave trade. Couple this history and culture with beautiful pristine beaches and you have so much to keep you busy (or so many reasons to not be busy at all!)

Suggested Itinerary – Tanzania and Zanzibar 

14. Sabi Sand Game Reserve, South Africa

If you’re looking for a traditional South African safari, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Sabi Sands . This private game reserve borders Kruger National Park and both are great options for a solo safari. If you’re looking for something to splurge on, check yourself in to the glorious Londolozi (pictured).

15. The Zambezi River, Zimbabwe

Remember how we spoke about Victoria Falls earlier? Well, you can also have another great adventure just next door on the other side of the river in Zimbabwe. The Zambezi river ultimately leads to the impressive Victoria Falls and also acts as the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. So if you’re struggling to decide which side to visit, why not try both? One of our favourite lodges, Singita Pamushana, is located here in Zimbabwe. And if a picture tells a thousand words, we’re sure you’re ready to book that trip now!

16. Mauritius

Located to the east of Madagascar in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a tropical paradise. With impressive mountains, crystal blue waters for diving and a plethora of luxury accommodations on offer, it is little wonder this country has been compared to the likes of the Maldives for being a romantic escape. But what about for solo travelers? With the addition of mountains and day hikes to keep one busy, Mauritius is a great choice for solo travelers if you prefer an active escape. There will still be plenty of opportunities to hit the beach or lay by the pool and with more accommodation to choose from, Mauritius is a great alternative to the honeymoon haven that is the Seychelles.

17. Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Elsewhere in Morocco, there are plenty more great locations for solo travelers. If you are looking to stay near to Marrakech, a great option is to venture off into the Atlas Mountains. You can reach the mountains in just one hour from Marrakech. From there you have the option to stay at the foothills of the mountains in a luxury lodge or you could join a day tour off into berber villages to discover the local way of life.

18. The Kalahari Desert, Botswana

There’s something incredibly soothing about the Kalahari Desert . If you are more of an introverted traveler who is looking to go off the grid, the Kalahari is the perfect place to do so. You will also have the added bonus of being able to view meerkats in the wild (so cute!) and learn about desert way of life. If you fancy a horse ride off into the salt pans, this is a great experience to help you tune into your senses.

Suggested Itinerary – Southern Africa Explorer 

19. The Garden Route,  South Africa

High on the list of many travelers to Africa is the Garden Route, a scenic stretch of coastline you certainly won’t regret. If you thought South Africa was only good for a safari, think again. There is so much more on offer in the country at the southmost point of Africa and it all centres around the coastlines. Embarking on a road trip in South Africa as a solo traveler is less scary in real life. I will never forget how many times I chose not to do this trip, for fear of the unknown. But if you drive during daylight hours and stick to this popular route, you’ll have a marvelous time. Don’t miss Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, these are definite highlights.

20. The Skeleton Coast, Namibia

And finally we have another epic location in Namibia because there is nowhere more ideal for isolation than the Skeleton Coast. This stretch of coastline is tucked away in the most remote part of Namibia, so prepare yourself for going off the grid. Much of the area can not be explored without a 4×4, so be sure to keep this in mind when planning your adventure.

Read more: These are the best isolated lodges in Namibia    

Are you ready for the trip of a lifetime?

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• Travel Tips

Solo Female Travel In South Africa – Is It Safe?

Published: September 9, 2023

Modified: January 3, 2024

by Abagael Stiles

• Africa & Middle East
• Safety & Insurance
• South Africa
• Travel Destinations
• Travel Guide

Introduction

The allure of solo travel can be irresistible. Exploring new destinations at your own pace, immersing yourself in different cultures, and finding your own sense of adventure are just a few reasons why many women choose to embark on solo trips. South Africa, with its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cities, is an enticing destination for solo female travelers. However, safety concerns often arise when considering solo travel in South Africa.

In this article, we will delve into the topic of solo female travel in South Africa and address the question of whether it is safe or not. We will provide an overview of the country’s safety situation, offer tips and precautions for staying safe, and recommend destinations that are particularly suitable for solo female travelers. Whether you’re planning a wildlife safari, a cultural immersion in the city, or a relaxing beach getaway, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to make the most of your solo adventure in South Africa.

It is important to note that while South Africa offers incredible experiences, like any travel destination, it poses certain challenges and risks. Being prepared and aware can greatly contribute to a safe and memorable solo travel experience. So, let’s address the safety concerns, discuss essential tips, and explore the best destinations for solo female travelers in South Africa .

Solo Female Travel in South Africa: Overview

South Africa, located on the southernmost tip of the African continent, is a diverse and captivating country. From the stunning beauty of Cape Town to the wild adventures of Kruger National Park, there is so much to explore. However, when it comes to solo female travel, it is essential to understand the unique aspects of traveling alone in South Africa.

Although South Africa has made great strides in terms of safety and security, it still faces certain challenges. Like in any country, crime exists, and it’s important to be vigilant and take necessary precautions. However, it’s crucial to note that millions of travelers, including solo female travelers, visit South Africa each year without encountering any major issues.

One aspect to consider is the vastness of the country. South Africa is a land of contrasts, from vibrant cities to remote natural reserves. It’s important to research and plan your itinerary according to your interests and comfort level. By sticking to popular tourist destinations, you’ll find a well-developed infrastructure, easier access to tourist information, and a higher presence of fellow travelers, which can contribute to a more secure solo travel experience.

Another important factor to be aware of is the socio-economic disparities that exist in South Africa. While poverty and inequality are present, they do not mean that all areas are unsafe. It’s crucial to gather accurate information about specific neighborhoods or areas you plan to visit and consult reliable sources, such as travel advisories and local tourism boards.

It’s also worth noting that South Africans are generally warm and friendly people, and many go out of their way to make visitors feel welcome. By practicing common sense and respecting local customs, solo female travelers can have a rewarding and memorable experience in South Africa.

Safety Concerns for Solo Female Travelers

When it comes to solo female travel in South Africa, it is essential to be aware of the potential safety concerns. While it’s important not to let fear deter you from embarking on your adventure, taking precautions and staying informed can help ensure a safer experience. Here are some key safety concerns to consider:

• Crime: Like in many countries, crime is a reality in South Africa. It is advised to be cautious, especially in larger cities where petty theft and pickpocketing can occur. Keep a close eye on your belongings, avoid displaying expensive items, and be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded places or public transportation.
• Transportation: Public transportation in South Africa, such as buses and trains, may not always have the best reputation for safety and security. Stick to reputable transportation options like metered taxis or ride-sharing services. If you rent a car, keep doors locked and windows closed while driving and avoid leaving valuables visible.
• Remote areas: South Africa’s natural beauty often draws travelers to remote areas or wildlife reserves. While these places can be incredible to explore, it’s important to be prepared and take necessary precautions. Inform others about your plans, ensure you have reliable communication devices, and consider joining guided tours or hiring local guides.
• Nighttime safety: Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas. It is advisable to take a taxi or arrange transportation with reputable companies when traveling after dark.
• Alcohol and drugs: Excessive consumption of alcohol can impair judgment and make you more vulnerable. Be mindful of your alcohol intake, and never accept drinks from strangers. It’s also important to be aware of the risks associated with drugs and avoid getting involved with illegal substances.

By being informed and mindful of these safety concerns, solo female travelers can navigate South Africa with confidence. It is essential to use common sense, trust your instincts, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Remember, the vast majority of travelers to South Africa have trouble-free experiences, so with proper planning and awareness, you can have a memorable solo adventure.

Tips for Staying Safe While Traveling Solo in South Africa

While there are safety concerns to be aware of, solo female travelers can take proactive steps to ensure their safety while exploring South Africa. Here are some helpful tips to consider:

• Research and plan: Before your trip, research your destination thoroughly. Familiarize yourself with local customs, travel advisories, and local emergency contact numbers. Plan your itinerary in advance and share it with a trusted friend or family member.
• Stay connected: Make sure to have a reliable means of communication, such as a local SIM card or an international roaming plan. Keep your phone charged and accessible at all times, especially in case of emergencies.
• Blend in: Avoid drawing unnecessary attention to yourself by dressing modestly and respecting local customs. It’s best to leave flashy jewelry and expensive items at home. By blending in, you decrease the chances of becoming a target for theft.
• Stay in safe accommodation: Choose accommodation options that prioritize safety and security. Look for well-reviewed hotels, guesthouses, or hostels with positive feedback from previous solo travelers. Consider the location, security measures, and 24/7 staff availability.
• Use reliable transportation: Stick to reputable transportation options, such as licensed taxis or ride-sharing services. When using public transportation, be cautious of your belongings and avoid traveling during late hours or in isolated areas if possible.
• Trust your instincts: If a situation or person makes you feel uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. It’s essential to prioritize your well-being and personal safety above all else.
• Stay updated with local news: Keep an eye on local news or social media channels for any current safety concerns or developments in the area you are visiting. This will help you make informed decisions and adjust your plans if necessary.
• Connect with other travelers: Consider connecting with fellow solo female travelers through online travel communities or social media groups. Sharing experiences, tips, and even meeting up can provide an extra layer of support and companionship.
• Learn basic self-defense: Taking a self-defense course before your trip can give you added confidence and the skills to protect yourself if needed. Additionally, carrying a personal safety alarm or whistle can be a practical and effective deterrent.

By following these tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help ensure a safer solo travel experience in South Africa. Remember, while it is important to be cautious, it is equally important to embrace the beauty and wonder of this incredible country. Traveling solo can be empowering, and with careful planning, you can have an unforgettable adventure in South Africa.

Safe Accommodation Options for Solo Female Travelers

Choosing safe accommodation is crucial for solo female travelers in South Africa. Here are some options to consider when selecting accommodation that prioritizes safety and security:

• Hotels: Staying in reputable hotels often provides a higher level of security. Look for hotels with good reviews, secure entrances, and 24-hour staffed reception desks. Many hotels also offer additional safety features such as in-room safes and CCTV surveillance.
• Gated accommodations: Many guesthouses, lodges, and resorts in South Africa are situated within gated complexes or communities. These properties usually have controlled access, security guards, and sometimes even perimeter fences. It can provide an extra layer of safety and peace of mind.
• Hostels: Some hostels in South Africa cater specifically to solo travelers and offer female-only dormitories or private rooms. Look for hostels with good security measures, such as lockers, restricted access, and 24-hour reception.
• Airbnb: Renting a private apartment or house through a trusted platform like Airbnb can be a great option for solo travelers. Make sure to choose accommodations with positive reviews, verified hosts, and secure communication channels. Additionally, consider the location and ensure it is in a safe and well-populated area.
• Guesthouses: South Africa is known for its charming guesthouses, which often offer a more personalized and intimate experience. Look for guesthouses that are well-reviewed and have security measures in place, such as secure entrances and 24-hour staffed reception desks.
• Camping: If you plan to camp during your solo adventure, opt for established campsites within national parks or private reserves. These sites generally have security patrols and designated areas for camping, ensuring a safer experience.

Regardless of the type of accommodation you choose, it is important to research thoroughly, read reviews, and trust your instincts. Prioritize safety features, such as well-lit areas, secure entrances, and 24/7 staff availability. It’s also advisable to inform the accommodation staff of your solo status and any specific concerns you may have.

Remember, no matter where you stay, it is essential to take precautions and be mindful of your surroundings. Lock your doors and windows, utilize any provided safety features, and keep valuable belongings secure. By choosing safe accommodation options, you can relax and enjoy your solo journey in South Africa with peace of mind.

Transportation Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

Getting around safely is an important aspect of solo female travel in South Africa. Here are some transportation safety tips to keep in mind during your journey:

• Choose reputable transportation: When using public transportation, opt for reputable options such as metered taxis or ride-sharing services. Look for licensed and clearly marked vehicles, and if possible, pre-book your rides for added security.
• Research transportation options: Before arriving at your destination, research the local transportation system. Familiarize yourself with routes, schedules, and any safety considerations. This will help you navigate the public transportation network with confidence.
• Avoid traveling late at night: If possible, avoid traveling late at night, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and consider taking a taxi or arranging transportation with a reputable company.
• Be cautious with your belongings: Keep your belongings secure and within sight during your journey. When using public transportation, be mindful of your bags and pockets to prevent theft. Consider using a cross-body bag or keeping your wallet in a front pocket to deter pickpockets.
• Use GPS or map applications: Utilize GPS or map applications on your phone to ensure you are on the correct route and heading in the right direction. This will help you feel confident and reduce the chances of getting lost or ending up in unfamiliar areas.
• Inform someone of your travel plans: Before embarking on any long-distance trips, inform a trusted friend or family member of your travel plans. Share details such as your intended route, mode of transportation, and estimated time of arrival. Regular check-ins can provide additional peace of mind.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings while using transportation. Avoid displaying expensive items, keep your phone and other gadgets out of sight, and don’t engage in conversations with strangers that make you uncomfortable.
• Trust your instincts: If something feels off or you are in an uncomfortable situation, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. It’s always better to err on the side of caution and find a safer alternative.

By following these transportation safety tips, you can navigate South Africa with confidence and minimize potential risks. Remember, being aware of your surroundings, choosing reputable transportation options, and keeping your belongings secure are key to a safe and enjoyable solo travel experience.

Cultural Considerations for Solo Female Travelers in South Africa

As a solo female traveler in South Africa, it is important to be mindful of the cultural norms and customs of the country. Respecting and understanding the local culture can enhance your experience and promote positive interactions with the locals. Here are some cultural considerations to keep in mind:

• Dress modestly and respectfully: South Africa is a diverse country with a range of religious and cultural beliefs. It is recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities. Avoid revealing clothing and opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
• Respect local customs and traditions: Take the time to learn about the local customs and traditions of the area you are visiting. Be respectful of cultural practices, such as greetings, gestures, and social etiquette. If in doubt, observe and follow the lead of locals.
• Ask permission before taking photos: While capturing memories is an important part of travel, it is crucial to respect the privacy of locals. When photographing people, especially in rural areas or cultural ceremonies, always ask for permission first. Some individuals or communities may prefer not to be photographed.
• Learn a few basic phrases in local languages: South Africa has 11 official languages, and learning a few basic greetings and phrases can go a long way in connecting with locals. This effort can be greatly appreciated and bridge cultural barriers.
• Be respectful of wildlife and the environment: South Africa is renowned for its incredible wildlife and natural beauty. When encountering wildlife, maintain a safe distance and follow the advice of trained guides. Avoid littering and abide by park regulations to preserve the environment for future generations.
• Engage in meaningful cultural exchanges: Immersing yourself in the local culture can be a transformative experience. Join cultural activities, visit local markets, interact with artisans, and participate in community initiatives to gain a deeper understanding of the people and their way of life.
• Respectful behavior in religious sites: If visiting religious sites, dress appropriately, remove your shoes if required, and be mindful of your behavior. Observe and follow any specific practices or rituals that are customary within that religious context.

By being aware of and respecting the cultural customs of South Africa, you not only show respect to the local communities but also open yourself up to enriching experiences and meaningful connections. Embrace the opportunity to learn from different cultures and create lasting memories during your solo adventure in South Africa.

Recommended Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in South Africa

South Africa offers a wealth of unique and exciting destinations for solo female travelers. From cosmopolitan cities to stunning natural landscapes, here are some top recommendations for your solo adventure:

• Cape Town: The vibrant city of Cape Town is a must-visit destination. Explore the iconic Table Mountain, indulge in delicious food and wine in the Cape Winelands, and soak in the breathtaking views along the Atlantic Seaboard. With its multicultural atmosphere and a bustling city center, Cape Town offers a safe and welcoming environment for solo travelers.
• Kruger National Park: For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to Kruger National Park is a dream come true. Embark on thrilling game drives, encounter the Big Five, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the African bush. Many lodges and camps within Kruger National Park provide guided tours and organized activities, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers.
• Drakensberg Mountains: The majestic Drakensberg Mountains offer a tranquil retreat for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. Explore scenic hiking trails, discover breathtaking waterfalls, and witness ancient rock art sites. Numerous guesthouses and lodges in the area cater to solo travelers, providing a safe and serene environment.
• Garden Route: Stretching along the southern coast of South Africa, the Garden Route is a picturesque region renowned for its stunning landscapes. Experience the beauty of the Tsitsikamma National Park, visit charming coastal towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, and enjoy thrilling adventure activities. The Garden Route provides an array of accommodation options, including hostels, guesthouses, and boutique hotels, catering to solo travelers.
• Stellenbosch: Situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Stellenbosch is a charming university town known for its scenic vineyards and historic architecture. Explore the wine estates, indulge in wine tasting experiences, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture. Stellenbosch offers a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers, with a range of accommodations to choose from.
• Robben Island: A visit to Robben Island is not only a lesson in history but also a powerful experience. Take a guided tour to discover the place where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years during the Apartheid era. Learn about South Africa’s struggle for freedom and the resilience of its people. Guided tours depart regularly from Cape Town, and solo travelers are welcomed to join these educational journeys.

These are just a few of the incredible destinations that South Africa has to offer for solo female travelers. Each destination provides unique experiences and opportunities for adventure, cultural exploration, and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking wildlife encounters, city vibes, or serene landscapes, South Africa has something for everyone.

Solo female travel in South Africa can be an incredible experience that allows you to discover the country’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife. While it’s important to acknowledge the safety concerns that come with traveling alone, taking necessary precautions and staying informed can greatly contribute to a safe and memorable journey.

By researching your destination, choosing safe accommodation options, utilizing reliable transportation, respecting the local culture, and following general safety tips, you can navigate South Africa with confidence and have an enriching solo travel experience. Remember to trust your instincts, be aware of your surroundings, and take steps to ensure your personal safety throughout your journey.

South Africa offers a variety of destinations that cater to solo female travelers, from the vibrant city of Cape Town to the serene landscapes of the Garden Route and the thrill of wildlife encounters in Kruger National Park. Each destination has its own unique charms and experiences that will make your solo adventure in South Africa truly memorable.

Ultimately, the key to a successful solo trip in South Africa lies in being well-prepared, flexible, and open to new experiences. Embrace the diversity, immerse yourself in the local culture, and connect with fellow travelers and locals along the way. With the right precautions and a positive mindset, you can have an unforgettable journey and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Discover Cape Town Solo Travel: The Ultimate Travel Guide for Solo Travelers

Hey there! Looking for an exciting solo adventure? Well, look no further than Cape Town. This vibrant South African city has stunning natural landscapes, a rich history, and a diverse food scene.

Whether hiking up Table Mountain or exploring the Cape Peninsula, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy.

And when it comes to accommodations, you’ll find options to suit any budget.

So grab your passport and prepare for an incredible Cape Town journey!

Page Contents

Key Takeaways

• Cape Town offers solo travelers various activities, including mountain hiking, exploring the Cape Peninsula, visiting historical landmarks, and experiencing the multicultural food scene.
• There are various accommodation options for solo travelers, from reputable hostels to upscale accommodations with Table Mountain views, cool vibe hotels, and luxury suites in converted mansions.
• Depending on their preferences and interests, solo travelers should consider staying in neighborhoods like Sea Point, Woodstock, Camps Bay, De Waterkant, or Bo-Kaap.
• To stay safe and happy in Cape Town, solo travelers should avoid walking alone at night, use Uber for transportation, seek advice from hotel staff, consider going with a guide or joining a hiking tour, and be mindful of local customs and sensitivities.

What’s the Vibe in Cape Town?

Cape Town has a laid-back, beachy vibe that feels like LA without the pretentiousness, mixed with a sultry vibe of Rio de Janeiro and the pulsating beats of South Africa. It’s a city that embraces freedom and adventure.

As a solo traveler visiting Cape Town, you’ll be captivated by its stunning beaches, iconic Table Mountain, vibrant waterfront, and diverse neighborhoods.

Whether exploring the city center or discovering hidden gems in charming neighborhoods, Cape Town offers an unforgettable solo trip experience.

Are Your Passports Ready?

Make sure you have a valid passport with at least 30 days of validity beyond your planned departure date from South Africa.

Don’t let your passport expiration date ruin your solo adventure in Cape Town!

Here’s what you need to know about passports:

• Check the validity: Ensure your passport has at least 30 days beyond your departure date.
• Blank visa pages: You must have two consecutive empty visa pages per entry.
• Entry and exit requirements: Complying is crucial to avoid issues like denial of entry or deportation.
• Traveling with minors: Special requirements exist, so check the latest information for a smooth journey.

With your passports ready, prepare for an unforgettable solo trip to Cape Town!

A Cape Town Solo Trip Overview

When planning your solo adventure, it’s important to have an overview of what to expect in this vibrant South African city.

Cape Town offers solo travelers diverse experiences, from hiking Table Mountain and swimming with penguins at Boulders Beach to exploring the lively neighborhoods of Sea Point and Camps Bay.

With its stunning natural attractions, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals, Cape Town is the perfect destination for a solo trip.

Check out my suggested itinerary below!

With this itinerary, you’ll experience the best Cape Town offers as a solo traveler.

So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful city!

Where to Stay in Cape Town as a Solo Traveler?

If you’re traveling alone, several neighborhoods in Cape Town are perfect for solo travelers.

Here are some options to consider for your accommodation:

• Reputable hostels like Never@Home and 91 Loop offer affordable stays with a social atmosphere.
• If you prefer upscale accommodations with great views, check out Cape Milner or Mojo Hotel.
• For a luxury experience, Ellerman House and Cape Grace are standout choices.

Photo Courtesy by Booking.com

These options cater to solo travelers seeking comfort, convenience, and opportunities to meet new people.

What to Do in Cape Town as a Solo Traveler?

There are plenty of exciting activities to experience as a solo traveler in Cape Town.

You can hike up Table Mountain, explore the stunning Cape Peninsula, and even visit Robben Island for a historical adventure.

Don’t forget to indulge in the multicultural food scene and try local brunch spots. As a solo female traveler, I felt safe and had a wonderful trip to Cape Town.

Eating and Drinking in Cape Town

To fully experience Cape Town, explore the diverse and vibrant culinary scene. Try local dishes and beverages at the city’s food markets and renowned restaurants.

Indulge in the flavors of Cape Malay Cuisine at Bo-Kaap or enjoy a seafood feast at Mariner’s Wharf.

Sip on craft beers at Kloof Street or sample fine wines at Kirstenbosch National Park. For a lively atmosphere, head to Long Street or Bree Street for various dining options.

Stay Safe, Stay Happy

Make sure you stay vigilant and stick to well-lit areas when exploring, as it’s important to prioritize your safety and happiness while in Cape Town.

As a solo traveler, taking precautions is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Consider getting travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Joining walking tours or connecting with other travelers is a great way to meet new people and explore the city together.

While Cape Town is generally safe for solo female travelers, staying aware of your surroundings is always wise, especially in less safe areas.

Cultural Need-to-Knows

When visiting Cape Town, it’s important to know the cultural need-to-knows for a more enriching experience.

• Embrace the diversity: South Africa’s etiquette varies among ethnicities, linguistic groups, and religions. Respect elders and greet everyone respectfully upon arrival.
• Punctuality and gestures: Some South Africans follow ‘African time’ while others value punctuality. Avoid making gestures with the left hand.
• Tipping customs: Tipping around 10% is customary in restaurants. Remember that tips are usually not included in the bill.
• Gift-giving customs: Gift-giving customs vary depending on the recipient’s ethnic group. Presents are often practical and conservative, so well-wrapped gifts make a good impression.

Cool Things to Do When Traveling Solo in Cape Town

Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Sea Point, Woodstock, Camps Bay, De Waterkant, and Bo-Kaap can provide solo travelers with unique and diverse experiences in Cape Town.

From the beautiful beaches of Camps Bay to the colorful houses of Bo-Kaap, there is something for everyone.

Take a hike on one of the many scenic trails, like Lions Head, or explore the charming town of Simons Town.

Indulge in some wine tasting in Cape Winelands or immerse yourself in Cape Malay’s rich culture and cuisine.

This magical city has no shortage of activities and places to explore.

Make the Most of Your Solo Trip to Cape Town

Now that you know all the cool things to do as a solo traveler in Cape Town, let’s talk about how to make the most of your solo trip.

As someone who loves solo travel, I understand the importance of having an amazing experience on your terms.

Here are some tips to help you have the ultimate adventure in Cape Town:

• Embrace the freedom: Solo travel allows you to explore freely and follow your interests without compromise.
• Connect with other travelers: Join group tours or connect with fellow solo travelers to share experiences and create memorable moments together.
• Immerse yourself in local culture: Engage with locals, try traditional food, and participate in cultural activities for a truly authentic experience.
• Stay safe and be prepared: Take necessary precautions, like avoiding walking alone at night and using reliable transportation options.

With these tips in mind, get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of the oldest cities in South Africa.

Where to Stay: Neighborhoods

If you’re looking for a vibrant neighborhood with a leisurely pace and eclectic restaurants, Sea Point is a great option for your stay in Cape Town.

Located on the Atlantic Seaboard, this South African neighborhood offers stunning ocean views and easy access to the city center.

With its beachside promenade, you can take leisurely walks or enjoy outdoor activities like jogging and cycling.

Sea Point also boasts a diverse culinary scene, with various restaurants serving local and international cuisines.

It’s the perfect neighborhood for solo travelers who want to experience the laid-back charm of Cape Town while being close to all the excitement around town.

In addition to Sea Point, other neighborhoods in Cape Town offer unique experiences for solo travelers.

Green Point is known for its proximity to popular attractions such as Cape Town Stadium and Metropolitan Golf Club.

Tamboerskloof is a great choice for easy access to Table Mountain Cableway and cultural sites like the Company Garden and Bo-Kaap Museum.

And if you’re looking for a trendy area with waterfront views, De Waterkant is the place to be, with attractions like V&A Waterfront, Zeitz MOCAA, and Signal Hill just around the corner.

No matter which neighborhood you choose to stay in during your solo trip to Cape Town, you’ll find plenty of adventure, relaxation, and exploration opportunities.

This vibrant city has something for everyone, from beautiful beaches to historical landmarks.

So go ahead and plan your stay in one of Cape Town’s diverse neighborhoods and get ready to experience the best this South African gem offers.

What to Do: Solo in Cape Town

When you’re in Cape Town on your solo adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to hike up Table Mountain and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Here are some other exciting things to do as a solo traveler in Cape Town:

• Explore the vibrant food scene at V&A Food Market and local brunch spots.
• Visit historical landmarks like Robben Island, connected to Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment.
• Immerse yourself in the multicultural atmosphere of Cape Town by trying different cuisines.
• Experience fine dining at renowned restaurants such as the Pot Luck Club.

Tips to Stay Safe

To stay safe and happy during your adventure, avoid walking alone at night and stick to tourist-friendly areas. Cape Town, one of South Africa’s oldest cities, offers many attractions for solo travelers.

Whether looking for historical landmarks like the Castle of Good Hope or natural wonders like Table Mountain, Cape Town has plenty to offer.

Don’t miss out on experiencing the vibrant culture and diverse food scene. And if you need a sim card for your travel experience, many options are available in Cape Town.

This table provides key tips for staying safe in Cape Town as a solo traveler. By avoiding walking alone at night and sticking to tourist-friendly areas, you can ensure a safer experience.

Additionally, using Uber for transportation instead of public transport can provide an added layer of security.

Cape Town is an incredible destination for solo travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

With its diverse neighborhoods, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant food scene, there is never a dull moment in this city.

From hiking up Table Mountain to exploring historical landmarks like Robben Island, there are endless opportunities for exploration.

Remember to prioritize safety by avoiding walking alone at night and using transportation services like Uber.

So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable solo trip to Cape Town!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to visit cape town.

A: The best time to visit Cape Town is from November to March when the weather is warm and sunny.

Q: Is Cape Town safe for solo female travelers?

A: Yes, Cape Town is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, taking necessary precautions and being aware of your surroundings is always important.

Q: What are some popular attractions in Cape Town?

A: Some popular attractions in Cape Town include Table Mountain, Boulders Beach (home to a penguin colony), Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, and the V&A Waterfront.

Q: Can I use Uber in Cape Town?

A: Uber is available in Cape Town and is a convenient and safe way to get around the city.

Q: What are some must-visit beaches in Cape Town?

A: Some must-visit beaches in Cape Town include Clifton Beach, Camps Bay, and Muizenberg Beach.

Q: Are there any hiking trails in Cape Town?

A: Cape Town is known for its scenic hiking trails, such as Lion’s Head and Table Mountain National Park.

Q: Can I get a local SIM card in Cape Town?

A: You can easily purchase a local SIM card in Cape Town to stay connected during your trip.

Q: What are some tips for solo travelers in Cape Town?

A: Some tips for solo travelers in Cape Town include staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas, and keeping your belongings secure.

Q: What are some recommended places to visit in Cape Town?

A: Some recommended places to visit in Cape Town include the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Point, and the Cape Winelands for wine tasting.

Q: Can I join walking tours to meet new people in Cape Town?

A: Yes, joining walking tours is a great way to explore the city and meet fellow solo travelers.

• https://www.capetown.travel/20-things-to-do-when-youre-travelling-solo-in-cape-town/
• https://www.lonelyplanet.com/articles/best-neighborhoods-in-cape-town
• https://theculturetrip.com/africa/south-africa/articles/a-solo-travellers-guide-to-cape-town
• https://www.adventuretravel-pro.com/travel-destinations/africa-solo-travel/south-africa/cape-town-south-africa/
• https://www.capetown.travel/things-to-do/eat-drink/
• https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/south-african-culture/south-african-culture-etiquette
• https://kelliepaxian.com/blog/cape-town-south-africa-best-city-world

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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South Africa Travel Guide

Last Updated: November 10, 2023

Offering amazing safaris, rugged mountains, world-class wineries, an endless coastline, and lively cities like Cape Town , South Africa is a magical destination that is often overlooked by budget travelers.

Annexed by the Dutch and British before gaining independence in 1931, South Africa struggled with apartheid from 1948 all the way until 1990. The remnants of that dark time can still be seen around the country today, however, things have been improving and the country has been moving forward in leaps and bounds.

While South Africa still struggles with corruption and petty crime (be sure to watch your stuff while you’re here) , its rich but tumultuous history, incredible natural beauty, and international culture make it a worthwhile stop on any round-the-world itinerary. It also has the most UNESCO sites in all of Africa!

This travel guide to South Africa can help you plan the perfect trip without breaking the bank to ensure you make the most of your time in this incredible country.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on South Africa

Top 5 Things to See and Do in South Africa

1. Enjoy Cape Town

Hike up Table Mountain, explore Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, tan on pristine beaches, visit Robben Island, and go on a wine tour. Cape Town has it all, so spend as much time as you can here. There’s also lots to see outside the city, including Boulders Beach ( where you can see penguins ) and Cape Point.

2. Learn about Apartheid’s tragic past

Gain a deeper understanding of South Africa by visiting the Apartheid Museum in Joburg, taking a tour of Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela spent 18 years in prison), and exploring Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnships), a township created by the Apartheid government in Gauteng. It’s a dark, eye-opening era to learn about.

3. Explore Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is the biggest, most popular, and busiest game reserve in the country. It’s a huge park with over 2 million hectares (almost 5 million acres) of space brimming with wildlife (including the Big 5). A basic three-day budget safari costs about 12,000 ZAR.

4. Drive the Garden Route

This route stretches along the Indian Ocean from Mossel Bay to St Francis, offering beautiful landscapes, serene beaches, picturesque towns, scenic wetlands, and sprawling wineries along the way. The journey is only about 200 kilometers (125 miles), but don’t rush — it’s best to spend a few days stopping and exploring as you go.

5. Day trip to Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)

Formerly called Swaziland, this tiny country was renamed in 2018 (Eswatini means “land of the Swazis”). There are several large game parks and reserves here, making it a great destination for more wildlife spotting. Be sure to visit Hlane Royal National Park. Borders can be a bit slow, so check the wait times before you go.

Other Things to See and Do in South Africa

1. partake in extreme sports.

South Africa offers over 100 extreme sports, including bungee jumping, sandboarding, skydiving, parasailing, jungle zip-lining, scuba diving, and more! Prices vary but expect skydiving to cost around 2,800-3,100 ZAR and bungee jumping to cost around 1,400 ZAR. The world’s third-highest bungee jump point, at Bloukrans Bridge, is here in South Africa (it’s 216 meters/708 feet). If you’re going to go cage diving with sharks, make sure you avoid companies that chum the waters to entice the sharks as that isn’t an ethical or sustainable practice.

2. Explore KwaZulu-Natal

People flock to the South African province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) on the east coast to relax, tan, ride the waves, eat amazing food, drink, and spot animals. KwaZulu-Natal’s game-rich Zululand and Elephant Coast in the north provide great wildlife spotting. This is also the birthplace of so many famous and powerful South Africans, including former presidents, the founder of the African National Congress, anti-apartheid leaders, and one of the most influential monarchs of the Zulu Kingdom, Shaka Zulu (1787-1828). KZN has diverse landscapes, interesting activities, and a mix of city life and rural-tribal life. One thing that’s consistent throughout the region is the level of pride in the Zulu culture.

3. Surf the waves

Dungeons Beach, near Cape Town, is a great place to spend some time if you have experience riding gigantic waves. Really — only surf here if you’re a seasoned professional, as the cold water and unpredictable waters are dangerous for new surfers. Beginners should visit Jeffreys Bay (J-Bay), about 75 kilometers (47 miles) west of Port Elizabeth, which is famous for its awesome right-hand point breaking waves. Muizenberg on False Bay is one of the best options for winter longboarding when the north-westerly wind picks up, and Durban has waves ideal for newbies and pro surfers alike. Group surfing lessons cost around 350 ZAR, including equipment.

4. Explore the Cango Caves

These caves, located in the Swartberg Mountains in the Western Cape Province, are 20 million years old and stretch for 4 kilometers (2.5 miles). You can see the exquisite stalagmite formations during the subterranean tours and learn about its history from the Interpretive Center. The standard tour costs 150 ZAR, while a more adventurous (and longer) tour is 220 ZAR, though you should only take this tour if you’re comfortable crawling through very tight spaces. Wear sensible footwear when visiting.

5. Hike Table Mountain

One of the best things in Cape Town is hiking up Table Mountain. It’s a steep, tiring climb that takes around two hours, but the views are worth it. There’s a nice little cafe and a cobblestoned area to walk around at the top so you can relax and admire the view when you’re done. Once you successfully reach the summit, you can take the cable car back down. A one-way ticket is 210 ZAR for adults or 320-390 ZAR for round-trip tickets. Be sure to dress appropriately and bring water as the weather can change quite quickly.

6. Admire the Big Tree in Tsitsikamma National Park

Estimated to be about 800 years old, this majestic Yellowwood tree is located in the Tsitsikamma National Park along South Africa’s Garden Route. This tree of epic proportions stands 36.6 meters (120 feet) high and has a trunk circumference of 9 meters (30 feet). There is a 500 meter (1,640 foot) wooden walkway through the indigenous forest leading to this tree, and from there, you can journey onto a 3-4 kilometer (1.5-2.5-mile) walk if you follow the Ratel Nature Walk signposts. Admission is 12 ZAR. While you’re here, you can also hike many of the other trails in the park, which stretches 80 kilometers (50 miles) along the coastline.

7. Sleep in Gandhi’s house

Did you know that Mahatma Gandhi spent 21 years in South Africa? While he was there, Gandhi’s close friend and German architect Hermann Kallenbach designed and built this farmhouse in 1907, which then served as Gandhi’s South African base from 1908-09. The house is called Satyagraha House and is situated in Orchards, Johannesburg. It’s the spot from which Gandhi developed his plan for passive resistance against the British Empire. It’s been beautifully restored and provides free day visits or overnight stays in one of its seven rooms (prices from 3,080 ZAR).

8. Drive the Namaqualand Flower Route

The Namaqualand Flower Route is a 650-kilometer (404-mile) drive from Yzerfontein to Richtersveld National Park. While you can drive it in one day, most people break it up into sections and take a few days to do it. This region bursts into a sea of color every spring (mainly mid-August and mid-September, peaking in August) when over 4,000 species of flowers bloom. Head north to Springbok, and then make your way down in a southerly direction so the flowers are facing you. The flowers are best viewed on non-overcast days between 10:30am-4pm, so plan your trip accordingly. The Goegap Nature Reserve provides picnic areas and overnight facilities as well. Expect to pay between 320-1,200 ZAR per night.

9. Visit the wineries

South Africa is one of the biggest wine exporters in the world, exporting over 300 million liters (80 million gallons) of wine each year. Visit the vineyards to taste some incredibly fresh wine against a serene, mountainous backdrop. Cape Town is most popular for these tours, but there are great wine regions all over the country, including the Coastal Region, Klein Karoo, Breede River Valley, Olifants River, and Cape South Coast. Jump on an 8-hour day tour that goes from winery to winery, sampling all sorts of wine while learning all about the history of winemaking in South Africa. Tours start at 950 ZAR for a half-day tour.

10. Drive the Sani Pass to the Roof of Africa

Drive the Sani Pass Mountain route in Lesotho — the only route over the Drakensberg escarpment into the mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho. Since it first opened in 1955, the Sani Pass has offered an exhilarating journey as it twists and turns upwards through rocky cliffs that peak at 2,873 meters (9,425 feet) above sea level (hence the name “the Roof of Africa”). Only 4×4 vehicles are allowed on the road, which is treacherous and has been the site of countless accidents. As an alternative to attempting the drive yourself, several tour operators offer day tours, generally costing 940 ZAR. Afterward, bask in your victory as you enjoy a drink at Sani Mountain Lodge, known for being the highest pub in Africa!

11. See the Durban Beachfront

For decades the Golden Mile beachfront in Durban has been popular with cyclists, joggers, and leisurely strollers. You can also explore the Indian District, where dealers in traditional kurtas and saris hawk incense, ornately embroidered fabrics, and aromatic spices. Other sights in the city include visiting the KwaMuhle Museum, the Durban Botanical Gardens, the Tala Game Reserve, the Inanda Heritage Trail, or seeing a Sharks rugby game. Surfing is another popular activity here thanks to the ideal oceanic conditions.

12. Tour Riemvasmaak Community Conservancy

In 1973, under apartheid, 1,500 people were forcibly removed from this area. After the elections in 1994, they were able to return and now welcome visitors to their community. The park is located in the Kalahari Desert, making for some stark — but beautiful — landscapes, with unique rock formations and translucent green fluorite mineral deposits. There are many 4×4, hiking, and mountain biking trails here, as well as plenty of hot springs. There are small guesthouses and camping plots if you’d like to stay overnight.

13. See the penguins

The African penguin is the only penguin to breed on the continent. You can see them at Boulders Beach or Stoney Point Nature Reserve at Betty’s Bay (both locations are a short drive from Cape Town). You don’t often get to see penguins outside of zoos, so it’s definitely worth the drive to see this colony of penguins living their best lives on the beach. Try to arrive before 11am to get the best view of the penguins with the fewest crowds around. Entrance fees range from 25-152 ZAR and full-day guided tours cost 780 ZAR.

14. Surf the waves at Muizenberg Beach

Known for its iconic multi-colored huts on the boardwalk, this is a laid-back neighborhood in Cape Town with a multi-cultural vibe. If you want to hit the waves, you can rent a board for as little as 250 ZAR and a wetsuit 150 ZAR for the day (also available for cheaper by the hour). If you don’t know how to surf, you can also register for SUP or surf lessons at one of the surf shops nearby. Group surf lessons are 235-310 ZAR.

15. Safari in other national parks

While Kruger gets all the love, check out Pilanesberg National Park, Addo National Park, Umfolozi National Park, and the St. Lucia Wetlands. Without the crowds of Kruger, you’ll have ample opportunity to get up close to elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and more. From Johannesburg, the Madikwe Game Reserve, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, and the Dinokeng Game Reserve are just some of the options for nearby safaris.

16. Go whale watching

South Africa is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. If you’re visiting between June and November, there’s an excellent chance of spotting Southern right whales, Bryde’s whales, and orcas. The town of Hermanus, located 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Cape Town, is the base for many of the best whale-watching companies in the country. Some reputable companies include Southern Right Charters, Hermanus Whale Cruises, and Xplora Tours. Expect to pay around 900-1,020 ZAR for a two-hour tour.

  For more information on specific cities in South Africa, check out these guides:

• Cape Town Travel Guide

South Africa Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-8-bed hostel dorm costs 250-300 ZAR per night, and around 215-230 ZAR per night for a dorm with 10 or more beds. A private double room costs 600-935 ZAR. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also include free breakfast and/or have a kitchen, as well as a swimming pool.

For those traveling with a tent, campgrounds can be found all around the country. Expect to pay between 100-400 ZAR per night, depending on the facilities and location.

If you are looking for a hotel, budget hotels range from about 850-1,200 ZAR for a twin or double in big cities and get cheaper in more rural areas. Standard amenities include Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, and air-conditioning. For a hotel with amenities like free breakfast and a swimming pool, expect to pay at least 900 ZAR per night.

Generally, accommodation prices are higher in Cape Town and Johannesburg and inside of any national parks. If you want to cut your prices, think about staying away from the city center, in lesser visited towns, and outside of the national parks when you’re going on a safari.

In the low season, you can find hostels and hotels for 10-20% cheaper.

Airbnb is also an option around the country, though it’s most commonly available in larger urban areas. A private room costs 300-600 ZAR per night while an entire home or apartment costs at least 700-900 ZAR.

Food – Due to its history of colonization and immigration, South African cuisine is a mix of indigenous, Dutch, British, Indian, and Malaysian culinary traditions.

Above all, South Africa is known for its meaty meals. A favorite pastime of South Africans is the braai , an open-air barbeque that originated in the townships of Johannesburg. Often served with your plate of barbeque are chakalaka , a dish of onions, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, and beans, and pap, a maize porridge.

Other popular dishes include bobotie (a baked dish of curry-spiced minced meat with egg on top) and potjiekos (a stew with meat, veggies, and potatoes). Common desserts include melktert (a custard tart) and malva pudding (like sticky toffee pudding).

Overall, restaurants in South Africa are pretty affordable. At a café, some coffee and a small meal cost 100 ZAR. At a casual restaurant serving traditional South African cuisine, expect to pay around 150 ZAR for a meal.

In terms of traditional barbeque, prices for one person vary, but are usually between 100-220 ZAR. Be sure to try biltong (thinly sliced air-dried meat), droewors (air-dried sausage), and boerewors (farmers sausage) if you’re a meat-eater.

A delicious dish that originated in the Indian community is bunny chow, a spicy curry served in a bread bowl that can also be served vegetarian. This dish is usually found at street food and takeaway spots, costing around 65-90 ZAR. At a sit-down Indian restaurant, expect to pay 90-140 ZAR for a typical curry meal.

In terms of fast food, a meal at Nando’s or another fast-food chain costs about 60-85 ZAR per person. A Chinese takeout meal costs around 75-125 ZAR.

At a nicer restaurant, a three-course meal with wine costs 280-320 ZAR per person, though you can find some main dishes for around 120 ZAR. In the same types of restaurants, a burger is 100-130 ZAR, a whole pizza is 120-160 ZAR, and a pasta dish is 90-155 ZAR.

Expect to pay around 30-35 ZAR for a beer and 50-70 ZAR for a cocktail. A glass of wine is 45-60 ZAR, while a bottle costs 120-250 ZAR. A bottle of water is 11 ZAR, soda is 20 ZAR, and a cappuccino is 25 ZAR.

The low-cost alternative to eating out is to buy groceries. A week’s worth of basic groceries for one person costs around 400-550 ZAR. This gets you basic staples like rice or pasta, seasonal produce, and some meat or fish. If you want to keep costs low, avoid expensive items like chicken, beef, and cheese.

Backpacking South Africa Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker’s budget of 850 ZAR per day, you can stay in a hostel, cook most of your meals, limit your drinking, do mostly free activities (walking tours, enjoying nature), and use public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of about 1,900 ZAR per day, you can stay in a private hostel or Airbnb room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like going on a safari or taking surf lessons.

On a “luxury” budget of 3,600 ZAR or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, rent a car, do more safaris and adventure sports, drink more, and do whatever else you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in ZAR.

South Africa Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

It doesn’t cost a lot of money to travel around South Africa. Except for adventure sports and tours, everything is relatively cheap. But that doesn’t mean you can’t save more money! Here are some tips for saving money in South Africa:

• Pitch a tent – Most hostels have yards that they allow travelers to pitch a tent in. It costs much less and you still have the option to use the bathroom, kitchen, and other amenities.
• Work for your room and board – South Africa has plenty of farms and an active WWOOFing community. If you’re looking to stay for a while, cut your food and accommodation costs by spending some time working on a winery or farm.
• Sleep on the train – The Shosholoza Meyl train service connects Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth, East London, Komatipoort, and Musina. Prices vary depending on where you are going, but a one-way ticket from Cape Town to Johannesburg costs around 690 ZAR and takes over 24 hours.
• Rent a car – Renting your own car is the best way to get around South Africa since the buses can be quite slow. Prices vary depending on what sort of vehicle you get, but they are generally around 500 ZAR per day.
• Drink in hostels – Most hostels have a small bar where socializing after a day of sightseeing is the thing to do. Local beer and wine can be purchased cheaper here than most bars and restaurants. If you’re going to drink, this is the place to do it!
• Cook your own food – Purchase groceries at discount supermarkets like Pick n’ Pay or Checkers to prepare meals at your hostel. This will cut down your costs significantly!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally not safe outside of urban areas so bring a reusable water bottle with a filter to save money and reduce your plastic use. LifeStraw is my go-to brand as their bottles have built-in filters to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in South Africa

Looking for a budget-friendly place to rest your head in South Africa? Here are some of my suggested places to stay:

• 91 Loop (Cape Town)
• Never at Home Green point (Cape Town)
• Curiocity Backpackers (Johannesburg)
• Kruger Inn Backpackers (Kruger)
• The Kingdom Resort (Pilanesburg)
• 1322 Backpackers International (Pretoria)

How to Get Around South Africa

Public Transportation – Public transportation is available in the larger cities, though it is notoriously unreliable (and I wouldn’t recommend taking buses or vans within the cities for safety reasons). I also definitely don’t recommend taking the metro around Pretoria or Johannesburg as they’re not safe.

If you must use public transportation, I only recommend MyCiTi buses in Cape Town, which costs 7-13 ZAR for up to 20 kilometers (12 miles), and the People Mover in Durban (6 ZAR per ride, or 16.50 ZAR for a day pass).

Taxi – Instead of buses, minibusses, or shared taxis, I suggest calling for a private taxi. Rates are generally low and vary between cities. In Cape Town, rates average 12 ZAR per kilometer, often with a minimum charge of 30 ZAR.

Ridesharing – Even safer than taxis is Uber, which is available in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban, and Port Elizabeth. This is how I recommend getting around if you’ll have phone service while you’re there.

Bus – Buses are generally the most reliable public transportation between cities, with trips costing anywhere from 250-700 ZAR. The most popular operators are:

• City to City

Since Greyhound pulled out of South Africa in 2021, Intercape is now the main bus provider, with an extensive reach throughout the country. For longer distances, you can choose a more comfortable reclining seat on their overnight Sleepliner bus.

City to City offers a less expensive, no-frills service that goes to many off-the-beaten-track places, including townships and mining towns.

In terms of prices for main routes, the 18-hour bus from Cape Town to Johannesburg costs around 380-600 ZAR, while the 8.5-hour bus from Durban to Pretoria is 225 ZAR.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – Train rides are less common but more comfortable and safer than buses. Shosholoza Meyl (South African Railways) has long-distance trains that serve Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Bloemfontein, Durban, East London, Johannesburg, Queenstown, and East London. They’re comfortable and safe, making various stops at smaller towns along the way. Both tourist and economy classes are affordable options.

The overnight journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town costs around 750 ZAR and is a gorgeous ride with a dining car, showers, and accommodation in a two- or four-berth compartment (if available, couples are given coupes and single travelers and groups are put in compartments). If you are traveling alone and you want a coupe to yourself, you’ll need to buy two tickets.

The economy class is fine for shorter daytime trips; however, it doesn’t have sleeping carriages and is not a comfortable or safe option for overnight travel.

Tourist-class sleepers can get fully booked a month or so ahead, especially on popular routes, so plan ahead.

For those who are interested in luxury, the famous Blue Train , which runs from Pretoria to Cape Town, costs 38,000 ZAR for a luxury double berth. The trip lasts a few days and includes wine, cigars, great food, and comfortable compartments. It’s the fanciest way to see the country!

Flying – Depending on the route, domestic fares are generally affordable. It costs 750 ZAR from Cape Town to Johannesburg, 1,000 ZAR from Cape Town to Durban, or 600 ZAR from Pretoria to Durban. The main budget airlines are Kulula and FlySafair.

Car Rental – If you plan on exploring a lot, a small car can be rented for 500 ZAR per day. Check with your hostel to see if they recommend a certain company to book from. Otherwise, Around About Cars, Avis, Budget, Hertz, and other car rental companies exist in South Africa. Make sure you get insurance and keep all the paperwork as accidents are not uncommon.

You can use your driving license from your home country, provided it is in English (or you have a certified translation). However, if you get stopped by the police, they usually ask to see your passport too so keep at least a photocopy in your car.

When to Go to South Africa

The best time to visit South Africa’s parks is from May to September. This is the dry season and wildlife is easier to spot because there’s less vegetation around waterholes, so you can see the animals as they gather to quench their thirst. As this is winter, mornings and nights are chilly.

May and September are wonderful times to visit because it is less cold and, especially in September, the wildlife viewing is excellent. Most days are sunny, there is little to no rain, and there are very few mosquitos.

The winters are mild and produce average highs of approximately 17°C (63°F). This is the low season, so the parks are not crowded (save for Kruger during school holidays).

The wet season (summer) runs from October to April. This is after the first rain, so the scenery turns green and the country looks lush and fresh. This is the best time for bird watching because most of the migratory birds are around. When it does rain, it doesn’t rain for long so you can usually wait it out. Seeing animals is harder since there are more lush landscapes and more places for the animals to be hidden or blocked by trees and bushes.

Parts of South Africa see summer highs get up to 28°C (81°F), with averages closer to 25°C (77°F). Prepare for much larger crowds in the national parks when there are school holidays.

Generally speaking, temperatures are more consistent throughout the year at the coast, while the arid/mountainous areas of the interior see the greatest fluctuation in seasonal temperatures. Even in the Kalahari Desert, nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. It’s a good idea to pack for all occasions, as often people joke about how you can experience all four seasons in one day in South Africa.

How to Stay Safe in South Africa

South Africa requires extra vigilance because there’s a lot of petty crime here. While you’re unlikely to ever be in any real physical danger, petty crime and harassment are rampant. Avoid carrying expensive gear and lots of money, especially late at night. Always keep your valuables secure and never dress flashy. Do your best to fit in at all times so you don’t stand out as a target.

Don’t walk around alone late at night. If you have a rental car, keep your doors locked at all times to prevent theft and carjacking. Never leave anything in your vehicle overnight as break-ins can occur.

Solo female travelers will want to be cautious here. Avoid traveling alone when you can and don’t travel alone at night. Always keep an eye on your drink when out at the bar and be extra careful in crowded areas as sexual harassment isn’t uncommon.

Crime rates are higher in the townships (settlements established during apartheid for forced racial segregation), but that doesn’t mean avoid them altogether. Just visit during daylight hours, especially with a local guide.

Be extra careful in Johannesburg, where crime rates are the highest in the country (although again, it’s mostly petty crime). If you’re driving, pay attention to what’s happening behind your car as well as in the front. If someone exits a car and starts approaching you, move on quickly.

If you’re going to visit Hillbrow, Berea, Joubert Park and Yeoville make sure you do it with a local as these are riskier neighborhoods to explore on your own.

If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you do experience an emergency, dial 10 111 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct and make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

For more in-depth coverage of how to stay safe in South Africa, check out this post we wrote that answers some frequently asked questions and concerns.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

South Africa Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

South Africa Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling South Africa and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money When You Visit Cape Town

The 5 Best Hostels in Cape Town

The 12 Best Things to Do in South Africa

Cape Town Itinerary: What to See and Do in 4 (or More) Days

Six of the Greatest Safaris in Africa

24 Photos from My Safari to Kruger National Park

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Injasuti Park, Drakensberg, South Africa / Photo by Mark Harpur on Unsplash

Solo Travel: A guide to exploring South Africa on your own

Venture out on your own to discover South Africa. Here’s what a solo traveller can expect from visiting some of the provinces and how to go about planning the trip

Have you ever wanted to venture out on a holiday that is planned on your own accord? Here’s what a solo traveller can expect when visiting parts of South Africa.

How and why to travel solo in South Africa

Solo travel guides are often provided for explorers on their gap year when they visit continents across the globe. But travelling in South Africa can be even easier to do, in a trip that is soul-fulfilling, without the anxiety of being in a foreign land.

To begin with, the type of trip you embark on is totally up to you. You can cater your destination and itinerary to different needs, like solitude – perhaps you need a quiet, private holiday to write or paint, or perhaps you’re on a quest to reap the benefits of being single, with the aim of meeting new people along the way. 

Once you have the kind of trip you’d like to have figured out, pick a province. While it is usually about the journey and not the destination, destinations across the country are available in abundance and will set the tone for your trip. 

KwaZulu Natal

A trip to the Durban shores is just what the doctor ordered, with sunshine and warm ocean waters on the shores. From here, you can explore the province, travelling either north or south to find coastal towns and beaches. When visiting, be sure to stroll down the Golden Mile and get yourself some bunny chow.

Mpumalanga’s Lowveld, often aptly referred to as the slowveld, is a province where you can actually find a lot of adventure. Take scenic drives to zip lines and river rafting, with lush mountainous areas and waterfalls in between. If the bush is what you prefer, head straight to the Kruger National Park .

The North West is home to the Pilanesberg National Park , where you can explore this bush environment on foot on guided walking tours and trails. If you’d prefer a resort, head straight to Sun City where a world of fun awaits. Along the way, stopover in Hartebeespoort, where you can enjoy a pancake by the dam and shopping at the market. 

Gauteng has a lot to offer independent travelers. Visit the Union Buildings in Pretoria, or head to the city of gold, where you will find activity, art and culture. It is best to explore the city neighbourhood by neighbourhood, from the quirks of Melville to the richly historic and vibrant Newtown.

Western Cape

The Western Cape is the country’s beauty queen, meaning it’s well equipped for tourists and visitors. Explore the Winelands, visit the beaches, or explore the culture and heritage which is evident in the architecture all around the city. 

Eastern Cape

A natural, seemingly untouched province filled with nature and animals. If you’d like the beach, head to the shores, and if you’d prefer a cultural trip, take a road trip in search of small towns. This is also home to the Tsitsikamma National Park, a must for your bucket list.

Now that you’ve got your bearings, it’s time to decide on your accommodation. This too plays an important role in your solo travel experience: will it be the luxury of a hotel, or do you want to rough it out at a backpackers? 

Finally, you’ll want to consider transport. One needs to be safe when travelling alone, though there are many options: busses, cabs, car rentals and shuttles are all options to be considered. 

Staying safe on your solo journey

As always, one should be mindful of crime, especially when traveling alone; be alert and do not flash your valuables. Keep emergency contacts details with you and check in with your family and friends to let them know you are safe.

Inspired? Now its time to get sorted, booked and ready. Explore the beauty that is South Africa, in a solo travel experience that will do wonders for your wellbeing.

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South africa , travel stories, “but isn’t it dangerous there” traveling solo in cape town, south africa.

• Published January 27, 2022

“But isn’t it dangerous there?” 

— Every person ever who hears you’re traveling solo to Cape Town, South Africa.

Okay, maybe “every person ever” is an exaggeration, but so is “dangerous.” Travelers need to exercise caution anywhere in the world, and this especially goes for solo travelers in a developing nation that is far and different from home. But most incidents can be avoided if you abide by the guidelines we’ll be sharing right here in this article, so rest assured knowing you’re mitigating any risks to the best of your ability. No concerns should hold you back from experiencing the magic of Cape Town!

Cape Town is one of the most alluring destinations for solo travelers as it truly has something for everyone: breathtaking nature, abundant adventure, fascinating wildlife, amazing food, fun bars, trendy cafes, friendly people, and an affordable cost of living. In Cape Town, you can be whoever you want to be. The city comes with a bit of edge and unpredictability, but that adds to its excitement, and as solo travelers it pushes us out of our comfort zone to make us all the more savvy and empowered.

Keeping in mind basic safety precautions combined with some local intel, there’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to experience Cape Town to its fullest and you’ll most likely fall in love with the city while doing so. Here are some tips to guide you on your way.

Meet new travel buddies

Safety comes in numbers, so it’s always advisable (and fun!) to make some new friends or acquaintances while in your destination. Cape Town attracts tons of solo travelers from backpackers to digital nomads and expats, and someone is always keen to buddy up for an activity. 

Choose community-based accommodation options such as Atlantic Point Backpackers or Work Wanderers Coliving Retreat to stay with like minded travelers who can accompany you on your hike or city explorations. Connect with other solo travelers on a Facebook or WhatsApp Group, as there is usually someone looking to catch some live music or hit the wineries. Or attend one of the many social gatherings such as the Old Biscuit Mill Neighbourgoods Market or outdoor yoga with Om Revolution, and you might strike up a conversation that could lead to future meet-ups.

Use Uber for transportation

Uber is a reliable ridesharing app that allows you to get to your destination with a vetted driver and a secure platform, complete with On Trip Reporting and Share My Trip features. Uber prices in Cape Town are relatively low compared to many other world-class tourism destinations, with $5 USD getting you pretty much anywhere in the city, and a trip to the outskirts costing less than $20. Bolt is also a good option. This will allow you to avoid taking untrustworthy taxis or crowded busses that may pose risks.

Get a local SIM card

The key with Cape Town is to be mindful of time and place, so it always helps to be connected in case plans go awry. Having a local SIM card will add an element of safety to your trip, eliminating the need for Wi-Fi in the event that anything urgent comes up, like needing directions, connecting with your travel buddies, or ordering an Uber. South African telecommunications networks like Vocadom and MTN sell SIM cards and data packages are available at grocery stores, pharmacies, and more. 

Avoid walking at night

A simple and non-negotiable rule for visiting Cape Town: don’t walk at night. Not even for a couple of blocks. Just don’t do it. Crime rates increase at night, and it’s best to play it safe and book that Uber.

Be cautious with where you walk during the day

Cape Town is made up of beautiful and diverse neighborhoods that each offer their own unique appeal, but caution must be exercised whenever wandering solo, and certain areas are best to be avoided. Areas that err on the safe side are the affluent Camps Bay and Bantry Bay neighborhoods, as well as the Atlantic Seaboard suburbs of Sea Point and Green Point, especially along the Promenade or V&A Waterfront. Solo travellers must exercise more caution in neighborhoods like Woodstock, Bo Kaap, and the CBD, and are best to avoid the Cape Flats and township areas while alone.

Mind your belongings

Basic safety rules apply everywhere when traveling solo, and none are exempt in Cape Town. Maintain awareness of your valuables by hovering your hand over your purse while out in public, which is ideally a crossbody bag worn in front of your body. Never leave your drink or any belongings unattended, even if it’s your cell phone sitting on the table at the cafe or on your lap at a traffic light while windows are open. 

When pulling your phone or camera out to snap a pic (which you’ll want to do all the time in Cape Town!), be mindful of your surroundings and don’t wave your fancy electronics out in a crowd. Venture out with minimal belongings and cash and you’ll lower the risk of losing them.

Keep your distance

We’re all experts at social distancing now anyway, so keep this in mind for the streets of Cape Town. Whether you’re out for a leisurely stroll on the Promenade, hiking on Cape Town’s epic mountains, or out for a night on the town, keeping a safe distance between yourself and passers-by will lessen your chances of getting pickpocketed or having an encounter that makes you uncomfortable. Feel free to step aside or cross the street and stay in your own little bubble of safety.

Trust your gut

When it comes down to it, your intuition often knows if you’re in a situation that could be unsafe. Many people who have experienced crime in Cape Town say that they know they were pushing their limits — they shouldn’t have been walking in that area alone, they shouldn’t have been using their phone outside that bar, they got a funny feeling from some men on a street that felt a little too quiet. Listen to your gut and know that if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t, so adapt and pivot to the best of your ability. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

At the end of the day, Cape Town is loaded with adventure for the taking, check out our Guide to Having an Adventurous Time in Cape Town for more.

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Is Cape Town Dangerous? Solo Female Travel

Cape Town, South Africa is truly stunning, from beaches, mountains, vineyards, delicious food of every cuisine, museums and a great café scene. The views over the city from Table Mountain and Lion Rock are incredible. Seeing the cute penguins at Boulders beach is also not something to be missed.

What about solo female travel in Cape Town? Travelling alone as a woman in Africa can be scary and daunting- I completely understand. I spent several days alone in Cape town at the end of a tour and loved exploring the place myself. As a woman travelling solo you do need to take some extra safety precautions. Here’s safety guide for solo female travellers in Cape Town.

Is Cape Town dangerous for solo female travel?

This is the number one thing us girls travelling alone want to know before we travel anywhere- will I be safe? Cape Town does have a high crime rate, so you definably need to be aware at ALL times. Muggings, pick pockets, scams, armed robberies and kidnappings do happen so it’s right that you need to be as prepared as possible before your trip.

BUT that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t travel here . Cape Town is such a beautiful city that it would be a shame to be missed. Following advice and researching your destination is the best way you can protect yourself.

Safety in Cape Town is a valid concern. Although most of the violent crimes happen out in the townships or isolated areas, there have been some armed robberies in tourist places. The remote areas should definitely be avoided if you are alone but also be aware that there is higher crime rate in the big cities. There can be regular protests in South Africa too and these should be avoided. Your Gov website will have up to date info too.

How can I stay safe in Cape Town?

The good news is that it is still possible for solo female travel in Cape Town and there are plenty of safety tips to help you keep safe and have an enjoyable, problem free trip. Reading up on this is a necessity.

1.       Never walk alone after dark

After dark you should definitely not wander around alone as crime rates get even higher. Don’t put yourself in a vulnerable position and get a taxi to where you need to go. Walking short distances, I’d say is ok, I walked back to my hostel from the waterfront just fine, although I wouldn’t walk very long distances alone.

2.       Hide your valuables

Keep an eye on your things at all times- it only takes a second for someone to swipe them- you can’t leave anything unattended in South Africa. Do not flash your money- always wait until you are inside the shop or restaurant to take out your cash.

Don’t walk around with expensive looking possessions as this is just asking for trouble. Carry a modest looking bag with only the essentials and wait until a safe place to get out your camera. If you feel uncomfortable about taking out your camera then don’t and try not to take it out for too long a time- just enough to get the pic you need.

3.       Be aware and vigilant of your surroundings

This is standard advice for most countries but particularly Cape Town and South Africa. Always keep an eye on your possessions and where you are. Research where you are going beforehand, make sure you know it’s a reasonably safe area and how to get back to your accommodation.

Look around every so often when walking, keeping an eye out for anyone dodgy looking or following you. If this does happen then stay calm and head to the nearest busy place, like a hotel, shop or restaurant. I had no problems in being followed but it’s always good to keep an eye out just in case.

4.       Don’t go on hiking trails alone

Hiking alone as a woman in Cape Town is not recommended. You are much more vulnerable in these places and there will be less people around to call if you need help. Its best to book a day tour or find friends in the hostel.

5.       Make friends with other travellers

Finding other travellers is a great way to keeper safer, especially if you’re wanting to hike up to Table Mountain or any of the other hiking trails. The bigger the group the better- it’s very easy to make friends when travelling and there will definitely be others wanting to find a travel buddy too.

6.       Avoid the trains

I would avoid the local metro trains in the larger cities as they have a high crime rate, especially after dark. If travelling on one of the expensive long-distance trains, such as the ‘Blue train’ these will be fine (and pretty luxurious too!). It’s better to get a reputable taxi as opposed to public transport, this is especially so at night.

7.       Research common scams in Cape Town

There are many scams in Cape Town- don’t be a victim to one of them. The best way to avoid theses scams is to read up on the most common before you travel. Knowledge is power.

Here are some common scams in Cape Town:

–          Watch out for people trying to ‘help you’ with the ATM machines. Try taking out money in the secure doored machines, inside the bank or ones that are watched by security.

–          Be aware of ‘officials’ in the airport. On my first trip to South Africa my friend had to pay an oversized baggage fee that went straight into the guys pocket. He was wearing an official uniform. Also watch for people wanting to ‘help’ with your luggage.

–          Fake tourist police may approach you with ids. Make sure you check their identification properly and call the real police if something doesn’t feel right.

–          Dodgy taxi’s- check the drivers id number and make sure it’s a reputable taxi. Ask your hostel for recommended companies. Always ask for the meter on.

–          Being approached by pick-pockets asking for money or trying to distract you in conversation. Keep your bag where you can see it- not on your back.

More on solo travel:  Solo female travel: How to stay safe on the road

Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = 'text/javascript'; s.async = true; s.src = u + '?v=' + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, 'script', '//aff.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js');

8.       avoid driving in cape town.

It might not be so much of a problem if you are in a group but would avoid driving altogether if alone. If you do, then watch out for people approaching at road junctions and traffic lights and keep valuables out of sight. Drive on the main roads and during day light. Crime is more common after dark.

9.       Watch your drinks

Hopefully you’re doing this anyway, no matter where you are in the world because unfortunately drink spiking does happen. To avoid this, watch the bar tender pour your drink or better yet, order something that has a seal on it like a can of beer. Only go out with people you trust and make sure you are in a group and stay together.

10.   Book yourself on a day tour

Day tours are great idea if travelling alone in Cape Town. Most of the companies will pick you up from your accommodation and drop you off again, so you are never actually alone. This is also a great way to make friends if wanting some company.

11.   Ask locals for tips

Asking a local or at your accommodation reception for tips on the safest areas is such a great idea. They can tell you where not to go, the best days to visit certain places and what to avoid. They will have knowledge on the best ways to get around and of reputable companies.

12.   Learn and save emergency numbers

Know the numbers for the police and ambulance and save them in your phone. That way if you get in trouble you can quickly call for help. It’s also a good idea to put in several taxi companies’ numbers and the number for your accommodation.

The emergency numbers for Cape Town are a little confusing – do check these in case of local changes:

–          Emergency National- 10111 (for police, free from landline, charged from mobile)

–          Emergency Ambulance- 10177 ( for ambulance, medical, fire)

–          From a mobile phone- 112 (free, takes you to automated system to direct you)

If you’re still reading and I haven’t put you off hooray! Cape Town can be safe for solo female travellers, if you do your research. I hope you found this post on staying safe helpful. Cape Town is a wonderful city to explore and there’s no reason why we can’t do it alone.

Please share this post to all the ladies wanting to travel solo in Cape Town/ Sout Africa 😀 

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Hi, I'm Sam, a British backpacker, solo travelling for over a decade. I aim to inspire and advise on solo female travel.

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thank you for sharing your experience and I will observe my surroundings and I won’t stand too close to people and I will keep my pocketbook in front of me and I won’t walk the streets at dark and I will plan my egg to activities with Taurus and my drinks will be a beer where I pop to see you thank you but I really don’t drink

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Africa

• Solo Female Friendly Star Rating – 2 out of 5
• Budget – $30 to $60 a day
• Cheapest country – Tunisia
• Most expensive – Angola

Did you know? Africa is where mankind is thought to have begun, and what makes it unique is its many tribes and diversities.  

Languages spoken: Too many to name, including Afrikaans, Zulu and Swahili. The northern countries, such as Tunisia, Morocco and Algeria, speak French Arabic. South Africans speak English. In West Africa, due to the colonisation by European countries, the main languages are either French, English, Portuguese or Spanish (varying from country to country).  

Ethiopia is a country to visit for tribes and culture

Why Visit Africa?

Africa is a diverse continent and is split into different regions with many travellers choosing to visit the south, east or north. The Indian Ocean is home to many African islands, such as the Seychelles, Mauritius and Madagascar and the French-owned territories of Reunion and Mayotte. 

South Africa is best known for its safaris and game reserves, from the famous Kruger Park in the south to the Masai Mara in the north. The Big Five are plentiful throughout the continent.  

Africa is a continent like no other, but solo travel in Africa can be a struggle and as a traveller, you will stick out. Throughout the continent, you’ll hear the kissing sound as men try and get your attention, or the word “Muzungu ”, which refers to a white person.  

Although some African countries are very stable and safe, some remain unpredictable. The safest countries to solo female travel Africa are Botswana and Eswatini, but if you’re planning to visit more than one country, consider an overland group tour. It’s a great way of seeing several countries and being within the safety of a group at the same time.  

Don’t expect transport to run on time here, as public transport can be unreliable and uncomfortable. An open mind is definitely needed for getting around.  

You have to be over 25 to hire a car and the best countries to drive through are Morocco, Botswana, Mozambique and Eswatini, but if travelling overland seems like too much stress, consider flying instead, but be prepared for delays.

Because of the distance in Ethiopia, private transport or internal flights are easier. If you do choose to hire a car and are planning to visit more than one country, check that you don’t need a Carnet de Passage, which is a document that allows you to cross international borders.  

If you’re planning solo travel to Africa and looking to explore more than one country, consider a group overland tour. It's a great way to see several countries and be in the safety of a group at the same time.

Below is a guide to each region and the best countries to visit for solos. Click on the images at the end for the solo destination guides.  

Recommended Africa Tours

• G Adventures – Worldwide group tours throughout Africa for all ages
• Travel Talk – Budget tours to Egypt and Morocco for 18 to 39-year-olds
• Visit Natives – Cultural tours of the Maasai and Hadzabe in Tanzania
• Women Tour Uganda – Gorilla trekking Uganda and other Uganda tours

Visit the Pyramids in Egypt

Solo Travel in North Africa  

North Africa consists of Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt. Some of these countries feel more like the Middle East than Africa. Not all of these countries are safe to travel to. The countries which attract solos are Morocco, Tunisia and Egypt . Head here for ancient Egyptian tombs and monuments or enjoy a camel ride in the French-speaking countries of Morocco or Tunisia, famous for their mint tea.

One big attraction here is the desert, so visit these countries if you want to sleep under the desert stars and experience time with nomadic tribes. It’s also big in movie tourism: Star Wars was filmed in Tunisia and many movies in Ouarzazate in Morocco.  

As a solo, expect to be hassled even if it’s just within the souks. Dress conservatively here to avoid any attention.  

Get lost in the desert dunes in Morocco

Getting Around North Africa

There are trains here and you may feel more comfortable using a train than local buses, as they can be safer if you’re travelling alone, but they can be slower. If you’re travelling overland for many hours, consider a sleeping compartment, and lock the door and windows at night. The trains in Tunisia are really cheap with respectful travellers. Taxis are also reasonable here and can take you around the country.  

Morocco has a good bus network, with buses running throughout the country. Choose the company called CTM if you prefer to travel in comfort. Domestic flights tend to fly via Casablanca, so travelling overland could be quicker and cheaper.  

In Egypt, feluccas or river cruises take you along the River Nile at a leisurely pace, stopping at the incredible Egyptian sites, such as Luxor and the Valley of the Kings. The rest of the country can be explored on cheap trains and buses, and there are internal flights, which are easier when visiting Abu Simbel.  

Cape Town in South Africa

Solo Travel in South Africa  

South Africa is made up of: Angola, Namibia, Mozambique, Tanzania, Eswatini , South Africa, Zambia , Zimbabwe, Botswana, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lesotho and Malawi.  

Victoria Falls sits between Zimbabwe and Zambia, and the Zambezi River is perfect for adrenalin junkies. Visit Namibia for the Skeleton Coast, Fish River Canyon and stunning salt flats within red dunes. Experience a walking safari at the Okavango Delta in Botswana or by river in a traditional mokoro.

Malawi is a magical country and is home to Lake Malawi, which lies within the Great Rift Valley, running from the north of Africa to Mozambique. South Africa is a wine-tasters dream and has plenty of sightseeing; dive with great whites, visit the infamous Robben Island or just enjoy the city view from Table Mountain.  

Many of the countries are okay to travel in but it is still Africa, so be careful in Johannesburg and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). As a solo, you may feel more comfortable in these safe places in Africa: Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania .

Go on a safari in South Africa

Getting Around South Africa

Travelling by bus is an option, but not all roads are well paved, so it could be a bumpy journey, especially around the Masai Mara safari park. Public transport is difficult in Malawi and you’ll often see people just walking miles along the roadsides. Although there is a lack of transport in Namibia, there are buses between the main cities. Botswana has a good bus and minibus network.  

If you’re travelling in Tanzania, you’ll need to find a reputable bus company, as some of the roads aren’t in good condition. Mozambique is also hard to get around. In Kenya, you can take a night bus to Mombasa, which has security cameras onboard for extra safety. The eight-hour bus journey is without stops.  

There are intercity buses in South Africa and also international buses with air conditioning or, if you’re just travelling through countries, there are minibuses known as matatus, which generally wait to be filled before they leave. Be prepared to be the only traveller on one of these.  

Lake Kivu in Rwanda

Solo Travel in East Africa  

East Africa consists of: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania (and Zanzibar), Rwanda , Burundi, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Eritrea and Somalia.  

The east is home to the Masai tribe and the annual migration of the wildebeest who share their terrain with Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest mountain. Just off the east coast of Tanzania is the tropical island of Zanzibar. Lose yourself in the maze that is Stone Town or visit an authentic Spice Farm.

Uganda and Rwanda are known for gorilla trekking and attract wildlife solos who want to see primates in the wild. Rwanda is one of the safe places to visit in Africa and has plenty of community-based tourism to experience the culture. 

Some of these countries are not really accessible to tourists. You wouldn’t want to visit Somalia and Eritrea when travelling Africa solo. Although Ethiopia has incredible landscapes and tribal culture, it is currently in conflict so make sure to check the safety of the country before planning a trip there.  

See the Maasai tribe in Kenya or Tanzania

Getting Around East Africa

Riverboats may be crammed and ferries may be overloaded, but they are a cheap way of getting around. If you’re travelling from Mombasa to one of the beaches, be prepared for the boat to be busy and to be the only Westerner. A good ferry service takes you from Dar es Salam to the island of Zanzibar and you’ll find ferries taking you across the larger lakes throughout the continent.  

Be careful in Kenya, where there’s a chance of getting mugged, although they do have security cameras on overnight buses. In downtown Nairobi you’ll often see people sniffing glue openly on the streets.  

In Ethiopia you could be a novelty, so expect attention from beggars and curious locals. If you visit Uganda independently, you may find yourself very alone if you’re not on a tour. You may feel more comfortable in countries with more travellers and tourists.  

See Dakar in Senegal

Solo Travel in West Africa  

West Africa includes Benin, Burkina Faso, Cote d’Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo, Mali, Niger, Chad and the islands of Cape Verde, São Tomé and Príncipe.  

West Africa is not as visited as the rest of the continent, with many countries out of bounds due to political unrest and extreme terrorist groups threatening tourism. They can also be difficult to enter, with many requiring a visa. Travel to West Africa and Senegal and the Gambia are the most visited here. Many also fly direct to Cape Verde for a holiday.

Even though the Gambia is one of the safest countries in West Africa, expect attention on the beaches. The same applies to Ghana, where being friendly can be seen by men as an invitation for a relationship.  

A gorgeous beach in Sal, Cape Verde

Getting Around West Africa

Travel West Africa and you’ll find a lack of tourism infrastructure and corrupt border officials. Many countries only have a bus network which connects the main cities, so going off the beaten track can be a challenge and you may have to take shared taxis or mototaxis in countries such as Benin and Togo.  

That’s not to say that you shouldn’t travel there, as countries such as Senegal and Ghana are very welcoming, but the majority of the region is definitely better seen with an organised tour.  

Congo is home to gorillas but it is safer to visit them in Uganda or Rwanda

Central Africa  

Central Africa is not a region that most solos travel to. This is not the region for travelling Africa alone. The region includes countries such as Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which are known for their political unrest. Unless you are travelling with an NGO, it is better to avoid this region at the current time.  

Finally…  

There is so much to see in Africa: gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda, meerkats in the Kalahari, tribal villages in Ethiopia and the old Kingdom of Swaziland. If you prefer an island getaway, visit the volcanic isles of Cape Verde, Madagascar or the Seychelles. Whatever your reason for travelling solo in Africa, you are guaranteed to get more than you bargained for.  

Explore the beautiful landscapes of Namibia

Africa Highlights  

• Take a cable car to Table Mountain in Cape Town
• Take a safari. Choose from any of the Big Five game parks
• Cairo Museum in Egypt
• Abu Simbel in Egypt
• A cruise along the River Nile
• Masai Mara in Kenya
• Souk shopping in Marrakech  
• Lake Malawi in Malawi
• Rock forests of Madagascar

Seven Wonders of the World:  

• Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe/Zambia
• The Great Pyramid of Egypt
• Lighthouse of Alexandria in Egypt

See the stunning Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

African Itineraries  

One week africa itinerary.

If you only have a week to solo travel Africa, you could easily spend a week in each country.

Tanzania – Arusha, Lake Manyara, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha.  

South Africa – It’s difficult to do in seven days without using internal flights, but two options are either stay in Cape Town for a few days, then fly to Kruger National Park, or go from Cape Town to Noordhoek, Simon’s Town, then back to Cape Town.  

Zambia and Namibia – Windhoek, Kalahari Desert, Maun, Okavango Delta, Nata Area, Chobe National Park, Livingstone.  

Zimbabwe – Harare, Mana Pools, Bulawayo, Vic Falls.  

Kenya – Nairobi, Masai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Mount Kenya.  

Go gorilla trekking in Uganda or Rwanda

Africa Itinerary Two Weeks  

South Africa – Cape Town, Franschhoek, Swellendam, Plettenberg Bay, Addo Elephant National Park, Port Elizabeth, Johannesburg.  

South Africa and Namibia – Cape Town, Cederberg, Gariep River, Fish River Canyon, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe, Damaraland, Etosha National Park, Windhoek.  

Zambia and Zimbabwe – Johannesburg, Maun, Okavango Delta, Chobe River, Livingstone, Bulawayo, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg.  

Ethiopia – Addis, Bahir Dar, Lake Tana, Blue Nile Falls, Gonder, Semien Mountains, Lalibela, Axum.  

Egypt – Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, Abu Simbel, Cairo.  

See the beautiful island of Zanzibar

Three Weeks Africa Itinerary

If you are planning on backpacking Africa solo, join an overland camping trip, especially if you want to see more than one country. You can then fly into your initial point of entry and out of the one that you finish your trip in.  

East Africa – Nairobi, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, Loita Hills, Masai Mara National Reserve, Nairobi, Arusha, Mto wa Mbu, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Marangu, Usambara Mountains, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar.  

Cape Town to Livingstone – Cape Town, Fish River Canyon, Gariep River, Namib Desert, Swakopmund, Spitzkoppe, Etosha National Park, Windhoek, Kalahari, Maun, Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Livingstone.  

Explore local villages in Morocco

One Month Africa Itinerary

Kenya to South Africa – Nairobi, Arusha, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Dar Es Salam, ferry to Zanzibar, Iringa, Lake Malawi, Senga Bay, Chipata, Lusaka, Livingstone, Victoria Falls, fly to Kruger National Park, Johannesburg.  

If you're planning a trip to Africa, click on the images below for the solo destination guides to each country. 

More Posts on Africa

• Why Choose an African Overlanding Tour
• My Camping in Africa Experience
• Tips For West Africa Backpacking

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19 awesome places to travel alone in africa: solo travel made easy.

I’m going to level with you. I have only been to Africa once. The place was Morocco and the images, sounds, tastes and smells are seared in my memory to this day.

The vibrant indigo veils of the Tuareg men. The almost mystical sound of Gnawa music. The aromatic sweetness of a slow-cooked tagine. The acrid smell of the Chouara tannery in Fez. 

My ambition is to explore much more of this vast continent but I have struggled to identify the best places in Africa for solo travellers. To help me identify the best African destinations for solo travel, I reached out to expert travel bloggers, drawing on their first-hand experiences of visiting this part of the world.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

>>> Get inspiration to book your first solo trip to Africa with these dreamy quotations about travelling alone .

Best Africa Solo Travel Destinations

Cape town, south africa.

By James of The Travel Scribes

The thick white cloud rolling over Table Mountain. World-class white-sand beaches around nearly every corner. And a vibrant, buzzing atmosphere that is almost palpable.

It can only be Cape Town, the cosmopolitan, melting pot of a city perched at the very tip of the African continent.

A destination that wins ‘world’s best city to visit’ at most travel award ceremonies, Cape Town is one of those cities that has to be on every traveller’s bucket list.

Best visited in the spring or summer months (October to March), the city offers so much for all types of visitors. It serves wallet-friendly food and has some of the world’s best wineries. Add to that its jaw-droppingly beautiful coastal roads like  Chapman’s Peak Drive  and its crowning glory, Table Mountain .

Get out and about on your  Cape Town itinerary  with a tour of the local townships or the famous colourful streets of the  Bo-Kaap . Go  shark cage diving  with fierce great whites,  market hop  to find beautiful handmade wares or just spend your days flitting from one gorgeous café to the next, revelling in the sights and sounds of the continent’s favourite playground.

Reasons to visit Cape Town as a solo traveller

• It’s easy to meet people at bars, restaurants and hostels to find travel buddies
• The infrastructure is world-class, making it easy to get around
• Most locals are friendly. Even if you’re lost you’ll find your way around with their help
• It’s a relatively cheap destination by Western standards, somewhere you can travel better for less

Top tips for visiting Cape Town as a solo traveller

• Make sure to stay near the city centre to ensure you can visit all the key attractions
• Use ridesharing apps like Uber to ensure you are safe (do not use local shared taxis)
• Book the city sightseeing tour. It’s one of the best in the world and is a free bus pass too!

Cape Verde (Cabo Verde)

By Paulina of Paulina On The Road

If you’re looking for one of the best places to travel alone in Africa, visiting Cabo Verde is a must.

This West African nation brings you close to nature’s beauty, bringing out the landscape-lover in you. The Cape Verde archipelago is home to one of the most vibrant cultures in Africa and is blessed with green and beautiful landscapes everywhere. You can visit anytime as the weather is excellent all year round. 

There are plenty of  things to do in Cabo Verde  for adventurers, from  surfing  the waves to hiring a quad bike and  touring the island . Don’t leave Cabo Verde before trying the  local cuisine  (pork and grilled chicken are popular here). 

Reasons to visit Cabo Verde as a solo traveller

• It’s relatively safe for solo travelling
• In recent years the infrastructure has been improved, allowing easier independent travel

Top tip for visiting Cabo Verde as a solo traveller

Prepare a holiday plan package beforehand. Contact travel guides to help you explore the archipelago’s highlights.

Chefchaouen, Morocco

By Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Chefchaouen, the blue city in northern Morocco, is a great place to travel solo in Africa.

It’s not as big and overwhelming as bigger Moroccan cities. The medina is just big enough – or some say small enough – that you can get wonderfully lost in the streets yet find your way home.

There are plenty of  things to do in Chefchaouen.  Take a day trip to the mesmerizing  Akchour Waterfall  or walk up to the  Spanish church  for the best views of the city.

There are plenty of shopping opportunities in the medina, allowing you to support the local economy whilst bringing home beautiful memories.

It is perfect to visit all year round, but in the summer months and at Easter week it gets busy, especially with Moroccans and Spanish tourists who cross the border to enjoy the stunning blue city during Easter week.

Reasons to visit Chefchaouen as a solo traveller

• Relatively safe
• Small medina so it’s hard to get lost
• Friendly locals
• Cheap local shopping

Top tips for visiting Chefchaouen as a solo traveller

• Try a local tajine for an amazing dinner experience!
• Shop in small local shops to support the local economy
• Learn some basic phrases in French
• Take time to get lost in the streets and really experience the little town
• Tap water is usually safe to drink in Morocco but bring a filtered water bottle to be safe

The Danakil Depression, Ethiopia

By Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

The Danakil is one of the most unique places on earth.

This region of northern Ethiopia is located at the border with Eritrea and is full of  dramatic landscapes , from the lava flows of Erta Ale Volcano to the salt desert and the colourful toxic lakes of the Dallol. It’s the home of the  Afar people , a nomadic people that is just one of the many indigenous groups of Ethiopia.

Thought to be the  cradle of humankind  – it was in the Danakil that archaeologists found Lucy, the famous hominid skeleton currently on display at the National Museum of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa –  this area is famous for its harsh living conditions.

Located below sea level, the average temperature here is 34 degrees Celsius. However, in reality, the temperatures rise much much higher, making it impossible for anyone to spend more than an hour or two outside.

Should you decide to  travel to Ethiopia , you should add the Danakil to your itinerary. 

Reasons to visit the Danakil as a solo traveller

• Ethiopia attracts lots of solo travellers
• As you are likely to visit the Danakil on a group tour you will have ready-made travelling companions.  

Top tip for visiting the Danakil as a solo traveller

Due to a lack of proper infrastructure in this part of the country, the Danakil is best visited on a guided group tour.  These tours depart from Mekele and last between three and four days.

Expect to pay in the region of $400 USD, which is inclusive of everything – basic meals, very basic accommodation (think a mattress on the floor and a squat toilet, no showers for three days), drinks, a driver, a guide and an armed guard.

Deadsvlei, Namibia

By Paula of Paula Pins The Planet

Namibia  has so much to offer for any type of solo traveller, with amazing landscapes, very rich wildlife and also an opportunity for a cultural experience. 

One of the must-visit destinations in Namibia is Deadsvlei and for a good reason.

It is a postcard vision of Namibia and a photographer’s paradise. The white salt pan with the dead camel thorn trees contrasts against the orange dunes and the desert blue sky, creating an unreal landscape.

Reasons to visit Deadsvlei as a solo traveller

• Very safe with an impressively low crime rate 
• Easily navigable roads from the capital Windhoek 
• Because Sossusvlei is one of the most visited places in Namibia, you will find many options for accommodation. The first thing to consider is your budget, as the options are from luxury lodges to simple campsites. 
• It is a great fit for any budget 

Top tip for visiting Deadsvlei as a solo traveller

The best time to explore Deadsvlei is at sunrise and sunset. You will avoid the crowds and the sunlight will help to make this place even more special by casting long shadows on the centenary Acacia trees and surrounding dunes. 

Garden Route, South Africa

By Rose of Where Goes Rose

One of the best places for solo travel in Africa is the  Garden Route  which runs along the southern coast of South Africa. After exploring the vibrant city of Cape Town, you can depart for the Garden Route.

The Garden Route can be travelled on a backpacker’s budget with plenty of affordable hostels and lots of free activities like hikes and beach days. It can also be enjoyed in a more luxurious style, with safaris and boutique resorts.

Regardless of your travel style, a few of the best places to stop are  Mossel Bay  for its beaches and hikes,  Wilderness  for its outdoor activities like kayaking,  Knysna  for its pretty harbour and scenic bike rides and  Plettenberg Bay  for snorkelling with seals.

Don’t miss  Robberg Nature Reserve  in Plettenberg or  Tsitsikamma National Park  near Storms River since these are some of the most naturally beautiful places along the Garden Route.

Reasons to visit the Garden Route as a solo traveller

• It’s easy to meet other travellers
• For opportunities to see wildlife

Top tip for visiting the Garden Route as a solo traveller

Travel with the Baz Bus, a service designed to take travellers along the highlights of the Garden Route, dropping them at their accommodation. It’s an affordable service since it doesn’t include activities or guides, just a driver who picks you up and drops you off every few days.

Kasane, Botswana

By Fiona of Passport and Piano

Kasane in Botswana is a fantastic place to visit if you want to go on safari. The town is reasonably small, but it has everything you will need in terms of shops, tour companies, and restaurants.

Kasane also has an airport with direct flights to Johannesburg.

Reasons to visit Kasane as a solo traveller

• It’s one of the safest places in Africa
• You can  drive around Chobe National Park  yourself. The Chobe Waterfront route is popular, although there are set times that self-drivers can enter the park, so check ahead.
• You can take a trip to Victoria Falls in Zambia.
• Most people speak English.
• There are some fantastic lodges in which you can stay.
• The wildlife is stunning, and there is a good chance that you’ll see The Big Five. Chobe National Park is known for its large herds of elephants and cape buffalo.
• The sunsets across the Chobe River are phenomenal, illuminating the sky in an array of reds and oranges.

Top tip for visiting Kasane as a solo traveller

Carry some local currency and US dollars. Although most places will take credit cards, as the internet is not reliable card machines don’t always work.

You can pay in US dollars but you will get your change in local currency. The exchange rates do get confusing, so if possible pay in Pula (local currency). That way you’ll know that you are getting the correct change.

Knysna, South Africa

By Ella of Many More Maps

If you’re searching for a destination in Africa with lots of beautiful natural landscapes, a bunch of other solo travellers and a place that makes you feel safe, look no further than Knysna, South Africa.

Located on the stunning  Knysna Heads , most visitors to Knysna are there to hike to the top to watch the sunset and sunrise and to spend time in a chilled-out waterfront town.

Another reason Knysna is so popular with travellers is that there are countless free things to do here.

Surrounded by forest, hiking trails, beaches and the tranquil  Knysna lagoon , there’s plenty to keep you occupied as you ease into travel in South Africa. Plus, if you want to surf, the surfing hotspot of  Buffalo Bay  is just a short drive away

Reasons to visit Knysna as a solo traveller

• There are only a few hostels in Knysna so there’s a close-knit community of solo travellers
• You can reach most  Knysna tourist hotspots  by yourself for little money
• Great infrastructure for independent travel to nearby destinations. The hugely popular Plettenberg Bay is just a short bus journey away.
• Affordable accommodation and food, much cheaper than Cape Town

Top tip for visiting Knysna as a solo traveller

• Hire a bike for the day to cycle around the exclusive Thesen Island, hang out on the beach and visit the Knysna Heads.
• Don’t skip out on the Knysna Waterfront. They serve some of the best oysters in the world.

Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda

By Lara of Both Feet On The Road

Most people only visit Uganda to admire the last of the endangered mountain gorillas. However, this beautiful green country, nicknamed the Pearl of Africa, has a lot more to offer than just wildlife. And the stunning Lake Bunyonyi is a perfect example of other destinations in Uganda!

Reasons to visit Lake Bunyonyi as a solo traveller

• Lake Bunyonyi is the most developed (non-safari) destination for tourists in Uganda, which makes it safer for solo travellers to visit
• Besides being safer, it is also a place where you will meet other travellers
• It is also one of the more affordable places to visit in Uganda
• As you get around the lake with boats operated by locals, there’s a perfect opportunity to meet and chat with local people.
• It is the only bilharzia, hippo, and crocodile-free lake in Uganda. In other words, it’s the only lake in which you swim safely in Uganda

Top tip for visiting Lake Bunyonyi as a solo traveller

Contrary to what many people think of Africa and Uganda, it can get quite chilly. Lake Bunyonyi is located at an elevation of 1962 meters. Especially at night, temperatures can drop significantly, so make sure you bring something to keep you warm.

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

The tiny mountain kingdom of Lesotho is surrounded by South Africa and gets overlooked by most travellers. But that’s their loss because Lesotho is packed with stunning scenery and plenty of fun things to do.

Pretty much  all of Lesotho’s attractions are natural ones , so you’ll want to treat the capital, Maseru, as a transport hub and head out into the countryside as quickly as possible. There you’ll find several laidback tourist lodges that offer outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

Reasons to visit Lesotho as a solo traveller

• As a very small and primarily rural country, Lesotho is much safer than most other countries on the continent
• When staying at one of Lesotho’s lodges, it’s easy to arrange activities as a solo traveller. The staff will place you with other visitors to create a small group.
• Communal lodge dinners provide a great opportunity to make friends

Top tip for visiting Lesotho as a solo traveller

Stay at Malealea Lodge. They work closely with the local community and invest in various projects that benefit the residents of the nearby village. They can also arrange activities that will allow you to get to know the local villagers and gain a better understanding of their way of life.

For example, you can visit a local farm or have your fortune told by a sangoma (a traditional Basotho doctor with magic powers). It’s also possible to have lunch with a local family in their home, or even stay with them overnight.

By Michelle of Intentional Travelers

Malawi , a small country surrounded by Mozambique, Zambia and Tanzania in East Africa, is one of the very best African countries for solo travel.

Lake Malawi  is Africa’s third-largest lake and occupies the majority of the country. With dense forests and rolling mountains in the North, and plateaus and expansive valleys filled with wildlife in the South, Malawi has some of the most overlooked scenic landscapes in the world.

Being so small, Malawi can be traversed fully in just a week or two. The best times to visit are March through June, October, and November.

Reasons to visit Malawi as a solo traveller

• As Malawi is popular with solo travellers, you can easily find others to travel with
• Friendly locals. They may want to sell things to you but harassment is not common
• Long-distance buses are relatively comfortable (not necessarily the case with mini-buses, though)

Top tip for visiting Malawi as a solo traveller

Malawi is usually ranked among the safest countries in Africa year after year. Common sense best practices like taking a taxi instead of walking alone at night, asking directions from local women and not flaunting valuables in public will suffice for solo travellers. 

Marrakech, Morocco

By Nicole of EatLiveTravelDrink

Marrakech, Morocco is one of the best destinations for solo travellers in Africa. The city is rich in historic architecture and delicious food, the people are warm and welcoming, and it is budget-friendly.

One of the best times to visit Marrakech is in November.

You will avoid the scorching heat of the summer months and its high price points. However, it will be warm enough to enjoy walking around and swimming if your lodging has a pool.

Some of the top  experiences to have in Marrakech  are to stay in a Riad , get wonderfully lost exploring the  Medina  and visit Le Jardin Secret . Eat everything – dates, couscous, tagine, crepes, and get the mint tea –  explore  Majorelle Garden  and visit  Jemaa El-Fnaa.

Reasons to visit Marrakech as a solo traveller

• It is a busy city and easy to get help or directions from anyone
• The residents are extremely friendly and helpful
• Easy to navigate – the Medina is the focal point – but you can get lost in there. Just ask someone for directions
• Budget-friendly – even luxury lodging can be easy on the wallet
• Staying in a Medina will allow you to stay in a smaller place that is usually run by a family, and they will be of great assistance to you

Top tip for visiting Marrakech as a solo traveller

The Medina can be crazy but enjoy it. Say no to sellers if you don’t want anything, try all the foods, look at all the beautiful doors and take it all in. 

By Emily of Wander-Lush

Although it is typically thought of as a honeymoon destination, Mauritius has a lot to offer solo travellers . Beyond the idyllic beachfront, this is a diverse and complex nation with a fascinating history.

Apart from  relaxing on the beach  and partaking in water activities (including diving and snorkelling ), you can also find a lot to do in Mauritius’s green interior. One of the most popular things to do on the island is to visit Pamplemousses Botanical Garden .

Trekking, quad biking  and other adventure activities are available in the national parks.

Cultural  travellers will love exploring  Mauritian traditions  including local cuisine, music and dance, and religious rituals. A  street food tour  is a must, as is dedicating a day to roaming the local markets and shopping for handicrafts.

Reasons to visit Mauritius as a solo traveller

• Mauritius is one of the safest countries in Africa. Crime is very rare and it’s safe to walk around alone.
• As well as luxurious waterfront bungalows, there are plenty of budget-friendly accommodation options suitable for solo travellers, including hostels and guesthouses.
• Travelling solo, you can have more freedom to set your schedule and explore beyond the beach.
• There are plenty of join-in tour options available if you want to meet other travellers along the way.

Top tips for visiting Mauritius as a solo traveller

Book a couple of day excursions in advance before you arrive to make exploring the island easier. Don’t underestimate Mauritius’s size – things are quite spread out – so hiring a motorbike or car is also a good option.

Meknes, Morocco

By Eva of Not Scared of the Jetlag

Morocco is one of the best places to travel alone in Africa as it is easily accessible and has so much to offer.

Meknes  is the smallest of the four imperial cities and should not be missed on any Morocco itinerary. It is an interesting city with a lot of history.

The  medina  of Meknes dates back to the early 11 th  century and you can find amazing  riads , one of the most important  Quran schools  and many artisans here.

From 1672 to 1727, Meknes was the capital of Morocco and the  Ville Imperial  was built to show off the Sultan’s wealth. You can find his mausoleum and his huge horse stables and granary in this part of the city.

The best time to visit is from September to March, as the summer months tend to be very hot.

Reasons to visit Meknes as a solo traveller

• The city is small, so it is unlikely to get lost and you won’t need to depend on the help of strangers to find your way
• It is not on every tourist’s radar, so no big crowds
• It is also very walkable, no need to take public transport
• You will find no harassment by sellers in the souks, especially in comparison with Marrakech and Fes, making it perfect for souvenir shopping
• Great accommodation options in one of the many riads
• Meknes is easy to reach by train or bus, with good connections to Marrakech, Casablanca and Fes
• There are great day trips in small groups to meet people, e.g. Volubilis

Top tips for visiting Meknes as a solo traveller

• Learn some basic French or Darija (Moroccan Arabic). But generally, the locals are very happy to communicate with hands and feet and big smiles.
• Don’t hesitate to just say no (or  la  in Arabic) if you don’t want something.

Northern Senegal

By Chris of  Punta Cana Travel Blog

Everything north of the Gambian border is considered the Northern part of Senegal, which is a diversified area with many different things to do.

The highlight of a Senegal itinerary should include the capital and its attractions in the surrounding ( Île de Gorée  and  Lac Rosé ), the city of  Saint-Louis , some of the  beache s in Senegal (for example in Saly or south of it) as well as one of the national or nature parks.

Personal highlights in Senegal have been a visit to the slavery island of  Île de Gorée , the  pink lake close to Dakar  and a  safari in the Fathala Wildlife Reserve.

Reasons to visit Northern Senegal as a solo traveller

• The Senegalese are amongst the friendliest and most helpful people in the world. If you have any questions while travelling alone, just ask them.
• If you are new to Sub-Saharan Africa, Senegal is one of the easiest countries to travel to. You don’t need a car, you can go nearly everywhere by public transport.
• Senegal is safe by African standards, so you can easily explore cities and areas on your own.
• If you are looking for a cheap safari in Africa but don’t want to stick to a full group itinerary, Fathala Wildlife Reserve close to the Gambian border is a perfect option. You can see giraffes, rhinos, antelopes or zebras for less than 100 USD, even if you are going alone.

Top tip for visiting Northern Senegal as a solo traveller

Head towards Fathala Wildlife Reserve to use this opportunity for a super cheap and impressive safari. While other safaris in Africa can easily cost 300 USD and more (or might even not be possible at all when travelling alone), this is a bargain.

Plettenberg Bay, South Africa

By Mariza of HOPONWORLD

When considering a solo adventure in South Africa, most travellers gravitate towards Cape Town. But just a few hours east of there is the beautiful seaside village of Plettenberg Bay. 

Sandwiched between mountains and the ocean, Plett is a popular spot among beachgoers, nature seekers and adrenaline junkies.

While it is quite a small place, there is so  much to do and see,  from surfing and relaxing on sandy white beaches to hiking forest trails to visiting the nearby sanctuaries. 

The weather in Plett is mostly pleasant, with temperatures ranging between the mid-twenties and upper thirties. That said, winter (Jun-Aug) can be quite cold and rainy, which is probably not ideal for a beach vacation.

Reasons to visit Plett as a solo traveller

• It’s a very laidback place and generally quite safe. Like elsewhere in South Africa, it’s best not to walk around alone at night
• Since it’s a popular holiday destination, it’s well geared towards tourists
• Accommodation is easy to find, and there are a handful of well-established hostels in the centre of town
• Plett has an amazing food scene, with stacks of restaurants and bars offering epic seaside views

T op tips for visiting Plett as a solo traveller

• Try not to visit during Easter or the December school holidays as it’s usually quite crowded.
• During whale season (June to November), it’s not uncommon to spot these gentle creatures frolicking near the shores. 
• If you’re not driving from Cape Town, make sure to rent a car in George (the closest airport) to explore the area at your own pace. 

Serengeti, Tanzania

By Rai of A Rai of Light

There are countless reasons for the solo traveller to visit a country as unique as Tanzania.

A land of unmatched beauty, the region is home to some of the most well-known parks and attractions in Africa. Consequently, safaris and wildlife-related activities are the reasons most people visit Tanzania.

At the top of this list is a visit to the Serengeti National Park. This vast ecosystem, spanning over 12,000 miles, comprises an abundant and diverse range of fauna and flora.

Wildlife viewings are almost guaranteed at any time of the year, but a trip around the movement of the great migration between July and October is highly recommended. 

Reasons to visit the Serengeti as a solo traveller

• In one of the safest countries in Africa, the Serengeti is safe to visit as long as the rules and guidelines set out by the park staff and rangers are followed.
• The best part is that all of this comes at an affordable price, with costs often comparable to backpacking in other developing countries.
• As one of the  wealthiest countries in Africa , the region has the infrastructure and groundwork to cater for the solo traveller.

Top tips for visiting the Serengeti as a solo traveller

The best option in terms of getting to meet other travellers, and for a value-for-money trip, is to join a safari tour.

Much like anywhere in the world, an open mind, a little common sense, an open mind and some planning is well placed to make a solo trip here an enjoyable and safe experience.

Sossuvlei, Namibia

By Campbell & Alya of Stingy Nomads

The red sand dunes of  Sossusvlei in Namibia  are one of the most spectacular and best-known natural wonders in this amazing country.

The name has mixed origins and translates into “dead-end marsh.”.

Sossusvlei is a large, white, salt and clay pan surrounded by gigantic red sand dunes and is located in the Namib-Naukluft National Park in the south of the Namib Desert. The name Sossusvlei usually refers to all the surrounding marshes and sand dunes in the area that are visited together.

There are a couple of landmarks not to miss in this park. The otherworldly 80 meters high  Dune 45,  formed from five-million-year-old sands, is one of the most famous images of Namibia. 

Sossusvlei itself is about 66 km past the Sesriem gate and the last part can only be travelled by 4×4 vehicle. Most visitors camp at Sesriem, but there are some luxury resorts to stay in surrounding the park.

Two or three-day tours to Sossusvlei are popular from Windhoek. Often you will be a group of adventurous travellers camping together, taking in the beautiful Namib Desert landscapes and travelling across one of the oldest deserts in the world.

Reasons to visit Sossuvlei as a solo traveller

• Camp with and meet other like-minded travellers
• Choice of affordable and luxury accommodation
• Safe with a very low crime rate in the desert

Top tips for visiting Sossuvlei as a solo traveller

The best time of the year to visit Sossusvlei is in autumn (from March until May) or spring (from August to October).

For amazing photos try to get out there with sunrise or sunset when the shadows make the dunes spectacular.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

By Derek & Mike of Robe Trotting

One of the best destinations in Africa for a solo traveller is Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

While the country of Zimbabwe has experienced periods of instability, the area of Victoria Falls is extremely tourist-friendly. The resorts, businesses and activities in Victoria Falls are safe and well-developed. 

The best time to visit Victoria Falls is when the water flows are their strongest. This is after the rainy season from February to May. If you visit during the dryer period some additional activities are available like white water rafting and the  Devil’s Pool , a natural rock swimming pool on the waterfall’s ledge.

Many of the best  things to do in Victoria Falls  revolve around the powerful waterfall that defines the landscape. You can hear the thunderous flow of water from anywhere in the city.

The best way to view the falls is from  Victoria Falls National Park . Another place to view them is the  Victoria Falls Bridge , which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe over the Falls Gorge.

You do go through border patrol to reach the bridge, but it does not require a visa or even a stamp if you are crossing on foot to view the bridge. On the bridge, you can also enjoy activities like the Victoria Falls zip line, bungee jumping and bridge swing. 

Reasons to visit Victoria Falls as a solo traveller

• It’s a bit of a tourist enclave in ZImbabwe, so travellers can feel at ease
• The tourist infrastructure is great and all resorts have their own generators
• There is no shortage of things to do in Victoria Falls

Top tip for visiting Victoria Falls as a solo traveller

In Zimbabwe cash is king (bring USD from a neighbouring country). However, most businesses in Victoria Falls accept credit cards

Is it Safe to Travel Solo to Africa?

There are a lot of myths swirling around the wisdom – or not – of travelling solo to Africa. This is a diverse continent and that diversity extends to its countries’ safety profiles. Some African countries are stable and safe for female solo travellers, including Namibia, Malawi and Morocco. But it is worth giving a wide berth to Mali, Chad, Somalia, South Sudan and Libya, for example. Africa may not be the easiest destination for your first solo vacation , but it sure will be rewarding.

Solo Travel to Africa on a Group Tour

That said, it’s safe to say that this is probably not the best continent in which to cut your teeth as a rookie solo traveller. For a solo trip to Africa in a more supported manner, consider joining a small group tour. This can also be useful if you are planning to visit more than one country.

For some locations – The Danakil in Ethiopia, for example – this may be a necessity but there are other  benefits of a group tour  as a solo traveller. There are lots of  group travel companies  out there but two companies that I have used and can recommend are  Exodus Travels  and  Explore Worldwide!

You’ll have an expertly curated itinerary and you often gain valuable insights into the country, the people and the culture. Generally, there’s safety in numbers. Finally, if you fear solo travel loneliness, there’s the reassurance of ready-made travel companions.

READ THESE NEXT:

• 40 Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe
• The Best Places to Travel Alone in Asia
• 23 Best Places to Travel Alone in the USA
• 10 Perfect Places to Travel Alone for the First Time

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

2 thoughts on “ 19 Awesome Places to Travel Alone in Africa: Solo Travel Made Easy ”

This is amazing and so inspiring, thanks for allowing me to be part of this list of stunning places. Africa is an incredible Continent, and every trip I go, my bucket list gets longer. I find Africa to be one of the most beautiful places in the Planet, but also, safe to travel as solo female travelers. Also, the people are extremely nice and friendly. I truly recommend a trip to any country in Africa at least once in a lifetime.

Thank you so much Paula. From a personal point of view, all of your contributions have inspired me to see more of Africa!

Comments are closed.

Update April 12, 2024

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South Africa Travel Advisory

Travel advisory february 5, 2024, south africa - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect safety consideration when using GPS navigation. 

Exercise increased caution in South Africa due to  crime  and  civil unrest . 

Country Summary:   Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and "smash-and-grab" attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.

Using GPS navigation can lead to unsafe routes. GPS navigation may suggest shortcuts through townships as the quickest preferred route but can lead to increased risks of crime.

There have been incidents in which tourists traveling in Cape Town while using GPS navigation apps have been routed through residential areas with high rates of violent crime. The safest approach to return a rental car to Cape Town International Airport is to take the N2 highway and follow signs to Airport Approach Rd ( exit 16 ). Alternatively, request the rental car company to collect your vehicle and subsequently arrange an airport transfer from established taxi companies or established ridesharing services to reach the airport.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services; such events have the potential to turn violent. 

Please see our  Alerts  for up-to-date information. 

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to South Africa. 

 If you decide to travel to South Africa: 

• Research your route in advance, stay on major highways, avoid shortcuts through townships, and avoid reliance on GPS navigation apps.
• Avoid walking alone, especially after dark. 
• Avoid visiting informal settlement areas unless you are with someone familiar with the area. 
• Do not display cash or valuables. 
• Drive with doors locked and windows closed. 
• Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location. 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency. 
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter . 
• Review the  Country Security Report  for South Africa. 
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist . 
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel. 

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GOBankingRates

7 Easy, Affordable Countries To Visit as an American Tourist

Posted: April 26, 2023 | Last updated: June 28, 2023

Summer travel is upon us, and maybe this year you've got your sights set on somewhere more far-flung than the United States. Travel abroad can be incredibly enriching and full of new experiences you can't get at home.

See:  10 US Cities With Plenty of Jobs and Cheap Housing Find:  How To Build a Financial Plan From Zero

However, the cost to travel internationally can sometimes be prohibitive. Because of this, GOBankingRates contacted several travel experts to recommend the most affordable countries for Americans to visit right now -- like these seven.

Charles Neville, with JayWay Travel , a specialist European custom tour provider, recommends Albania for food lovers.

He says, "Expect exceptional local produce and abundant fresh fish and seafood from the Adriatic and Ionian seas, combined with hearty traditional meat dishes, and more-than-decent local wine. Hotels work out to less than half what you'd pay for an equivalent property in western Europe."

Alex Gillard, the founder of Nomad Nature Travel , also raves about Albania, calling it "a great, relatively undiscovered country to visit as an American tourist."

He adds, "Depending on the season, you can get a 500 to 600 dollar round-trip flight. I've spent months in Albania and it is very safe, the food is an affordable and incredible mix of Greek, Italian and local fare, and you can rent a car and get around their beautiful country for very cheap."

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Ande Wanderer, a travel writer and owner and editor of the travel site, Wander Argentina recommends Argentina not only for its affordable travel, but its excellent track record with COVID-19.

"We have had continuous days with zero Covid deaths and 90% of the country is fully vaccinated." Additionally, there are no vaccine requirements to enter the country.

She calls it one of the most affordable countries in the world to visit right now, where visitors "get double the pesos for their dollars." She recommends coastal Patagonia around Puerto Madryn to see whales, elephant seals, sea lions, and dolphins.

Also, Buenos Aires is a culinary lover's best bet, "with $12 steak and Malbec dinners, never-ending cultural events...weekly street fairs such as the huge San Telmo Flea Market, all night milongas and dancing in the street, especially on Argentina's Independence Day, July 9."

Andy Turlington, owner and travel advisor at Wildest Dreams Bookings in North Carolina, recommends Cuba, which is a short flight from Florida -- only about 100 miles from Key West.

"Cuba [has] interesting architecture, and the cars are a step back in time. Hotels in Havana start at about 50 U.S. dollars per night, but they have an Airbnb equivalent called 'Casa Particulars,' and many of them can be had for roughly 30 U.S. dollars per night."

This South American country is also extremely affordable. Turlington says, "You can easily get by in this country on about 30 to 50 U.S. dollars a day."

He especially recommends the capital city of Quito, where meals can usually be had for less than five U.S. dollars. Additionally, a taxi will cost about two dollars "to pretty much anywhere," and the bus costs about 35 cents. "Hotels can easily be had for less than 35 U.S. dollars a night, and for the ultra-cheap, they have plenty of hostels as well for about 10 U.S. dollars."

A country that's super affordable for an American tourist is Panama, according to Becca Siegel and Dan Gold, owners of the travel blog HalfHalfTravel.com . "The reason is that flights are often cheap from major hubs, especially if you can fly to Miami first, or through Miami with a short layover."

Once you land in Panama, they say that food, tours and accommodation are extremely affordable. "In Panama City alone, you can go walking in Casco Viejo, see the Panama Canal, excellent museums and experience great nightlife and culture."

An extra bonus is that Panama uses the U.S. Dollar, so you won't have to do any currency exchanges, which they say is "super convenient for lots of American visitors."

South Africa

Todd Sarouhan, owner of Go Visit San Diego and Go Visit Costa Rica, recommends Cape Town, South Africa for an affordable travel experience.

He says, "The most affordable countries are the ones where the exchange rate is in favor of the US Dollar. Cape Town is no stranger to being voted the best city in the world, the last time and for the seventh time running in 2019. Cape Town is a coastal gem, lying in the shadow of a cloud-hugged mountain where wine flows, penguins waddle and there's always something to do."

Turkey is a great option for tourists wanting to go to Europe, Turlington says. "The lira has been greatly depreciated over the last 2 years or so, making Turkey a bargain hunter's paradise."

Istanbul offers some incredible cuisine, and plenty of historical locations and different architecture and religious sites. Istanbul has copious amounts of good hotels in the 50 US Dollar range as well. Armenia and Georgia are also lower cost options in this area of Europe.

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Unaccompanied Minors

Our Unaccompanied Minors service ensures that your child receives the very best care from when you check-in your little traveller, to the final arrival. When your child has to travel alone, booking a flight with SAA is the next best thing to being there yourself.

• Definition of an Unaccompanied Minor: An Unaccompanied Minor is a child aged 5-11 years old travelling without the supervision of a parent or guardian who is 16 years or older.
• Children under the age of 5 years old are not accepted for the Unaccompanied Minors service.
• A Young Passenger is classified as a child who is between the ages of 12 and 16 years old.
• For the purpose of fares, any traveller between the ages of 12-16 is considered an adult; therefore, no special handling is required unless requested by the parent.
• Reservations for Unaccompanied Minors cannot be booked online, so please contact your local SAA office . Place any meal requests for your child at time of booking, or at least 24-hours before departure.
• Inform us of any critical information such as the date of birth, language of the child if he or she cannot speak English, if they are a first-time flyer, or need medication, etc. Some children might need to be cleared by our medical reservations office.
• Our partner airlines and codeshares may have different regulations, age limits and charges so please check with them directly.

Conditions of travel for unaccompanied minors

Unaccompanied Minors may only travel if:

• Prior authorisation from SAA was received
• Unaccompanied Minors should reach their destination before 20:00 hrs for all direct flights. In cases where connecting flights are applicable it is not mandatory. Connecting flights may not be on the next day.
• They are escorted to the airport and checked-in by a responsible adult, and received at their destination by an authorised adult.
• They are in possession of written consent on the reverse of last coupon on unaccompanied minor booklet which must be completed by their parents or guardians when the minor is accepted at check in.
• The correct booking procedures, as outlined below, have been followed.
• Parents or guardians of children with disabilities or additional needs must inform SAA at the time of booking so the necessary care and facilities can be arranged.

Booking an unaccompanied minor ticket

The child’s parent or legal guardian must call their local SAA office to arrange for their travel and obtain authorisation from SAA.

Before flying

Children travelling alone are entitled to the full adult baggage allowance for the class in which they are travelling.

Travel documents: Your child must be in possession of the necessary documentation: a valid passport, visas and health documents or any documentation required by a country such as unabridged birth certificates or letters of consent. Please note the South African travel requirements for minors travelling to and from South African, and ensure you have put in place the relevant documentation.

At the airport

For safety and security reasons, SAA has the right to refuse travel if the child is not booked as an Unaccompanied Minor. Please ensure that the necessary arrangements are made, as outlined above. At check-in an SAA representative will escort your child through the passport control, taking care of all their travel documents, and security checks right up to finding their seat.

Parents should remain at the airport until the flight has departed.

Before the flight, the cabin crew will be notified of your child’s name, age and any special requirements. They will regularly check that your child is comfortable and entertained throughout the flight.

Upon landing, your child will be introduced to an SAA host, who will escort them through the airport immigration to arrivals, and personally hand them over to the parent or guardian. This person must carry proof of identification. Kindly make sure that the appointed guardian is not late, causing unnecessary distress to the child.

At transit stops your child will always remain in the care of either cabin crew or ground staff. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to ensure that the child is a confirmed Unaccompanied Minor on all connecting airlines the child is travelling on.

Onward and return flights

Should you need to change your child’s travel plans, please inform us at any time before or during the trip as restrictions do apply to some airfares. Please check that the request for travel as an Unaccompanied Minor or escort provision is transferred to the new flight.

Inform your child

We will do our best to ensure that your child has a pleasant journey from start to finish. However, there are a few things you can do to make it easier:

• Make sure your child knows who is to meet them at their destination
• Explain the importance of their passport and tickets, and ensure they can recognise both
• The Unaccompanied Minor identification lanyard cannot be removed as it is a form of classification
• Children must not leave the aircraft unattended, and must wait for the cabin crew’s assistance before they exit the plane

Before Flying

• Airport Information
• Travel Documentation
• Travelling with Infants
• Unaccompanied Minors Current Page
• Special Assistance
• Customs Information
• Travel Restrictions

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Why this rhino-zebra friendship makes perfect sense

The orphaned youngsters Daisy and Modjadji have more in common than you might think.

Whether playing ball, chasing and racing, or snuggling up together at night, Daisy the baby white rhinoceros and Modjadji the plains zebra are often inseparable at the Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary in South Africa where they were rehabilitated. “You cannot believe how adorable these guys are,” says sanctuary founder Petronel Nieuwoudt of the two young animals she helped raise.

Modjadji, named after the local rain goddess, was found alone and suffering from tick-borne anemia in Kruger National Park after a heavy rainstorm. A few days later, rangers found Daisy. She was only about 12 hours old and still had her umbilical cord attached; she was also sick with an infection. Her mother was likely poached for her horn.

Left alone, these animals likely wouldn’t have survived. But paired together—and with the help of conservationists—the unlikely friends have a chance to return to the wild.

Young friends

Both species are able to stand within an hour of birth, but both white rhinos and plains zebras still require parental investment. Rhino calves stay with their mothers for two to three years, while zebras can reach independence after one year. In that time, the youngsters rely on their mothers for food, protection, and socialization.

Although these species don’t closely interact in the wild, Nieuwoudt placed the two orphans together so that they would receive the comfort they were missing from their mothers. She says the pair especially loved to touch each other while they slept. “It’s the feeling of, ‘Oh there’s another little breath next to me and another little heartbeat next to me,’” Nieuwoudt says.

Plus, the youngsters could teach each other how to play. “Play behavior is very important for building social skills, learning boundaries, and becoming physically competent,” says Terri Roth , a rhino scientist at the Cincinnati Zoo. Socialization with another animal at a young age “makes for a much more adapted animal as they become an adult.”

Protecting these peers on the plains

In the wild, rhinos’ and zebras’ territories overlap—both are herbivores that often chow on grass. “The use of the savannas by the white rhinos and the zebras is pretty similar,” Roth says. And these animals are both perissodactyls , a group of hoofed herbivores that includes horses and donkeys. “They are taxonomically more closely related than anything else.” This may explain why a rhino would serve as a surrogate buddy for a zebra, she says.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the plains zebras as near threatened , and their population is decreasing. Climate change is causing extensive droughts which make food and water less available to zebras, and they’re being pushed from their habitat as people farm the land.

White rhinos were once thought to be extinct, but they’re now listed as near threatened thanks to conservation efforts. The main threat are poachers seeking rhino horns. Made of the same material that makes up fingernails, horns are still used in some cultures as traditional medicine or for carvings. And though there are laws prohibiting poaching, they aren’t always enforced.

See you later

There are some skills both pals can only learn from their species. Roth explains that while a rhino will instinctively roll in the mud to get relief from biting flies, finding the locations of mud wallows and water sources is a skill learned from the mother. Daisy will need to learn this from other rhinos.

Modjadji will need to learn about herd hierarchy with other zebras, says wildlife veterinarian and Nat Geo Explorer Shaleen Angwenyi . These animals live in permanent groups with one male, up to six females, and their foals. They often travel in a line led by the dominant female and the rest following according to rank.

As they grow, Modjadji is spending less time with Daisy and more with her fellow zebras in a protected area. Nieuwoudt often spots her hanging out near the adult rhinos in the area, but Modjadji still sometimes comes back to the center for a quick nap with Daisy.

Meanwhile, Daisy continues to live at the sanctuary where they’re working to help her grow—she now weighs over a thousand pounds—and learn how to interact with other orphaned rhinos. Nieuwoudt hopes that someday both Daisy and Modjadji will be wild again, perhaps grazing close to each other.

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Related topics.

• PLAINS ZEBRAS
• WHITE RHINOCEROSES
• ANIMAL REHABILITATION
• WILDLIFE CONSERVATION
• ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION
• WILDLIFE REFUGES
• WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT

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