Solo travel in Tanzanie is the promise of an unforgettable escape. Safari, trekking, cultural richness: this East African country is a destination halfway between adventure in the heart of wild life and cultural enrichment... Ready to try it? Discover the advantages of a solo trip to Tanzanie – as well as the risks and precautions to take for a successful solo adventure.

Why travel solo to Tanzanie?

Solo travel is a unique experience that allows you to discover yourself – away from others and your everyday life. A way to see what we're capable of, without the support of a travel companion.

A solo trip is also the promise of total freedom. Itinerary, stops, visits: all these stages that are ordinarily the result of compromises become yours alone! But solo travel abroad also exposes you to the risks inherent in solitary travel…

Fortunately, Tanzanie is both an exotic and a secure country. Warm welcome from the local population, Big Five, breathtaking landscapes and low crime rate: all the signs are green for a successful trip!

Is Tanzanie a dangerous country (what are the risks for a woman traveling alone)?

While Tanzanie is not inherently a dangerous country, it is still necessary to remain vigilant if you travel there alone. To do this, it is essential to take certain precautions.

Know the political situation at the current moment

A country's political situation can change overnight. Before traveling solo to Tanzanie, it is important to understand the security situation (by consulting your government's diplomatic website – which publishes risks in real time).

Be discreet and vigilant

Discretion is key when traveling solo in Tanzanie, and it manifests in three ways:

• Respect for religion (covering your shoulders and knees), especially in Muslim areas (such as Zanzibar) and remote regions.
• Do not display ostentatious signs (jewelry, electronic devices).
• Have a responsible attitude (avoid alcohol so as not to put yourself in difficulty).

Similarly, be vigilant with your belongings. Never leave them unattended and, if possible, don't leave your documents in your travel bag (keep them on you).

Have basic knowledge of Swahili

Solo travel also means having some knowledge of the local language, so you can express yourself at a minimum and make yourself understood. Before your departure, learn the basics of the Swahili language (and polish your English).

Stay reachable

During your trip, you must remain reachable at all times. Not just to avoid worrying those close to you, but also to be able to reach them in all circumstances. As a precaution, buy a local SIM card, as public Wi-Fi is not widespread in Tanzanie.

Have a credit card (not a debit card)

The best protection against fraud (in case your card is lost or stolen) is to have a credit card – not a debit card! While the term "credit card" is usually used to refer to a bank card, in most cases it's actually a debit card – to find out, check the back of your card, it's specified in small print...

The difference? With a debit card, your expenses are debited as you make purchases. In contrast, a credit card accumulates purchases and often allows you to pay at the end of the month (which gives you time to contact your bank…).

Don't explore remote areas and stay away from roads

To avoid any unpleasantness, you obviously need to use common sense and not venture alone into areas that are too remote. Without realizing it, you can easily get lost while wandering (especially along coastlines).

Another tip? Never walk along the roadside! Even if Tanzanie is quite safe, robberies (of tourists) are not uncommon... To avoid having your bag snatched, keep your distance from vehicles.

Plan your Tanzanie trip well

Planning your trip well is essential for solo travel to Tanzanie. Being 100% free to choose your itinerary doesn't mean making everything up once you're there… To make this solo experience a success (and avoid danger), it's essential to plan your trips, accommodations, travel stages, etc.

Tanzanie: what to see and do solo?

Go on a safari

Going on safari is the main activity during a trip to Tanzanie. Indeed, the country is home to the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros) on its territory – which is not the case for all African countries!

During your stay, discover wild animals in one of the many parks. Among them? The Serengeti National Park, Tarangire, Udzungwa, Katavi, the Ngorongoro Crater conservation area and Arusha National Park.

Attend a cultural event

Before your departure, don't hesitate to research the main events in Tanzanie. Historic days, traditional festivals, music festivals, Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan): each event is a way to discover a facet of Tanzanian culture (history, art, religion).

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro

The ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa's highest mountain) is an iconic trek in Tanzanie. While it doesn't require great technical skills, this excursion does demand very good physical fitness. If you're up for it, climbing this 5,895-meter peak will allow you to push your limits – and test your mental strength!

Discover the city of Zanzibar (and its coastline)

The city of Zanzibar (located on the eponymous archipelago) off the coast of Tanzanie (and the Indian Ocean) is a must-visit stop. There? You'll discover beautiful colonial architecture, the famous Stone Town district and the Stone City (listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site). After some cultural visits, discover the most beautiful beaches of Zanzibar !

Visit Changuu Island (the Turtle Island)

The island of Changuu is renowned for its sanctuary dedicated to turtles (which gives it the nickname "Turtle Island"). Accessible only by private boat, this small island is located just 30 minutes from Stone Town.

Questions about visa and passport? Here's some practical information on the administrative formalities for traveling to Tanzanie.

FAQ

What is the price of a safari in Tanzanie?

The price of a safari in Tanzanie starts at around 3,500 € for 7 days. Excursions can only be done with experienced guides (it is not possible to do a self-drive safari alone). Budget additionally for entrance fees and taxes at most parks.

What is the best time to travel to Tanzanie?

The best time to travel to Tanzanie depends on your goal: travel as cheaply as possible or go on safari? The low season allows you to benefit from more attractive prices, with cheaper accommodations and flights (between November and April). The dry season is favorable for wildlife observation, thanks to less dense vegetation (between June and October, then January and February).

Audrey Denjean