Interested in Tanzania solo travel, but need help with the planning?
Then you’re in the right place!
Tanzania is one of Africa’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its breathtaking safaris and vibrant culture. While many visitors opt for private guided tours, solo travel in Tanzania is not only possible—it’s safe and surprisingly easy with the right preparation.
I’m Ella, a U.K. native who fell in love with Africa 12 years ago. Since then, I’ve visited over 10 countries on the continent, spent hundreds of hours on safari, and explored Tanzania extensively—spending nearly two months there over three trips in the past three years.
As a solo traveler in Africa, I’ve experienced both shared safaris (perfect for meeting new people) and private ones (ideal for flexibility and freedom).
In this guide, I’ll share my best tips to help you plan an unforgettable solo trip to Tanzania, including the top destinations to visit, safety tips, budgeting advice, and more.
Short on time? My top recommendations for solo travel to Tanzania:
Airport Transfer: Click here to book
Accommodation: Click here for a Tanzania accommodation map ←It’s currently set to Kijenge in Arusha, but you can easily change it to your preferred location
Packing: Click here for my recommended safari packing list
Safety: When traveling solo in Tanzania, make sure to pack travel safety gear items like a She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm, Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments & Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves
Travel Insurance: SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust)
Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM
Is Tanzania Safe For Solo Female Travelers?
Solo female travel in Tanzania is relatively common and the country is considered a safe destination compared to other African countries.
According to Travel Safe Abroad, Tanzania is a medium-risk country that is safe to travel to as long as you remain vigilant.
Tanzania safety tips
Personally, I’ve always felt safe and welcome in Tanzania, though I do keep solo travel safety considerations in mind. For instance, I avoid flashing valuables and walking alone at night.
Like many large cities, Tanzania’s urban areas have a risk of pickpocketing, muggings, and scams. Keep your belongings safe and be cautious of giving money to anyone who approaches you on the street.
What to wear in Zanzibar
In general, women don’t need to follow any special safety advice. Just keep in mind that, unlike the rest of Tanzania where the population is predominantly Christian, the people of Zanzibar mostly follow Islam. As a result, women tend to dress more conservatively here than they do on the mainland.
If you are traveling outside of Zanzibar’s beach areas, it’s recommended that you keep your shoulders and knees covered. You can find links to cute and lightweight clothing like long flowy skirts and linen jumpsuits in this safari packing list.
While in Zanzibar, I was surprised that many tourists didn’t cover their shoulders, even in populated areas like Stone Town. Even though no one said anything to them, I would recommend being as respectful as possible.
Where Is Tanzania?
Tanzania is a large country in East Africa. It’s bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north; Mozambique, Malawi, and Zambia to the south; and Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.
The Indian Ocean runs along its entire eastern coast. It’s known for its incredible wildlife, epic scenery, and welcoming people.
Getting To Tanzania
Most solo travel to Tanzania starts at either Dar es Salaam or Arusha.
Dar es Salaam, the country’s largest city, welcomes direct flights from all over the world including destinations in Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) serves as the main international airport, connecting incoming international flights to domestic destinations around the country. It’s also the closest airport to Tanzania’s southern parks.
That being said, my preferred option is to fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Arusha. This is the closest airport to Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti National Park.
International flights from a host of countries arrive here daily. KLM, Qatar, and Ethiopian Airlines are some of the many airlines that fly to Kilimanjaro.
Getting Around Tanzania As A Solo Traveler
When people picture traveling through Tanzania, they automatically think of zooming around the countryside in a safari 4×4. But how exactly does it work if you are a solo traveler in Tanzania, particularly if you’re on a budget?
The good news is that solo traveling in Tanzania can be done in a variety of ways. You can either join a group safari tour, rent a vehicle for a DIY safari vacation, or take public transport throughout the country.
Renting a car
Renting your own car and driving is likely to be the most expensive option, but on the plus side, you’d have the freedom to explore as you please. You can use a platform like Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options and save up to 70%!
Join a group safari (recommended!)
Looking for budget-friendly safaris for solo travelers? Your best bet is to book a spot on a group safari tour. Several international companies such as Intrepid Travel and G Adventures offer spots on safaris to solo travelers, and these are usually good value for what they include.
Even more cost-effective are group tours booked directly with local tour operators in Tanzania. Group tours are typically much, much cheaper than trying to organize a safari on your own. Plus, you get the benefit of meeting like-minded travelers!
Book a private safari
Private safari tours booked through companies like Curious on Tanzania and Zazu Tanzania Safaris are another option; however, they can get pretty expensive for solo travelers.
If you have the budget, private safaris offer the ultimate flexibility. You can schedule game drives at your convenience, decide how long to stay out, and prioritize the wildlife sightings that interest you most.
Ride public transportation
You can also travel around Tanzania via public transport. Unlike backpacking in Europe where you have access to trains, buses, and more, solo travel in Tanzania can be slightly more complicated to organize, especially if you’re trying to get to the national parks.
However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible—especially as dala dalas (minibusses) and boda bodas (motorcycle taxis) can be found across the country.
Dala dalas are usually the cheapest option, traveling within the cities and even between major cities. Be prepared for a tight squeeze as they try to fit as many people in as possible.
Boda bodas take you directly from one place to another much faster than a dala dala but they can be intimidating if you’re not used to riding on a motorcycle.
If neither of those options sounds appealing, you can also choose taxis or rideshares such as Uber and Bolt (currently only in Dar es Salaam).
Book domestic flights
If you’re short on time, another great option for solo travelers in Tanzania is to simply fly from one destination to another. Domestic flights within Tanzania are reliable and frequent—and sometimes work out cheaper than hiring a private inter-city taxi!
Take a ferry to Zanzibar
Finally, if you’re planning on visiting Zanzibar, you can either fly or take the ferry from Dar es Salaam. The ferry runs frequently throughout the day with a total journey time of around two hours. Once in Zanzibar, you can take minibusses around the island.
Comparing travel options for solo travelers
Not sure which travel option is best for your solo trip? Here’s a quick comparison of the most popular ways to travel around Tanzania, including pros and cons to help you decide:
| Travel Option | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Safari |
|
|
Travelers with a higher budget who want full control of their itinerary. |
| Group Safari |
|
|
Budget-conscious travelers who enjoy socializing and sharing experiences. |
| Public Transportation |
|
|
Adventure seekers and budget travelers looking for an authentic cultural experience. |
| Domestic Flights |
|
|
Travelers short on time who need to cover large distances quickly. |
| Car Rental |
|
|
Experienced drivers who want full control over their journey. |
Solo Travel In Tanzania: Where To Go
In an ideal world, you would spend as many days in Tanzania as possible as there is an endless array of parks, activities, and attractions to explore; however, I know the reality is you need to pick and choose.
With that in mind, I’ve suggested a few of the top destinations in Tanzania that you can fit into a 10-day trip (pending you opt for a view of Kilimanjaro vs going to the summit).
Serengeti National Park
Located in northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is famous for its enormous herds of animals. Every year, scores of visitors travel there to witness The Great Migration when millions of wildebeest and zebras make their way across the savannahs of the Serengeti and Kenya’s Maasai Mara in search of greener pastures.
When visiting during The Great Migration, I got to witness a treacherous river crossing—seeing calves get separated from the herds due to strong currents while crocodiles lay waiting to take them away was a brutal yet fascinating experience.
But the animal sightings are fantastic at any time of year. You may spot the Big Five along with giraffes, elephants, zebras, hyenas, wildebeests, gazelles, leopards, cheetahs, and more. The park also boasts more than 500 different types of bird species.
The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and I can honestly say that my first visit there completely changed how I viewed our natural world and our place in it. I’ve now been several times and it never disappoints!
Insider Tip: Plan your safari game drives during the early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing, as animals are most active during these times.
Ngorongoro Crater
Formed around 2.5 million years ago when a volcano collapsed in on itself, Ngorongoro Crater is a haven for wildlife. Stretching just 19 kilometers (11.8 miles) in diameter, the crater is home to diverse ecosystems including savannas, woodlands, and a massive lake that help support a wide array of animals.
During a game drive safari, you’ll likely spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, wildebeests, zebras, hippos, hyenas, impalas, and countless bird species.
Due to the high concentration of predators, this is one of the best places to watch a kill. While visiting Ngorongoro Crater I got to see several—and more wildlife sightings than I can count.
Sitting adjacent to Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater is usually visited as part of a longer Northern Circuit safari trip. This makes it easy to hit two remarkable parks within just a few days.
If you’re doing a longer 2-week Tanzania trip, add Tarangire National Park to your circuit as well. It’s one of my favorites thanks to the many large elephant herds.
Insider Tip: Arrive at the crater gate early in the morning to avoid crowds and maximize your chances of seeing predators in action.
Dar es Salaam
As Tanzania’s largest city and financial hub, Dar es Salaam has a population of over five million people. Here, you feel a million miles away from the savannahs of the Serengeti.
Starting or ending a solo trip here provides a fascinating juxtaposition between Tanzania’s two extremes and can give you a better feel for the country.
Dar es Salaam has an interesting mix of African, European, and Arab cultures which is reflected in the architecture, food, and people. High-rise buildings dwarf colonial buildings and a wide array of restaurants can be found throughout the city center.
There are also a handful of museums that are good for solo travelers, including the National Museum of Tanzania where you can learn about the country’s history, culture, and archaeology.
Other fun experiences include shopping for souvenirs at the colorful Kariakoo Market, watching local fishermen bring in fresh catch at the Kivukoni Fish Market, or enjoying a sunset drink or dinner at The Slipway, a waterfront shopping and dining complex with stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Insider Tip: Opt for accommodations in the city center or Oyster Bay for better security, easier transportation, and proximity to key attractions.
Mt. Kilimanjaro
Rising high above the savannahs of Tanzania and Kenya, Mt. Kilimanjaro is the tallest mountain in Africa. This is one of the most popular hiking destinations on the continent with visitors coming from around the world to attempt to reach the summit.
The hike to the top and back normally takes around a week with overnight stays in tents or mountain huts and you can join a guided group hike as a solo traveler. You can hire porters to carry your bags too, which will make reaching the summit much easier.
If you aren’t an avid hiker or simply don’t have the time to spare, you can view Mount Kilimanjaro in all its glory from the tourist town of Moshi.
Insider Tip: If you don’t have time to summit, this moderate day hike takes you up a piece of Mount Kilimanjaro. It begins at the Marangu Gate in Kilimanjaro National Park and takes you through lush monkey-filled forest for about three hours to Mandara Hut at 2,720 meters.
Zanzibar
With turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and the vibrant historic city of Stone Town, Zanzibar seamlessly combines a beach vacation with a walk back into history and cultural immersion.
Most visitors arrive by ferry or plane to Stone Town, once an important stop along the Spice Route and, today, a popular UNESCO World Heritage Site. The imposing buildings and narrow alleyways whisk you back centuries as you follow in the footsteps of ancient traders.
No visit to Zanzibar is complete without stopping by at least one of the main beaches. The clear warm waters of the Indian Ocean simply can’t be beat.
Zanzibar offers a wide range of accommodations from backpacker hostels to high-end resorts. My favorite beaches include Nungwi Beach to the very north, Kendwa Beach to the northeast, and Pongwe Beach to the west.
It’s the perfect way to end a safari trip and you’ll find many independent travelers there. Traveling to Zanzibar alone is perfectly safe and it can even lead to some great new friendships.
Insider Tip: Explore Stone Town’s hidden alleyways in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience before the tourist crowds arrive and stop by the Zanzibar Coffee House for a cup of locally-grown coffee paired with 360-degree rooftop views.
Sample Solo Travel Itineraries For Tanzania
Now that you know some of the best places to visit during solo travel in Tanzania, let’s go over a few sample itineraries you can use to map out your trip:
1-Week Safari & Culture Adventure
- Day 1: Arrive in Arusha; explore the local markets or Arusha National Park
- Day 2-3: Group safari to Serengeti National Park
- Day 4: Visit Ngorongoro Crater for a game drive
- Day 5: Day trip to Tarangire National Park
- Day 6: Relax and reflect in Moshi with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro
- Day 7: Depart from Kilimanjaro International Airport
10-Day Tanzania Highlights
- Day 1: Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport; transfer to Arusha and relax
- Day 2-4: Embark on a safari to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti National Park
- Day 5: Return to Arusha and fly to Zanzibar
- Day 6: Discover Stone Town, its spice markets, and historical sites
- Day 7-8: Relax on the beaches of Nungwi
- Day 9-10: Take the ferry to Dar es Salaam and explore the city
- Day 10: Depart from Julius Nyerere International Airport
2-Week Safari & Zanzibar Combo
- Day 1: Arrive in Arusha; settle in and relax
- Day 2-6: Safari to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire
- Day 7-8: Explore Moshi; hike the Kilimanjaro foothills
- Day 9-10: Fly to Zanzibar; enjoy Stone Town
- Day 11-12: Relax in Nungwi or Kendwa Beach
- Day 13: Take the ferry to Dar es Salaam and explore the city
- Day 14: Depart from Julius Nyerere International Airport
Tips For Traveling Alone In Tanzania
Now that you know the best places to visit when going to Tanzania alone and how to organize your itinerary, let’s go over some important tips:
Prioritize health & safety
Use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes that carry malaria, and take other precautions, such as wearing neutral clothing to avoid tsetse flies that can transmit sleeping sickness.
Additionally, avoid drinking tap water and stay hydrated with bottled or purified water. Don’t forget to apply sun protection whenever you’re outside, as the heat can be intense.
Safety precautions should also be a priority. Follow the same common-sense practices you would anywhere else in the world: avoid walking alone at night, keep your valuables hidden, and negotiate the price of items or services—such as taxi rides or souvenirs—before committing to them.
Clothing & weather preparation
The weather in Tanzania can vary significantly depending on the region and time of day. To prepare, pack breathable clothing that can be layered.
Items like tank tops, quick-dry t-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, a light sweater, and a water-resistant jacket will help you stay comfortable no matter what the climate throws at you. You’ll especially want a rain jacket if hiking.
Again, neutral colors help you stay cool and avoid attracting tsetse flies that are attracted to bright or dark colors. Because tsetse flies can bite through clothing, medium-weight garments are recommended.
Click here for a recommended safari packing list.
Travel essentials for a smooth safari
A successful safari starts with booking a reputable safari company that prioritizes conservation and ethical tourism practices.
You’ll also want to pack essentials like binoculars, a camera with a telephoto lens (I recommend 100-400mm for versatility without bulk), a bathing suit, and a light sarong. The sarong is particularly versatile—it can shield your face from dust on game drives, act as a towel at the beach, or serve as a light blanket on chilly mornings.
Lastly, bring wet wipes to clean off the inevitable layers of dirt you’ll encounter during your adventures. I also like to have a face mask handy for particularly dusty drives.
Mindset for adventure
If this is your first trip to Africa, you might feel a bit out of your element. My best advice is to relax and go with the flow.
Whether you’re on a guided safari or venturing out solo, staying flexible will help you fully immerse yourself in the adventure and enjoy the magic of Tanzania.
How Much Does A Solo Trip to Tanzania Cost?
Tanzania safari costs and travel expenses vary greatly and it comes down to what you want to do and your travel style.
When you travel solo, costs tend to be higher since you are bearing the full price yourself. This doesn’t mean that traveling solo in Tanzania has to break the bank though, especially if you create a practical trip budget.
Transportation costs
Budget:
- Dala dalas: $0.25–$1 USD per ride (local minibusses, cheap but crowded)
- Boda bodas: $1–$3 USD for short rides (motorbike taxis, more flexible)
Mid-Range:
- Private Taxis: $10–$20 USD for city rides (negotiate fares upfront)
- Intercity Bus Services: $10–$35 USD for comfortable buses like Kilimanjaro Express (you can serve on Bookaway to compare options)
Luxury:
- Private Car Hire: $50–$100 USD per day (plus fuel, requires an international license)
- Domestic Flights: $50–$150 USD one-way (a time-saving option for longer distances)
Food costs
Budget:
- Local restaurants serving authentic Tanzanian food: $2–$10 USD per meal (try ugali, the national dish)
Mid-Range & Luxury:
- Tourist-oriented restaurants: Even at trendy rooftop hotel restaurants you can order a delicious meal starting at $15
Accommodation costs
Budget:
- Hostels: $15–$25 USD per night (dorms or private rooms)
- Budget Guest Houses: $20–$40 USD per night (basic amenities and communal spaces)
Mid-Range:
- Mid-range hotels or Airbnbs: $50–$100 USD per night, offering better comfort and location
Luxury:
- High-end lodges or resorts: $300–$1,000+ USD per night, including luxury tents or private villas in prime locations like the Serengeti or Zanzibar
Safari costs
Note: Park fees and meals are typically included in the price of a safari. The main difference between the classes is the accommodation as well as if it’s group vs private.
Budget:
- Shared budget safari: $200–$350 USD per person per day, staying at public campsites or budget lodges
Mid-Range:
- Shared mid-range safari: $350–$600 USD per person per day, staying in mid-range lodges or tented camp
Luxury:
- Private luxury safari: $600–$1,500 USD per day, staying at upscale lodges with private game drives and premium services
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling Solo To Tanzania
To help you have an amazing solo trip to Tanzania, let’s go over some frequently asked questions:
Q) How many days do you need in Tanzania?
If you have 5-7 days, you can visit a few of the parks and get a good taste of the scenery and wildlife. With up to 2 weeks, you can travel at a more relaxed pace, spend more time in each park, and even stop for a few days in Zanzibar before flying home!
Q) Is Zanzibar safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, traveling in Zanzibar solo is safe as long as you follow normal safety guidelines. Don’t walk around by yourself at night, avoid excessive drinking, and keep your valuables hidden when you’re walking around town.
Q) Is Tanzania cheap or expensive?
Overall, Tanzania is considered a moderately priced country on par with South Africa or Brazil. Costs will vary widely based on how you decide to travel there.
Q) What should you be careful of in Tanzania?
Although Tanzania is safe, opportunistic crimes such as pickpocketing do occur so make sure to keep your valuables hidden. Don’t walk around by yourself at night regardless of whether you’re in a city or by one of the parks.
Q) Are there hostels in Tanzania?
Yes, there are plenty of hostels in Tanzania. You can find them in tourist hotspots such as Zanzibar, Arusha, and Dar es Salaam.
Q) How can I meet other travelers in Tanzania?
To meet other people while traveling solo in Tanzania, consider joining group safari tours, staying at hostels or social guesthouses, or connecting with fellow travelers through Facebook groups focused on Tanzania travel.
Q) What’s the best way to stay connected in Tanzania?
Airalo eSIM offers affordable data plans for Tanzania that can help you stay connected when WiFi isn’t available.
Tanzania Travel Planning Resources
Need some extra help planning for Tanzania solo travel? Grab Jessie’s free Ultimate Travel Planning Kit—which includes 40+ travel resources from printables to quizzes to itineraries—all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!
Some highlights of the kit include:
- Free “Where Should You Travel Next?” personality quiz
- Pre-plotted Google Maps for 45+ destinations (including Tanzania!)
- Travel budget calculators to help you save money
- Printable travel journal with writing prompts
- Packing lists for different types of trips
- And more!
Final Thoughts On Solo Travel In Tanzania
Tanzania is a brilliant destination for solo travelers, especially if you join a group safari tour.
As it’s one of the most visited countries in Africa, the tourism infrastructure is well-developed—which means you’ll have transport and accommodation options at a variety of price points.
It is also one of the safest African countries to visit, making it a good choice for solo female travelers who want to experience a safari.
Tanzania offers an extraordinary experience where you can view spectacular wildlife one day and relax on a white sand beach the next.
After many trips to this wonderful country, I find myself falling more in love with it each time. I hope you do too!
Keep reading:
- 2 Week Tanzania & Zanzibar Itinerary
- Kilimanjaro Trekking: A Healing Experience Summiting Africa’s Highest Mountain
