With some of the most astounding ancient and religious sites anywhere, the Middle East and Africa are big draws solo travelers on a mission. They want to see once in a lifetime destinations. They want to embark on pilgrimages to religious sites or game reserves. Trips here are pricey and hard to reach, but ingenious tour operators will pair you up with another to help cut costs.
- Serengeti, Tanzania
Good infrastructure, a wide variety of tours, loads of other travelers make this once in a lifetime sight one of the easiest for solo travelers to see on the entire continent.
- Red Sea, Egypt
For a little R&R and five star luxuries, gorgeous beaches and fine services, try the Red Sea. It’s desolate enough to be quiet, but lively enough that you won’t grow board.
- Seychelles Islands
Although you’ll need a big pocket book, this remote island chain hidden away in the Indian Ocean is one of the truly great places to really get away from it all.
- Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town offers the most traditional Western backpacker scene on the African continent thanks to a lively English speaking culture with loads of nightlife and budget accommodations.
- Marrakech, Morocco
From the vibrant square of Djema al’Fna to the crowds of locals who can’t resist approaching you or selling you something, Marrakech is a haven for solo travelers.
- Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai has become the go to place for variety in travel, even for solo visitors. Whether you are here to indulge in the luxurious services of a 7-star hotel, relax on the beach, shop, or ski you are not alone.
- Jerusalem, Israel
For religious pilgrims the old walled city of Jerusalem, a holy site of Judaism, Christianity and Islam, is dominated by historic sites such as the Dome of the Rock, Wailing Wall, and church of the Holy Sepulchre.
- Cairo, Egypt
It’s hard to get away from anyone in this crowded, chaotic North African city. The locals won’t allow you to stay lonely for a moment. Tours to the Pyramids are an easy way to meet other travelers too.
- Nairobi, Kenya
Meet other likeminded travelers in Kenya’s bustling capital and plan your next safari to one of the country’s big game reserves.
- Amman, Jordan
One of the most liberal cultures in the Middle East, Jordan is open-minded in a lot of ways, including with the solo traveler. You want feel the pressures found in other nearby countries here, just friendly people and the ruins at Petra.