Our favourite solo holiday ideas: four ways to travel for one 

The best solo holidays take the awkward parts out of travelling alone, from navigating the single supplement to finding company at dinner and leaving the planning to someone else. Cruises, small group tours and solo-friendly stays can make travelling independently easier, without taking away your freedom.

Kirstin Curling from House of Travel shares four solo holiday ideas worth considering, along with practical tips to help you choose and book the right trip.

A safari for one in South Africa 

Ever dreamed of spotting elephants, watching giraffes wander past or heading out on an early morning game drive? A South African safari could be just the ticket, and you don't need a travel buddy to make it happen.

One savvy solo travel tip is to look for holidays that don’t charge extra for travelling alone. At Makutsi Safari Springs, a family-run private game reserve in South Africa, solo travellers can enjoy an unforgettable safari experience without paying a hefty single supplement. Set across 12,000 acres of pristine wildlife reserve, Makutsi offers individual bungalows, naturally heated mineral spring pools and incredible game-viewing opportunities. It's an option worth exploring if a safari is on your solo travel wish list.

Women's-only small group tours 

Want to explore somewhere new with a group of like-minded travellers? Women's-only small group tours offer the chance to share the experience with other women while leaving the itinerary and logistics to someone else.

Almost 60% of House of Travel solo travellers are female, and women's-only tours are really taking off. Everyone joins alone, so friendships form fast. We can pair you with a travel buddy if you're happy to share.

Prefer your own space? Check the cost of a private room and whether a single supplement applies.

You can also ask whether a female tour leader is available and how much free time the itinerary includes. The aim is to find a trip that feels comfortable for you, whether you enjoy having every detail organised or prefer a little time to explore independently.

Sail solo on a cruise 

A cruise can be a great way to see more of the world without having to organise a new hotel, transfer or itinerary every few days. There's plenty happening on board, and opportunities to meet fellow travellers whenever you're in the mood for company.

On a cruise you're never alone unless you want to be. Many cruise lines run meet-and-greets for solo cruisers, and some set aside tables for people who'd rather not eat alone. 

HOT Tip: When comparing cruises, ask about the total cost of a single stateroom versus booking a standard cabin with a single supplement. Check what's included in the fare, whether solo meet-ups and dining arrangements are available, and which room options are offered on your preferred sailing. If you have specific dates in mind, booking early can give you more choice.

Tours made for independent adventures 

Prefer having the big things taken care of while still enjoying time to explore? Small group tours offer a happy medium. You'll have a guide, an itinerary and fellow travellers to share the experience with, without having to organise every detail yourself.

Just over 40% of people on group tours are solo travellers, so you'll find like-minded people from day one. A small group gives your trip structure, guidance and safety. Ask your local House of Travel consultants about tours made only for solo travellers, where everyone starts as a stranger, and you can choose to share a room or not. 

Rooming options depend on the operator and departure. Some tours offer room-sharing with a same-gender traveller, which may help you reduce or avoid the single supplement. Others allow you to book your own room for extra privacy.

HOT Tip: Before choosing a trip, ask about group size, included activities, free time, room-sharing arrangements and any additional costs for travelling solo.

Book early for single rooms and solo departures 

If you have specific dates or a destination in mind, it's worth starting your search early. Single staterooms, selected solo-only departures and limited no-single-supplement offers may have restricted availability, so booking ahead can give you more options.

Our House of Travel consultant can check availability, compare supplement costs and hold the option that suits you. 

A little planning upfront can make it easier to find a holiday that suits your budget, your travel style and the kind of experience you're looking for.

Ready to find your next solo adventure?

Whether you're dreaming of a South African safari, a cruise with the right balance of company and downtime, or a small group tour where the details are taken care of, or a women’s only tour, there's a solo holiday to suit your travel style.

Explore your solo travel options with House of Travel. Our travel consultants can help you compare trips, understand room-sharing and single-supplement options, and find a holiday that fits your plans and budget.