The suitability of introversion to travel often goes unmentioned, even though it is a big factor in determining whether someone will enjoy the suggested activities and schedule among other things.
Like most things, being an introvert or an extrovert is more of a spectrum than a fixed reality at all times. With that in mind, by introverts, we are referring to people who recharge their energy by spending some time alone.
As such, the ideal place for an introvert allows him/her to get some essential 'down time' and enjoy things at their own pace. Some great characteristics of such a place include beautiful nature, quiet walkable attractions and immersive experiences.
African Destinations For Introverts
Here are the African destinations we think are great for introverts to visit. In each country, we have highlighted the best things to do there and suggest 3 places worth considering for your visits.
Since it is impossible to properly rank which place is better, we have arranged them in a north-to-south fashion. Starting with countries in Northern Africa, then East Africa and then Southern Africa. It is worth mentioning that beyond what we have mentioned if you are interested in visiting any other country, the same knowledge and insight shared here can help you visit that country and have a wonderful time.
Here are the best African destinations for introverts.
1. Morocco
Good warm climate and proximity to Southern Europe make Morocco one of Africa's most visited countries. It is often visited for the beautiful beaches, the desert and the rich cultural history.
Most people visit Morocco to explore the cities and the local culture and history. Whether you want to slowly explore the various important mosques, the world's oldest university or visit the Atlas Mountains for some hiking, Morocco is a great place to visit.
As an introvert, the medinas might be too stimulating but if you plan for it, the visit is worth it because you get to walk in streets that have been unchanged for hundreds of years.
Here are some 3 attractions you should consider for your trip to Morocco - and what you can do there.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chefchaouen (The Blue Pearl) | Wander the streets, Try Morrocan food |
| 2 | Marrakech [Fez, or Rabat] | Visit Museums, Mosques & Medinas |
| 3 | Atlas Mountains | Hiking |
2. Egypt
By many standards, Egypt is the original place that people from all over the world visited. Whether it was 3000 years ago or last year, the fascination with Egypt's Pyramids and history has made it one of the most interesting places to visit.
For the introvert who likes history, Egypt is your chance to imagine what our modern civilisation was like thousands of years ago. It is a journey of discovery into the past.
While the pyramids are truly fascinating, there is much more to Egypt and as an introvert, you can have a trip that is best suited to your preferences.
Here are some 3 attractions to consider visiting while in Egypt - and what you can do there.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cairo | Giza pyramids, Egyptian Museum & Coptic Cairo |
| 2 | Alexandria | Visit the Bibliotheca, Montazah Palace & Ancient ruins |
| 3 | Siwa Oasis | Explore nearby desert, hot springs & rich local culture |
3. Uganda - for gorillas & chimps
Uganda is called the Pearl of Africa for a good reason. In Uganda, you can see gorillas and chimps in the forests, see classic wildlife in the savannahs, climb mountains, experience the local culture and much more. Uganda's cities can seem too draining for an introvert but most of the popular attractions are in the countryside where nature is phenomenal and the general pace of life is slower.
When seeing gorillas or chimps, you are supposed to stay quiet - making it a perfect activity for someone more comfortable sitting in silence and enjoying your surroundings.
Here are some 3 attractions to consider for your visit to Uganda - and what you can see & do there.
| # | Attraction / Park | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Seeing mountain gorillas, hiking, local culture |
| 2 | Queen Elizabeth National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, bird watching |
| 3 | Kibale National Park | Seeing chimpanzees, craters & waterfalls |
4. Kenya
Kenya is considered the original home of the African wildlife safari and is still one of the best for wildlife viewing in the savannah. There are more than 10 national parks and reserves where animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos and leopards can be found.
Beyond its reputation for savannah wildlife, Kenya is also blessed with rich bird life, great landscapes for hiking and a beautiful coastline on the Indian Ocean.
For someone who wants a quiet kind of safari, you can choose any of the less crowded parks and end your safari with some days at the coast, but in the hidden gem coastal towns instead of the popular alternatives. This is to say that you can have it all your own way.
Here are some 3 great places to consider for your safari to Kenya - and what you can see there.
| # | Attractions | Major Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Masai Mara National Reserve | Witnessing the great migration, the Masai cultural experience |
| 2 | Tsavo National Parks | Savannah wildlife viewing, hiking, waterfalls |
| 3 | Lamu Archipelago | Beautiful beaches, snorkelling, Swahili history & culture |
5. Rwanda
Like Uganda, Rwanda is one of the countries where you can see habituated mountain gorillas in the wild. Besides gorillas, there is savannah wildlife, bird watching and so much hiking to do. It is called the land of a thousand hills for a good reason and whether you are in the city or the countryside, there is a good hill to hike and enjoy the views.
Despite the popularity of Rwanda as a tourist destination, the pace of things is ideal for introverts.
Here are some 3 places to consider for your visit to Rwanda - and what you can see & do there.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Volcanoes National Park | Seeing mountain gorillas, golden monkeys & hiking |
| 2 | Akagera National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, bird watching |
| 3 | Lake Kivu | Hiking, boat cruises, local culture |
6. Tanzania
Tanzania is consistently one of Africa's top destinations for adventure, wildlife and stunning beaches. Your options for Tanzania range from the sprawling plains of the Serengeti to the vibrant Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro as Africa's tallest mountain and the stunning beaches of Zanzibar.
Tanzania's popular attractions can get quite crowded, but there are many alternatives if you look past the northern safari circuit parks. Parks Like Gombe and Nyerere provide special experiences on a path less travelled.
Here are some 3 attractions to consider for a visit to Tanzania - and what you can do there.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ngorongoro Conservation Area | Savannah wildlife viewing, bird watching, hiking |
| 2 | Serengeti National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, wildebeest migration |
| 3 | Zanzibar Islands | Beautiful beaches, diving & snorkelling, Swahili culture |
7. Zimbabwe - a true hidden safari gem
Many people are discovering that Zimbabwe is more beautiful and has much more to offer than what its previous international relations with the West might suggest. There are many parks for wildlife viewing, cultural experiences and of course, the Victoria Falls.
Given that Zimbabwe is not on the radar for most travellers, your safari won't be overcrowded and you will enjoy the beautiful nature without overexerting your energies.
Here are the top 3 attractions to consider for a safari to Zimbabwe - and what you can do in each.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Victoria Falls National Park | Seeing Victoria Falls, Hiking |
| 2 | Hwange National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, Birding |
| 3 | Harare (Capital) | Culture, History & Arts |
8. Botswana
Botswana's reputation in African safari is unmatched as an upmarket and low-impact destination. From bush camps, canoeing in the Okavango, walking or hot air balloon safaris, Botswana's wildlife viewing is a new way of experiencing nature.
Due to the seasonality of the Okavango Delta, some activities might not be very flexible but the wildlife is amazing all year round and you can enjoy it in your style.
Here are some 3 places to consider for your visit to Botswana - and what you can do there.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Moremi Game Reserve | Savannah wildlife viewing, bird watching & local culture |
| 2 | Chobe National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, houseboat tours & fishing |
| 3 | Nxai Pan National Park | See Baines Baobabs, camping &photography |
9. Namibia
Namibia's vastness is a perfect match of gentle and wild. From the biggest sand dunes and the oldest desert to the clamour of wildlife, Namibia is one great place whose landscape inspires introspection even for the most extroverted person.
Attractions like Sossusvlei and Etosha are wonderful and get a lot of visitors. Due to Namibia's hot desert temperatures, most activities can be scheduled early- before it is hot, leaving you with a good deal of time each day for unwinding and recharging your energy levels.
Here are some 3 places to consider when you visit Namibia - and what to do there.
| # | Attraction | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Etosha National Park | Savannah & desert wildlife viewing, photography |
| 2 | Namib-Naukluft National Park | Sossusvlei, photography & overlanding |
| 3 | Windhoek | Learn about Namibia's history |
10. South Africa
South Africa - sometimes referred to as the rainbow nation, is a country full of diversity, colour and beauty. From beautiful beaches to a unique mix of cultures, natural landscapes and ecosystems, there is a lot to explore in South Africa.
South Africa probably has the most developed tourism infrastructure in terms of international, local and regional flights, as well as hospitality services.
While the country does have a lot of tourists, there are still many hidden gems and you can work around your schedule to make it possible. Aiming for shoulder season instead of peak season and having a good itinerary should help.
Here are some 3 places you should consider when visiting South Africa - and what you can do there.
| # | Attractions | Major activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kruger National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, bird watching, photography |
| 2 | Cape Town | Beaches & penguins, wine lands, history, and urban culture |
| 3 | Karoo National Park | Savannah wildlife viewing, hiking, bird watching |
Helpful Tips
Here are a few more helpful tips for introverts who are planning a safari in Africa. Depending on your level of introversion, some will be more helpful than others.
Inform your travel company and get the ideal guide
If you are handling your travel plans by yourself, you will have the task of choosing who your guide and lodge will be.
However, If you are using a travel company you should tell the agent that you are introverted and would like them to take this into consideration as they choose some activities and schedule. Similar to your dietary preference, you can ask that they consider this while planning for you.
Most experienced tour guides are very versatile and have worked with introverted people for a long time.
Crowds & Schedule
While you can enjoy your safari during peak travel season, introverts will appreciate smaller or no crowds. This means you can look into scheduling your trip out of the peak seasons. Some activities like the great migration or seeing Victoria Falls will not give you so much wiggle room, but most other activities can be planned to avoid big crowds.
Generally, going at the start or end of the ideal season is the best way to get a great balance. Depending on your specific travel plans, ask your chosen safari consultant to help you in making this decision.
Plan downtime in your itinerary
Unlike extroverted people, introverts will become exhausted if they go without downtime. Whether you want to plan your downtime during long drives between various attractions, or early arrivals at the lodge, you should have a clear idea of when you will wind down.
Some long drives can be great downtime if you enjoy watching the landscapes change during a long road trip. The best way is to have a free day or half day where you slow down the pace of your safari and maybe get to wake up without any strict plans for the next couple of hours.
However you decide to do it, make sure to respect the downtime, because once you get exhausted, it will be hard to enjoy your safari trip as you would have when energized. This downtime can be populated with some reading, writing or catching up with people back home.
Learn about the attractions
Learning about the places you will visit and what you will see and do there is a great way of mentally preparing and familiarizing yourself with new places. This will answer your questions, and enhance your experience when you are there.
Photography
With smartphones, everyone is now a photographer in some way, but taking it a step further is a great thing for introverts in general. Photography can be a slow-paced and somewhat meditative exercise. This can be helpful especially while on safari, as it allows you many 'moments of slowing down' to take in the surroundings and capture your version of it in the camera.
For those who are passionate about photography, it is not only a skill for capturing the magic of your trip, it is also a way of getting those small moments to recharge just a bit.
Dare & push your boundaries
It is through trying different things that we grow and discover ourselves even more. Therefore, we encourage you to step out of what you would consider your comfort zone. Maybe start up a conversation and connect with some new people, maybe go to a busy spot for some nightlife or simply join in and learn an intricate dance from some locals.
Closing Thoughts
The big and obvious point of this article is that your African travel plans can be customised to suit your style and nature. You don't have to deal with big crowds and draining social situations when you are an introvert who benefits more from some quiet time.
In each country, the alternatives best suited for introverts can be different depending on the popular attractions and activities.
We have left the popular attractions as part of our suggested places to look at. This is because even the most popular places can be optimised for you through scheduling and managing your daily time to have moments of recharging. With the proper people planning your safari, there are unlimited ways for you to enjoy a safari in Africa even if you are an introvert who gets a little more anxious than most people.
We hope you are encouraged and inspired to start planning. Whether you want to sit with the gorillas, calmly watch elephants in the savannah or look through the library at Bibliotheca - and much more in between, Africa is here for you to uncover and enjoy.