Tamara HinsonNZ Herald·14 Aug, 2026 07:00 AM5 mins to readBackpacking Africa: The diverse, crowd-free continent solo travellers skip. Photo / Tamara HinsonKey factsComprehensive data recording how many Kiwis visit Africa per year is limited.South Africa attracts approximately 22,000 to 23,000 New Zealand-resident travellers for short-term stays every year.Low solo-visitor numbers are often linked to limited public transit infrastructure, single supplement pricing on safari experiences and safety concerns. Tamara Hinson believes backpackers and solo travellers are missing out if they leave Africa – a fantastically diverse continent – off their itineraries.Tamara Hinson urges solo travellers to explore Africa, highlighting its diverse experiences and under-tourism. Photo / Tamara HinsonDon’t get me wrong, when it comes to travel, I’ve ticked off various rites of passage.

I’ve hung out on Bali’s most Instagrammed rice