Plan your Tanzania Solo Travel with this guide to solo safaris, group and private options, safety, costs, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar and practical travel tips.

Traveling alone can be one of the most rewarding ways to experience Tanzania. Without having to coordinate every decision with a larger group, solo travelers have the freedom to choose the destinations, pace, accommodation style and activities that match their interests.

Tanzania is particularly well suited to travelers who want to combine wildlife safaris, Kilimanjaro trekking, cultural experiences and Zanzibar beach holidays in one trip. A solo traveler can join a small group safari, arrange a private safari with a dedicated vehicle and guide, or create a tailor-made itinerary that combines several experiences.

However, traveling alone does require thoughtful planning. Safari logistics, transportation, accommodation, wildlife safety, costs and local arrangements are different when you are traveling by yourself.

This guide explains what to consider when planning Tanzania solo travel, including the different safari options available, safety, accommodation, transportation, costs, activities and practical advice for making the most of your trip.

Is Tanzania Good for Solo Travel?

Yes, Tanzania can be an excellent destination for solo travelers, particularly when the trip is properly planned.

One of the advantages of traveling solo in Tanzania is that you do not necessarily have to experience the entire trip alone. You can travel independently between destinations while joining organized activities, or you can book a safari where your guide and driver become your companions throughout the wildlife portion of the journey.

This makes Tanzania different from destinations where solo travelers have to organize every activity themselves.

A solo traveler can arrive in Tanzania, stay in a hotel in Arusha or Moshi, join a safari group, take a guided walking experience, climb Kilimanjaro with an organized trekking team and then continue to Zanzibar.

The key is to choose the right combination of independent travel and organized experiences.

What Does Solo Travel in Tanzania Actually Mean?

Solo travel does not necessarily mean being alone throughout your entire holiday.

There are several ways to experience Tanzania as a solo traveler.

You could book a private Tanzania safari, where the vehicle and guide are dedicated to you.

You could join a small-group safari, where you travel with other visitors but book as an individual.

You could choose a combination of private and shared activities, depending on your budget.

You could also travel independently between cities and destinations while booking guided excursions, cultural activities or wildlife experiences locally.

The best option depends on your personality, budget, interests and preferred level of independence.

Tanzania Solo Safari Options

One of the biggest questions for solo travelers is how to experience Tanzania’s national parks.

There are two main approaches: joining a group safari or booking a private safari.

Joining a Group Safari as a Solo Traveler

Joining a group safari is often the most practical option for solo travelers who want to control their budget while meeting other travelers.

Instead of paying for an entire vehicle alone, you share the safari vehicle with other guests who are traveling on a similar itinerary.

This can also make the safari a social experience.

You may spend several days with travelers from different countries, sharing wildlife sightings, meals and stories from the road.

For a solo traveler who enjoys meeting people, this can be one of the most enjoyable aspects of a Tanzania safari.

The important thing is to understand the group arrangement before booking. Ask how many people are normally in the vehicle, what type of accommodation is included, whether the itinerary is fixed and whether there is flexibility during the safari.

Private Tanzania Safari for Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can also book a private safari.

A private safari means that the safari vehicle and guide are dedicated to you rather than shared with other guests.

Although the cost per person can be higher than joining a group, the advantages can be significant.

You have greater control over the daily schedule and can spend more time at wildlife sightings that interest you. If you are a photographer, you can discuss photography priorities with your guide. If you prefer a slower morning, your itinerary can be designed accordingly.

A private safari can also be particularly attractive to solo travelers who want a more personalized experience.

Is a Private Safari Worth It for One Person?

This depends on your priorities.

If keeping the cost as low as possible is your main concern, a group safari may be more suitable.

If privacy, flexibility and personalized guiding are more important, a private safari can be worth the additional investment.

A solo traveler who is interested in photography, birdwatching, wildlife behavior or specific destinations may benefit particularly from having a private guide and vehicle.

The important point is that solo travel does not mean you have to choose a standard package. A safari can be designed around your interests.

Best Tanzania Destinations for Solo Travelers

Tanzania offers a wide range of destinations, and the best combination depends on the kind of experience you want.

Arusha

Arusha is one of the most convenient starting points for northern Tanzania safaris.

It is also a useful place for solo travelers to spend time before or after a safari, particularly if they want to meet other travelers or arrange additional activities.

From Arusha, travelers can continue toward destinations such as Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and Serengeti.

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is an excellent addition to a northern Tanzania itinerary, particularly for travelers interested in elephants, baobab landscapes and diverse wildlife.

Its relatively accessible location also makes it useful for shorter safari itineraries.

For solo travelers with limited time, Tarangire can sometimes be incorporated into a compact northern Tanzania safari.

Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater is one of Tanzania’s most remarkable wildlife destinations.

The concentration of wildlife within the crater makes it an attractive destination for travelers who want to experience a rich safari environment without spending several days driving between different regions.

It is frequently combined with Tarangire and Serengeti in a northern Tanzania itinerary.

Serengeti National Park

For many solo travelers, the Serengeti is the highlight of a Tanzania safari.

The park offers enormous landscapes and exceptional wildlife opportunities, including the Great Wildebeest Migration at different times of the year.

Because the Serengeti is extensive, travelers should consider how many days they want to spend there rather than simply treating it as a one-night stop.

A longer stay can provide more time to explore different areas and experience the park at a less rushed pace.

Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an excellent extension for solo travelers who want to combine wildlife with beaches, culture and relaxation.

You can spend time exploring Stone Town, relaxing on the coast or choosing activities such as snorkeling, diving, boat excursions and cultural experiences.

A Tanzania safari followed by Zanzibar can create a balanced itinerary, especially for solo travelers who want both adventure and downtime.

Solo Travel to Tanzania for Kilimanjaro

Tanzania is also a major destination for solo travelers interested in climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

However, climbing Kilimanjaro should not be confused with independently hiking alone.

Kilimanjaro climbs are organized through trekking operators with guides and support teams. Current park guidance requires climbs to be conducted with licensed operators, and solo trekking on the mountain is not permitted.

This means a traveler can arrive in Tanzania alone and still join an organized Kilimanjaro climb.

For a solo traveler, this can actually be a wonderful way to meet other trekkers while having the support of an experienced mountain team.

If you prefer more privacy, you can also arrange a private Kilimanjaro climb with your own trekking team.

Solo Kilimanjaro Climb or Group Climb?

The choice depends on your personality and budget.

A group climb allows you to meet other trekkers and can reduce the individual cost.

A private climb provides more control over the pace and group composition.

Either option should prioritize appropriate acclimatization, experienced guides, suitable equipment and a sensible itinerary.

For first-time climbers, choosing a route based solely on the shortest number of days is not recommended. The route and acclimatization profile should be considered carefully.

Is Tanzania Safe for Solo Travelers?

Safety is one of the most important considerations when planning a solo trip.

Tanzania is a major tourism destination, but solo travelers should still use normal travel precautions and avoid assuming that being in a popular destination eliminates risk.

The safest approach is to plan transportation and activities carefully, use reputable accommodation and tour operators, keep important documents secure and stay aware of your surroundings.

During a safari, wildlife safety is particularly important.

Wild animals are not domesticated, and travelers should never approach animals independently. Follow the instructions of your guide, remain inside the safari vehicle except at designated and approved locations, and avoid loud or unnecessary disturbances around wildlife.

Official park guidance emphasizes following guide instructions, respecting wildlife, staying on authorized routes and observing park safety rules.

Is Tanzania Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Many women travel to Tanzania independently or as part of organized tours and enjoy rewarding experiences.

However, solo female travelers should use the same sensible precautions they would use in any unfamiliar destination.

Choose reputable accommodation, arrange airport and intercity transfers carefully, avoid isolated areas at night and keep trusted people informed of your itinerary.

When participating in safaris, trekking or other activities, using an established operator provides additional logistical support.

Solo female travelers may also prefer private transfers and organized activities rather than navigating unfamiliar routes late at night.

How to Get Around Tanzania as a Solo Traveler

Tanzania is a large country, so transportation planning is an important part of solo travel.

For a safari, travelers normally use a safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide. This eliminates the need to navigate unfamiliar park roads yourself and allows you to focus on wildlife and scenery.

Between major destinations, travelers may use domestic flights, private transfers, scheduled transport or other locally appropriate options.

Flying can be particularly useful when connecting distant safari destinations or traveling between the mainland and Zanzibar.

For solo travelers, the most convenient transportation option is often not necessarily the cheapest one. Time, comfort, reliability and simplicity can be worth paying for when you are managing the journey yourself.

Should Solo Travelers Drive Themselves on Safari?

Self-driving is possible in some Tanzanian destinations, but it is not necessarily the best choice for every solo traveler.

National parks have specific rules regarding roads, speed, wildlife and visitor behavior. A professional safari driver-guide brings local knowledge that can be extremely valuable.

A guide knows how to read tracks, where wildlife is often found, how to position the vehicle and how to respond appropriately when animals are nearby.

For a first-time safari traveler, having a knowledgeable guide can significantly improve the experience.

Why a Guide Is Valuable for a Solo Traveler

When you travel alone, your guide becomes an important part of the experience.

A good guide does much more than drive.

They can explain animal behavior, identify birds, interpret tracks, explain local landscapes and help you understand the relationship between wildlife and the ecosystem.

For a solo traveler, having one dedicated guide can also make the experience highly personalized.

You can tell your guide whether you are particularly interested in elephants, big cats, birds, photography, landscapes or cultural experiences and adjust the safari accordingly where practical.

Tanzania Solo Travel Accommodation

Solo travelers have many accommodation options, from simple guesthouses to comfortable lodges and luxury tented camps.

The right choice depends on your budget and travel style.

A solo traveler who wants to meet people may prefer a social lodge or smaller property with shared dining areas and common spaces.

Someone looking for privacy may prefer a private room in a lodge or a luxury tented camp.

On safari, the accommodation itself can be part of the experience. Staying inside or close to a wildlife area can reduce driving time and provide more opportunities to enjoy the surrounding environment.

When comparing accommodation prices, solo travelers should check whether the property charges a single supplement.

What Is a Single Supplement?

A single supplement is an additional charge that can apply when one traveler occupies a room, tent or other accommodation designed and priced around two people sharing.

This is one reason solo travel can sometimes appear more expensive than traveling as a couple.

The safari vehicle is another factor. If you book a private vehicle alone, you are effectively covering the cost of a vehicle and guide that could otherwise be shared among several travelers.

This does not mean solo travel is always expensive. Group safaris, carefully selected accommodation and a well-planned itinerary can help control the overall cost.

How Much Does Solo Travel in Tanzania Cost?

There is no single price for a Tanzania solo trip because the total cost depends heavily on how you travel.

Your budget will be influenced by the number of safari days, national parks visited, accommodation category, whether you join a group or use a private vehicle, transportation, activities and the season of travel.

A solo traveler joining a group safari can often reduce the cost of the safari portion.

A private safari generally costs more per person because the traveler is not sharing the vehicle and guiding costs with other guests.

Luxury accommodation and internal flights can also increase the overall budget.

Instead of focusing only on the headline safari price, solo travelers should compare what is included.

A cheaper package may exclude certain transfers, park-related charges, activities or accommodation services that another package includes.

How Can a Solo Traveler Save Money in Tanzania?

One of the easiest ways to reduce costs is to consider joining a small group safari.

Traveling during less busy periods can also sometimes provide greater accommodation flexibility.

Choosing comfortable mid-range accommodation rather than luxury properties can significantly change the overall budget.

Another strategy is to build the itinerary carefully rather than trying to visit too many destinations.

Spending more nights in fewer locations can reduce transportation time and unnecessary transfers while giving you more time to enjoy each destination.

Solo travelers should also consider whether they really need private transfers for every journey or whether a shared or scheduled option is appropriate.

Best Time for Solo Travel in Tanzania

Tanzania can be visited throughout much of the year, but the ideal time depends on what you want to experience.

For wildlife, different seasons offer different advantages.

The dry season is popular for game viewing because animals can become easier to observe around water sources and vegetation may be less dense.

The wetter periods can bring greener landscapes, fewer visitors in some areas and excellent conditions for photography and birdwatching.

The Great Wildebeest Migration also follows a seasonal pattern, although the exact timing and location can vary from year to year.

Solo travelers should therefore choose their travel dates based on their priorities rather than assuming that one month is universally the best.

What to Pack for Solo Travel in Tanzania

Packing for Tanzania depends on your itinerary.

A safari traveler should consider lightweight clothing, comfortable footwear, sun protection, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, personal medication and suitable layers for cooler mornings and evenings.

Binoculars can make a significant difference during wildlife viewing.

A camera is optional, but Tanzania provides exceptional opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.

If you are combining safari with Kilimanjaro, your packing requirements will be very different because mountain trekking requires specialized clothing and equipment.

If Zanzibar is included, beachwear and appropriate clothing for cultural visits should also be considered.

The key is to pack according to the different environments you will actually visit rather than bringing unnecessary luggage.

What About Internet and Communication?

Internet connectivity varies considerably between destinations.

In cities and major tourist areas, travelers can generally find mobile connectivity and Wi-Fi, while remote safari areas may have limited or intermittent service.

Solo travelers should not rely entirely on internet access.

Keep important booking information, emergency contacts, passport details and other essential information accessible offline.

A portable power bank can also be useful, especially during long safari days or when traveling between remote destinations.

Money and Payments for Solo Travelers

Solo travelers should plan their finances carefully because they do not have a travel companion to rely on if they lose access to cash or payment methods.

Carry a suitable combination of payment options while avoiding keeping all your money in one place.

Cards are accepted in many hotels, lodges and established businesses, but cash can still be useful for smaller purchases, tips and places where card facilities are limited.

Your safari operator can also advise you about practical payment arrangements before departure.

Solo Travel and Tipping in Tanzania

Tipping is common in the Tanzanian tourism industry, particularly for safari guides, drivers, trekking teams and other service providers.

For a solo traveler, the question of tipping can sometimes feel confusing because there is no group sharing the responsibility.

The appropriate amount depends on the service, length of the trip and your satisfaction.

It is better to understand tipping practices before your trip rather than feeling pressured to decide at the end of the safari.

Solo Travel and Meeting Other Travelers

One of the biggest advantages of joining a group safari is the opportunity to meet people.

A solo traveler can arrive in Tanzania alone and still spend several days with travelers from Europe, North America, Asia, Australia and other parts of Africa.

You may find yourself sharing a safari vehicle with people you would never have met otherwise.

For travelers who enjoy social experiences, this can become one of the highlights of the trip.

For those who prefer privacy, a private safari provides a quieter experience.

There is no right or wrong option.

Solo Travel for Photography

Tanzania is an outstanding destination for solo photographers.

Traveling alone gives you an opportunity to design the trip around your photography interests.

You might prioritize the Serengeti during the migration, spend additional time in areas known for big cats, focus on birds or create a slower itinerary that allows more time at wildlife sightings.

A private safari vehicle can be especially useful for photography because you can discuss your priorities directly with the guide.

If photography is your main reason for traveling to Tanzania, tell your safari operator before booking. Vehicle configuration, passenger numbers, camera space, guide experience and the amount of time spent in the field can all affect the quality of the experience.

Solo Safari for Older Travelers

Solo travel is not limited to young backpackers.

Tanzania can also be suitable for mature and senior travelers who want an independent holiday without joining a large organized tour.

The itinerary can be designed around comfort rather than rushing between destinations.

This may include shorter driving days, comfortable lodges, private transfers, flights between distant destinations and additional rest days.

A private safari can be particularly helpful because the pace can be adjusted according to your preferences.

Solo Family Travel

Traveling alone as a parent with children is different from traveling alone as an individual.

If you are planning a Tanzania safari with children without another adult traveling with you, consider the amount of driving, accommodation arrangements, meal schedules and activities carefully.

A private vehicle can provide useful flexibility because your family does not have to follow the preferences of unrelated travelers.

A well-planned itinerary can also combine safari activities with relaxing accommodation and a Zanzibar extension.

Solo Travel to Tanzania and Zanzibar

A Tanzania mainland safari can be combined very easily with Zanzibar for travelers who want to experience both wildlife and the Indian Ocean.

A common style of itinerary is to begin with a safari in northern Tanzania and then fly to Zanzibar for several days.

Solo travelers can enjoy Zanzibar independently while also joining organized activities such as snorkeling, diving, cultural tours, spice experiences or boat excursions.

Stone Town provides a very different atmosphere from the national parks, making the combination particularly varied.

Tanzania Visa Requirements for Solo Travelers

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and travel circumstances, so solo travelers should check the official Tanzania Immigration information before departure.

Tanzania provides an online visa application system, and travelers should use the official immigration platform rather than unofficial third-party websites.

Applicants should also ensure that their passport meets the required validity conditions and that their visa category matches the purpose of travel.

If your itinerary includes both Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar, you should also check the current entry requirements before traveling.

The important point for solo travelers is to organize documentation in advance because there is no travel companion to help resolve an avoidable paperwork problem during the journey.

Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers

Travel insurance is especially important when traveling alone.

Your policy should be appropriate for the activities included in your itinerary.

If you are climbing Kilimanjaro, for example, check that your policy specifically covers high-altitude trekking and any relevant emergency evacuation requirements.

For a safari and Zanzibar holiday, check medical coverage, trip interruption, baggage and other protections relevant to your circumstances.

Keep a copy of your policy and emergency contact information accessible during the trip.

Solo Travel Safety Tips for Tanzania

Good preparation makes solo travel easier and more comfortable.

Keep your passport and important documents secure. Save copies of essential travel documents digitally and offline.

Use reliable transportation arrangements, particularly when arriving at an airport or moving between unfamiliar destinations.

Choose established accommodation and reputable tour operators.

Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas late at night and use appropriate transportation after dark.

During safari activities, follow your guide’s instructions and never approach wildlife independently.

For outdoor activities, use qualified guides and follow local regulations.

The principle is simple: being a solo traveler does not mean taking unnecessary risks.

Is Solo Safari Better Than Traveling as a Couple?

Neither is inherently better.

Solo travel gives you independence and allows you to design the trip around your own interests.

Traveling as a couple can make certain costs easier to share, particularly accommodation and private safari arrangements.

The right choice depends on what you want from the experience.

For some travelers, the freedom of waking up and deciding exactly what they want to do that day is worth traveling alone.

For others, sharing the experience with a partner or friends is part of what makes a safari special.

How to Plan a Tanzania Solo Trip

The best solo Tanzania itinerary begins with deciding what you want the trip to be about.

If wildlife is your priority, you might focus on Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire.

If you want adventure, Kilimanjaro can be added.

If relaxation is important, finish the trip with Zanzibar.

If you want cultural experiences, additional time can be allocated to communities and local activities.

Once your priorities are clear, the itinerary can be structured around your available time and budget.

Rather than trying to see everything, it is often better to choose a few experiences and enjoy them properly.

Sample Tanzania Solo Travel Itinerary Ideas

Short Solo Safari

A traveler with limited time could focus on a few northern Tanzania destinations, combining wildlife experiences in places such as Tarangire and Ngorongoro with a longer stay in one safari destination.

This style works well for travelers who have only a few days available.

Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar

A longer trip could combine several days of wildlife viewing with several days on Zanzibar.

This provides a balance between adventure and relaxation.

Kilimanjaro and Safari

Travelers with more time can combine a Kilimanjaro climb with a safari afterward.

This is particularly attractive to solo adventurers who want a physically challenging experience followed by wildlife and relaxation.

Extended Tanzania Solo Journey

With additional time, you can combine northern Tanzania, cultural experiences, a longer safari and Zanzibar.

The itinerary can be customized around your interests rather than following a fixed package.

Why Choose a Tailor-Made Tanzania Safari as a Solo Traveler?

A tailor-made safari can be particularly valuable when you are traveling alone.

You do not have to compromise your itinerary around another traveler’s interests.

If you love photography, the itinerary can emphasize photography.

If you prefer wildlife, more time can be allocated to national parks.

If comfort is important, accommodation and transportation can be selected accordingly.

If your budget is limited, the itinerary can focus on fewer destinations and carefully selected accommodation.

This flexibility is one of the strongest advantages of solo travel.

Common Mistakes Solo Travelers Should Avoid

One common mistake is trying to visit too many destinations in a short time.

Tanzania is larger than many first-time visitors expect, and travel between destinations can take several hours.

Another mistake is choosing accommodation based only on the cheapest price without considering location, transportation and overall convenience.

Some travelers also underestimate the importance of choosing a reliable safari operator.

Finally, solo travelers sometimes focus heavily on price and overlook the actual vehicle, guide, accommodation, itinerary and inclusions.

The cheapest safari is not necessarily the best value.

Why Travel Tanzania Solo With Animalia Treks and Safaris?

Traveling alone does not mean you have to organize every part of your Tanzania journey without support.

Animalia Treks and Safaris can help solo travelers build an itinerary that matches their interests, budget, preferred accommodation and travel style.

Whether you want to join a small group safari, arrange a private wildlife experience, climb Kilimanjaro, explore Tanzania’s cultural side or combine a safari with Zanzibar, the journey can be designed around you.

The goal is not simply to create a trip that works for one person. It is to create a Tanzania experience that feels personal, comfortable and worthwhile.

Final Thoughts on Tanzania Solo Travel

Tanzania is a destination where solo travel can be both adventurous and comfortable.

You can travel alone without being isolated, join other travelers when you want company and choose private experiences when you want independence.

A safari can be shared or private. Kilimanjaro can be organized as a group or private climb. Zanzibar can be explored independently or through guided activities.

The most important part is planning the journey around your priorities.

With the right itinerary, reliable local support, appropriate accommodation and sensible safety planning, Tanzania solo travel can become an unforgettable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tanzania Solo Travel

Is Tanzania good for solo travelers?

Yes. Tanzania offers organized safaris, guided activities, Kilimanjaro trekking and Zanzibar experiences that can work very well for travelers visiting alone.

Can I go on a Tanzania safari alone?

Yes. You can book a private safari with your own vehicle and guide or join a group safari with other travelers.

Is it cheaper to join a group safari as a solo traveler?

Usually, sharing a safari vehicle and some operating costs with other travelers can make the individual price lower than booking a private vehicle alone. The exact price depends on the itinerary, accommodation and inclusions.

Is a private safari possible for one person?

Yes. Solo travelers can book private safari vehicles and guides. This provides greater flexibility and privacy but generally costs more per person than joining a group.

Is Tanzania safe for solo female travelers?

Many women travel to Tanzania independently or through organized tours. As with any destination, sensible precautions are important, including using reliable transportation, choosing reputable accommodation and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Can I climb Kilimanjaro alone?

You can travel to Tanzania alone to climb Kilimanjaro, but the mountain should not be treated as an independent solo hike. Climbs are organized through licensed operators with guides and support teams.

Can I travel alone to Zanzibar?

Yes. Zanzibar can work very well for solo travelers, with a range of accommodation and organized activities. Travelers should still use normal precautions and respect local customs.

How much does a solo Tanzania safari cost?

There is no fixed price. Cost depends on whether you join a group or book privately, the number of safari days, parks visited, accommodation category, season and transportation arrangements.

Can a solo traveler get a private safari vehicle?

Yes. A private vehicle can be arranged for a solo traveler, subject to availability and the operator’s arrangements.

Is solo travel in Tanzania expensive?

It can be more expensive per person than traveling as a couple because some costs, such as private vehicles and accommodation, cannot always be shared. However, group safaris, mid-range accommodation and a carefully planned itinerary can make solo travel more affordable.

Can I meet other travelers in Tanzania?

Yes. Joining group safaris, staying at social accommodations and participating in organized activities are good ways to meet other travelers.

What is the best time for solo travel to Tanzania?

The best time depends on your interests. Wildlife viewing, the Great Wildebeest Migration, photography, trekking and Zanzibar each have different seasonal considerations.

Can I combine a Tanzania safari with Zanzibar as a solo traveler?

Yes. A safari followed by a Zanzibar beach holiday is one of the most popular combinations for travelers who want both wildlife and relaxation.

Do I need travel insurance when traveling alone in Tanzania?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended, particularly if your itinerary includes safari, trekking, water activities or other adventure experiences. Make sure the policy covers the activities you plan to undertake.

Should I book Tanzania solo travel in advance?

For a well-organized safari, booking in advance is recommended, particularly if you have specific travel dates, preferred lodges or a particular safari route in mind. Advance planning also gives you more choice between private and group options.