For many of us, the group is not the whole journey but a chapter within a larger, self-determined story. Our groups become temporary communities that exist for the duration of the experience and then disperse, leaving us to continue on our own terms. Often, the insights we learn about others and ourselves can also inform new directions and destinations we might not have previously considered exploring.

For Paul Sarfati, the CEO of Bamba Travel, it is precisely these shared moments – genuine human exchanges on the road – that he believes have the potential to enhance solo journeys in unexpected ways rather than detract from them.

“One story that really stayed with me involves a solo traveller who joined a four-day Inca Trail hike in Peru. He was a ‘big’ guy and not someone who considered himself a hiker. He told us beforehand that the idea of doing the trek, especially on his own, genuinely scared him. The second day, climbing toward Dead Woman’s Pass, was incredibly tough. The altitude hit hard, he struggled physically, and at one point he seriously considered turning back. What made the difference was the people around him. Fellow travellers encouraged him step by step, the local guides were patient and supportive, and along the way he connected deeply with another solo traveller on the trek.

Reaching the pass was an emotional moment. By the time the group arrived at Machu Picchu at sunrise, he was visibly transformed, more confident, more open, and incredibly proud of himself. That profound connection he made on the trail continued after the trip, and a few years later they married. For us, stories like this capture what travel can truly do.”