I liked so much the Alexandra David-Néel's story. I think that to travel independently is the best way to visit as many as possible places around the world. On the other hand, to travel independently is dangerer, because a companion could help you in the difficult moments. Finally, I think that the right compromision is to have one or maximum two companions for each trip.
I'd like to go in Kenya to visit the Safar, I have always been fascineted about wildlife adventures. I would be excited to see african lions, zebras elephants, giraffes ecc..