What is the Average Cost of an African Safari?

An African safari is a bucket-list experience for many travellers. With its rich wildlife, vast landscapes, and the chance to encounter rare species, a safari can be both thrilling and transformative.

However, one question consistently arises: What is the average cost of an African safari?

The answer varies based on factors such as destination, accommodation type, activities, and the time of year you plan to visit.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the factors that influence safari costs and provide detailed pricing examples for each African safari destination.

Additionally, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the costs of accommodations and activities across various countries.

Factors Influencing the Cost of an African Safari

1. Destination (Where You Want to Go)

The country you choose to visit plays a massive role in determining the overall cost of your safari.

Each country has its own price structure for park entry fees, accommodation, and other activities.

Popular safari destinations like Tanzania and Kenya generally cost more than less tourist-heavy areas like Uganda and Rwanda.

KENYA 

Kenya is one of the most popular safari destinations, home to the famous Masai Mara and Amboseli National Park.

These parks offer excellent wildlife sightings, including the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, which draws visitors from around the world.

Entry fees for the Masai Mara are about $200 per person per day, while Amboseli charges $100 per person per day.

TANZANIA

Tanzania offers iconic safari locations, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Selous Game Reserve.

Tanzania’s park fees tend to be higher, with Serengeti entry fees around $82.6 per day, and the Ngorongoro Crater fees more complex: an entry fee of $60, a transit fee of $60, and a crater fee of $200 (before 18% VAT) per person per day.

2. Accomodation (Where You Want to Stay ) 

Accommodation is another key factor in determining safari costs. There is a wide range of options, from budget-friendly campsites to luxurious lodges. 

• Budget Accommodation:  You can expect to pay between $50 to $150 per night for basic lodges or tented camps. These typically offer essential amenities such as shared bathrooms, simple meals, and basic safari experiences.

• For example, Mara River Camp in Kenya offers affordable tented accommodation starting from $150 per night. Tukaone camps start from $180- $260

• Mid-Range Accommodation: Mid-range options include lodges or tented camps that offer greater comfort, such as private bathrooms, higher-quality food, and additional amenities.

• Expect to pay between $300 to $670 per night for these accommodations. For example, Tarangire Sopa Lodge in Tanzania offers rooms starting at $322 per night.
• Luxury Accommodation: Luxury safari experiences come with high-end lodges, personal guides, private vehicles, and all-inclusive services.

• Prices can range from $680 to $12,500 per night, depending on the location.
• Lodges such as Singita Serengeti and Angama Mara in Kenya charge between $1,000 to $2,500 per night, and often include game drives, meals, and more.

3. Seasonal Variations (  Time to Visit  )

The time of year you choose to go on safari significantly impacts the cost. There are three main seasons for safaris: high season, low season, and green season. 

• High Season (June to October): The high season features ideal weather and the best wildlife sightings, especially in areas such as the Masai Mara and the Serengeti, where the Great Migration occurs. Prices are generally higher during this time.

•  Low Season (March to May): The low season, characterised by rainy weather, typically offers lower prices. However, rain can make wildlife harder to see, and some roads may be inaccessible.
• Green Season (November to February): The green season offers good wildlife viewing and lower prices. The parks are less crowded, and many animals are giving birth, which can make for an enjoyable safari experience.

4. Safari Activities ( To-do list )

Many safaris offer additional activities, which can increase the total cost. Some of the most popular activities and their costs include:

• Hot Air Balloon Safari: A hot air balloon ride over the savannas of Serengeti National Park or Masai Mara costs between $400 to $600 per person. This is an unforgettable experience, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife below.
• Walking Safaris: Walking safaris are a great way to experience nature up close. Prices generally range from $100 to $300 per person, depending on the park and the guide.

• Night Game Drives: Night drives allow you to spot nocturnal wildlife. These usually cost $180 to $250 per person.
• Cultural Experiences: Visiting local tribes or villages can cost between $50 to $200 per person, depending on the type of visit and location.

5. Transportation Cost ( Mode of transport )

Transportation costs can add up quickly, especially if you opt for private vehicles or internal flights.

• Land Cruiser Rentals: In Tanzania, a day’s rental typically costs $250-$350.This includes a driver guide, but additional costs for fuel, park entry, and other fees may apply.
• Internal Flights: Local flights between major destinations within Kenya and Tanzania can range from $50 to $470, depending on the route.
  
  For example, a flight from Nairobi to Masai Mara typically costs around $220 per person, while flights from Arusha to Serengeti can be as high as $360 to $470 per person.

African Safari Cost, Case Studies by Country 

Tanzania 

Tanzania is known for its large, well-managed national parks and rich biodiversity.

The cost of a safari here can vary significantly, depending on the parks you visit and the accommodation you choose.

Serengeti National Park

• Park Fees: Entry fees in Serengeti are $82.26 and $70.8 per day for an overnight stay (concession fees), depending on the season.

•  Accommodation: Budget options, such as Seronera Campsites, start at $35 per night, while mid-range lodges, such as Serengeti Serena Lodge, start at $330 per night.

• Luxury lodges such as Singita Serengcost cost between $1,5900 and $29,000,000 per house per night.
• Additional Activities: Hot air balloon safaris in the Serengeti cost around $500 per person.
• You can book your trip as part of a tour package with Miracle Ballon Experience or Serengeti Ballon Safaris.

Ngorongoro Crater  

• Park Fees: Ngorongoro charges three types of fees—$60 for entry, $60 for transit, and $200 for crater access —plus 18% VAT.
• Accommodation: Budget options, such as Ngorongoro Simba Campsite, cost $40 per night, while luxury options, such as Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, can cost over $1,200 per night.

Selous Game Reserve 

• Accommodation: Mid-range lodges, such as Selous Riverside Camp, offer rooms for around $200 per night, while luxury options, such as Beho Beho Lodge, are priced at $1,250 per night.

• Park Fees: Entry fees in Selous are about $60 per person per day.

Kenya

Kenya offers diverse safari experiences, from the iconic Masai Mara to the less-travelled Amboseli and  Lake Nakuru.

Masai Mara

• Park Fees: The entry fee is around $200 per person per day.
• Accommodation: Budget options such as Mara River Camp start at $170 per person on a shared basis, while mid-range lodges like Mara Sopa Lodge charge around $300 per night.
• Luxury lodges such as Angama Mara can cost anywhere from  $2,650 per night.
• Hot Air Balloon Safari: The cost of a hot air balloon ride in the Masai Mara is approximately $450 per person.

Amboseli National Park

• Park Fees: Entry fees here are about $100 per person per day.

•  Accommodation: Budget options start at $200 per night; mid-range lodges such as Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge charge around $300 per night; and luxury lodges such as Tortilis Camp cost $700 per night.

Lake Nakuru National Park

•  Park Fees: The entry fee is around $80 per person per day.

• Accommodation: Budget accommodations, such as Lake Nakuru Lodge, start at $150 per night, while mid-range options, such as Sopa Lodge, cost around $250 per night.

• Luxury lodges like Sarova Lion Hill Lodge cost about $500 per night.

Gorilla Trekking (Rwanda and Uganda)

Gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is one of the most unique wildlife experiences in the world.

The cost is generally higher due to the permits required to see the gorillas.

Rwanda

•  Gorilla Trekking Permit: The permit costs $1,500 per person per trek. But during the low season, the permit will be discounted by 30%.
  
  
• Accommodation: Budget options like Kinigi Guesthouse start from $70 per night, and mid-range lodges like Mountain Gorilla View Lodge are priced at around  $300 per night.
• While luxury lodges like One & Only Gorilla’s Nest cost about $4,300 per night.
  

Uganda 

• Gorilla Trekking Permit: The permit in Uganda costs $700 per person.

• Accommodation: Budget accommodations, such as Buhoma Lodge, start at $150 per night, while mid-range options like Silverback Lodge cost around $250 per night.
• Luxury lodges such as Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge cost upwards of $600 per night.

Congo

• Gorilla Trekking Permit: The permit in Congo is the most affordable at $400 per person.
• Accommodation: Budget options such as Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village are priced at $50–$100 per night, while mid-range and luxury options like Mikeno Lodge are $250–$500 per night.

Safari Cost Comparison: Tanzania & Kenya vs South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Rwanda, and Uganda

Tanzania vs Kenya

Tanzania: The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Craters offer classic African safari experiences with higher park fees.

However, Tanzania’s diverse wildlife and less crowded parks make it an ideal destination for those seeking a more exclusive safari.

Kenya: The Masai Mara is renowned for the Great Migration, and Kenya offers a wide range of safaris, including coastal destinations such as Diani Beach.

Prices are generally lower in Kenya compared to Tanzania.

South Africa vs Botswana vs Namibia

South Africa: Kruger National Park is ideal for budget-conscious travellers seeking a high-quality safari. South Africa also offers the best combination of luxury and affordability.

Botswana: Known for its exclusivity, the country is ideal for those seeking a more intimate safari experience.

The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are two of Africa’s top safari destinations.

Namibia: Known for its unique desert landscapes, Namibia offers a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Etosha National Park is the country’s leading safari destination, ideal for self-drive safaris.

Rwanda vs Uganda (Gorilla Trekking)

Rwanda offers the highest-quality trekking experience, with more luxury lodges available but at a higher price.

Uganda: More affordable, though the trekking experience can be more challenging, and the infrastructure is not as developed.

Conclusion

The cost of an African safari can vary widely depending on factors such as destination, accommodation, activities, and the time of year.

Whether you choose Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Rwanda, or Uganda, each destination offers its own unique experience.

For those seeking the ultimate African safari, planning is essential.

To get the best deals and personalised itineraries, Blessing Safaris offers expert advice, competitive prices, and a range of accommodations to suit every budget.

From the Big Five to the Great Migration, experience Africa like never before.

With expert guides, carefully selected lodges, and a seamless itinerary, we ensure an unforgettable journey.

Ready to explore? Let’s start planning your safari today!