How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

If you’re planning a trip to Kenya, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure. Kenya is the leading safari destination in Africa.  

This country offers the best trips for everyone. Exclusive safaris can cost over $1,000 per person per night.

Mid-range safaris are also available, costing $450 to $800 per person per day. and budget adventures from $250 per day.

In this article, we will give you the top tips. These tips will help you save money while still getting quality.

From finding affordable hotels to enjoying delicious local cuisine, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s explore the cost of traveling in Kenya. Discover how to maximize your trip without overspending. 

When it comes to the cost of a trip to Kenya, there are several factors to consider.

The cost of a round-trip ticket from the United States varies. It can range from $800 to USD 1,500 depending on the season and airline.

Accommodation costs differ. Budget hotels or hostels start at USD 50 per night. Luxury hotels can reach USD 2000 per night. 

Kenya has a great public transportation system with buses and trains. 

If you’re a budget traveler, you can expect to spend around $50 to USD 70 per day, excluding accommodation. 

This includes meals, transportation, and activities. A mid-range traveler can expect to spend around $100 to USD 150 per day. 

This takes into account higher accommodation and dining expenses. It’s important to plan and research activities and costs to create a budget that works for you.

How much does it cost for sightseeing when traveling to Kenya?

Planning a trip to Kenya? Are you curious about the cost of exploring this beautiful country? Do you want to experience its breathtaking sights and vibrant culture?

The cost of sightseeing in Kenya can vary. It depends on the location, attraction, and activity you choose.

Kenya offers something for everyone, whether you’re on a budget or want to splurge.

Let’s explore the thrilling world of sightseeing in Kenya. We will discover the varying costs of popular tourist attractions.

A safari adventure in Masai Mara National Reserve can cost between $250 to $1000 per person per day. Masai Mara is home to the Big Five. 

Scaling Mount Kenya can cost between $200 and $500. The price depends on the route and climb duration. 

At Lake Nakuru National Park, you can see thousands of flamingos. The flamingos display stunning pink hues.

The entrance fees for the park range from $250 to $5000.

Get close to elephants at Amboseli National Park, with Mount Kilimanjaro behind them. The cost at the park can range from $250 to $500. 

Relax and soak up the sun at Diani Beach. Accommodation options include guesthouses starting at $50 per night.

There are also luxurious resorts costing upwards of $200 per night.

Experience the thrill of feeding giraffes at the Giraffe Centre in Nairobi. The entry fees for this activity are approximately $10 per person. 

Visit the elephant orphanage at the David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Nairobi. The entrance fees are approximately $7 per person.

Step into the world of the famous author at the Karen Blixen Museum. The museum is located in Nairobi and tickets cost around $12 per person.

Kenya has many free or inexpensive sightseeing options, besides these attractions.

These attractions provide memorable experiences. You can visit Nairobi National Park, the only park in the capital.

What are other factors which influence the safari cost in Kenya?

Level of comfort of accommodation

Kenya safari accommodation can be very expensive. Safari camps can be expensive, with some costing hundreds of dollars a night.

There are even places that exceed $1,000 per night.

The good news is that a safari in Kenya can be affordable. You need to choose a more basic bush experience. 

Setting up a small tent on a simple campsite saves money. It also provides a more genuine experience.

There is a range of priced accommodation options available. It falls between the two extremes.

Time of your trip to Kenya 

The high season for visiting the Masai Mara Game Reserve is from July to October. This is also the time when the wildebeest migration occurs.

There’s a second high season from mid-December to mid-January.

 The low season (often marketed as the Green season) is November and March to mid-May. Some safari accommodations close during the low season.

Yet, this is the most affordable time to go on safari. Prices are often 50% lower during this period.

Mid-season, also known as shoulder season, is a perfect compromise. It guarantees great wildlife viewing, fewer crowds, and lower costs.

How much does a private trip cost in Kenya?

In general,  a luxury private safari tour costs 600–1,200 USD per person per day. The package includes a private car and private guides.

It also includes luxurious lodges or tented safari camps.

You can enjoy exclusive game drives, tickets for attractions, and special activities. These activities include hot-air balloon rides.

So, the total cost is about US$ 4,200 for a week and US$6,000–12,000 for 10 days.

Traveling on a private tour would provide you with great flexibility. Our private tour allows you to focus on your interests.

You can travel at your own pace and enjoy the sights. Long drives during game viewing can be boring for children. This is especially helpful for families.

You won’t need to share a vehicle with strangers for a private tour when game-viewing.

You could savor quality time spotting animals together as a family or couple.

Furthermore, you can also enjoy unique experiences, such as a walking safari and a bush meal.

Customers book our private safari tours from July to September. These tours are booked faster during the high seasons.

October and January to February. Contact us earlier to secure good best deals for hotel and premium guides.

How much does it cost for hotels when traveling to Kenya?

A standard room in a 4-star hotel costs from 150 -200 USD in Nairobi. Prices can increase from June to mid-October in Kenya.

The peak tourist season coincides with the Great Migration in Masai Mara. This is a captivating natural event.

This event attracts tourists from all over the world. This creates a surge in price either in Nairobi or Masai Mara.

How much does it cost for food when traveling to Kenya?

When planning a trip to Kenya, it’s essential to consider the cost of food and dining. The prices may change based on different factors.

The factors that determine restaurant success are food, location, and ambiance. So, let’s dive into the delicious details!

Food in Kenya comes in all shapes and flavors, catering to different tastes and budgets.

Everyone can find what they want, whether it’s street food, fast food, or fine dining.

Let’s break it down by price range, so you can plan your culinary adventures :

• Street food or fast food: $2-7
• Casual dining or local restaurants: $6-20
• Mid-range restaurants: $18-35
• High-end or luxury restaurants: $45 and above

As you can see, there’s a wide range of options to suit every budget

If you’re looking for more affordable alternatives, Kenya also offers convenience stores and supermarkets where you can find groceries and snacks at reasonable prices.

This can be a great option if you’re on a tight budget or prefer to prepare your meals.

Do you need to tip in these places? In Kenya, tipping is not mandatory, but it is an appreciation of the best service.

If you receive excellent service, it’s customary to leave a tip of around 10% of the total bill. Read more about Tipping Guide in East Africa 

How much do international flights to Kenya cost?

The information provided gives a general idea of international flight costs. It focuses on round-trip economy tickets to Kenya. Here’s a summary:

From Major U.S. Cities (e.g., New York or Los Angeles) to Nairobi:

• Average Cost: USD 1,500

Direct flights are not as common. Most routes require at least one stopover.

From Major European Cities (e.g., London or Paris) to Nairobi:

• Average Cost: USD 1,200

Direct flights from Europe to Kenya are easy to find. Some routes may have a stopover.

Cheapest Seasons to Buy Tickets to Kenya:

• Mid-March to May (Long Rainy Season)

Example Prices (New York to Nairobi): $900–1,200 USD

Example Prices (UK to Nairobi): $500–900 USD

Late October to Mid-December (Short Rain Period)

High Travel Seasons:

• June to Mid-October
• Late December to Early March

Example Price (August 2024, New York to Nairobi): USD 2,000

Booking Recommendations:

Book the cheapest flights by planning for at least 6 months. This is especially important during busy times like the dry season.

The dry season occurs from June to mid-October and late December to early March.

These prices are averages and can vary due to factors like airline, dates, and booking time.

Additionally, prices may have changed since the information was provided.

To get the most accurate pricing, check directly with airlines or travel agencies

The costs of transportation in Kenya while on safari

Travelers in Kenya should consider their preferences when choosing transportation modes.

They should also consider their comfort and specific locations. 

Air travel is efficient and relatively affordable. However, individual preferences and travel itineraries differ. T

Therefore, travelers should make informed decisions based on their needs.

The most efficient mode of transportation within Kenya is undoubtedly taking flights.

Airplanes fly from Nairobi. Nairobi is the capital and principal entry city for Kenya.

It is a gateway to most game reserves across the country.

Moreover, airplanes connect all the game reserves as well. The cost of airfares is relatively affordable.

For a round-trip flight between Nairobi and Maasai Mara, you could expect to spend about 400 USD.

Meanwhile, tickets for flights between Nairobi and Mombasa by the coast range from 60 to 150 USD.

Please note that these routes use small, light planes with 12 to 50 seats.

You may be wondering if you could use road transportation to save money.

We don’t recommend it. Traveling in Kenya by land is uncomfortable due to long journeys on rough and dirty roads.

How much is travel insurance when visiting  Kenya?

Travel insurance for a trip to Kenya has various cost factors. These include age, trip duration, coverage type, and insurance provider choice.

Expenses for a single trip can range from $50 to $500. The price depends on the coverage and trip length.

Frequent travelers can use annual travel insurance for multiple trips within a year.

The cost of this insurance can range from $200 to $1000, depending on the coverage levels.

Travel insurance covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, baggage loss, and emergency evacuation.

The cost can range from $100 to $1000 depending on coverage and trip length.

Comparing policies from various providers is important. You should consider coverage details, exclusions, and any additional benefits.

Some credit cards and travel booking sites may also offer travel insurance. It can be a benefit or add-on, giving travelers alternative options.

The cost of insurance for a trip to Kenya can vary greatly. It is important to compare policies to find the best protection.

Conclusion

The cost of traveling to Kenya depends on various factors. When planning a trip, there are several factors to consider. 

When planning your trip, consider the duration, accommodations, activities, and companions. 

Airfare expenses can vary depending on the destination and origin. Round-trip tickets can cost a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

People traveling from Europe or the United States pay this price.

The cost of traveling to Kenya varies from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per person. Individual travel styles and preferences influence this. 

When you go to this stunning place in Africa, plan to spend approximately $500 to $5000. Welcome to Kenya and feel the magic of Africa.

Contact your safari specialist now. Or, book our recommended tour packages for Kenya below.

6 Days Kenya Classic Safari 

10 Days Kenya Honeymoon Safari 

12 Days Tanzania and Kenya Safari