Tanzania Safari Cost 2025/2026, Safari Price Comparison

Are you planning a safari in Tanzania? If so, understanding the costs involved is crucial for a well-planned and enjoyable experience.

Tanzania offers a range of safari options that cater to different budgets and preferences.

This guide explains how much you can expect to spend on budget, mid-range, and luxury safaris, providing detailed examples and tips to help you plan better.

At Blessing Safaris, we believe that every safari should be a memorable and seamless experience.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of the costs, between budget trips and private safaris.

Safari Cost Overview: Daily Rates

The cost of a safari in Tanzania varies based on the level of comfort, accommodation type, and services included.

Here’s a breakdown of typical daily costs:

Budget Safari: $200 to $350 per person per day
Mid-Range Safari: $400 to $600 per person per day
Luxury Safari: $700 to $1,2500 per person per day

These costs generally cover accommodation, meals, park entry fees, guided game drives, and transportation within the safari areas.

However, the exact cost depends on several factors, which we will explore in detail below.

1. Accommodation Options

Accommodation is one of the largest expenses on a safari.

Tanzania offers a wide variety of lodging options, from basic camping to luxurious lodges.

Let’s take a closer look at what each option offers.

Budget Accommodation

Cost: $20 to $120 per person, per night
What You Get: Basic amenities such as shared bathrooms, simple meals, and a campsite or basic guesthouse.
Example: A budget safari in Tarangire National Park might involve camping under the stars, using a shared kitchen, and enjoying simple but hearty meals prepared on-site.
Well-known public campsites include Simba campsite inside Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCAA) and Seronera campsite in Serengeti National Park.

Who It’s For: Ideal for adventurous travelers, backpackers, or those on a tight budget who don’t mind sacrificing comfort for cost savings.

Additional Considerations: While budget options are affordable, they may lack amenities like Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, or air conditioning.

However, they provide a close connection to nature, making them a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts.

Mid-Range Lodges

Cost: $250 to $650 per person, per night
What You Get: Comfortable rooms with private bathrooms, better dining options, and sometimes amenities like swimming pools and air conditioning.
Example: A mid-range lodge in Serengeti National Park might offer spacious rooms with en-suite bathrooms, a buffet breakfast, and access to a pool overlooking the savannah.

Who It’s For: This option is suitable for families, small groups, and couples who want to strike a balance between comfort and affordability.

Mid-range lodges often offer guided tours, cultural experiences, and optional excursions, making them versatile choices for travelers who want a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Luxury Lodges and Camps

Cost: $700 to $12,000 per person, per night
What You Get: Top-notch amenities, including gourmet dining, private balconies with panoramic views, spa services, and personalized service.
Example: A luxury tented camp in the Ngorongoro Crater might feature a king-size bed, a private deck with sunset views, a swimming pool, fine dining under the stars, and a personal butler.

Who It’s For: Perfect for honeymooners, luxury seekers, and anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

While luxury safaris are expensive, they offer unparalleled comfort and exclusive access to some of Tanzania’s best wildlife areas.

Read more about Luxury Accommodations in Serengeti

2. Transportation Costs

Transportation is another significant expense. The type of vehicle and whether you hire a private guide or join a group will affect the overall cost.

Self-Drive (4×4 Vehicle): $170 per day – Ideal for experienced drivers familiar with rough terrains.
4×4 Vehicle with Driver: $200 per day – Recommended for those who prefer a local guide to navigate and provide insights.
4×4 Vehicle with Driver and Fuel: $250- $350 per day – A hassle-free option for travelers who want everything taken care of.

Scenario: Private vs. Group Safari

Imagine two travelers, Sarah and James. Sarah opts for a private safari with a driver and guide.

This gives her flexibility to explore at her own pace, stop for photos, and take detours to less crowded areas.

The cost is higher, but she enjoys a personalized experience.

James, on the other hand, chooses a group safari. He shares the vehicle with six other travelers, reducing his costs.

While the schedule is less flexible, he enjoys meeting new people and sharing the adventure.

Tip: Private safaris offer more flexibility and comfort, but group safaris are more budget-friendly and provide a social experience.

3. Park Entrance Fees

National parks in Tanzania charge entry fees, which vary by location and are typically valid for 24 hours.

Serengeti National Park to $70 per adult
Ngorongoro Crater: $60 per adult while the crater fee is $200
Lake Manyara and Tarangire: $50 per adult
Tarangire National Park fees: $50 per adult
Ruaha National Park entrance fees: $ 30 per adult
Nyerere National Park fees : $70 per adult
Gombe National Park fees: $100 per adult
Mahale National Park fees: $ 80 per adult
Kilimanjaro climbing fee: $ 70 per adult
Mkomazi and Ruaha National Park fees : $30 per adult

Additional Fees

Children (5-15 years): Entry fees are usually around $15 to $20.
VAT (Value Added Tax): 18% added to all park fees.

Tip: Staying longer in a park can offer better value, as many lodges provide discounts for extended stays.

4. Group Size and Its Impact on Costs

The size of your group plays a significant role in determining per-person costs.

Large groups provide a room for large discounts because of shared costs either for vehicles or accommodation.

Check below for an example of how group size affects the cost of your safari.

2 People: $400 per person per day
4 People: $300 per person per day
6 People: $250 per person per day

Example: A family of four booking a mid-range safari can expect to pay around $1,200 per day, while a solo traveler might pay $400 to $600 per day for the same experience.

Tip: Larger groups benefit from cost-sharing, making safaris more affordable per person. However, smaller groups offer a more intimate experience.

5. Additional Costs

Activities and Excursions

Hot Air Balloon Safari: $550 to $650 per person – Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti at sunrise.
Walking Safaris: $160 to $180 per person – Get up close with nature on a guided walk.
Cultural Tours: $50 to $300 per person – Visit local villages and learn about Tanzanian culture.

Visa and Entry

You’ll need a visa to enter Tanzania. Options include:

Single-Entry Visa: $50
Multiple-Entry Visa: $100 but also applicable for US residents.
Transit Visa: $30 to $35
Mandatory Travel insurance applies to Zanzibar only which is charged $50 per person

You can refer to the Tanzania Immigration Website for more details

Tipping

Tipping is customary in Tanzania, though not mandatory. You should decide on how much you can tip per day for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.

Guides and Drivers: $20 per person per day
Hotel Staff: $5 per day

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is essential for peace of mind. Costs range from $90 to $350 for a 10-day trip, depending on the coverage level.

Plans often cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

Food and Drinks

Most safari packages include meals, but you’ll need to budget for additional drinks or meals outside the itinerary.

Mineral Water: $0.50 to $2 per bottle
Beer: $2.50 to $4 per bottle
Wine: $3 to $7 per glass

Dining in local restaurants costs around $10 to $35 per meal.

Tips for Reducing Safari Costs

Travel During the Low Season: Prices drop between April and May.
Book in Advance: Early bookings often secure discounts and better accommodation options.
Choose Group Safaris: Sharing costs with others reduces the per-person rate.
Stay Outside Parks: Lodges outside park boundaries are often cheaper but still offer good access to game drives. But it’s not applicable if you’re visiting Serengeti.
Negotiate: Some operators are open to price adjustments, especially for large groups or off-season travel.

Conclusion

Tanzania offers a range of safari experiences to fit different budgets and travel styles.

Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or seeking a luxury escape, understanding the safari costs involved will help you plan a memorable adventure.

Balance your preferences with your budget, and you’ll find a safari experience that delivers both value and unforgettable memories.