What is the Average Cost of an African Safari?

An African safari is a bucket-list experience for many travelers. 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 depending on various factors, including the destination, accommodation type, activities, and the time of year you plan to visit.

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

On top of that, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the cost of different types 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 huge role in determining the overall cost of your safari.

Each country has its 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 incredible wildlife sightings, including the Great Migration in Masai Mara, which draws visitors from different parts of the world.

Entry fees for 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 the cost of a safari. 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 usually offer essential amenities like 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 with more 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 is marked by ideal weather conditions and the best wildlife sightings, especially in places like Masai Mara and Serengeti, where the Great Migration occurs. Prices are generally higher during this time.

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

4. Safari Activities ( To-do list )

Many safaris come with the option to participate in additional activities, which can raise 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 around $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, hiring a Land Cruiser for a day can cost between $250 and $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 for overnight stay ( concession fees ) per day, depending on the season.

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

• Luxury lodges such as Singita Serengcost 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 an 18% VAT.
• Accommodation: Budget options like Ngorongoro Simba Campsite cost $40 per night, while luxurious options like Ngorongoro Crater Lodge can cost upwards of $1,200 per night.

Selous Game Reserve 

• Accommodation: Mid-range lodges like Selous Riverside Camp offer rooms for around $200 per night, while luxury options like 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-traveled 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 are available from $170 per person on a sharing 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 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 like Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge charge around $300 per night, and luxury lodges like Tortilis Camp go for $700 per night.

Lake Nakuru National Park

•  Park Fees: The entry fee is around $80 per person per day.
• Accommodation: Budget accommodations like Lake Nakuru Lodge start at $150 per night, and mid-range options like Sopa Lodge charge 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 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, and mid-range options like Silverback Lodge charge 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 like Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village are available for $50–$100 per night, while mid-range and luxury accommodations like Mikeno Lodge are available for $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 famous for the Great Migration, and Kenya offers a wider variety of safaris, including coastal destinations like 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 travelers seeking a high-quality safari. South Africa also offers the best combination of luxury and affordability.

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

The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are two of the best safari destinations in Africa.

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

Etosha National Park is the country’s main 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 range widely, depending on several factors like 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 personalized 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!