safari trip in africa cost

The Real Cost of an African Safari: From Budget to Splurge

For many people, an African safari is the trip of a lifetime — in part because of the steep price tag. While a luxury lodge or a tented camp can cost upwards of $3,000 per person, per night, there are budget-friendly options out there. 

This article will outline:

• How much is a safari?
• Can you go on a budget safari?
• Budget hotels on a safari
• Budget game drives on a safari
• The best high-end luxury safaris
• Luxury hotels for a safari
• Luxury safari game drives

What does a budget safari look like?

Accommodations: The safaris most of us are familiar with — the ones you see on postcards and Instagram— are situated on private reserves. To avoid a hefty price tag, plan your safari in a national park, like Etosha in Namibia or Kruger in South Africa, which are open to the public for a small fee (less than $25 a day for foreigners) and have plenty of inexpensive lodges and camps in and around the area.

Inside the park, Pretoriuskup  and Satara Rest Camp  (which both have rates as low as $18 per night) grant you the same proximity and access to wildlife as the luxury lodges, for a fraction of the cost. These are run by South African National Parks , and the accommodations can range from traditional camping sites and permanent safari tents, to huts, bungalows, and cottages. Don’t expect any frills here — no hairdryers, meals are not included, and, you may share a bathroom or kitchen with multiple guests. 

Additionally, there are typically accommodations a few miles outside of the park gates. These properties tend to have more comforts than the aforementioned stays, but you have to drive into the park each day. Hazyview, for instance, is a small town fifteen minutes outside of Kruger is home to a handful of boutique properties, including Casterbridge H ollow . Here, you can get a large, air-conditioned room with wifi and cable from $108 per night for a single room, or, for $120 per night, you can reserve a family suite, which sleeps up to four people. (Both rates include breakfast.)

Lastly, there are a number of volunteer programs, like the Big Five Nature Project , with which you can spend two weeks in the bush for less than $1,960, including food and accommodation. In addition to the cost savings, you get to experience what it's like to run a bush camp, and you'll also get to see the Big Five.

Game Drives:

While it is not advisable or feasible for all destinations, national parks are well-suited for renting and driving your own safari vehicle thanks to networks of well-maintained roads. In this scenario, you don’t have to pay a for a daily guide, which can add up quickly. Driving yourself also means you have the freedom to stay in one place, or stay out, for as long as you want: If you want to follow a pack of wild dogs for half the day, you can; whereas on a guided drive, you’ll be limited to two- to three-hour drives and you’re subject to the whims and schedules of those in your shared vehicle.

If you do opt to drive yourself, note that it can be difficult for the untrained eye to spot a leopard amid its surroundings. When you have to keep your eyes on the road, it’s harder to take in the scenery, which can make it difficult to spot animals. Also, because public parks do not have restrictions on the number of vehicles permitted (the way they do in a private reserve), it is possible to be one of a dozen cars huddled around an elephant. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t be afraid to head down a less-busy road.

That said, a self-drive is better suited to those who have been on a safari before. Inexperienced safari-goers will rely heavily on luck to see animals (fortunately, parks like Etosha and Kruger are densely packed with wildlife). We recommend doing extensive research beforehand — and packing a good guide book.

If you have a limited amount of time, it might be better to spring for a guide. A full day can cost from $100 to $110 per person in a shared vehicle, but, you’ll have a better chance of seeing more animals. Guides can access areas that are closed off to everyone else, so they know where to find certain animals, and are able to recognize and follow tracks and detect sounds. Plus, a well-trained guide will be able to give you background information about the wildlife, geology, history, and local culture, as well as keep you safe.

So, what are you actually paying for when you book a high-end safari?

There are two main differences when you go the luxury route.

First, you’ll be staying on a private reserve or a private concession within a national park — both of which place restrictions on the number of people and cars allowed. That means you can actually pull up alongside a pack of lions homing in on a kill and not have to compete for a view.

In addition to encountering fewer vehicles on your drive, you’ll likely share a 4x4 with four to six people, as opposed to eleven or more in a similar car or SUV. It’s not a guarantee, of course, but higher-end lodges tend to avoid packing vehicles. Reserving a private vehicle might make sense for a larger group or a family (which can cost an additional $1,000 or more) to avoid being on someone else’s schedule or agenda (e.g. if you want to keep watching the lions, and they want to move on).

Second, when you book a luxury safari, you can generally expect to have a more comfortable experience. Rooms often include high-ends spa products, patios, and even a private plunge pool and/or clawfoot tub. Oftentimes, rates include all game drives, meals, high tea, drinks, and other activities.

Additionally, a guide and a spotter (the person who notifies the driver of tracks or sightings) escort you on every outing. Because high-end camps ensure their guides are well-trained, they'll be able to provide you with an enhanced experience. At the end of your evening drive, your guide will usually set up sundowner cocktails and snacks in the bush under the stars.

Lastly, location matters. Some of the coolest safari destinations — the most secluded and unique landscapes — are further off the grid. Those harder-to-reach destinations cost much more to get to, due to limited accessibility (e.g. having to rely on private puddle jumper planes to get there).

Overall, it is entirely possible to have an epic safari on both a high and low budget. If you don’t mind foregoing certain frills and sticking to a larger, easier-to-reach national park, then the low end offers a unique opportunity for adventure that certain seasoned travelers prefer. But, there is something to be said for the ease of booking a luxury lodge and not having to plan once you get there. Perhaps it’s a choice of whether you want this to be the trip of a lifetime that you can take more than once.

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How Much Does a Safari Cost?

Starting planning your trip with our safari cost calculator tool, safari prices explained.

• We’ll work with you to create a journey that makes the most of your time and money.
• As a rule, we prefer to include as many of the costs up-front so that there are no unpleasant surprises once you’re on safari.
• Pricing depends on the destination, your accommodation, how big your group is and the time of year you travel.
• Not all companies price with everything included which means your holiday becomes unnecessarily expensive.

How much does a Safari Cost?

The costings table gives an instant overview of how much a typical safari costs in each of the safari destinations. This will guide you to choose the right destination for your budget.

All prices per person, per night, sharing.

Prices are based on an average of lodge prices within the applicable category and are just an indication pricing.

All prices per person in a double room per night

Prices are based on an average of lodge prices within the applicable category and are just an indication pricing

African Safari Cost Estimator

Curious about the cost of an African safari holiday? Calculate what kind of safari experience you can enjoy within your budget.

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What makes up the Cost of an Safari?

There are three main factors that will make a big difference in the price of your safari:

Our African safari pricing exclude international flights, but do include all local flights, transports and transfers.

Pricing displayed is for adults. Child rates vary from lodge to lodge. Some offer reduced rates or family rooms. Talk to our experts and we’ll recommend the best for your family.

If you are a group of six or more, we can negotiate better room rates for your group. We’ll always do what we can to bring your rate down.

Safari Costs: What to Keep in Mind

We’ll work with you to create a journey that makes the most of your time and money. As a rule, we prefer to include as many of the costs upfront so that there are no unpleasant surprises once you’re on safari.

1. Your accommodation

Accommodation usually makes up the bulk of your safari’s cost, so where you stay has the biggest impact on your budget. Options range widely, from a few hundred dollars to over $3000 a night per person.  We know which hotels and lodges offer the best value for money and these are the ones we’ll recommend. Remember to pay attention to what’s included and excluded. A lodge with all-inclusive rates may seem more expensive, but a lower-priced lodge may charge exorbitant rates for your gin & tonic, laundry, internet or other extras.

Because lodging accounts for the majority of your safari’s cost, where you stay has the most impact on your budget. The prices range from a few hundred dollars to over $1500 per person per night. We know which hotels and lodges provide the best value for money, and we’ll recommend them. Keep an eye out for what’s included and what’s not. While an all-inclusive lodge may appear to be more expensive, a lower-cost lodge may demand excessive charges for your gin and tonic, laundry, internet, and other amenities.

2. Your travel dates and time

We can advise you on how to benefit from low season rates.

Every destination has busy peak season rates, which can be as much as double the low season rates. Sometimes there are also shoulder seasons, priced between the two. If your travel dates are flexible, we can advise you on how to benefit from shoulder and low season rates. It’s important to be aware that the prices shown on our website – and on other travel sites – are based on low season rates. So if the price you’re quoted is higher than the prices you see online, it’s because you’re probably requesting travel dates that fall outside of the low season. Obviously, the time you spend on safari also has an impact. Reducing the length of your safari will certainly reduce what it costs!

We can help you take advantage of low-season pricing. Every destination has high season rates, which can be twice as costly as low season rates. There are also shoulder seasons, which are priced in the middle of the two. We can advise you on how to take advantage of shoulder and low season pricing if your travel dates are flexible. It’s crucial to note that the prices displayed on our website – and on other travel sites – are based on off-season rates. If the price you’re given is more than what you find online, it’s usually because you’re looking for travel dates that aren’t during peak season. Obviously, the length of your safari has an effect. Reducing the length of your safari will undoubtedly lower the expense!

3. Your destinations

Island and beach destinations are often less expensive than national parks. Each destination and country you add to your itinerary increases the price of your African safari because of the transport involved as well as possible visa costs. However, it is still more cost effective to do one proper safari and see everything, rather than three smaller ones. Island and beach destinations are often less expensive than national parks as there are no entry or park fees involved, and accommodation is also usually more economical. For example, if we were to book you six days on safari in Tanzania and six days in Zanzibar , it would be less expensive than 12 days on safari. Another option would be to include visits to some of the lesser-known parks and reserves, which are more affordable and often just as good. Popular destinations such as the Serengeti, Masai Mara, the Okavango Delta and gorilla sanctuaries come at a significant premium.

Beaches and islands are frequently less expensive than national parks. Because of the transportation needed as well as possible visa expenses, each stop and country you add to your schedule raises the price of your safari. However, rather than three smaller safaris, it is still more cost effective to go on one large safari and see everything. Because there are no entrance or park fees, island and beach destinations are frequently less expensive than national parks, and lodging is usually less expensive as well. It would be less expensive to book you six days on safari and six days in Zanzibar than to book you 12 days on safari. Another alternative is to incorporate visits to some of the lesser-known parks and reserves, which are often as good as the more well-known ones. The Serengeti, Masai Mara, Okavango Delta, and gorilla sanctuary are all popular attractions with a high price tag.

4. Your group size

Game packages, where you fly from camp to camp and join the lodge vehicles for game drives, often seem more affordable because you are sharing vehicle costs with other guests. However, the flights between the camps can negate the savings. Depending on your group size, it can be cheaper to hire your own vehicle (with an optional driver/guide) and drive from camp to camp. Your driver, vehicle and fuel costs remain consistent and can be divided by the number of people in your group. This could save you up to $1000 per person over a week. Once again, these are the kinds of things we can help with.

Because you are sharing vehicle expenditures with other guests, game packages where you fly from camp to camp and join the lodge vehicles for game drives appear to be more reasonable. However, the cost of flying between the camps may outweigh the savings. It may be less expensive to hire your own vehicle (with an optional driver/guide) and drive from camp to camp, depending on the size of your group. The prices of your driver, car, and gasoline stay constant and can be divided by the number of passengers in your group. Over the course of a week, this may save you up to $1000 per person. These are the kinds of things we can assist with once again.

East African Safari Cost Guidelines

Kenya is home to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park and Samburu National Park, among many others like Mount Meru, Tsavo and the Aberdares. Tanzania counts the equally famous Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Selous and Ruaha among its national parks.

Together, Tanzania and Kenya make up East Africa and are considered to be the birthplace of safari. This is also where you will encounter the Great Wildebeest Migration safari .

The average cost for a low budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 350 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 500 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari tours in Kenya starts from 1000 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 750 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 900 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari tours in Kenya starts from 1800 USD in high season.

There is no standard price for a Rwanda safari; each Rwanda gorilla safari tour itinerary has its own pricing, which is influenced by a variety of criteria such as the tour package chosen, the cost of the trekking permit, transportation costs, lodging costs, etc. Request a quotation for the gorilla trekking safari of your choosing today.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Tanzania starts from 350 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Tanzania starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Tanzania starts from 850 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Tanzania starts from 600 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Tanzania starts from 900 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury african safari in Tanzania starts from 2000 USD in high season.

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda is determined by a variety of elements, which must be considered in order to determine the cost of Uganda Gorilla Trekking. When calculating the cost, one must consider the entire Uganda tour package. Which includes the cost of the gorilla trekking permit, the vehicles used, the lodgings chosen, the porters you hire etc.

East Africa Popular Safaris and Tours

These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and how many people you're planning to travel with..

Enchanted Kenyan Safari

East Africa Kenya Chyulu Hills Maasai Mara

From $ 8900 /USD

Oltyiani Trail - Camping with the Maasai

East Africa Kenya Maasai Mara

From $ 5350 /USD

Tanzania Small Group Set Departure Safari

East Africa Tanzania Arusha Lake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti

From $ 5440 /USD

Southern African Safari Cost Guidelines

Botswana’s most famous wildlife areas are the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. South Africa is home to the Kruger National Park, Cape Town and Sun City. Namibia’s big hitter is the astonishing Etosha National Park, while Zimbabwe and Zambia share the Victoria Falls.

Namibia and South Africa are the most affordable of all the safari destinations we offer because you can rent a vehicle and drive yourself around, as well as stay in self-catering accommodation. Driving and cooking yourself will bring costs down but will add to the ‘work’ you do on vacation.

Peak season once again falls between July and August, thanks to a dry winter and huge demand from international visitors. The times between high and low season are known as ‘shoulder season’: the rains are starting or ending, the weather is heating up or cooling down and, generally, both availability and rates are good.

South Africa offers the best year-round game viewing. Many camps still close for Zambia’s intense rainy season, which falls between November and May. October is the hottest and driest month in Botswana, which makes for good game viewing but uncomfortable conditions unless you are in an air-conditioned lodge. By November, the rains have scattered the animals, making for challenging game viewing.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Botswana starts from 400 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Botswana starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Botswana starts from 1000 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Botswana starts from 750 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Botswana starts from 1200 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Botswana starts from 3000 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget  safari in Mozambique starts from 440 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Mozambique starts from 550 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Mozambique starts from 750 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Mozambique starts from 580 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Mozambique starts from 700 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Mozambique starts from 900 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Namibia starts from 70 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Namibia starts from 126 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Namibia starts from 422 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Namibia starts from 155 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Namibia starts from 246 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Namibia starts from 1057 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in South Africa starts from 312 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in South Africa starts from 519 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in South Africa starts from 1039 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in South Africa starts from 450 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in South Africa starts from 246 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in South Africa starts from 1593 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zambia starts from 250 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zambia starts from 400 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Zambia starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zambia starts from 400 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zambia starts from 800 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Zambia starts from 1500 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 200 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 350 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury  safari in Zimbabwe starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 300 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 650 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Zimbabwe starts from 1200 USD in high season.

Southern Africa Popular Safaris and Tours

Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe Safari

Southern Africa Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Hwange Kariba

From $ 7800 /USD

Safari & Women Empowerment

Southern Africa Botswana Linyanti Concession Zambia Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

From $ 7600 /USD

Grand Tour of Southern Africa

Southern Africa South Africa Cape Town Botswana Okavango Delta Zimbabwe

From $ 6690 /USD

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• African Safari Cost: 10 Factors + How We Saved $6,800+!

by Nichole | Last updated Aug 15, 2023 | South Africa , Travel Hacking

For many, a trip to Africa and experiencing an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And, it is not cheap if you want a little luxury and modern comfort! How do you make that dollar stretch and drive down that overall African safari cost? What is worth splurging on? What is not? Here are the 10 cost factors to consider and a personal real-life example of how we saved over $6,800 on our Africa trip. Dream trips can be turned into reality!

* Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are from first-hand experience that I feel will deliver value to you! Thank you for your continued support.

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01- Safari Location

02- quality of the safari lodge , 03- low season vs. high season, 04- cost of internal flights, 05- other destinations in the itinerary, 06- number of days spent on safari , 07- national park vs. private reserve , 08- the extras, 09- self-drive vs. guided drive , 10- currency exchange rates , how we saved over $6,800 for our africa trip, #1- airline points, #2- credit card points, final thoughts, related content.

Map of top African safari destinations

Where you choose your safari location will dictate the cost.

For example, Botswana is one of the most expensive safari destinations whereas South Africa and Zimbabwe offer more affordable options.

For more comparisons between all the top 7 safari destinations, check out my article below.

Lion Sands River Lodge fire pit

There are typically 3 price points  for safari lodges: moderate, premier, and luxury.

For example, in South Africa, a moderately priced safari lodge in Sabi Sands will cost you around $300-$700 USD per person, a premier lodge will cost around $800-$1200 USD per person, and an ultra-luxury lodge will cost about $2000+ USD per person.

Quite the range. Impeccable service and food and a smaller number of rooms (and thus guests) come at a premium.

We stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sands, South Africa for one of our safari experiences. It was incredibly luxurious without being pretentious and had some of the best staff we have encountered.

We also had another amazing safari experience at Chobe National Park in Botswana.

We used the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel in Zimbabwe as our base, which was absolutely stunning. The hotel also offered its own safari drives right on its property.

Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel guest lounge area

To give you a sense of the price points, I constructed a chart comparing the cost of the safari lodges we had researched in the Sabi Sands and Timbavati private game reserves in South Africa. 

Motswari (Timbavati/Umbabat): from ZAR 4,959 ($279 USD)

Arathusa (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 7,729 ($435 USD)

Kambaku River Sands (Timbavati): from ZAR 9,834 ($553 USD)

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge (Timbavati):  from ZAR 10,199 ($573 USD)

Inyati (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 11,305 ($636 USD)

&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp  (Sabi Sand) from ZAR 11,434 ($643 USD)

* Timbavati properties, in general, will be cheaper than Sabi Sand 

* Exchange rates are accurate as of 10/5/22. These rates are starting rates and will vary depending on the season. 

Lion Sands (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 15,114 ($850 USD)

Londolozi Varty Camp (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 18,645 ($1049 USD)

Savanna (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 12,947 ($728 USD) 

Dulini (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 19,129 ($1076 USD)

MalaMala  (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 15,730 ($885 USD)

Silvan (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 19,614 ($1104 USD)

Singita (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 32,959 ($1855 USD)

Londolozi Pioneer Camp (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 31,625 ($1780 USD) or the Private Granite Suites (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 33,495 ($1885 USD)

If this is your first time planning a safari, don’t miss my article on how to choose a safari lodge.

We stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sand, South Africa during the month of September.

If we had stayed at the end of December, we would have paid $250 USD more per person per night. Staying during the peak season will drive the price up dramatically.

For me, the ideal time is picking the shoulder season that still coincides with the dry season.

Courtesy of Shutterstock: small propellor plane in the African bush

Some safari destinations can be quite remote, and others are near well-established airports. The location of the safari lodge will dictate the cost of transfers via plane or car.

We stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge, which is about a 25-minute drive from the local airport, Skukuza Airport. Because of the lodge’s close proximity, transfers were included in our lodge rate.

Plus, Skukuza Airport had direct flights to/from major airport hubs like Cape Town and Johannesburg, which made the internal flights more affordable. The cost per passenger when we went was $480 USD through SA Airlink.

If you are trying to reach more inaccessible lodges, the African safari cost is going to be much higher because you are relying on light charter flights.

2-week South Africa itinerary

If you fly to a destination where the safari experience is the only activity, your cost is going to be higher than if you combine it with more affordable destinations.

The safari will be the most expensive part of your trip.

One reason why South Africa is such a desirable safari location is that it can be combined with places such as Cape Town and the Cape Winelands which are significantly less expensive. 

PRO TIP : We offset our African safari cost in Sabi Sands by staying at much more affordable accommodations while in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands. Splurge on the safari experience and then pick more budget-friendly hotels in the other destinations.

You can get incredible value for your money while staying in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands.

We stayed at the highly-rated Derwent House Boutique Hotel while in Cape Town and the adorable bed & breakfast Cape Vue Country House while in Cape Winelands.

Both properties offered incredible value for the money, which drove the overall cost of our trip down.

Derwent House Boutique Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa

Obviously, the more days you spend, the higher the African safari cost.

However, some safari lodges like Singita Kruger National Park will offer a nice package deal such as “Stay 4 Days/Pay for 3.”

Always be on the lookout for these special deals to reduce your African safari cost.

Two lionesses consuming a giraffe in Sabi Snds Private Game Reserve

National parks tend to be much more affordable than private game reserves.

For example, if you stay in Kruger National Park in South Africa, which is owned and managed by the government, the cost is going to be substantially cheaper but much more crowded.

In contrast, if you stay in a private reserve in Sabi Sands in South Africa, the cost will be higher but fewer people and jeeps and more close-up wildlife encounters.

If you want to know more differences between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, check out my article below.

Our safari ranger and tracker at Lion Sands River Lodge

What do I mean by “the extras”?

Think tipping, airport transfers, laundry, park fees & permits, premium drinks, etc.

It is important to factor in all fees because they can certainly add up quickly. For example, if you are going to Rwanda to see gorillas, the gorilla trekking permit alone costs $1500 USD per person! 

Also, it is imperative to know what is included in your all-inclusive safari lodge rate. For example, some lodges charge for premium drinks.

Laundry service is another factor to consider. You cannot carry much weight in your luggage on those little planes. Packing light is important, which will likely require you to do laundry while at the lodge. Some lodges will include it, and some will not.

That is why I’m a big fan of the incredibly lightweight Anatomie travel clothing, specifically the Kate Skinny Cargo pants . They take up very little room in the suitcase.

An Africa safari is one of the most expensive vacations you will probably take. The staff at these safari lodges go above and beyond to take great care of you. The safari guides are spending at least 6+ hours with you daily to deliver an exclusive experience.

I know this is a touchy subject because every country has a different tipping culture, but please consider showing your appreciation for good service by leaving a tip. Budget accordingly.

It is customary in Africa to tip the staff (but not mandatory).

Courtesy of Shutterstock: Safari jeeps watching a lion

If you want more flexibility and are looking to cut costs, you can do a self-drive safari in certain countries such as South Africa.

For example, in Kruger National Park, many opt to rent a car and drive independently around the park looking for the animals.

Although you have the freedom of when and how long you want to stay in each location, you do not have the expertise and knowledge of a guide who can greatly add to your experience.

Most African countries will quote and charge you in USD. There are a few countries, however, like South Africa and Namibia, that only quote the cost in their own currency.

Because the currency exchange rate is volatile, your US dollar could stretch further if the rate is favorable. The opposite, of course, would be true as well.

Breakdown of how we saved over $6800 USD on our 2-week Africa trip

I am NOT a travel agent who gets discounts on properties.

I am NOT an influencer who gets sponsored free trips.

I work full-time, have limited PTO hours, and take 3-4 vacations a year.

So, how am I bringing my African safari cost down?

Airline and credit card points!

An African safari is usually just one component (and the most expensive!) of most travelers’ Africa itinerary. The key to making this epic trip affordable is knowing where to spend and where not to spend and utilizing airline and credit card points to erase some or all of the cost.

A premier safari experience in Sabi Sands, South Africa for 2 people for 3 nights/4 days costs around $5,400 USD.

So, how did we save over $6,800 for our entire 2-week Africa trip ? 2 ways. Let’s break it down.

Courtesy of Shutterstock: airplane

We used 2 different strategies for the major international legs of our Africa trip:

UNITED POINTS:  For this Africa trip, we used 40,000 United points per person (+ nominal $11 USD per person for taxes) to pay for our flight from the United States to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

The cash price per person for the flight would have been $1,121 USD. Our total savings for two people was $2,220. The redemption value was 2.8 cents per mile.

By the way, one strategy for getting a bulk amount of points is to sign up for a travel credit card during a big sign-up bonus promotion, where you have to meet x amount of minimum spend within x amount of months.

VIRGIN ATLANTIC POINTS: For our return flight from Johannesburg, South Africa back to the United States, we used 22,500 Virgin Atlantic points per person (+ $350 USD per person for taxes).

The cash price per person for the flight would have been $888 USD. Our total savings for two people was $1,076. The redemption value was 2.4 cents per mile.

How did we get Virgin Atlantic points? From my Amex Membership Reward (MR) Points.

If you want to know more about travel hacking tricks and how to know if you are getting a good redemption value, don’t miss my travel hacking 101 guide.

Chase Trifecta Travel Credit Cards

What credit cards we used and how we used them:

AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM

We used Amex Membership Reward (MR) points to pay for our international flight home from Johannesburg to the United States.

We transferred 22,500 MR points to Virgin Atlantic at a 1:1 transfer rate. Our total cost was 22,500 points + $350 USD for taxes/fees per person for a flight that would have cost $888 per person.

Our total savings for two people was $1076.

CHASE SAPPHIRE RESERVE

We used 239,138 Chase Ultimate Reward (UR) points to pay for the majority of our hotels on our Africa trip. That saved us a whopping $3,587.07!

When you redeem your UR points through the Chase travel portal for hotels (or flights if you choose), you redeem at 1.5x the rate .

What does that mean?

Pretend you have 200,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points, which is equal to $2,000 USD. If you redeem those same 200,000 points through the travel portal, they are now worth $3,000 USD. Incredible value!

THIS IS THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL CREDIT CARD.

An African safari was one of the most memorable travel experiences we’ve had. It can be quite expensive depending on the location and quality of the safari lodge.

You can make it quite budget-friendly by picking cheaper safari locations, going during low season, doing a self-drive safari, and picking a more affordable safari lodge.

Since this was a trip of a lifetime for us and we were celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary, we wanted a little more luxury.

When we started planning our African safari and adding up the costs, it was clear the price for our dream vacation was much higher than our travel budget would allow.

Luckily, because we had started to accumulate airline and credit card points years ago, we were able to cash in those points to erase much of the African safari cost. Those airline and credit card points made this epic trip a reality.

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Questions about how to reduce your African safari cost?

Let me know in the comments below!

Hi there! I was about to book Lion Sands on Chase but cant find it anymore as their booking look up has gotten more complex. What did you use to find it? An airport code?

Thanks for reaching out. I booked 3 out of the 4 Africa hotels we stayed at (Derwent in Cape Town, Cape Vue in the Cape Winelands, and Stanley & Livingstone in Zimbabwe) through the Chase travel portal. Lion Sands was the only one I didn’t book through Chase. I went through booking.com: https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/lion-sands-private-game-reserve.en-gb.html .

I just checked to see if Lion Sands was on the Chase travel portal, and I could not find it either (even with using the airport code, SZK). I’m surprised though because it’s a MORE property, and their other property (Stanley & Livingstone in Zimbabwe) is on there. You could always call Chase just to make sure.

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Travelling Without a Passport

How Much Does an African Safari Cost?

Bucket lists might be fun to create or dream about, but it can be difficult to check everything off your list without taking a massive chunk out of your savings. Touring experiences to the most remote parts of the world – Antarctica , the Arctic Circle, the Galapagos Islands , Everest Base Camp , or even an African safari – were once reserved for travellers with big budgets and even bigger bank accounts. Today, however, this is far from true. Once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including a memorable African safari, are equally accessible for almost everyone, and worth pinching every penny for. If you’ve ever asked yourself how much does an African safari cost? allow us to break it down for you!

How much does an African safari cost?

Budgets are a difficult topic to tackle, as each one is slightly different for every traveller, and often, budgets fail to cater for any unexpected costs that occur along the way. All you can do is spend as much time researching, planning and preparing as possible.

To help you out, and so you can effectively plan for a safari tour, Lonely Planet’s money guide for Africa suggests the following guidelines:

Shoestring budget

• Daily expenses: up to USD $100 per person, per day
• A dorm bed may cost USD $10-20 per night
• A cheap hotel room may cost up to USD $75 per night
• Street food or an inexpensive meal will cost around USD $5

Mid-range budget

• Daily costs: up to USD $100-250 per person, per day
• A standard double room will set you back USD $75-200 per night
• A meal at a nice restaurant may cost up to USD $20
• Car hire is estimated by Lonely Planet to be around USD $30 per day

See Also: African budget safaris

High-end, or luxury budget

• Daily costs: USD $250+ per person, per day
• Safari-lodge or top-end hotel room: at least USD $200
• Guided safari or 4WD rental: from USD $150 per day
• Meal at a top restaurant with wine: USD $50–100

See Also: Luxury African safaris

Also worth considering, is when you’re travelling with a group tour, in most cases, you’ll have accommodation, some food, transport, and a handful of experiences all covered in the tour cost, so you can set your budget based on spending money, extra food, and optional activities that won’t be included.

How to save money on an African safari

• If you’re able to get time off work, school, or university during any time of the year, consider travelling either during the low season, or the shoulder season to save a considerable amount on your safari tour. Accommodation is likely to be cheaper, food prices may vary, tour prices often drop if you travel outside of the peak season, and you won’t bump into as many tourists. The downside; you may not see as many animals, or the weather might not work in your favour, but if your budget is tight, this is definitely worth considering.
• Group tours may not be suited for all travellers, so if you’re travelling independently, it is best to look at accommodation just outside of the main national parks versus staying at a lodge inside the park; as these can be quite pricey.
• Depending on how adventurous you are feeling, booking a camping safari is often much cheaper than staying in lodges or hotel accommodation.
• Snacks and food in Africa are fairly inexpensive, but it never hurts to pack a few snacks to have on hand. That way, you won’t get lured into over-priced tourist traps when the hunger pains strike.
• A short safari might suit your budget, but it is worth remembering that a longer tour often equates to a lower cost-per-day.
• Before you travel, always set your budget higher than what you expect you might spend. If you’re planning to travel on a shoestring, aim to save for a mid-range budget. Or, if you’re travelling on a mid-range budget, strive to pocket enough cash to meet the luxury budget just to be on the safe side. That way, you can prepare for any unexpected costs that pop up along the way without taking a nasty hit to your bank account.

Most popular regions to go on a safari tour in Africa

Southern africa.

Proudly boasting some of the best national parks and a diverse array of wildlife, Southern Africa is waiting to be celebrated and explored. The UN recognises the safari wonderland of Southern Africa to span across Botswana , Eswatini (Swaziland), Lesotho, Namibia , and South Africa . Across this region, exciting overland journeys fill the day, and at night, all that’s required of you is to relax by a campfire and listen out for the sounds of the wilderness.

One mistake you won’t want to make; is to rush through all of the national parks. The region of Southern Africa might seem smaller when compared to West or East Africa, but try to visit a few parks, exploring them in depth while taking advantage of the many cultural learning opportunities along the way.

Best tours in Africa (by length)

East africa.

Standing tall in the middle of East Africa is where you’ll find one of the tallest mountains in the world; Mount Kilimanjaro , but that’s not all the region has to offer. Some of the notable countries in East Africa include Kenya , Madagascar , Mozambique , Rwanda , Tanzania , Zimbabwe , and Uganda to name a few, so you won’t be short of animals to spy on.

Along the floor of the Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is where you’ll find thousands of flamingos, or up in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you might be lucky enough to come face to face with the mighty gorillas that roam the area. Or, if you’re travelling at the right time of the year, you can witness the Great Migration – one of the most incredible natural spectacles on earth.

Best tours in East Africa

• 8-day Kenya Wildlife Safari
• 12-day East Africa Safari
• 19-day East Africa Overland Kampala to Stone Town
• 34-day Gorillas, Wildlife and Zanzibar
• 40-day Zanzibar to Cape Town

West Africa

Flying under the radar, West Africa is a filled with lesser-known national parks that are just as impressive compared to the likes of Chobe , Kruger , the Maasai Mara , and other favourite spots. The best part is that the crowds are few and far between, and you’re likely to see more animals than tourists. Ghana ’s Mole National Park is a standout for safaris, and the W National Park, or Parc national du W, is a must-visit as it spans across three countries, Benin, Niger and Burkina Faso.

Some of the fauna you can expect to see includes aardvarks, cheetah, elephants, leopards, lions and warthogs. As far as prices go, travelling across West Africa is considerably cheaper compared to Southern and Eastern Africa.

Best tours in West Africa

• 3-day Mole Tour
• 15-day Parc W Safari Adventure
• 23-day West African Atlantic Explorer
• 23-day Dakar to Freetown
• 70-day West Africa Discoverer

North Africa

If you’re looking for an animal-filled safari adventure, then this is one part of the continent that you’ll want to avoid, as most of the large animals are almost non-existent.

See Also: Safari deals

Do you have any safari budget travel tips? Let us know in the comments below!

Gemma Music

Gemma is a travel-lover from Melbourne. When she's not surrounded by the great outdoors, Gemma can be found spending her time with family and friends or planning her next trip overseas.

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How much does an African safari cost? (and how to make it cheaper)

Unfortunately, many people associate safaris with exorbitant prices and see it as a vacation that’s financially out of reach. You’ll be pleased to know this is not always the case. In the end, how much does an African safari cost comes down to what you’re looking for .

Yes, you can go on safari for USD 1000 per day. But you can also enjoy incredibly intimate safari experiences for much less than USD 100 per day.

How Much Does a Safari Cost?

African safaris vary enormously in cost. There is the cheap and relatively cheerful, all the way up to some of the most expensive holidays on the planet.

You can enjoy good wildlife encounters for less than USD 100 per day. Expect to pay a minimum of USD 150 per day for the best destinations and a multi-day safari program. USD 250 per day and upwards is mid range.

How much does a safari cost in East Africa vs Southern Africa

In general, entry to mid-range East African safaris cost more than those in Southern Africa.

The park fees are higher and you cannot safari in your own vehicle. There are fewer public campsites so you are reliant on private camps.

For example, a safari on Tanzania’s Northern Circuit or anywhere multi-day trip in Kenya, is going to cost USD 200 per day and more.

Check out more detailed costs on the ultimate safari guides to Tanzania , Kenya , Zambia and gorilla trekking .

Cheaper park fees bring that cost down in Southern Africa. Many of the best safari destinations in Southern Africa are also very accessible, like Chobe National Park’s proximity to Livingstone and Victoria Falls . This limits private transport and further reduces costs.

Southern Africa has many smaller safari destinations. These don’t offer the ultimate wildlife experience but are a cheap alternative.

So how much does a safari cost in Southern Africa? You can get a good multi-day safari for under USD 150 per day .

Check out South Africa safari guide , Botswana safari guide , Namibia safari guide , and Zimbabwe safari guide .

What do you want and expect on a safari?

If you envision a safari with luxurious rooms, satellite television, air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, exotic cuisine, and your own fireplace, you may need to review your priorities.

Why are you going on an African safari? To sit in your room and watch television? Or to connect with your wild side?

If it’s too big, too beautiful, or too luxurious, it’s consequently going to hit your wallet hard. And it’s not going to be the best possible safari experience.

However, if you’re content with common restroom facilities, decent food, and a small bungalow or safari tent, there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy the affordable costs of going on safari.

Remember that you’ll be staying in a stunning location . This alone makes the price worth it. And while it’s great to stay in the lap of luxury, the main part of the experience is the wildlife and game viewing , and that’s very similar regardless of your accommodation choice.

Most Safari Costs are Based on an All-Inclusive Formula

The well-known “all in” formula means that everything is included in your package: from air flights (if applicable) to park entries, accommodation, game activities, and meals.

Additional costs may apply for drinks and any other extra activities around the lodge, which include night drives, boat trips, and guided walks. Prices will vary from place to place. To give you a general idea, typical daily activities cost anywhere from $20-100 pp (higher prices in top safari destinations). But then again, they might even be part of the deal.

Sometimes the cost of an African safari is very off-putting. But in general, you shouldn’t need much to spend after buying your safari package. USD 200 per day may sound a lot, but when that includes everything , including the greatest wildlife encounters on Earth, it’s totally worth it.

The Easiest Way to Reduce Your Safari Costs

Later in the article we will discuss all the variables, including transport, accommodation, season, activities and more. You will learn some easy tips for reducing your safari costs. But these pale into insignificance in comparison to this…

African safaris cost less when you book with a local African safari operator .

Local safari operators , whether in Tanzania or Botswana, are the experts. They will be guiding your safari, whether you book direct or via an international travel agent. Local operators operate on a budget. They have low overheads and employ local people on local wages.

Compare that to any travel agent in your home country. Or to any major online travel agent. All travel agents have big overheads and big wages, so they need to make more money.

Every travel agent makes money through commission . You pay them for a safari. They keep 25-50%. And pass the rest to the local safari operator.

Book a USD 300 a day African safari with a travel agent and you will get a USD 200 a day safari. But book a USD 300 a day safari directly with a local tour operator and you really will get a USD 300 a day.

Many people don’t trust local tour companies. But you can still find reviews and recommendations for local operators, just as you do for travel agents.

Some people visit Africa, haggle over the price of everything, and complain that they are being ripped off. But the same people are very happy spending thousands of dollars on staying in hotels owned by multinational corporations, and using travel agents who funnel their profits to shareholders.

Book with a local operator and you will get a better safari for a better price, plus more of your money will be used to support the local economy .

If you need assistance then we have a partnership with a pan-African expert who can connect you with trusted local safari operators.

Lodges will often have two areas: one with bungalows/rooms, and another with campsites or tents. The second option is by far the most cost-effective (unless you are looking at “Luxury Camping”, but we won’t go into that here). Prices are reasonable, where you’ll only pay a small fee of as little as $5-15 per day to put up your tent and use the ablutions.

Additionally, another advantage of camping is that you’ll be inherently closer to nature . Especially at night, when nocturnal animals roam by your tent or bizarre sounds haunt your sleep.

Your most common visitors at night will be sneaky hyenas and common bush babies . Moreover, it is not unusual to hear lion calls from a distance.

A personal experience from Michael Theys

“I’ve personally experienced some interesting events on various occasions. One time, there was a huge bull elephant right outside my tent window. It was such an intense feeling. Besides being exciting, it was also a little intimidating. You could hear this tremendous animal smashing branches and crunching its food with a ravenous appetite. I was praying he wouldn’t suddenly decide to play with my tent! 🙂

Luckily, as you can tell, I’m still alive and well! I imagine that you might be figuratively jumping up and down on your seat as you read these sentences, but don’t worry. Many facilities are fenced off , and if not, they are guarded by armed men (quite often Maasai warriors in East Africa).

Regarding food, pay attention as this part is very important. Be on the look out for baboons and vervet monkeys that have a tendency to come and steal some of your belongings for themselves. Never leave anything lying around!  There’s a good chance that what you leave misplaced will be gone in an instant.”

Planning a camping safari

The only downside to camping is that it demands more organisation and effort . On some safaris you will have to take your own camping equipment with you.

In some cases however, equipment may be provided at the camp itself. You will need to bring your own groceries, though some facilities have their own shops (i.e. Skukuza, inside Kruger National Park). You’ll also have to cook your own food (eating at the restaurant is an option), and drive your own car in the game area.

Then there are camping safaris organised by tour operators. These are popular budget safaris in East Africa. An operator will bring all the equipment and use public campsites , which keeps costs down.

Bed and Breakfast Formula

One alternative to camping inside the park is to stay in the vicinity of the reserve . It’s not as unique an experience without the wildlife roaming around, but it can be a sensible choice if you’re on a tight budget.

Usually, there are a number of options available, ranging from hotels to hostels and guesthouses. Some hotels even have an impressive view overlooking the reserve itself, which is a great bonus as it gives you a flavour of the bush.

Residents vs Foreigner Fees

As you might expect, tourists are charged more than the locals to enter a conservation area. In most places the price difference is significant.

For instance, park entrances might be as low as $2 for a resident and as high as $100 for a foreigner . A place like Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania charges $80 per person and $200 per vehicle .

Africa Freak tip : If you’re on safari with friends who happen to be residents, it’s sometimes possible for you to enter as a local and pay the resident fee. Stay in the car, remain quiet, and let your pals do the talking.

It’s not always successful, but it’s worth a shot! 😉

How Much Does a Safari Cost (High vs Low Season)

Dry season months are peak season for tourists and safari attractions in East Africa. In Southern Africa, peak season is during the cooler drier winter months.

Make sure that you have your reservations prepared well in advance , as places are often fully booked months beforehand. In South Africa for instance, areas of the Kruger are reserved up to a year ahead of time.

If you’re looking for a cheaper safari, try to plan your trip during the low season when the game viewing isn’t as good.

But “not quite as good” is a relative term. Whenever you visit, a safari is a magical experience. You can experience incredible sightings during the rainy season or tropical summer months.

In the dry season , wildlife must congregate around waterholes, which makes it easier to spot. But that doesn’t mean it disappears during the rest of the year. It’s still around. You just need to look a little harder. In some places of East Africa, when it really rains, dirt roads become impassable and several facilities are forced to close down.

Driving your own vehicle or renting a car for a safari might be the cheapest available option, especially in Southern Africa. Park roads are well indicated and it’s possible to buy local maps at the entrance.

However self-driving is not always possible . In private game reserves and certain nature reserves, you can only go on safari with cars provided by the lodge or park.

How Much Does it Cost for an African Safari?

Like all vacations and all unique experiences, the price of an African safari varies person by person . So instead of thinking about how much does an African safari cost, how about switching the question to something more meaningful.

Our recommendation is to think about how much is a safari worth to you .

An Africa safari is an unfiltered connection with the greatest wildlife and wildernesses on the planet. Africa is Africa – you can’t have the safari experience anywhere else!

There truly is nothing like it, this chance to go eye to eye with the greatest animals to walk our planet. Not only is an African safari an incredibly personal experience, it’s an experience that will change how you view the world .

So how much is that worth?

About The Author

Editorial Team

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What does a safari in Africa cost? Cost factors and saving tips for a dream safari

Africa is a unique continent full of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating cultures and unparalleled wildlife. A safari in Africa is an unforgettable experience and is on the so-called "bucket list" of many travellers. However, the costs for a safari can quickly skyrocket, which is why many holidaymakers shy away from taking such a trip. In this blog post, we would like to introduce you to the cost factors and show you that a safari does not always have to be expensive. We will also give you tips on how to find the perfect safari experience for your personal budget.

How much does accommodation cost?

Accommodation is usually the most expensive component of a safari, but also the one where you can save the most. Generally, the higher the comfort, the more exclusive the location and the facilities of the accommodation, the more expensive it will be. To give you a complete overview, we have dedicated a separate section to this topic below.

Safari accommodation can be divided into different categories. Basic options include hostels and simple guesthouses, while luxury lodges with private pools, spa areas and gourmet restaurants are the highest standard.

Accommodation location: Inside a reserve

Most accommodation within the reserves and national parks is full board, which means that all meals and in some cases alcoholic drinks are included in the price. In addition, guided game drives - which take place twice a day - are usually already included in the price.

If you choose to stay at a lodge or camp within a reserve, be aware that the more popular destinations often charge higher prices. Reserves such as Kruger National Park in South Africa or Serengeti National Park in Tanzania are very popular due to their impressive wildlife and well-developed tourism industry. Accordingly, prices for accommodation and activities are higher than in less well-known reserves.

If you're looking for a cheaper option, you should also check out lesser-known safari destinations that can often also provide stunning wildlife.

Accommodation location: Outside a reserve

Outside the reserves, the accommodation options are usually much cheaper and the choice is greater. Many accommodations are also located in the immediate vicinity of a reserve gate and often offer guided game drives. If you are travelling by rental car, it is also possible to go on a self-drive safari and explore the reserve on your own.

You can also choose whether you would prefer accommodation that already offers a range of food options or accommodation where you stay overnight and have the opportunity to explore local restaurants - whichever suits your budget and schedule better. To find accommodation close to your destination reserve, simply activate the "Off Reserve" filter on safarica.com and limit the distance of the nearest gate to your desired distance. You'll save money and be close to Africa's amazing wildlife at the same time.

If you are looking for budget safari accommodation, you should search for self-catering options, hostels or guesthouses on safarica.com or safari lodges, narrowing down the price per night.

Dependence on travel time and seasonality

The cost of a safari in Africa is also highly dependent on the time of year. The high season for safaris often coincides with the dry season. This varies by country, but it usually falls in the months from June to October. In the dry season, landscapes are often barren and animals congregate around waterholes, making it easier to spot them. The good weather and high animal activity make these months a popular time for safaris. Due to the high demand for safaris, the cost of accommodation, activities and flights can increase significantly during this time.

Rainy season

The rainy season, on the other hand, can be considered the low season, as there are fewer tourists and accommodation and activities are offered at a lower price. During the rainy season, the landscape is often green and the vegetation lush. However, this also makes it more difficult to spot animals, as they can hide better in the vegetation. Nevertheless, the rainy season can be a good option for travellers and offers attractions such as young animal observations or the annual migration of millions of migratory birds. By the way, rainy season does not mean that it rains all day, but rather short and heavy.

Dependence on the destination country

The expenses for a safari also depend greatly on the destination country. Some countries in Africa are popular destinations for safaris due to their diverse wildlife and well-developed tourism industry and can be correspondingly more expensive than other countries. For example, countries such as Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana are very popular destinations for a safari holiday as they offer a variety of national parks and reserves with impressive wildlife. Due to the high demand for safaris and the well-developed infrastructure, the costs for accommodation and activities are usually higher in these countries.

Other countries in Africa such as Uganda or Zambia also offer impressive wildlife, but are less crowded and therefore often offer cheaper deals, making them a good option for travellers on a budget.

For better orientation, here is a cost overview for one overnight stay per person within a reserve. Please note that the prices listed in the table are rough estimates and can change constantly:

Other cost factors

Most safaris start with an international flight to the destination country and often also require domestic flights from the airport to the national park or reserve. The cost of a flight can vary depending on the departure point, airline, season and time of booking. It may be worth booking flights in advance or looking for packages that include transport from the airport to your accommodation.

Alternatively, many accommodations - especially safari lodges - also offer transfers to and from the airport or between different accommodations. For travellers who want to be independent and prefer to experience a self-drive safari, there is the option of booking a rental car on site. Again, costs vary greatly depending on the country, time period and vehicle class. Be sure to include the cost of petrol, insurance and any road tolls.

In general, it is worth booking transport options early and looking for combination deals. Some airlines and car rental companies offer early booking discounts that can result in significant savings. Careful planning of transport can help ensure that you get the best possible safari experience for your budget.

Parking and concession fees

Each national park or wildlife reserve charges an entrance fee, the so-called "conservation fee", to enter the park. The fees are an important contribution to the protection and conservation of nature and wildlife and also serve to promote economic development in the local communities. These fees are often included in the price of safari lodges within a reserve, but are charged separately for accommodation outside a reserve.

As an example, we can look at the park fees for the famous Kruger National Park in South Africa: For international visitors, entry to the park costs 460 Rand (approx. 23 Euros) per person per day. Children pay half, 230 Rand (approx. 12 Euro).

Please note that these figures are for guidance only and may change at any time. Park fees vary from park to park and often change between seasons.

If you plan to spend several days in the same park or reserve, it is worth looking for weekly tickets or similar offers.

Tour guide and activities

One of the main activities on safari is wildlife viewing. If you choose to stay within the reserve, game viewing is often included in the accommodation price. Lodges and camps usually offer two game drives per day, one in the early morning and one in the late afternoon when the animals are most active. Some lodges and camps also offer special wildlife viewing opportunities such as bush walks and night drives, which may incur additional costs. It is important to clarify these expenses in advance and include them in your budget.

If you want to save money, self-drive safaris are a great option as they only require parking fees and vehicle rental. In addition to the low cost, self-drive safaris give you more flexibility to customise your own itinerary. However, you should have sufficient experience in driving on unpaved roads and in remote areas. Especially during the rainy season, this is an important point to consider.

And of course you also have the option of activities outside the reserves and parks such as beach holidays, golfing, quad biking, culinary excursions or boat trips. You can also find these easily with the unique filter options on safarica.com.

Additional tips to reduce expenses

If you're planning a safari, there are some tips and tricks that can help you keep costs under control and still have a great safari experience.

Early booking discounts and special offers

Many safari accommodations offer early booking discounts and special offers (soon to be available on safarica.com) if you book your safari in advance. Discounts can be up to 50%, so check safarica.com for suitable accommodation in good time.

Opting for a group tour can also be a good way to save on safari prices. By sharing resources such as transport, accommodation, car hire and meals, the per person spend can be lower. So take your friends or family and have an unforgettable time on safari in Africa.

Flexibility in travel dates and destinations

If you are flexible with your travel dates and destinations, you can often find better deals. Avoid the high season, as prices are often higher at this time, and look for less popular destinations that often offer lower prices.

Use safarica.com and filter by cost

With safarica.com you can filter by various criteria such as location and type of accommodation or distance to the nearest gate. Simply adjust the filter according to your budget to find the best deals quickly and easily.

There are many factors that influence the cost of a safari holiday, such as the type of accommodation, the time of travel and the destination country. It is important when planning a safari to keep an eye on the budget and consider any additional costs that may be incurred. However, there are many options to reduce costs, such as early booking discounts, group tours and self-drive safaris.

Use safarica.com to find the right offer for your dream safari, whatever your budget.

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What Does an Africa Safari Cost?

How to get the most value for your budget, african safari cost considerations.

When it comes to reviewing Africa safari itineraries provided by Africa safari planners , it is not always easy to compare them “apples to apples,” understand the out-of-pocket totals and see the quality differentiations. However, this is an essential step for you to make an informed choice.

When tabulating your total safari cost for your Africa adventure, the factors below all contribute towards the cost of your trip.

Safari Location

Where you choose to go contributes greatly to African safari cost.

East Africa Safaris - Kenya & Tanzania

• Kenya – boasts over 30 total National Parks and Game Reserves . Most wildlife areas have good access from Nairobi. Kenya safaris offer the opportunity to view all of the Big 5 and offer a variety of accommodation options. The Masai Mara Game Reserve is a favorite of our travelers.
• Tanzania – has over 20 National Parks which offer amazing safaris – including the world-famous Serengeti National Park as well as Mahale National Park where you can experience chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
• East Africa – offers an amazing wildlife experience you can add to traditional safaris – Gorilla Trekking. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda , and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda both offer this life-changing opportunity. You can easily add a detour to one of these countries and travel to visit chimps or gorillas on your safaris to Kenya or Tanzania.  

When it comes to pricing in East Africa, it is pretty middle of the road for an African safari tour, however, adding on a gorilla trekking excursion will add significantly to the cost.

Southern Africa Safaris - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia

• South Africa provides unique safaris with easy travel access from Johannesburg. You can partake in an affordable African safari with many creature comforts. While you’ll still be able to see a variety of wildlife, it doesn’t have the same numbers of wildlife as you can see in East Africa’s Great Migration. Of all Southern Africa locations, South Africa offers your best chance at getting a budget safari package.
• Namibia offers a slightly different take on a safari trip. You can even enjoy a beach holiday in Swakopmund in addition to viewing the desert wildlife at many locations including Etosha National Park .
• Botswana is truly an amazing destination for a safari trip. The Okavango Delta fills with floodwater annually from rains in neighboring Angola. Wildlife concentrates here creating amazing viewing opportunities. Prices tend to be at the upper end in Botswana – especially in and around the Okavango Delta – making it an excellent choice for luxury safari travel.

Safari Guide

Your safari guide is probably the most important element to having a successful African safari. You’ll want to make sure that your safari guide is knowledgeable and skilled – even if this adds to the overall price of your safari trip.

Safari Vehicle

• Self Drive Safaris – Avoid self travel options. While a relatively inexpensive option, we don’t recommend you spend your African safari driving around in remote regions of foreign countries with large, dangerous animals around your vehicle. There are much safer ways to travel the African continent. Skip the self drive safari and get a guide. Guides know the best viewing places for animals. They also understand and can properly deal with animal behaviors, and know how to get help if needed.
• Closed Vehicle – these safaris may feature an older vehicle with more passengers that don’t allow for the best game viewing.
• Open / Specialized Vehicle – A higher-end safari may feature an open safari vehicle or a vehicle with a pop-top roof – both of which allow for great game viewing. There are even safari vehicles with platforms for photographers so they can capture that perfect wildlife moment.
• Private Vehicle – While it will significantly add to your overall safari cost for Africa, a private vehicle (usually part of a private safari) adds a tremendous level of freedom and flexibility to your African safari.

Private Safaris vs Group Safaris

A private safari in Africa is more costly than a group safari, but you’ll have much more control of your safari experience. You’ll get to decide when to wake up, where to go, and when to call it a day. You’ll also get much more control over meal choices.

Group safaris are much more regimented and don’t allow for the same level of flexibility as private safari tours. Going with a group on an African safari tour can definitely save you money.

Accommodations for Safaris

When working with a safari company in choosing your safari destination, you’ll learn that there are a wide variety of safari camp and lodge options to choose from in Africa.

Permanent Tented Camp – these are in a fixed location usually near great viewing and are commonly used as part of a luxury safari.

Seasonal Safari Camp – while comfortable, offer less luxury than a permanent tented camp and they are usually positioned for excellent game viewing.

Mobile Safari Camp – these offer the most rustic safaris and are a great, comfortable option for a budget safari.  In general, travel distances generally won’t be as far as these camps are positioned to be near great viewing opportunities.

Safari Lodge – these are fixed structures that vary greatly. While you can certainly stay at a luxury safari lodge (there are many), don’t assume that lodge = luxury lodge. In some cases, especially in South Africa, you can stay at a lodge as part of an affordable African safari.

For more information about accommodations, see our types of safari camps page.

Extra Travel Extensions

Getting to Africa can be a time-consuming process especially if you’re coming from North America. That’s why many safari-goers like to travel elsewhere on the continent after they leave their original Africa safari destination.

We oftentimes get travelers who will add on a beach holiday in Zanzibar (Tanzania), Mombassa (Kenya), or Mozambique after their initial African safari trip has concluded.

Cape Town (South Africa) is also a popular post-safari travel destination for its world-class beaches and wineries.

Obviously, African safari prices will increase when you enhance your safari experience by adding these to your African adventure.

Other Price Considerations for Safaris

Watch out for hidden fees.

Make sure when you’re analyzing African prices for safaris from a safari company, that all relevant costs are included.

Park fees, mileage limitations, and other necessary travel expenses might be left out of a package in order to showcase a competitively-priced option. For this reason, it is entirely possible that a $300 per day quote for safaris will eventually cost more than a different quote at $550 per day.

Just like bargain travel flight fares that later charge for a personal item, you may discover that the safari price quote was discounted because it was missing critical elements. Quotes should include, or note when not included:

• Game drives/activities
• Applicable rental fees

Incidental African Safari Costs not Included in Your Safari Quote

Beyond these major costs for safaris, other typical expenses to take into account include:

• Vaccinations and other health considerations
• Tips for safari guide and staff
• Trip travel insurance
• Tourist visas
• Travel incidentals (on the way to Africa)

Don't Forget to Price in Your Packing List

You’ll also want to be properly equipped for safaris to Africa. Many choose to make the following purchases prior to travel:

• Camera equipment
• Reference books
• Clothes for safaris

Questions to Ask Your Safari Planner

The following questions should be helpful when evaluating a proposal from a safari company. Use these questions to not only gauge the knowledge of your planner but to make sure that you get the most out of your Africa Safari.

• What would you change if it was your trip?
• Are the camps in the right location for the season?
• What is the accommodation bed night capacity for your planned safaris?
• How do your safaris support local communities? Can you share the reports?
• What is the maximum group size for safaris?
• What is the maximum number of guests allowed in a vehicle?
• How far are the transfer travel distances on your safaris, and are they experiential?
• Are there unavoidable costs being left out of the quote, such as park fees?
• What are the vehicles like on the safaris you offer? Does the quote include fuel and unlimited driving distances?
• What is your repeat customer and referral rate?
• What is the experience level of the guide leading my safari? Is the person named and guaranteed?  

How We Determine African Safari Prices

Since we specialize in custom safaris, the cost of safaris is highly dependent upon your personal choices. For most travelers, a safari is a significant investment, and that is why the planning process is critical. Our philosophy is to focus on the quality of guiding and locations. These are areas most important to have an exceptional safari, and cutting costs on them will compromise your experience.

One of the largest cost components where you have flexibility is your accommodation. In some areas (like Northern Tanzania), we have a wide range of choices to work with. In other countries, like Botswana, there are often no mobile, budget safari, or rustic options that meet our quality standards. We classify accommodation budget categories into three tiers:

• Classic Safari . Prices range from $700 to $900 per person per night. While not a true budget safari, this is our most affordable African Safari Option. If you’re looking for top locations and great guiding but are happy with classic, rustic safari accommodation, including en-suite tents with bucket showers, this may be for you. This category means you will consider low and shoulder seasons to get better value while still having great game viewing. In some destinations in low season, you may be able to get pricing in the $500 to $600 per person per night range. 
• Authentic Luxury Safari. This is our mid range option for safaris, and prices range from $900 to $1,200 per person per night. This traveler’s budget is somewhat flexible, and they care most about top-notch guiding and outstanding wildlife. Accommodation for these safaris is excellent with great service. The camps often have special small touches but maintain the authentic safari style rather than the high luxury focus. In most safari areas, this price point is possible even in peak season. However, in Botswana we still must target low or shoulder seasons to fit this price range.
• Peak Luxury Safari. Prices range from $1,200 to $2,500 per person per night (and up!) for these safaris. This traveler wants luxury accommodation in peak season. Within this, $1,200 to $1,800 is possible in East Africa and parts of Southern Africa (Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia). The higher end of this range is needed for high luxury in Botswana and South Africa.  

We will always do our best to meet any budget with a high-quality itinerary. If we cannot provide a high level of quality, we will honestly inform you that we can’t make that budget.

As such, we will not beat high-volume, budget operators on price because the cost of guiding, unlimited mileage on game drives, and many other quality factors that we offer are not places where we can cut costs. We are not willing to compromise the experience for our clients or our reputation.

Your Safari Guide

Despite how incredibly important this role is, very few safari-goers have any idea who their safari guide will be until they arrive. Typically, a safari company is simply unable to commit a guide at the time of booking.

However, we keep a small team of outstanding guides in Tanzania and Kenya and a private specialist Bushman safari guide in Botswana to ensure that each client has a spectacular safari. For itineraries featuring Tanzania’s northern circuit or Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve, and case by case in Botswana, we can tell you who your guide will be ahead of your safari.

We do provide excellent pricing and value within the bespoke top-quality safari market segment. We do our best to include deals and recommend low seasons or best value accommodation choices (more expensive is not always a better experience!), and other proven secrets to provide the best pricing for your dream safari.

Special opportunities often add large costs beyond our control. For example, each gorilla trek requires a $1,500 per person permit cost in Rwanda, or $700 per person permit cost in Uganda.

Learn About Costs and More: Get in Touch

The best way to learn about the pricing of your African Safari is to contact us .  Fill out the form below or give us a call: (720) 497-1250.

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Luxury african safari pricing guide for 2024 , the prices for a luxury african safari may differ greatly depending on the level of luxury accommodation you require..

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100% satsa bonded & trusted, luxury african safari prices, the most common question we get asked is, how much does an african safari cost this definitive guide to prices, specials, seasons, destinations and more provides the information you need to plan your vacation budget. , star rating, this guide is for four and five-star luxury african safaris. the property grade is the biggest factor affecting the price of your african safari holiday.  ​ all prices below are per person sharing..

7 Nights from $5,297 pps

You'll be surprised to learn that the good four-star safari lodges would be considered five stars in most countries, and many of them will no doubt be upgraded in due course, but until then you can get them at four-star prices.  four-star properties also come with all-inclusive packages and a good 4-start african safari for 7 days starts at around $5,297 but with a few upgrades here and there you should realistically budget for closer to $6000. .

7 Nights from $6,757 pps

The five-star safari lodges enjoy the finest locations for animal viewing and the most luxurious finishes.  if you want to experience a more intimate wildlife experience then these lodges provide more remote access more often than not in private concessions.  a five-star luxury african safari holiday typically costs around $1,000 per person daily.  if you book multiple properties from the same operator you can expect to get free night offers or other savings on the overall accommodation cost of your booking. .

Five Star Premium

7 nights from $8,897 pps, there are only 10 lodges and hotels in africa boasting the prestigious title of five star premium.  these are the very best of the best and no attention to detail is missed when striving for such an honour.  you can expect to pay from $1,000 up to $3,000 per person daily at one of these exquisite properties and their locations are the best available in africa. , the seasons vary depending on the location but for the most part, the busiest time of the year and therefore the most expensive time to travel is from december to february.   this is the busy vacation period in africa when demand surges and prices are often 20 - 50% more than in other months.    this is also the hottest time of the year and not the best for game viewing - although it is still very good - it's just that the animals seek shelter from the hot day sun and the bush is denser due to the higher rainfall. typically july to october is ideal for game viewing. , money saving tips, if you want to enjoy a luxury safari experience but want to either add value or cut a few costs, these tips below will help you. , free night offers, get more value for your african safari when you book multiple properties from the same operator. this way you can get bed night discounts and of course, the good news is, we have all the contacts in place already. .

Bride Pays 50%

If you're lucky enough to be on your africa honeymoon then you can claim specials like bride pays 50% as well as benefit from suite upgrades, discounted spa treatments and a host of uniquely tailored tours just for you. .

Free Upgrades

If you select the right lodges at the right time of the year you can oftentimes get free upgrades on the rooms. contact us for special offers and we'll use our vast network and close relationships to get you the best deal available. .

PRICE BY DESTINATION

Africa has so many wonderful safari destinations to choose from and the average pricing differs slightly from location to location.   this quick safari pricing overview below sheds light on the starting prices per person daily you can expect to pay.   these locations offer great safaris for families , couples, groups and seniors safaris too.   .

Kruger Park

South africa, the #1 most popular wildlife safari destination in all of africa is the kruger national park in the north of south africa.  here you'll find the largest variety of large mammals and birdlife on the continent, including the much sought-after big five animals. the kruger also boasts the best accommodation variety giving you superb value for money. , big five safari, 140+ mammal species, 500+ bird species, private guides, private reserves, honeymoon specials.

Located at the southern most tip of Africa and regarded as the number one city in the world to visit, Cape Town boasts a mixed bag of breathtaking scenery, endless ocean views, blue flag beaches, award-winning wine estates, world Top 50 rated restaurants, cultural excursions and a large variety of day tours.    The prices per person in Cape Town for a good four-star hotel near the iconic Waterfront start at around $167 per person.  

Table mountain, southern peninsula, robben island, cape winelands, ocean adventures, world-class cuisine.

Victoria Falls

Zambia / zimbabwe, situated on the mighty zambezi river at the border of zimbabwe and zambia lies "the smoke that thunders", more commonly known as victoria falls - the world's biggest waterfall.  the area is more than just one massive mountain of water cascading over the fall's edge however, it is an adventure-lovers dream with white water rafting, tiger fishing, bungee, hiking trails and wildlife safaris on your doorstep. , biggest waterfall, wildlife safaris, white water rafting, zambezi cruises, aerial tours & safaris, honeymoon destination.

East Africa

The luxury villas and hotels of seychelles off the coast of east africa in the indian ocean are the perfect way to end off your luxury african safari package with days spent in paradise.  the warm azure waters and white sands of this pristine island afford you the opportunity to relax and rewind or explore, all in warm indian hospitality. , warm indian ocean, azure waters, white sandy beaches, excellent diving, world-class spas, island getaway.

Benguerra Island

The benguerra island location in mozambique is a short flight from south africa and another unspoiled beach location.   the local marine reserve is a scuba diver or snorkeler's ideal setting or you can spend days around your own private villa pool or explore the island and surrounds. this is the preferred location for many southern african safari travellers. , beach honeymoon, marine reserve, tropical getaway, relaxation therapy, luxury accommodation, island flavour.

Okavango Delta

When you want a remote african safari destination with all the luxury trimmings and vip service of five star hotel, you want to visit the world heritage site that is the okavango delta.   here you'll spend days at a lodge perched on the river banks where animals quench their thirst and birds chirp away happily in their unspoiled surroundings. the price of an okavango safari may be more than other locations, but anyone who can afford it will tell you it's well worth it. , 50,000+ elephant, mokoro safaris, remote african luxury, five star lodges, walking safaris.

The far-stretching plains of the Serengeti are perhaps most famously known for The Great Animal Migration, also referred to as the Great Wildebeest Migration.  Each year more than 2million animals move through the park in search of grazing pastures and food, with a number of excellent accommodation options giving you a front-row seat to one of nature's most spectacular displays. 

Great migration, big five safaris, endless views, balloon safaris, luxury camps.

The Masai Mara and the local tribes provide an "Out of Africa" experience for any traveller in search of an authentic "1920s" African safari holiday.  You'll also get the benefits of the Great Animal Migration if you pick your travel month correctly and prices for a luxury Kenya safari start at around the mid $400 per person mark, daily. 

Masai mara tribe, authentic safari, mount kilimanjaro, roaming tented camps.

Franschhoek

Franschhoek is the food and wine capital of africa with a strong french influence and jaw-dropping location at the foot of the cape fold mountains, less than 60 minutes outside cape town.  ​ here you'll find a strong south of france influence with an african flair to treat your palette and senses alike. franschhoek boasts many boutique hotels with prices from $218 per person sharing., cape fold mountains, food & wine capital, private tours, boutique hotels, outside cape town, french influence.

Home of the walking safari and a fantastic value for money destination complete with the Big Five animals and a wide variety of wildlife in unspoiled and commercialised settings.  ​ Zambia is undoubtedly the forgotten gem of Africa and prices for an Africa safari are considerably lower here, but with all the benefits and more of other reserves or concessions. 

Large elephant herds, exceptional value.

Zimbabwe has a storied past and is slowly getting back to the popular safari destination it was in the past.  ​ The Victoria Falls side is still the biggest draw card to Zimbabwe but the country offers great value for money to entice visitors to their newly refurbished properties in idyllic game viewing locations, with all the luxuries of the other reserves. 

Big five animals, vistoria falls, singita pamushana.

Straight out of "Gorillas in The Mist" is the home of the mighty apes, Rwanda.  Now keep in mind that this is absolutely a life-changing experience, but it does come at a steep price with accommodation from $767 at private lodges and day passes to the gorillas equally priced. 

African Safari Quote

Get a free tailored quote to design the perfect luxury african safari of your dreams based on your bucket list.  ​ we don't do cookie-cutter packages but rather go the extra mile to make sure your safari is uniquely yours. , tailored packages, vip service, 24/7 local support, fully bonded, 20+ years experience, best rates available, african safari prices, the prices quoted here for an african safari give you a good indication of what to expect, but the best way to lock down a package price is to have one of our experienced consultants chat with you, decide on a budget and then put together the best prices and options so you may enjoy your african safari as you envision it.  for more information and a no-obligation quote, get in touch today and let's design your perfect package at a price that makes you smile.  if you're travelling on your africa honeymoon special offers may apply and we have a host of free upgrades, discounts and more to add value and memories to your honeymoon. for the best african safari vacation prices enquire today.  our packages start at $5k and go up to an ultra-exclusive  $150k luxury african safari. the average price you can expect to pay for a luxury safari is around $7k-$10k per person sharing, with five-star all-inclusive luxury safari lodges. .

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How Much Does an African Safari Cost? Your Best Budget Africa Safari Guide

Posted by Luke Hardiman on August 28 2023 in Overland Africa & Budget Safaris Enquire Now!

To get started, basic African safari costs start at around US$ 150 per person per day for an all-inclusive budget safari package. That's the no-frills budget safari, that stays at basic campsites and takes advantage of off-season rates. On the other end of the African safari cost spectrum, the sky is the limit in terms of luxury safaris if you want to spend more.

The most important thing to remember is that safari costs sit on a sliding scale and  seasonality , level of accommodation , and the destinations you want to visit will all affect your safari costs. The idea is that by tweaking these factors individually, it becomes possible to find the African safari cost option that is perfect for you and your budget.

Based on our experience supplying African safari tours, African Budget Safaris has a comprehensive list of popular African budget safari packages. These safari tours offer a no-fuss planning experience that provides excellent value for money. You don't have to compromise on quality, even at the cheaper end of the spectrum, where a budget safari costs from US$ 150 to US$ 300 per person per day.

Please note: The safari prices in this post are correct as of August 2023. For the most current pricing, contact one of our Africa travel experts

Factors Affecting the Cost of African Safari Trips

Planning an African safari on a budget can be daunting, and the cost of an African safari will depend on various factors. The good news is that there is an African safari for every budget. Factors that will affect how much your African safari costs include accommodation or level of comfort, flexibility of dates and whether you can travel out of peak safari season, mode of transport for example driving or flying, the size of your group, your chosen destination or destinations, and finally the duration of your trip. These factors will all affect the cost of an African safari. There are a few safari budget misconceptions that we should look at before we get into the details.

How Much are African Safaris? Figuring out your Safari Cost Per Day

The most important thing is to work out the cost of your African safari, is what your safari budget looks like. Generally speaking, safari costs fall into three categories, budget safaris, mid-range safaris, and luxury safaris. Below we have safari costs based on US dollars per person per day safari prices. These budget price ranges are designed to help you figure out how much you can expect to spend per day on your African safari cost. The African safari packages that these price brackets are based on, range from 1 day to 56 days in length, so once you know more or less the cost of an African safari per person per day, you can then figure out how long you can afford to go on safari.

• US$ 150 - US$ 300 -  Budget Safari Tours
• US$ 360 - US$ 550 per person per day -  Mid-Range Safaris
• US$ 450 - US$ 1,000+ per person per day - Affordable Luxury Safaris
• US$ 300 - US$ 1,000+ Per day - Tailor-made Custom Safaris & Private Tours

US$ 150 - US$ 300 Per Day - Standard Budget African Safari Costs

How much does a budget African safari cost? Well, for the budget-savvy traveller, the budget safari range is perfect. Most importantly, you get to see and experience the magic of Africa. Budget safaris save money on accommodation, and are a mix of camping and the odd lodge or B&B, basic meals, and are a little bit more wild and have a little less pizazz. The other safari cost factor is group size and duration, as more people on your safari translates to better deals, and the cheaper the cost per day, the longer people tend to travel. The costs of the budget safari option can be broken down into the following categories:

US$ 360 - US$ 550 Per Day - Mid-Range Safari Costs

Mid-range safari packages will provide more care and comfort but still keep exotic destinations at the heart of things. Mid-range safari costs are a good compromise as often there are fewer people in groups, and the durations are less arduous.

US$ 450 - US$ 1000 Per Day - Luxury Safaris for Less

How much does a luxury safari cost? In the luxury safari price range, you will not want for any sense of luxury, great food, great accommodation, and even the bee's knees:

US$ 300 - US$ 1,000+ Per day - Custom & Private Safari Costs

With this option, not only is the world your oyster but you also get to decide when, where, and how it gets served. Oh, and did I mention you can have your cake AND eat it?

Private tours and custom safari costs are not automatically higher than packaged group tours. Tailor-made and private safaris can be a cost-effective safari option, especially when you are travelling in a big group. Our budget safari experts can also tailor your safari costs to suit your budget and help you save money without compromising on the quality of your safari experience.

The cost of a custom or private safari depends on a number of factors that include destination, mode of transport, duration, and seasonal availability. African Budget Safari prides itself on delivering high-quality African safari experiences that cater to the needs of the individual. We specialize in small-group, private, and tailor-made tours, and have an excellent selection of ready-to-go private safari tours .

Our experienced safari travel consultants are available to answer any and all of your safari questions, and you can  drop us a message here  and one of the team will get right back to you.

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Where You Go & How You Travel Affects Your Safari Costs

Your chosen destination will affect your African safari cost and budget. Generally, the more remote the location, the more expensive. South African safari , where visitors benefit from a favourable exchange rate and a competitive accommodation market, are typically cheaper than East African safari tours where park fees are significant, pricing is based in US dollars, and there are fewer options. To give you an easy-to-see safari guide, we have broken down each safari cost bracket in terms of the relevant destinations and the  types of trips applicable. 

How to Choose the Best Safari Company: Let African Budget Safaris Do It

African safaris are a competitive market served by a huge array of companies. It is important to find a safari company that is the right fit for you. And, that's where we come in.

African Budget Safaris has over 19 years of experience in the safari industry, working with about 90 reputable safari companies across Africa, all vying to bring your safari costs within your safari budget.

Together, our team of African travel consultants has over a century’s worth of experience in African safari travel. That is firsthand experience travelling in Africa on a budget and working in the African travel industry. This wealth of knowledge, experience, and connections enables us to match each traveller with the best safari company for their dream trip.

Based in Cape Town, African Budget Safaris has figured out how to cater to everyday people, so you won't need to remortgage your house, cancel college, or cash in your retirement annuity in order to see our amazing landscapes and wildlife. You don't have to waste time and energy on choosing the right safari company, you can simply contact African Budget Safaris and we'll find the best fit for you.

If you prefer to trawl the internet and do your own research to find a safari company (that may or may not be the best option for you), just do your homework. One of the best ways to vet your African safari company is to check out its customer reviews. You can  read our customer reviews  here and see what other travellers have to say about African Budget Safari services.

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Spending More Doesn't Always Amount to a Better Safari Experience

It comes down to personal preference, but your African safari cost is not necessarily a reflection of the quality of the experience. To give an example, some travel styles are cheaper than others. A camping overland trip costs less per day than a lodge-based safari, but if you like travelling in a group and camping out under the stars, you may well enjoy it more than a lodge-based experience.

To find out more about each travel style, follow the green links in the tables to go to the main listing page for that safari type. There you will find a detailed description of what to expect for the given style of safari trip - in the first column.

Why the Cost of an African Safari Can be Budget-Friendly

Over the years the  African safari  experience has been actively promoted as a luxury item, that is costly. Why is that? The main reason is that luxury travel is where the big bucks are to be made for luxury travel agents. These travel agents leverage the excess of past presidents, royals, and superstars to create an aura of elitism. Exclusive safari experiences, with private guides, chauffeur-driven airport transfers, five-star accommodations, haute cuisine, charter flights, and other needless expenses can run into hundreds and thousands of dollars. Nice for some, but not for everyone. 

How much DOES an African safari cost? The truth is that African safaris today offer affordability and outstanding value for money. That's right, affordable safaris exist! African Budget Safaris has a huge range of safari trips to suit every travel style and length of stay. This means that 

To start your journey,  check out our budget safari search  to get an idea of what's available. We cover 14 different African countries from  South Africa  to  Kenya  and beyond. 

For more details about safari costs, see our  African Safari Cost Guide  or contact African Budget Safaris and talk to one of our African travel experts.

[Last Updated August 2023]

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About the Author

Luke hardiman safari geek & bike nut.

Places Mentioned in this Post

1. Serengeti, Tanzania

3. South Africa

5. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

6. Cape Town, South Africa

7. Okavango Delta, Botswana

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Home » 5 Best Affordable African Safari Options in 2024

5 Best Affordable African Safari Options in 2024

Just about everyone thinking about going on an affordable African safari is left in sticker shock—especially after getting quoted a ridiculous price from an online travel agency. For most of us, going on safari in Africa is not possible, and grossly exceeds the notion of a budget vacation.

No worries. Below are some tips and tricks to keep expenses down to make your dream a reality.

Generally, with just about every destination on the planet, there are always ways to do it cheaply. Unfortunately, going “cheap” in Southern and Eastern Africa may lead to your entire trip being left in ruin.

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Beyond simply being disappointed and uncomfortable, being frugal can lead to becoming ill and exposing yourself to personal security risks. Simply put, in Africa, you get exactly what you pay for—no more and no less.

FIVE BEST AFFORDABLE AFRICAN SAFARIS IN 2024

Select a lodge or scroll down to view all.

1. Arathusa Safari Lodge – Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve 2. Ewanjan Tented Camp – Serengeti National Park 3. Mara Intrepids Tented Camp – Masai Mara National Reserve 4. Camp Moremi – Moremi Game Reserve 5. Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bucket list destination.

Going on an affordable African safari is on so many travelers’ bucket lists, and it’s easy to see why. There is no other experience like it on the planet. Moreover, while expensive, we’ve never heard of anyone regretting their trip.

Typically, travelers come back from Africa with a different perspective of the world and their place in it. Whether it’s witnessing extreme poverty, the kindness of the people, or a leopard killing the most darling steenbok, there is no way to avoid feeling more appreciative of everything you have in life—and that is what travel is all about, cultivating priceless experiences.

When you’re ready to book your flight, follow these three easy steps to get the best price.

Of course, this spiritual journey doesn’t come cheap—but dream destinations tend to be this way. When it comes to cost, going on an affordable African safari is up there with exploring the Poles or cruising the Galapagos Islands . For example, many are surprised to find out that the French-speaking country of the Republic of the Congo has recently been ranked as the most expensive travel destination on the planet.

Why is visiting the Republic of the Congo so expensive? It’s because it’s one of the few places in the world to go gorilla trekking .

We use this budget-savvy travel health insurance to protect our trips – get a quick quote .

For example, the daily permit to seek out the gorillas is about USD 500 per person. Of course, the Congo rainforest offers extremely limited accommodation options, along with costly transportation and food expenses. Taxes and fees paid to the government and regional entities also add significant overhead.

Reducing the Cost of a Safari in 2024

We’ve written extensively on the best safari we’ve ever taken in South Africa and how it’s not worth cutting corners financially when planning the expedition. Nevertheless, there are several ways to decrease the overall cost of the trip to make it a more affordable African safari.

Booking Yourself vs. Using Go2Africa

For our vacations to Africa, we’ve used Go2Africa to assist in the planning and arrangements. After tons of research, we concluded that even if we booked everything on our own it would cost more than having someone else do it. Also, beyond the cost, it was extremely beneficial to have someone on the ground to assist while visiting Africa.

Here are three good reasons why we book with outfitters like Go2Africa:

• Customization : Instead of getting stuck with a one-click fixed itinerary, Go2Africa can customize the trip to fit your budget and interests.
• Expertise : Go2Africa will make the vacation as private and exclusive as you desire.
• Affordability : Most of the time, it’s cheaper to go through outfitters like Go2Africa than to book everything individually yourself. For example, it’s pretty much impossible to book transfers, small aircraft, lodging, and game drives yourself without paying through the roof, let alone making a logistical error. For instance, if you make reservations yourself, and one aspect of the trip gets delayed it may put your entire vacation in jeopardy, whereas Go2Africa can make immediate corrections to keep your vacation on schedule.

Two Terrible Options for an Affordable African Safari

Not spending enough money on a proper safari lodge is the greatest mistake visitors to Africa will make. Previously, we’ve written about the obstacles other bloggers faced when trying to go cheap in Africa.

Don’t Do This ⇓

Typically, to save money, safari-goers will choose one of these two inexpensive options, none of which we would recommend:

• African overland tour : Travel through Africa on a modified truck/bus with a group over many weeks. Passengers assist with cooking, cleaning, and setting up tents each evening. Unfortunately, this is one of the cheapest and most uncomfortable ways to go on an affordable African safari.
• Self-driving game drive : Essentially, visitors rent a vehicle and drive through the national parks and do game drives themselves.

Why are these two options so bad?

While cheap, the African overland tour takes place on a big slow loud bumpy truck/bus. Its size, speed, and comfort level greatly limit the experience for the safari-goer. For example, many people complain that they’re motion sick for days or even weeks on end because of the bumpy roads.

The self-driving game drive option, on the other hand, has many more negatives than positives. While visitors may have more freedom to explore as they deem fit, there are also many considerable disadvantages, including:

• Missing out on an expert guide to spot animals
• Staying on the designated roads with no ability to explore the bush
• Keeping the vehicle and passengers safe (e.g., flat tire)
• Never experiencing the safari experience

Also, in certain situations, it may cost more to self-drive than to hire a guide or stay at a safari lodge. For instance, self-driving visitors will still have to pay transit fees, park fees, accommodation fees, car rental fees, and fuel fees.

Probably, the best way to envision a self-driving game drive in Africa is to compare it to driving through Yellowstone National Park . However, a significant difference is that in Africa, passengers are not allowed to exit their vehicles, except at specifically identified camps.

Don’t confuse terminology. The term safari is not synonymous with the notion of a game drive. A safari is considered one’s overall journey with the entire experience summed up in one word. On the other hand, a game drive describes the time one spends tracking, spotting, and viewing wildlife, typically in an open safari vehicle such as a modified Land Rover or Land Cruiser. – Harry

When you compare both an overland tour and a self-driving tour to the five affordable African safari options below, you’ll see how lame the more affordable options are.

National Park vs. Private Game Reserve vs. Conservancy

Generally, a safari in Africa will be held in one of three parks, each with its own set of safari rules. They include:

• National parks
• Private game reserves

Conservancies

It’s important to know the difference between the three types of parks because it determines how the best affordable African safari options are chosen. The most significant differences are described below.

National Parks

National parks and national game reserves like Serengeti, Kruger , and Masai Mara are famous for their abundant wildlife. They’re also renowned for their strict rules, generally forbidding:

• Guided walks
• Getting out of vehicles (except in designated areas)
• Night game drives
• Off-roading
• Limits on the number of vehicles at animal sightings

If any of the above restrictions impair your vision of a great safari then you’ll want to stay on a private game reserve or conservancy. For example, for us, off-roading and night game drives are the highlights of a great safari—nocturnal animals like lions and hyenas are most active at night.

Private Game Reserves

Unlike national parks, private game reserves have the fewest rules because the property is owned privately. In other words, it’s not open to the public including self-driving tourists or tour buses. Also, private game reserves are typically adjoined to a nearby national park and wildlife is free to roam between the two properties.

With landowners being the official adjudicators, guides are given more freedom to track wildlife. For example, most lodges will feature guided walks, night game drives, and off-roading.

Finally, private game reserves will have significantly less traffic than national parks. As a result, guests can enjoy animals in a less crowded and more natural environment.

Concessions

Similar to private game reserves, concessions are areas of land either in a national park or nearby that have been leased for private use. As a result, they benefit from operating under less strict rules than the national park.

Like private game reserves, conservancies are private. However, the main difference is that conservancies typically have local tribes that live on the property. Moreover, conservancy fees help to improve locals’ lives by reinvesting funds in the community.

Five Affordable African Safari Options

The five affordable African safari options below offer great value, and are by no means “cheap.” However, they offer everything one would want out of an African safari but at a much lower price (when compared to the typical luxurious African lodge).

The resorts listed below all provide guests with a five-star experience at a three-star rate. At first glance, prices may seem high but they include accommodation, full board with great food and drinks, up to three safaris per day, and excursions like guided walks with armed field guides.

Finally, it’s worth mentioning that a vacation to Africa will usually include other sights and attractions such as Cape Town and Victoria Falls . Therefore, when considering the price of a safari lodge, many times two or three nights is sufficient.

In fact, many people we’ve met at various lodges quite frequently stayed only one night. However, we encourage travelers to stay at least two nights to increase the odds of catching a rare sighting. Below are five affordable African safaris in 2024:

1. Arathusa Safari Lodge – Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Properties of the same caliber as Arathusa Safari Lodge will typically cost two or even three times as much. Located in Sabi Sand , one of Africa’s premier private game reserves, Arathusa is one of the best affordable safari lodges for anyone looking for a Big 5 experience—90% of guests see all five animals in one day.

During our visit, we enjoyed afternoon tea from our suite overlooking the nearby watering hole, guided walks, and morning and afternoon game drives that led into the evening. In total, we spent about eight hours per day out on the massive reserve searching for wildlife.

We were 100% absolutely wowed by our experience here and wrote extensively about how it was the best safari in South Africa and the best value for the money.

Arathusa Safari Lodge – From $465 per person sharing

2. Ewanjan Tented Camp – Serengeti National Park

With views over an endless plain in Tanzania’s Seronera Valley, guests of the Ewanjan Tented Camp rave about the abundance of wildlife spotted right from camp. During our stay, a large herd of elephants walked down a path about 100 feet from our ensuite tent.

In Serengeti National Park, visitors are not allowed to leave their vehicles or the roads. Nevertheless, one way to get around this limitation is with a hot air balloon ride.

During our hot air balloon ride we spotted an epic sight, a lion eating a crocodile! There’s no feeling like watching the sunset come up over the Serengeti while silently gliding over the wildlife, trees, and rivers. If there’s any place in the world to go on a hot air balloon ride, it’s here. Make sure you book online early to secure your spot or with your agent at Go2Africa.

Additionally, between April and June and November and January, the area around Ewanjan is visited by the wildebeest migration. For this reason, if seeing the Great Migration is on your bucket list then Ewanjan is the ideal affordable African safari accommodation to book.

Ewanjan Tented Camp – From $330 per person sharing

3. Mara Intrepids Tented Camp – Masai Mara National Reserve

Kenya’s must-see Masai Mara National Reserve is home to the Mara Intrepids Tented Camp , one of the most affordable African safari options on our list. Whereas Ewanjan in the Serengeti has endless views of the plains, Mara Intrepids is set amidst a heavily wooded area along the Talek River, only minutes from the Ol Kiombo airstrip.

With an abundance of big cats in the area just about every game drive includes sightings of the King of the Jungle, the lion. Also, Mara Intrepids is in a prime location for the annual wildebeest migration, which takes place between August and October.

Finally, not only is the wildlife viewing amazing but families seek out this lodge for its kid’s clubs which focus on animal education and local Masai culture.

Mara Intrepids Tented Camp – From $175 per person sharing

4. Camp Moremi – Moremi Game Reserve

The Okavango Delta, located in Botswana, is one of the most biodiverse places in Africa and is the main source of water for about a million people. Furthermore, the delta supports the world’s largest surviving elephant population, numbering around 130,000. Of course, there are plenty of hippos, lions, wild dogs, leopards, crocodiles, cheetahs, and countless waterfowl too.

Situated on the stunning Xakanaxa lagoon, and offering water-based safaris, Camp Moremi is an unforgettable and affordable African safari. While it may be a bit expensive and luxurious to be considered low-cost, Camp Moremi does provide tons of value. In fact, what makes it unique is that it provides both 4×4 game drives and water safaris.

Botswana is the second most expensive destination on the planet, only behind the Republic of the Congo. Guests should find comfort in knowing that they’re paying the “going rate,” when just about every safari lodge in the area costs at least USD 1000 per night—and, similar lodges cost well over USD 2000 per night.

It’s worth noting that the Moremi Game Reserve does not allow night game drives or off-roading.

Camp Moremi – From $597 per person sharing

5. Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Situated in the southwest corner of Uganda on Lake Mutanda, bordering DR Congo and Rwanda, Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge is the mecca for gorilla lovers. Tourists come from all over the world to spend one hour in the company of wild gorillas.

Along with vibrant colors, guests of Chameleon Hill are treated to the most jaw-dropping view of the Virunga volcanoes. Nevertheless, the highlight here is, of course, the gorilla tracking.

Perfectly positioned between Mgahinga Gorilla and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks, Chameleon Hill is the ideal base for tracking wild gorillas. Also, gorilla permits cost about half the cost in neighboring Rwanda. Furthermore, Chameleon Hill has the option of research-based treks which allocate four hours with the gorillas, instead of just one.

Gorilla permits are far and few. Therefore, if you’re serious about doing this then plan on booking at least three months in advance. Also, along with gorilla trekking, Chameleon Hill offers walking and canoe-based safaris for bird watching and spotting the golden monkey.

Chameleon Hill Forest Lodge – From $250 per person sharing

These Lodges Provide Great Value

Whether you’re looking to spot the Big Five in South Africa or go gorilla trekking in Uganda, the above lodges are the best affordable African safari options out there. While the nightly prices are by no means “cheap,” they do provide great value especially, when comparing similar lodges that cost two or three times as much.

Preparing an African itinerary is an overwhelming process, and it only gets more complicated each time you visit. The easiest way to start planning is to use Go2Africa’s inquiry tool which helps design the perfect safari that aligns with your budget.

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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