Cost is the first concern of almost every traveller. It is also the most misunderstood. Often, tourists assume an African safari is only for the very rich. That is simply not true.

The honest answer is that a safari can cost very little or a great deal. It all depends on where you go, how you travel, and how long you stay. This blog breaks down the real numbers so that you can plan with confidence.

Daily Costs: What to Expect Per Day

The easiest way to assess a safari budget is in terms of per day. Here is a rough guide based on travel style.

• Budget travel: $50-$100 per day. This covers basic accommodation, simple meals, and local transport.
• Mid-range travel: about $150 to $300 a day. Expect more comfortable stays and guided tours.
• Luxury travel: $500 to $1,500+ a day. This is the top end, common in places such as the Serengeti or the Kruger National Park.

These figures can give you an approx. idea. The real cost depends on the choices you make next.

Safari Packages: Real Examples

Daily rates are useful, but most travellers book a full package. To make this concrete, here are some of our actual group-joining safaris and their starting prices:

• 4-Day Group Joining Safari in Tanzania, from $415
• 5-Day Group Joining Safari in Tanzania, from $500
• 3-Day Masai Mara Group Joining Safari, from $760
• 6-Day Best of Kenya in a Group, from $1,300
• 8-Day Double Gorilla Trekking, Rwanda & Uganda, from $3,082
• 10-Day Culture and Wildlife Safari, from $6,450

As you can see, a short group safari can start at a few hundred dollars. Gorilla trekking and longer luxury trips cost more, mostly due to permits, lodges, and time on the road.

Which Factors Influence the Price

Two trips of the same length can cost very differently. A few key factors explain why.

• Destination: Famous parks like the Serengeti or Kruger cost more than quieter reserves.
• Accommodation: Basic camps are cheaper. Luxury lodges and tented camps cost much more.
• Duration: Longer trips cost more, simply due to extra nights and activities.
• Season: Peak season (June to October) pushes prices up. The low season is cheaper.
• Game drive style: Private game drives cost more than shared group drives.
• Flights: International flights can add $600 to $2,000, depending on your city and the season.

Safari types and their Cost

Different safari tours fall at different price points. Here is how they compare per day.

• Overland safaris: $100-250. Vehicle shared as part of group travel.
• Budget safaris: $150-300, lower-class accommodations, and shared vehicles to get around.
• Mid-range safaris: $300-600, with more comfortable lodges, and you can have your own vehicle for travel
• Private safaris: $500-1500. Packages designed entirely to your taste, with your own vehicle and guide.
• Luxury safaris: $1000+. First-class service, private guides, and add-ons (hot air balloon rides)

Added Costs of Adventure Activities

Many travellers add special activities to their trip. These are usually priced separately. Typical costs are:

• Group game drives: $100-$200 per person.
• Private game drives: $300-$500 per person.
• Walking safaris: $50-$100 per person.
• Hot air balloon rides: $300 to $500 per person.
• Cultural tours: $30-$100 per person.
• Night safaris: $50-$150 per person.
• Fishing or boat safaris: $100-$300 per person.

Pick the experiences that you want to experience on your safari tour. They are a great way to make a trip special without overspending.

Don’t Forget the Extras

Budgeting only for your Safari isn’t the best choice; there are additional expenses that can add up. The list below gives you an idea of some extras beyond the tour. 

• Flights: international or domestic. 
• Travel Insurance: This is essential to have both medical coverage and trip cancellation in case something goes wrong with your flight.
• Entry Fees: Every reserve has an entry fee, but it may vary from one reserve to another. 
• Gratuities/Tips: Guides, Drivers and Camp Staff expect t be tipped. 
• Visas & Vaccinations: depending on both your nationality and destination, the Cost will vary accordingly.  
• Optional Activities (Balloon Rides, Private Tours): will add additional costs.

Build these into your budget from the start. That way, there are no surprises later.

How to Cut the Budget on Your Safari? 

A safari experience does not have to break your bank. Here are simple ways to keep costs down:

• Consider visiting during the off-season (April–June or November) for lower prices and less traffic.
• Select less expensive types of accommodation, e.g. basic lodges or campsites.
• Participate in a group tour versus arranging a private one yourself.
• Use public or shared transport instead of private vehicles.
• During the booking process, look for discounts and other offers by booking well in advance.
• Consider not taking many additional optional extras, as this will help keep costs down.

Final Takeaway

What is the price range of an African safari? Simple overland trips (like camping) can be relatively inexpensive ($50 per person per day). However,  luxury accommodations could cost more than $1500 per person per day. Planning a group safari can help keep total costs down to just a couple of hundred dollars (or less) per person.

The truth is that a safari fits more budgets than most people think. The secret is to match the trip to your goals and be clear about what is included.

At La Pisada Africa Safaris, we build trips for every budget, and we tell you exactly what your price covers. No hidden costs, no surprises.

Want a safari that fits your budget? Plan your trip with us, and we’ll give you an honest, customised quote.

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