An African safari is one of the most unforgettable travel experiences, offering breathtaking landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and a deep dive into local cultures. However, the cost of a safari varies significantly based on factors such as destination, level of luxury, season, and mode of transportation.
If you’re planning a safari in 2025, understanding the different cost components will help you budget accordingly. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly group safari or a private, luxury safari, this guide provides a detailed breakdown of what to expect.
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1. How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
The cost of an African safari typically falls within these price ranges:
- Budget Group Safari: $150 – $350 per person per day
- Mid-Range Safari: $350 – $700 per person per day
- Luxury Safari: $700 – $1,500 per person per day
- Ultra-Luxury Safari: $1,500 – $2,500+ per person per day
The total cost depends on where you go, how you travel, where you stay, and what activities you choose. Below, we break down each factor.
2. Safari Costs by Destination
Your choice of country significantly impacts your overall safari budget. Some destinations cater to budget travelers, while others focus on exclusivity and high-end experiences.
Tanzania & Kenya – Classic Safari Destinations
- Budget: $250 – $500 per person per day
- Luxury: $700 – $1,500 per person per day
- Why?: Home to the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Ngorongoro Crater, these countries offer some of the best wildlife viewing, including the Great Migration.
South Africa – Budget to Luxury Options
- Budget: $150 – $400 per person per day
- Luxury: $600 – $1,500 per person per day
- Why?: Kruger National Park offers both self-drive and guided safaris, making it one of the most affordable safari destinations.
Botswana – Exclusive, High-End Safaris
- Budget: Not common (minimum $500 per day)
- Luxury: $1,000 – $2,500 per person per day
- Why?: The Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park offer a unique, remote safari experience with private, high-end lodges.
Namibia – Affordable Wildlife Adventures
- Budget: $150 – $300 per person per day
- Luxury: $500 – $1,200 per person per day
- Why?: Namibia offers self-drive safaris in Etosha National Park, providing excellent value for money.
Uganda & Rwanda – Gorilla Trekking Costs Extra
- Budget: $250 – $500 per person per day
- Luxury: $800 – $1,500 per person per day
- Why?: The highlight here is gorilla trekking, which requires a permit costing between $700 and $1,500 per person.
3. Safari Types & Their Costs
Private Safaris – Ultimate Exclusivity
- Cost: $500 – $2,500+ per person per day
- Best For: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, photographers
- Experience: Private guide, exclusive game drives, luxury lodges
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Group-Joining Safaris – Affordable & Social
- Cost: $150 – $500 per person per day
- Best For: Budget travelers, solo travelers, groups
- Experience: Shared safari vehicle, set itinerary, budget to mid-range lodges
Join a group safari here: safaris.quest/types/group-joining-safaris
4. Accommodation Costs
Your choice of accommodation significantly affects the total cost of your safari.
Budget Lodges & Camps ($150 – $350 per night)
- Basic but comfortable lodges or tented camps
- Shared or en-suite bathrooms
- Guided game drives with larger groups
Mid-Range Safari Lodges ($350 – $700 per night)
- Comfortable lodges or tented camps with private bathrooms
- Small-group safaris with experienced guides
- Good mix of affordability and comfort
Luxury Safari Lodges ($700 – $1,500 per night)
- High-end tented camps or lodges with premium service
- Private game drives with expert guides
- Gourmet dining and exclusive experiences
Ultra-Luxury Safari Camps ($1,500 – $2,500+ per night)
- Exclusive lodges in remote locations
- Helicopter transfers, personal guides, private butlers
- Fully personalized experiences
5. Transportation & Flight Costs
International Flights
- From the U.S. or Europe: $800 – $2,500 round trip
- From Asia or Australia: $1,200 – $3,000 round trip
Domestic Flights to Safari Parks
- $200 – $600 per flight (depends on distance)
- Private charter flights for luxury safaris $1,000+ per flight
For budget safaris, driving or joining an overland tour reduces costs.
6. Park Fees & Conservation Costs
National park entry fees vary by destination:
- Serengeti National Park (Tanzania): $70 per person per day
- Maasai Mara (Kenya): $80 per person per day
- Kruger National Park (South Africa): $25 per person per day
- Okavango Delta Private Reserves (Botswana): $100 – $200 per person per day
- Gorilla Trekking (Uganda & Rwanda): $700 – $1,500 per permit
These fees are typically included in safari packages, but it’s essential to confirm.
7. Additional Costs to Consider
- Tipping Safari Guides & Lodge Staff: $10 – $20 per day
- Travel Insurance: $100 – $500 per trip
- Souvenirs & Local Crafts: $20 – $200
- Optional Activities:
- Hot air balloon safaris: $500+
- Walking safaris, night drives, cultural visits: $50 – $200
8. How to Save Money on a Safari
- Travel During Low Season (April – June, November – December) – Lower rates and fewer tourists.
- Join a Group Safari – Shared safaris reduce costs significantly (safaris.quest/types/group-joining-safaris).
- Self-Drive in South Africa or Namibia – Avoids expensive guided tours.
- Book in Advance – Flights and lodges are cheaper when booked early.
9. Final Budget Estimate for a 7-Day Safari
- Budget Safari: $1,500 – $3,000 per person
- Mid-Range Safari: $3,000 – $5,000 per person
- Luxury Safari: $6,000 – $12,000 per person
- Ultra-Luxury Safari: $15,000+ per person
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly group safari or an exclusive luxury experience, there’s an option that fits your budget.
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