How Much Does an African Safari Cost? A 2025 Guide
An Africa safari… We’d rather call it a life-changing experience 🦁 But it’s true that these safaris also come with a wide range of price tags. It’s important to know what to expect when budgeting for an African safari 2025.
In this guide, we break down the cost of a safari trip to Africa and help you understand what factors affect the average safari cost. So you can plan wisely and travel confidently.
What Does an African Safari Cost?
The short answer: It depends.
The average cost for an African safari ranges between $250 to $8,000+ per person per night. The exact price is subject to many different factors. Let’s see a few categories.
Budget safaris. These safaris start at $250 per day. You can expect group tours and shared accommodations. The facilities on these tours will generally be basic.
Mid-range safaris. Priced between $1000 and $4000 per person per day. These packages offer more comfortable lodges and private guides. The experience will be more personalized.
Luxury safaris. Ranging from $4000 to $5000+ per person per day. Luxury safaris provide top-tier accommodations and exclusive experiences. The service is also excellent!
Cost of Safari: East Africa
Tanzania Safari Cost
We offer the following in Tanzania:
Tanzania Safari, 10 days, $9000 per person. This premier package covers iconic destinations. Like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
Tanzania Safari: Big 5 & Beyond, 7 days, $4150 per person. Experience the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and African buffalo).
First Class Tanzania Safari, 10 days, $14,100 per person. If you’re looking for unparalleled luxury, this you’ve found it!
Kenya Safari Cost
For Kenya, our packages include:
Classic Kenya Safari, 8 days, $3925 per person. You’ll see Lake Nakuru, Masai Mara, and Samburu.
Exclusive Kenya Safari, 8 days, $7450 per person. You will be enjoying Kenya’s premier wildlife destinations with this luxury package.
Gorilla Trekking Cost
For those interested in primate encounters:
Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari, 6 days, $3965 per person. In this safari, you discover gorillas and chimpanzees in the lush African forests
Gorilla Trek (Rwanda), 4 days, $5670 per person. Majestic mountain gorillas is what you’ll be seeing on this safari!
Cost of Safari: Southern Africa
South Africa Safari Cost
Our packages for South Africa include:
South Africa Safari, 13 days, $8470 per person. This covers Cape Town, the Garden Route, and premier game reserves.
Explore South Africa, 8 days, $3650 per person. With this tour, you go through all of South Africa’s highlights.
So, how much is a safari in South Africa? Generally less than in East Africa, thanks to good infrastructure and self-drive options.
Botswana Safari Cost
Our Botswana offerings include…
Classic Botswana Safari, 9 days, $4440 per person. This includes the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. You’ll also see the Victoria Falls.
Botswana Desert & Delta Safari, 11 days, $7290 per person. Explore the landscapes of Botswana’s deserts and wetlands. In addition to the destinations in the Classic Botswana safari—expect to see the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park and Moremi Game Reserve.
Botswana is more exclusive and remote. Camps are fly-in only, so the safari cost will generally be higher. But the plus point is, you’ll experience unmatched wildlife + fewer crowds 😄
What Influences Average African Safari Cost?
The cost of a safari in Africa can vary dramatically, even within the same region. To understand the price differences, it’s important to look at the main factors that affect what you’ll pay…
Season
Africa’s safari regions operate on seasonal pricing. This means the time of year you choose to go really affects your experience + your wallet.
- High Season (June to October): This is when game viewing is at its best. Dry weather draws animals to water sources, so sightings are more predictable. Because demand is high, so are prices. Expect to pay a premium for lodges and flights.
- Low Season (March to May): Also known as the “green season”. This period is lush and ideal for birdwatching. It’s also the most affordable time to go on safari; many camps will offer discounts of up to 40%.
- Shoulder Season (November to February): These transitional months can offer great value. The weather may be less predictable, but the wildlife is still abundant. And prices are more moderate.
Trip Length
The length of your safari directly affects your total cost, but it also affects your per-day value.
A shorter safari, 3 to 5 days, might have higher per-day costs. This is because of transfers.
A longer safari, 7 to 14 days, spreads out fixed costs like international flights and typically gives you more value, variety in locations, and better chances to see wildlife.
Keep in mind that some national parks or regions require longer travel times. A 10-day safari may be better suited for areas like Tanzania or Botswana.
Level of Accommodation
Where you stay plays one of the most significant roles in determining how much your safari will cost. Here’s an idea of what to expect:
Value ($250 to $500 per person per day)
These are budget-friendly options. They will typically include basic safari lodges or permanent tented camps. Value accommodation is ideal for group tours or first-time travelers looking for an affordable adventure. Amenities are clean and comfortable, but not overly luxurious.
Premier ($600 to $1000 per person per day)
Premier accommodation offers a balance between comfort and cost. It often includes mid-range boutique lodges or well-rated tented camps. You’ll enjoy private bathrooms, quality meals, excellent guiding, and small group or private tours.
Luxury ($1200 to $2500+ per person per day)
These safaris are all about exclusivity and indulgence. Think private plunge pools, gourmet dining, fly-in access, and highly personalized service. Luxury accommodations are typically set in prime wildlife areas with little guest capacity.
Check out our blog: What are Safari Accommodations Really Like
What’s Not Included: Cost of a Safari
Our packages are comprehensive, but there are a few hidden costs that are not covered. So you should account for these as you prepare for your safari.
International Flights
The costs vary widely by origin. If you’re flying from the USA, expect to pay $1,100 to $3,500 for a round-trip to East Africa. For folks flying into Southern Africa from Europe, a cost estimate of $1,000 to $3,200 should be kept in mind.
Visas & Vaccinations
For visas, you will be paying an additional $50 to $100, depending on the country. Vaccinations, for yellow fever (required in some countries), typhoid, and malaria may add $100 to $300 to your total.
Travel Insurance
Strongly recommended. Coverage typically costs $200 to $3,300+, depending on trip length and destination.
Staff Tips
Tipping is customary and part of the cost of a safari trip to Africa. We recommend that guests tip the guide $30 to $40 per day (Total). For the camp staff, a tip of $5 to $10 per day is suitable. (These tips are recommended per guest).
Summing Up African Safari Cost…
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to African safari cost—and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re planning an adventurous group trip on a budget, a romantic mid-range honeymoon, or the luxury wildlife experience of your dreams, there’s a safari out there that fits your goals, preferences, and price point.
The key is understanding the moving parts: the season you travel in, the countries you explore, your accommodations, and how long you stay. By getting clear on what affects safari prices—from green season discounts to luxury lodge upgrades—you’ll be better equipped to plan a trip that balances both adventure and value.
Remember, an African safari isn’t just a vacation—it’s a bucket-list journey that connects you with nature, culture, and unforgettable wildlife. It’s worth every penny—and with the right guidance, you can make every dollar stretch further.
If you’re ready to start planning or still figuring out what fits your budget, our team is here to help. We specialize in creating custom itineraries that match your style and spending plan—so you don’t have to guess your way through it.
Have questions about planning a safari in 2025?
Contact our team to talk to one of our expert safari planners and let’s bring your dream trip to life—without surprises when it comes to cost.
