How Much Does an African Safari Cost?

1. Destination:

Costs can vary significantly depending on the region you choose, influenced by factors like seasonality, popularity, and accessibility. At Discover Africa we pride ourselves on delivering expert first-hand safari travel planning advice to shape your tailor-made itinerary to give you peace of mind for an impactful travel experience, wherever you choose to go.

2. Accommodation:

Accommodation is a significant component of your safari cost, profoundly impacting your overall safari budget.

• Responsible Choices: Our high-quality partner lodges and hotels are selected based on their dedication to responsible and sustainable practices to enhance Africa’s wildlife and safari experiences to benefit local communities.

• Luxury and Inclusions: We recommend accommodations that offer exceptional value, considering all inclusions and exclusions. Opting for an all-inclusive luxury lodge may appear more expensive initially, but it often saves on additional costs like drinks, laundry, and internet, enhancing your overall experience.

3. Time of Year:

Peak season safari travel, like during the Great Migration for example, is more expensive than off-peak times. Travelling during the low-season, however, can see rates being half the cost of high-season prices. It also sees a more intimate wildlife viewing experience. Shoulder seasons offer mid-range pricing. Flexible travel dates allow you to take advantage of these savings, away from the crowds.

4. Duration:

The length of your safari will directly influence the total cost. If you are flexible for a longer stay, it does afford you a less rushed and more immersive safari experience.

5. Group Size:

Larger groups may benefit from group discounts, while smaller groups or solo travellers may incur higher per-person costs.

Game packages, where you fly from camp to camp and share lodge vehicles for game drives, may appear affordable due to shared vehicle costs. However, inter-camp flights can offset these savings.

Depending on your group size, choosing to drive between camps with a driver and a guide offers a more personal, quality safari experience. We can assist in finding the best options for your preferred group size.

6. Type of Safari:

Guided tours, self-drive safaris, and private safaris all have different price points. Our travel experts are seasoned planners for various budgets and customizable itineraries to craft the most impactful, memorable safari adventure for you.

7. Activities and Excursions:

We work exclusively with lodges that include the standard game drives in your stay, ensuring a seamless and immersive safari experience without unexpected additional costs.

This distinguishes us from options that require booking game drives separately, often found with accommodations outside the park.

Our expert advisors are able to tailor your safari package according to any additional activities and excursions you may want to experience. Here are some estimated costs for popular experiences that would have an additional cost factor for you to consider:

• Hot Air Balloon Rides: Typically range from $400 to $600 per person, depending on the location and duration of the flight.
• Walking Safaris: Usually cost between $50 and $150 per person, depending on the length and guide’s expertise.
• Cultural Visits: Fees for visits to local communities or cultural sites generally range from $30 to $100 per person.
• Fishing and Boat Safaris: Costs for fishing trips or boat safaris can vary from $100 to $300 per person, depending on the location and type of activity.
• Night Game Drives: Often available for an additional $50 to $150 per person, providing a unique perspective on both game viewing and wildlife behaviour.
• Private Vehicles and Guides: Guests have the option to arrange a private vehicle and guide at an extra cost.

8. Park Fees and Permits:

Entry fees for national parks and reserves vary and should be included in your budget. Park entry fees can range from $80 per day in Tanzania’s Serengeti to $30 per day in South Africa’s Kruger National Park. However, gorilla trekking in Rwanda comes with a $1500 permit fee to ensure a sustainable and responsible tourism experience.

9. Travel and Transfers:

When budgeting for your safari, consider the cost of both international and domestic flights, as well as transfers between lodges and parks. International flights to Africa typically range from $600 to $1200, depending on your departure location and the time of year.

Domestic flights within Africa, such as those between all major safari destinations, can cost between $200 and $400 pp per leg. Transfers between lodges and parks, whether by road or air, also impact your budget. Road transfers may cost around $100 to $400 per trip, while charter flights between camps can range from $300 to $500 per person, per leg.

10. Meals and Drinks:

Determine whether meals and drinks are included in your accommodation package or if they will be additional expenses.

When evaluating your safari accommodation package, be aware of the following inclusions – our expert consultants are on hand to explain it all to you:

• Full Board: This typically includes three meals a day-breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) may or may not be included, but we clarify this beforehand.
• Half Board: Usually includes breakfast and either lunch or dinner. Drinks and additional meals may be extra.
• All-Inclusive: Covers all meals, local or selected alcoholic drinks, and often includes snacks, activities, and sometimes even park fees. It provides the most comprehensive coverage, minimising additional expenses.
• Bed and Breakfast: Includes only breakfast, with other meals and drinks available at extra cost.
• Self-Catering: Accommodation is provided without any meals included, allowing you to prepare your own food or dine out.

11. Travel Insurance:

Ensure you have coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events.

12. Tipping and Gratuities:

Tipping is customary in many safari destinations and should be factored into your budget. Here is an estimated tipping guideline for various services you’ll encounter during your safari:

• Guides and Trackers: $10 to $20 per day, per service. For exceptional service, consider tipping towards the higher end of this range.
• Drivers: $5 to $15 per day, per driver. This amount may vary based on the length of the transfer and the quality of service.
• Lodge Staff: $5 to $10 per guest, per day. This can be given collectively or distributed among individual staff members.
• Housekeeping: $3 to $5 per day, left in your room for the housekeeping staff.
• Specialty Services: For additional services like hot air balloon rides or private excursions, consider a tip of $20 to $50 per person.

13. Visas and Vaccinations:

Account for the cost of visas and necessary vaccinations for travel to certain countries.

14. Personal Expenses:

Include a budget for souvenirs, personal items, and any other incidental expenses.