A safari in Africa can range from approximately $5,000 to $14,000 per person, depending on your chosen destination and the time of year. Prices are primarily influenced by the specific country you visit and whether you travel during the low or classic high season.
Understanding African Safari Costs
The cost of an African safari varies significantly based on several factors, including the destination country, the time of year (low season versus high season), the duration of your trip, and the level of luxury or type of accommodation you choose.
Typical Safari Costs by Destination and Season
Below is an overview of estimated costs for classic African safaris in popular destinations, differentiating between value low season and classic high season prices.
| Location | Value Low Season (Per Person) | Classic High Season (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Tanzania | $5,000 - $6,000 | $8,500 - $11,000 |
| Kenya | $5,000 - $6,000 | $8,500 - $11,000 |
| South Africa | $5,000 - $6,000 | $7,000 - $11,000 |
| Botswana | $6,000 - $8,000 | $9,000 - $14,000 |
As seen in the table, countries like Botswana tend to have higher price points, particularly during the classic high season, reflecting exclusive experiences and potentially higher operational costs.
Factors Influencing Safari Prices
Beyond the destination and season, several other elements contribute to the overall cost of your safari:
- Duration of the Safari: Longer safaris naturally incur higher costs due to extended accommodation, guide services, and park fees.
- Accommodation Style: Options range from budget-friendly tented camps to ultra-luxury lodges, with prices escalating accordingly.
- Inclusions: Some safari packages are comprehensive, covering flights within Africa, airport transfers, meals, drinks, park entrance fees, and daily game drives. Others might only cover basic accommodation and activities, requiring additional expenditure for other services.
- Activities: Specialized activities such as hot air balloon rides, walking safaris, or cultural visits can add to the total cost.
- Group Size: Private safaris are typically more expensive than joining a group tour.
- International Flights: The cost of flights to and from your safari destination is a significant additional expense not typically included in the safari package price.
Understanding these variables helps in planning a safari that aligns with your budget and expectations.
