- +255788928888
- info@africanheart.com
- Arusha, Tanzania
- Visit Germany website: www.africanheartsafaris.de
The very first question that comes to mind for most people when planning an African safari is: how much does an African safari cost?
A standard safari trip in Tanzania can cost anywhere between $350 and $1500+ per person per day. There is no fixed price, as safari costs vary depending on the type of accommodation, travel season, and number of people in the safari. Hence, when you go online, you will find a wide range of different prices, some a few thousand bucks and others that are as costly as the most luxurious world cruises.
The misunderstanding stems from one key point: the African safari prices are not constant and Tanzania, one of the premium safari spots in Africa, is a classic example of why prices vary so widely.
This article focuses on the actual cost of an African safari through Tanzania, rather than giving a comparison of the different countries. Instead, we look at what really influences safari prices, what different budgets can provide, and how to plan realistically — especially if it’s your first safari.
By the end of this article, you’ll understand:
When people inquire how much is a safari in Africa, they are usually not interested in a single fixed number. They want to know what a realistic range is and what factors influence the final price.
Also for simplicity safari services are divided into Budget safari, Mid-Range Safari and Luxury safari.
These prices usually include:
They usually exclude:
Therefore, when asking how much an African safari costs, the real answer is: it depends on how you travel.
For many tourists, a two-week safari is a dream and Tanzania is one of the ideal places to realize it.
Generally, a 2-week safari includes:
More days for safari leads to higher costs not just because of the tourists’ accommodation but also due to these factors:
Still, sometimes a 2-week safari that mixes mainland Tanzania with Zanzibar is the best daily value option compared to very short trips since the costs are spread over more days.
The safari prices are not random. There are some crucial factors that affect the final price.
Private safari costs more since:
Group safari reduces the price by sharing:
Private safari is all about comfort and flexibility while group safari is about cost-effectiveness.
Accommodation has one of the most significant effects on cost.
Luxury properties often cost more because they are located inside national parks and include personalized service.
Tanzania safari prices change by season.
How you move between parks matters.
Flying between parks can add thousands of dollars to the total safari cost.
There is more to budgeting than deciding on a number when it comes to an African safari. Below are the steps.
The questions that you should ask yourself are:
It’s easier not to exceed your budget if you know exactly what your priorities are.
Making the mistake of trying to see too much in too little time is very common. It not only adds to the expenses but also diminishes the pleasure.
In Tanzania:
Always leave a little for the following:
A realistic safari budget includes a buffer of 10-15%.
Cost surprises are not always obvious upfront, and sometimes they are not highlighted at all.
Among African countries, Tanzania charges the highest conservation fees, mainly in parks like:
These fees collected by the government are directly used for wildlife protection and support local communities.
The lone traveler usually pays more because lodging prices are generally based on double occupancy.
The flights connecting the different safari regions are convenient but expensive and often not included in the basic safari price quotes.
Tipping is the practice everywhere in Africa and it is very much appreciated by the Africans. Although not required, it should be part of your budget plan.
For first-timers’ major worry is safety.
Nevertheless, to a great extent, African safaris in Tanzania are very safe, especially when booked through reputable tour operators.
Most incidents happen outside safari contexts, not during game drives.
With basic awareness, safaris are among the safest adventure experiences
If this is your first safari, then your expectations will largely shape the entire experience.
Animals are not caged, they are more free. Therefore, some quiet periods happen and that is part of the whole adventure.
Most game drives begin very early in the morning when the animals are most active.
Expect dust, uneven roads, and unpredictable weather.
Clothing is a concern for many travelers, but safari packing is actually straightforward.
Note: Do not wear bright colors or heavy clothes.
Note: Most lodges will have laundry services, therefore packing less than usual is not a mistake.
Safaris are conducted across several African countries, but the two most famous areas are East Africa and Southern Africa.
East Africa includes Tanzania, which has:
.
It isn’t possible to point out one safari destination like the “best” one, as it is fully dependent on individual preferences regarding the sights and experiences.
Tanzania, however, is mostly thought to be one of the best places as it gives the following benefits:
Tanzania is not the cheapest option but rather the most expensive one. It chooses quality and sustainability that justifies its price.
Most likely, to many travelers, the answer is “yes”.
A safari trip in Tanzania gives:
Once you realize what the cost comprises, safari resorts become less about price and more about the value received.
So, how much does an African safari cost?
Using Tanzania as an example, the cost depends on:
There is no single price — only the right safari for your expectations and budget.
By understanding how safari pricing works, you can plan confidently, avoid surprises, and choose an experience that delivers lifelong memories rather than regret.
Please share details and any preferences
