How Much Does a Safari Cost? A Detailed Breakdown & Our Honest Advice
If you’re considering a safari, your first question is likely about the cost. While it’s true that some safaris can be incredibly expensive, assuming that this is the case for all of them means you could be missing out on an amazing experience. Calculating the total cost can be complex, but at Nature Bound Africa, we have options for all budgets.
Whether you’re looking for a specifically tailored trip with high-end amenities or a basic, no-frills option where your only goal is to see Africa’s incredible wildlife, we’ve got you covered.
What are My Safari Options?
Before we dive into the cost, let’s look at the two main types of safaris we offer, as your choice will have a huge impact on the overall price.
1. Set Departure Safaris
These are pre-planned safaris for small groups that start and end on specific dates. Think of them as package deals with a single price and a fixed itinerary. This is a great option for those who want to share logistical costs with other like-minded travelers, which helps keep prices lower than a tailored trip. It’s ideal if you’re on a budget or traveling alone, as it’s a great way to meet new people who share your interests.
2. Tailor-Made Safaris
As the name suggests, this option offers a flexible experience that can be customized to your specific needs. We will work with you via email, Skype, or Zoom to create the perfect safari, taking into account your budget, preferred dates, interests, and accommodation style. Because of the numerous factors at play, it’s harder to give a single price upfront, but we will provide you with a detailed quote once we’ve discussed your preferences.
Understanding Safari Budget Levels
When you’re thinking about your budget, it’s easy to focus only on the price tag, but the cost level also defines the type of experience you’ll have.
- Budget: Your main priority is simply being on safari. You’re fine with very basic accommodation as long as you get the thrill of the adventure.
- Affordable: You want decent, safe, and clean accommodation that doesn’t cost too much.
- Mid-range: You’re looking for a quality experience without unnecessary luxury. This could include authentic tented safari lodges with quality guides.
- High-end: You appreciate the finer things, like great food, fine wines, and luxury amenities. You’re willing to pay more for a higher level of comfort and service.
- Top-end: Money is no object. You want the “best of the best,” whether that’s ultra-luxurious accommodation, world-class service, or exclusive wildlife viewing opportunities.
What Factors Influence the Price?
In addition to your chosen safari type and budget level, several other factors can affect the total cost.
- Travel Season: This is one of the most significant factors. The rainy season (also called the green season or off-season) has fewer visitors, more rain, and lower prices. The dry season (peak season) has drier weather, more tourists, and higher prices. For example, a safari in Botswana during the rainy season can sometimes be half the cost of a similar trip during the dry season.
- Destination: Safari prices vary greatly by country and region. This can be due to a country’s tourism model, such as Botswana’s “high cost, low volume” approach, which is designed to minimize environmental impact. If you have a set budget but aren’t sure where to go, we can advise you on the best destination for your money.
- Number of People: The price per person generally decreases as the number of people in a group increases, as you can share logistical costs like transfers and vehicle fees. For example, four friends sharing a room will pay less than four friends who each need their own room.
- Mode of Travel: How you get around also impacts the cost. Renting a car to drive yourself is one of the cheapest options, while a private helicopter ride would be at the opposite end of the spectrum. Other options include private transfers, guided vehicles, flights, or even walking, horseback, or camel safaris, all with varying price points.
- Hobbies/Interests: The more specific or “niche” your safari is, the higher the cost is likely to be. This could include activities like fly-fishing, specialized birding trips, or multi-day walking safaris.
Fixed Logistical Costs
When planning your safari, you must account for unavoidable logistical costs, which can include national park fees, conservation fees, regional flights, and other transfer costs. For example, in Northern Tanzania (including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro), fixed costs for park fees, entry fees, a vehicle, and a driver can be around $250 per person per day. These costs are often a significant portion of the total price, so it’s vital to check the small print and find out exactly what is included in your booking. Be wary of any safari that seems “too good to be true”.
Honest Advice on Pricing
- You Get What You Pay For: This is especially true for safaris. While budget travel is possible, a great safari experience comes with a certain price. A large portion of these costs goes towards conservation, staff training, and the high logistical expenses of operating in remote areas.
- Booking an Agent Isn’t More Expensive: It’s a common myth that booking through a travel agent or tour operator is more expensive than booking directly. In fact, agents can often negotiate better deals due to their relationships with safari companies and their knowledge of available specials.
- What Isn’t Included: Unless otherwise stated, the following are typically not included in your safari price:
- International flights
- Visa costs
- Vaccinations and required medical tests
- Tipping
- Travel insurance
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, please get in touch with our team of experts. We can simplify the process and help make your safari dreams come true.