First-Time Safari Guide
Where to go, when, how long, what it costs and what to pack — the honest, step-by-step guide.
Plan · Safari Costs
What an African Safari Really Costs
Realistic ranges, what’s included, the hidden extras — and how to get better value.
“How much does a safari cost?” is the question we hear most. The honest answer is: anywhere from the price of a good hotel to far more than you might expect. Here is how pricing works, so you can set a realistic budget.
How safari pricing works
Most safari camps charge per person, per night, on a fully inclusive basis: your room, all meals, most drinks, two activities a day (game drives, walks, canoeing) and often park or conservation fees. Rates are usually quoted in US dollars and vary by season, with peak months the most expensive.
Indicative price ranges
The ranges below are broad, per person per night sharing, and intended only as a starting point. Prices vary by country, season and camp, and change every year.
| Level | What you get | Indicative range |
|---|---|---|
| Simple | Participation camping, basic tented camps, self-drive | Under US$300 |
| Mid-range | Comfortable tented camps and lodges, shared activities | US$400–800 |
| High-end | Small camps, excellent guiding, private concessions | US$800–1,500 |
| Exceptional | The most exclusive camps, often private vehicles | US$1,500 and up |
As a rule of thumb, Botswana sits at the top end; Zambia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Kenya cover the full range; and Namibia offers excellent value, especially self-drive.
What’s often extra
- International flights to Africa.
- Light-aircraft transfers between camps, which can add significantly to the total.
- Park and conservation fees, if not included in the rate.
- Visas and travel insurance with medical evacuation.
- Tips for guides and staff.
- Premium drinks, laundry at some camps, and special activities such as scenic flights.
Why safaris cost what they do
Remote camps fly in most supplies, employ large teams and pay substantial fees that fund conservation and local communities. Low guest numbers protect the experience — and the wildlife — but mean costs are shared across fewer people. Our story on the economics of a safari camp explains more.
How to get better value
- Travel in the shoulder or green season — rates can drop substantially. See when to go.
- Stay longer in fewer camps to reduce flights, and look for stay-and-save offers.
- Mix levels — a simpler camp in one place, a special one in another.
- Consider less famous areas, like Zambia’s Kafue or Tanzania’s south.
- Book early for the best choice of rooms at the best rates.
If you tell us your budget and dates, we’ll tell you honestly what’s possible.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 7-day African safari cost?
It depends on the level of camps, the country and the season. Multiply the nightly rate by the number of nights and add flights, transfers, visas, insurance and tips. Mid-range camps are commonly around US$400–800 per person per night.
Are safaris all-inclusive?
Most safari camps include meals, activities and many drinks. Park fees, transfers and premium drinks may be extra — always check.
What is the cheapest way to do a safari?
Self-drive in Namibia or participation camping trips, travelling in the green or shoulder season.
Keep reading
Where to go next
When to Go
Dry season, green season and the migration — month by month, country by country.
The Economics of a Safari Camp
Conservation · 7 minWhy a safari costs what it does, where the money goes, and how a good camp pays for the wild land around it.
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