Discover the ultimate guide to African Safari Cost Per Person in 2026. Explore budget, mid-range, and luxury options for unforgettable adventures!

Comprehensive Guide to African Safari Cost Per Person in 2026: Budget to Luxury

So, you’re dreaming of wide-open savannas, the roar of a lion echoing in the distance, and a sky so full of stars you can hardly believe it’s real. An African safari is more than a vacation; it’s an adventure that seeps into your soul. But let’s talk about the big question on everyone’s mind: what is the African safari cost per person? Planning this trip of a lifetime involves figuring out the budget, and you’ve come to the right place. We’re going to break it all down for you, focusing on the incredible experiences waiting in Kenya and Tanzania.

This guide will walk you through everything that influences your budget. We’ll explore different safari styles, from ultra-luxurious getaways to amazing budget-friendly adventures. You’ll learn how things like your travel style, the time of year, and the length of your trip affect the final price tag. Thinking about how to get that perfect safari photo of a leopard in a tree? The type of safari you choose can make all the difference.

We’ll dive deep into the African safari cost per person for different travel styles, including solo journeys, family trips, and group tours, so you can plan the perfect expedition for 2026.

African Safari Cost Per Person in 2026 Summary

Here is a table of 15 top safari camps and lodges in Kenya, detailing their costs, locations, and amenities to help you plan your trip.

Camp/Lodge Name	Approx. Cost Per Person/Night (Mid-Range)	Approx. Cost Per Person/Night (Luxury)	Location	Approx. Distance from Nairobi	How to Get There	Special Amenities
Angama Mara	N/A	$1,500+	Masai Mara	250 km	45-min flight	Suspended infinity pool, private Maasai-led walks, in-room dining, photographic studio.
Giraffe Manor	N/A	$900 – $1,200	Nairobi	20 km	30-min drive	Unique experience of breakfast with resident Rothschild’s giraffes, afternoon tea.
Governors’ Camp	$450 – $600	$800 – $1,100	Masai Mara	240 km	45-min flight	Prime riverfront location for migration viewing, hot air balloon safaris, cultural visits.
Sarara Camp	N/A	$1,000+	Namunyak Conservancy	360 km	60-min flight	“Singing Wells” cultural experience, infinity pool, fly camping, horse riding safaris.
Ol Donyo Lodge	N/A	$1,100 – $1,600	Chyulu Hills	200 km	40-min flight	Private plunge pools, rooftop “star beds”, horse riding, mountain biking, Maasai culture.
Finch Hattons	$600 – $800	$900 – $1,300	Tsavo West	240 km	50-min flight	Multiple pools, spa, yoga deck, kids club, access to natural springs.
Tortilis Camp	$500 – $700	$850 – $1,200	Amboseli	240 km	40-min flight	Unrivaled views of Mt. Kilimanjaro, guided walks, swimming pool, family tents.
Basecamp Masai Mara	$250 – $350	N/A	Masai Mara	260 km	5-hr drive / 45-min flight	Eco-focused, community-owned, guided walks, strong cultural immersion.
Kicheche Mara Camp	$650 – $850	N/A	Mara North Conservancy	260 km	50-min flight	Intimate camp, excellent for photography, night game drives, bush walks.
Elephant Bedroom Camp	$400 – $550	N/A	Samburu	320 km	6-hr drive / 60-min flight	Tents with private plunge pools, riverside setting, cultural visits, guided walks.
Amboseli Serena Lodge	$300 – $450	N/A	Amboseli	240 km	4-hr drive / 40-min flight	Swimming pool, family-friendly, views of Mt. Kilimanjaro, cultural talks.
Mara Explorer Camp	N/A	$700 – $1,000	Masai Mara	250 km	45-min flight	Riverside private balconies, open-air bathtubs, intimate setting (10 tents).
Elsa’s Kopje Meru	N/A	$800 – $1,150	Meru National Park	340 km	55-min flight	Infinity pool, each cottage uniquely designed, private suites, rhino sanctuary visits.
Ashnil Mara Camp	$300 – $450	N/A	Masai Mara	255 km	5-hr drive / 45-min flight	Prime location on the Mara River, swimming pool, large capacity, family-friendly.
Sasaab Lodge	NA	$950 – $1,400	Samburu	340 km	6-hr drive / 60-min flight	Moroccan-style rooms, private plunge pools, spa, camel rides, fly camping.

Note: Prices are estimates for the high season (June-October) and can vary based on seasonality, booking agent, and specific package inclusions. “N/A” indicates the property primarily operates within one luxury or mid-range category. Group rates often provide a per-person discount on private safaris but are not listed as fixed rates, as they depend on the total number of travelers. Always confirm current pricing and availability with your tour operator.

Breaking Down the African Safari Cost Per Person

The total African safari cost per person is a mix of several important components, and understanding them helps you see where your money is going. Think of it like building your perfect adventure, piece by piece. From park fees that support conservation to the cozy lodge you return to after a day of exploring, every element plays a role. Getting that perfect safari photo of the Great Migration is priceless, but the journey to get there has a price, and we’ll show you exactly what to expect when calculating the African safari cost per person.

All-inclusive African Safari Cost: What’s Included?

When you see an “all-inclusive” price, it often covers the big-ticket items that make your safari seamless. This typically includes your accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and standard drinks. Most importantly, your daily game drives with a professional guide and vehicle are part of the package. This is a huge factor in the overall African safari cost per person. Keep in mind that specialty drinks, tips, and extra activities like hot-air balloon rides are usually separate. Having most costs bundled makes budgeting easier and allows you to focus on capturing that incredible safari photo without constantly worrying about expenses.

What’s Typically Excluded from the Price?

While all-inclusive packages cover a lot, some costs will always be extra. International flights to Africa are the biggest one, and you’ll need to budget for those separately. Other common exclusions are visa fees, travel insurance (which is essential!), and tips for your guides and lodge staff. Optional activities, like visiting a Maasai village or taking a hot-air balloon flight over the Masai Mara, will also add to your total African safari cost per person. Don’t forget to set aside some money for souvenirs—you’ll want something to remember your trip by, besides that amazing safari photo collection.

When you get a quote, always ask for a detailed breakdown of what is and isn’t included. This prevents any surprises and helps you accurately compare the African safari cost per person from different operators.

Safari Styles: Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury

Your choice of accommodation and travel style is the single biggest factor influencing the African safari cost per person. Are you happy with a comfortable tent under the stars, or are you dreaming of a private plunge pool overlooking the Serengeti? Each level offers a unique way to experience the magic of the wild. No matter your choice, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for that frame-worthy safari photo, and understanding the African safari cost per person for each tier is key to planning.

Budget Safaris: Adventure on a Shoestring ($180 – $300 per day)

A budget safari is your ticket to an authentic, no-frills adventure. These trips often involve camping in public campsites or staying in simple lodges outside park boundaries. Group tours are common here, where you’ll share a vehicle (often a converted minibus) with other travelers, which significantly lowers the African safari cost per person. While you might not have luxury amenities, the wildlife is just as spectacular. You’ll still wake up to the sounds of the bush and have incredible game drives. This is a fantastic option for solo travelers or anyone looking to maximize their time in the wild while keeping costs down, and you’ll still get that perfect safari photo.

Mid-Range Safaris: The Sweet Spot of Comfort and Value ($350 – $600 per day)

This is the most popular safari style, and for good reason. Mid-range safaris strike a perfect balance between comfort and cost, making for a fantastic experience without breaking the bank. You’ll typically stay in comfortable tented camps or lodges, often with private bathrooms and great amenities located inside or very near the parks. The African safari cost per person in this tier gets you a more personalized experience, often with a private 4×4 Land Cruiser and a highly experienced guide. This level of comfort ensures you’re well-rested for those early morning game drives, ready to capture an amazing safari photo.

Luxury Safaris: The Ultimate Indulgence ($700 – $1,500+ per day)

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime, top-tier experience, a luxury safari delivers. This is where you’ll find exclusive lodges in private conservancies, offering unparalleled privacy and service. Think gourmet meals, private butlers, infinity pools with a view, and expert guides dedicated to your group. The African safari cost per person for luxury travel is high, but it includes exceptional experiences like night drives and walking safaris, which aren’t always possible in national parks. It’s an unforgettable way to immerse yourself in the wilderness while enjoying the finest comforts and getting a truly epic safari photo.

Mix and match! Spend a few nights in a mid-range lodge to save money, then splurge on a luxury camp for the final nights of your trip. This can help you manage the overall African safari cost per person while still getting a taste of luxury.

Destination Focus: Kenya vs. Tanzania

When you picture an African safari, chances are you’re thinking of the sweeping plains of East Africa. Kenya and Tanzania are the heart of safari country, home to iconic parks like the Masai Mara and the Serengeti. But how do you choose between them? Both offer incredible wildlife viewing and the Great Wildebeest Migration, but there are subtle differences in landscape, experience, and cost that can influence your decision. Figuring out the African safari cost per person for each destination is a crucial part of planning your perfect trip and ensuring you get that dream safari photo.

Kenya Safari Cost Per Day: Home of the Classic Safari

Kenya is often called the birthplace of the safari. With world-famous reserves like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Samburu, it offers phenomenal wildlife diversity. A Kenya safari cost per day can be slightly more budget-friendly than Tanzania, particularly with recent park fee adjustments. For example, a Kenya safari cost per person for a budget trip might start around $250, while mid-range is closer to $350-$400. Nairobi is a major travel hub, making it easily accessible. A Masai Mara Kenya safari cost is influenced by its legendary reputation, especially during the migration river crossings, but the payoff is an unbeatable chance for a dramatic safari photo.

Tanzania Safari Cost Per Day: The Epic Scale of the Serengeti

Tanzania is a land of giants, from the vast Serengeti plains to the Ngorongoro Crater and Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers an unparalleled sense of wild, open space. The African safari cost per person here can be slightly higher, with budget options around $250-$300 and mid-range tours starting at $400. The logistics of reaching remote parks contribute to the cost. However, witnessing the Great Migration’s calving season in the southern Serengeti is an experience that justifies the expense for many travelers. This epic scale provides a stunning backdrop for any safari photo.

Unique Selling Points: Masai Mara vs. Serengeti

The Masai Mara and Serengeti are two parts of the same ecosystem, but they offer different experiences. The Masai Mara is more compact, meaning wildlife can be easier to spot in a shorter time. It’s famed for its dense big cat population and the dramatic Mara River crossings from July to October. The Serengeti is vast, offering a feeling of true wilderness and solitude. It’s where the wildebeest give birth (January-February) and is home to massive herds year-round. Both are prime locations for a stunning safari photo, and your choice may depend on timing and your preferred African safari cost per person.

Can’t decide? Combine them! A cross-border safari gives you the best of both worlds, though it will increase the overall African safari cost per person due to extra logistics and visa fees.

How Safari Duration Affects Your Budget

While a longer trip means a higher total spend, the African safari cost per person per day often decreases with more days booked. Whether you’re planning a quick getaway or an epic two-week expedition, understanding how duration impacts cost is essential. A longer trip gives you more time to explore different parks, relax between game drives, and increases your chances of capturing that perfect safari photo. Let’s look at what you can expect for different trip lengths.

How Much Does a 1-Week African Safari Cost?

A one-week (7-day) safari is a fantastic introduction to East Africa. This duration allows you to visit two or three key parks, like the Masai Mara and Lake Nakuru in Kenya, without feeling too rushed. For a mid-range trip, how much does a 1-week African safari cost? You can expect to budget around $2,450 to $4,200 per person. This timeframe provides a great balance, giving you ample opportunity for wildlife sightings and that unforgettable safari photo, making the African safari cost per person feel well worth it.

How Much Does a 10-Day African Safari Cost?

With ten days, you can truly immerse yourself in the safari experience. This allows for a more relaxed pace and the chance to explore diverse ecosystems. A 10-day African safari cost for a mid-range experience typically falls between $3,500 and $6,000 per person. In Kenya, this could mean combining the Masai Mara with Amboseli and Samburu. This extended time is perfect for photographers who want to wait for the perfect light for their safari photo, and it provides great value for the overall African safari cost per person.

How Much Does a 2-Week African Safari Cost?

A two-week safari is the ultimate dream trip. It opens up possibilities for combining countries, like Kenya and Tanzania, or adding a relaxing beach escape in Zanzibar after your wildlife adventures. So, how much does a 2-week African safari cost? For a mid-range adventure, plan for $4,900 to $8,400 or more per person. This is the ultimate itinerary for those who want to see it all and have plenty of time for spontaneous moments and capturing every possible safari photo, providing an incredible return on the African safari cost per person.

When planning, consider travel time between parks. Longer drives can eat into your safari time. For longer itineraries, a strategically placed internal flight can be worth the extra cost to maximize your time on game drives.

Group vs. Solo Travel: Cost Implications

Your travel style—whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure, a romantic getaway for two, or a grand family vacation—has a big impact on the African safari cost per person. Fixed costs, like the vehicle and guide, are shared among the group, so the more people you travel with, the lower the individual price. This is an important factor to consider as you budget for your trip and that amazing safari photo you’re planning to take.

Solo Traveler Safari Costs

Traveling solo is an incredibly rewarding experience, offering ultimate freedom and flexibility. However, it’s also the most expensive way to safari on a private basis. A solo traveler bears the full cost of the vehicle and guide, which can make the African safari cost per person significantly higher, often starting from $500 per day for a private budget trip. To manage costs, many solo travelers opt for group tours, which offer a fantastic way to meet new people and still get a great safari photo without the high price tag.

Safari for Couples and Small Groups

This is the sweet spot for private safaris. When you travel as a couple or with a few friends, you share the fixed costs, which brings the African safari cost per person down considerably compared to traveling solo. You get all the benefits of a private, customized itinerary—like lingering longer for the perfect safari photo of a lion cub—without the premium of being on your own. It offers a great balance of affordability and personalized experience.

African Safari Cost for a Family of 4

Taking the family on safari creates lifelong memories. The African safari cost for a family of 4 can be quite reasonable, as you’re splitting costs four ways. Many lodges also offer family suites and discounted rates for children, which helps manage the budget. A private safari is ideal for families, as it allows you to tailor game drives to your kids’ attention spans. Imagine the joy on their faces in that family safari photo with elephants in the background! This shared experience provides excellent value for the African safari cost per person.

If you’re a solo traveler on a budget, look for tour operators that specialize in small group safaris. You’ll get a more intimate experience than on a large overland truck and a lower African safari cost per person than a private trip.

Hidden Costs and Extra Expenses to Consider

While many safaris are largely all-inclusive, there are always a few extra costs that can sneak up on you. Being aware of these from the start will help you manage your budget and avoid any surprises, ensuring your focus remains on the incredible experience. Factoring these into your initial African safari cost per person calculation will give you a much more realistic final number and peace of mind while you hunt for that perfect safari photo.

Tipping on Safari

Tipping is a customary and important part of the safari culture, as it supports the local staff who work hard to make your trip unforgettable. Gratuities are not typically included in your package price. As a general guideline, you should budget around $10-$15 per person, per day for your safari guide. For lodge staff, there’s often a central tipping box where you can leave around $5-$10 per person, per day. While it adds to the African safari cost per person, it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation and well worth factoring in for any safari photo opportunity your guide helps you find.

Optional Activities and Excursions

Want to soar over the Masai Mara in a hot air balloon or visit a local Maasai village? These incredible experiences are usually optional add-ons and are not included in the standard safari package. A hot air balloon safari can cost around $550 per person, while a village visit might be $30-$50. These activities can elevate your trip from great to truly extraordinary, so it’s a good idea to decide which ones you’re interested in and add them to your estimated African safari cost per person. They also provide unique cultural moments to capture in a safari photo.

Travel Insurance, Visas, and Vaccinations

These are the non-negotiable necessities. Comprehensive travel insurance is crucial for any trip to Africa to cover medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Visa requirements vary by nationality, and you’ll need to check the specific rules for Kenya and Tanzania (Kenya now requires an eTA for $30). You should also consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations and anti-malarial medication. These costs are an essential part of your pre-trip planning and should be included in your overall African safari cost per person before you even think about your first safari photo.

Carry a mix of US dollars (small bills are great for tips) and local currency. While dollars are widely accepted for tips and larger payments, having local shillings is useful for small purchases at markets.

Choosing the Right Time to Go

The timing of your safari has a huge effect on both the price and the experience. High season offers prime wildlife viewing but comes with bigger crowds and higher prices. The low season can be a bargain, with lush landscapes and fewer tourists. Understanding the seasons will help you balance your budget with your wildlife wish list, ensuring the African safari cost per person aligns with your expectations and your chance for a great safari photo.

High Season (June – October)

This is the peak of the safari calendar, corresponding with the dry season in both Kenya and Tanzania. Animals are easier to spot as they gather around water sources, and the vegetation is less dense. In Kenya, this is when you can witness the dramatic Mara River crossings. Because of the high demand, this is the most expensive time to travel, and the African safari cost per person will be at its highest. You’ll need to book well in advance, but the reward is phenomenal game viewing and a classic safari photo opportunity.

Shoulder Season (November – March)

The shoulder seasons offer a great compromise. This period includes the “short rains” (November/December) and a dry spell (January-March). The parks are less crowded than in the high season, and you can often find good deals on accommodation, lowering the African safari cost per person. January and February are particularly special in Tanzania for the wildebeest calving season in the Serengeti. It’s a wonderful time for photographers, with dramatic skies and lots of baby animals making for a heartwarming safari photo.

Low Season (April – May)

This is the “long rains” season, and it’s the most affordable time to go on safari. Many lodges offer significant discounts, which can dramatically reduce the African safari cost per person. The landscape is incredibly green and beautiful, though the rain can make some roads impassable and wildlife spotting a bit more challenging. If you don’t mind a bit of rain and are looking for the best possible price, this season can be a rewarding and crowd-free time to take a safari photo.

If the Great Migration is your top priority, plan carefully. The herds are constantly moving. Work with an African safari travel agent to ensure your itinerary puts you in the right place at the right time.

Booking Your Safari: Travel Agent vs. DIY

Do you want the expert guidance and peace of mind that comes with using a specialized travel agent, or are you an independent traveler who enjoys the challenge of planning everything yourself? Both approaches have their pros and cons. An African safari travel agent can save you time and provide invaluable insights, while a DIY approach might seem cheaper upfront. Let’s weigh the options to see how they impact the African safari cost per person and your ability to get that amazing safari photo.

The Value of an African Safari Travel Agent

A good African safari travel agent, especially one based locally such as Mara Triangle Safaris, can be worth their weight in gold. We have firsthand knowledge of the lodges, parks, and guides, and can customize an itinerary perfectly suited to your interests and budget. Also, we have established relationships that often get them better rates than you could find on your own, which can offset their fee and positively impact the African safari cost per person. We handle all the complicated logistics, from park permits to transfers, leaving you free to dream about that perfect safari photo.

Can You Plan a DIY Safari?

While it’s possible to plan a safari on your own, especially in more developed destinations like South Africa, it’s a significant undertaking in Kenya and Tanzania. You’d be responsible for booking all accommodations, arranging a suitable 4×4 vehicle, navigating challenging roads, and securing park permits. While you might save on an agent’s fee, you miss out on the expertise of a guide who knows where to find the animals. Recently, authorities in the Masai Mara even banned private self-drive vehicles, making a DIY trip there impossible and highlighting the value an African safari travel agent provides. When you factor everything in, a DIY approach may not significantly lower the African safari cost per person and could add a lot of stress.

For the best of both worlds, use a reputable, locally based safari operator. They offer the on-the-ground expertise and value of a local connection while providing a seamless, professionally organized experience. This is often the best way to manage your African safari cost per person and get the trip of your dreams.

Affordable Kenya Safari Packages

It’s entirely possible to experience the magic of a Kenyan safari on a budget. Affordable Kenya safari packages are designed to give you the full wildlife experience by making smart choices about accommodation and travel style. By opting for group tours or staying in camps just outside park gates, you can significantly lower the African safari cost per person. This approach allows you to spend your money where it counts—on incredible game drives and unforgettable memories, including that perfect safari photo.

Cheap Masai Mara Safari Packages

The Masai Mara is a must-see, but its popularity means it can be expensive. However, cheap Masai Mara safari packages are available, especially if you’re flexible. These often involve joining a small group tour and staying in budget-friendly tented camps. Traveling during the shoulder or low season can also unlock lower prices. You’ll still witness the incredible density of wildlife the Mara is famous for, and a good guide will ensure you have fantastic sightings. This is an excellent way to manage the African safari cost per person while visiting one of the world’s most famous reserves and getting a great safari photo.

Kenya Safari All-Inclusive Packages on a Budget

Finding Kenya safari all-inclusive packages that are also budget-friendly is about knowing what to look for. These packages will typically bundle accommodation in budget lodges or permanent tented camps, meals, and game drives in a shared safari vehicle. The key to keeping the African safari cost per person down is sharing the vehicle and guide with a few other travelers. This allows you to enjoy the convenience of an all-inclusive trip without the luxury price tag, making it easier to budget for that once-in-a-lifetime safari photo.

Look for safari packages that visit a mix of premium and lesser-known parks. Spending a day or two in a park with lower entry fees, like Tsavo East, can help balance the higher cost of a park like the Masai Mara.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does an African safari cost per person?

The African safari cost per person varies widely, from about $180 per day for a basic budget camping tour to over $1,500 per day for an ultra-luxury experience. A comfortable mid-range safari in Kenya or Tanzania typically costs between $350 and $600 per person per day. This price usually includes accommodation, meals, park fees, and game drives, giving you plenty of chances for a great safari photo.

How much does an average 10-day Kenya safari cost?

An average 10-day mid-range Kenya safari cost per person is typically between $3,500 and $6,000. This price point allows for comfortable accommodation, a private 4×4 vehicle, and visits to several top parks like the Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru. This duration offers a fantastic and immersive experience, justifying the African safari cost per person with incredible opportunities for wildlife viewing and a memorable safari photo.

Is an African safari worth the money?

Absolutely! An African safari is a transformative travel experience that offers unparalleled wildlife encounters and a deep connection with nature. The money you spend also directly supports crucial conservation efforts and local communities. While the African safari cost per person can seem high, the memories and that breathtaking safari photo you bring home are truly priceless for most travelers.

How much does Masai Mara safari cost per person?

A Masai Mara safari cost per person can range from $250 per day for a budget group tour to over $1,000 for a luxury lodge in a private conservancy. A good mid-range private safari in the Mara will average around $400-$500 per person per day. The African safari cost per person is highest during the Great Migration season (July-October) due to peak demand for that iconic safari photo.

How to do a Kenya safari on a budget?

To do a Kenya safari on a budget, travel during the shoulder or low seasons (April-May or November) for lower prices. Join a group camping tour to share costs, or choose affordable Kenya safari packages that use budget lodges. Also, consider visiting parks with lower entrance fees in addition to the big names. These strategies can significantly reduce the African safari cost per person while still delivering an amazing adventure and a great safari photo.

What is the most expensive safari in Africa?

The most expensive safaris in Africa are often found in Botswana’s Okavango Delta or exclusive private reserves in countries like Rwanda for gorilla trekking. These trips can cost upwards of $2,500 to $5,000 per person per night. These packages offer ultimate exclusivity, luxury, and unique experiences, representing the peak African safari cost per person and providing a truly remarkable safari photo opportunity.

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