How Much Does a
Tanzania Safari Cost?
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐
Reading Time: 08mins
A Tanzania safari offers one of the most immersive wildlife experiences on Earth. With iconic parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, and the opportunity to witness the Great Migration, a safari in Tanzania is truly unforgettable. However, understanding the cost is essential for planning. In this post, we’ll break down the factors that affect Tanzania safari costs, typical price ranges, and some budgeting tips to help you get the best experience within your means.
Factors Affecting the Cost of a Tanzania Safari
The cost of a Tanzania safari depends on several factors, including the type of safari, the level of accommodation, the season, and the length of stay. Here’s a look at these factors in detail:
1. Type of Safari
Tanzania safaris come in various forms to cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are a few popular types:
- Group Tours: These are typically more affordable and involve shared vehicles with other travelers.
- Private Safari: These are personalized experiences with a private vehicle and guide, perfect for families or those seeking privacy.
- Luxury Safari: Luxury safaris provide high-end lodges or tented camps with additional amenities and personalized services, coming at a premium cost.
2. Accommodation Level
Your choice of accommodation significantly impacts safari costs. Tanzania offers a wide range of options, from budget campsites to luxury lodges. Here’s a general overview:
- Budget Campsites: $100–$200 per person per night
- Mid-Range Lodges: $250–$500 per person per night
- Luxury Lodges/Tented Camps: $600–$1,500+ per person per night
3. Seasonality
The season you choose to travel will also affect the price of a Tanzania safari:
- Peak Season (June to October): Offers the best wildlife viewing, especially during the Great Migration, but prices are higher.
- Shoulder Season (November and April-May): Offers a mix of good viewing opportunities with fewer crowds, and prices tend to be lower.
- Low Season (March and April): Prices are at their lowest, though there may be rain, making wildlife viewing less predictable.
4. Duration of the Safari
The length of your safari influences the total cost. A 3-day safari in Tanzania will cost significantly less than a 10-day adventure, though the longer stay allows you to visit more parks and have a richer experience.
Typical Tanzania Safari Costs by Budget Level
Let’s explore the general cost estimates for different budget levels so you can plan based on your preferences.
Budget Tanzania Safari Costs
For those traveling on a budget, a group safari or a basic camping experience is the most affordable option. Here’s what you can expect:
- Cost: Approximately $200–$400 per person per day
- Accommodation: Basic campsites with shared facilities
- Safari Type: Shared group tours with set itineraries
Budget safaris generally include entrance fees, accommodation, and basic meals. While you’ll save money, the experience is simpler, with fewer frills.
Mid-Range Tanzania Safari Costs
Mid-range safaris provide more comfort with private rooms, better facilities, and typically smaller group sizes
- Cost: Approximately $400–$700 per person per day
- Accommodation: Mid-range lodges or tented camps with en-suite bathrooms
- Safari Type: Private tours are often available, providing flexibility with timing and activities
This is a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable experience without the high luxury price tag.
Luxury Tanzania Safari Costs
Luxury safaris offer exclusive experiences with high-end services, gourmet meals, and luxurious accommodations
- Cost: $800–$1,500+ per person per day
- Accommodation: Luxury lodges and exclusive tented camps
- Safari Type: Private vehicles with custom itineraries, allowing for an intimate and flexible experience
A luxury safari might also include additional services like hot air balloon rides, night game drives, or private dining.
Cost Breakdown of a Tanzania Safari
Understanding where your money goes can help you make informed decisions. Here’s a breakdown of typical costs associated with a safari in Tanzania:
1. Park Entrance Fees
National park entrance fees are a significant component of safari costs. For example:
- Serengeti National Park: $70 per person per day
- Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area: $70.8 per person per day + $295 vehicle entry fee for a half-day crater tour
These fees are mandatory and help support conservation efforts.
2. Guides and Vehicles
Having an experienced guide is essential for a great safari experience. Typically, guide fees and vehicle costs are included in your tour package, but private tours will incur higher costs. Expect to pay around $100–$300 per day for a quality guide, depending on the safari type.
3. Accommodation and Meals
Accommodation and meals make up another large portion of your safari budget. Most packages are all-inclusive, covering meals and drinks within the accommodation cost. Luxury lodges, however, will add premium dining experiences to the overall cost.
4. Transportation Costs
Getting to and from your safari location can also impact costs. Some packages include flights from Dar es Salaam or Arusha to the parks, while others might require a road transfer. Flights can range from $250–$500 for internal transfers.
5. Additional Experiences
Many travelers want unique activities to enhance their safari experience. These include:
- Hot Air Balloon Rides in Serengeti: $500–$600 per person
- Cultural Tours: $50–$100 per person
- Night Game Drives (where allowed): $150–$200 per person
These experiences add to the total cost but create unforgettable memories.
Sample Safari Itineraries and Costs
To give you an idea of what’s possible within different budgets, check out some of our safari itineraries and their costs:
How to Save on a Tanzania Safari
If you’re looking to maximize your budget, here are a few tips for reducing costs on a Tanzania safari:
- Travel During the Low Season: You’ll find cheaper rates and fewer crowds, though wildlife sightings might be less predictable.
- Choose Group Tours: Joining a group safari reduces costs significantly, as vehicle and guide expenses are shared.
- Limit Paid Extras: Stick to the core safari experience to keep costs down, and consider fewer days in premium parks.
- Book in Advance: Early bookings can often lock in better rates, especially for mid-range and luxury accommodations.
- Consider Off-the-Beaten-Path Parks: Parks like Ruaha and Selous in southern Tanzania are beautiful but less traveled, often with lower prices.
Conclusion
The cost of a Tanzania safari depends largely on your preferences, from accommodation level and safari type to extras like hot air balloon rides. Whether you’re looking for a budget camping trip or a luxurious lodge experience, there are options to suit every budget. By understanding the various cost factors, you’ll be better equipped to plan a Tanzania safari that fits your dream and your budget.
Whether you’re witnessing the Great Migration or exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, a safari in Tanzania is a life-changing adventure worth every penny.
