Planning a safari to Tanzania is a dream for many travelers. Home to the iconic Serengeti, the majestic Ngorongoro Crater, and diverse wildlife, Tanzania offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience. But before booking, it’s crucial to understand the average cost of safari in Tanzania so you can plan your trip effectively and stay within budget.
Let’s dive into the details and help you understand what to expect.
How Much Does a Safari in Tanzania Cost?
The average cost of safari in Tanzania ranges from $200 to $1,500 per person per day. Prices depend on multiple factors such as the level of luxury, number of travelers, time of year, and the type of safari you choose.
Here’s a basic daily cost estimate:
- Budget Safaris: $200–$300 per person/day
- Mid-Range Safaris: $400–$700 per person/day
- Luxury Safaris: $800–$1,500+ per person/day
These estimates include park fees, accommodation, meals, a safari guide, and a 4×4 vehicle for game drives.
Breakdown of Safari Costs
- Accommodation
- Budget tents or camping: $50–$100 per night
- Mid-range lodges: $150–$300 per night
- Luxury camps: $400–$1,000 per night
- Park Entry Fees
- Serengeti: $70 per person/day
- Ngorongoro Crater: $70 per person + $250 vehicle fee
- Tarangire & Lake Manyara: $50 per person/day
- Safari Vehicle & Guide
- Shared: $100–$200/day
- Private: $250–$400/day
- Meals
- Included in most packages, especially if you book a full-board safari
- Domestic Flights (optional)
- Arusha to Serengeti: $200–$350 one-way
Example Safari Cost – 5 Days (Mid-Range)
Let’s calculate the average cost of safari in Tanzania for a 5-day trip:
- Accommodation: $1,000
- Park fees: $350
- Vehicle & Guide: $500
- Meals: Included
- Flights (optional): $300
- Misc. (tips, souvenirs): $150
Total: Around $2,300 per person for a 5-day mid-range safari.
Safari Types and Their Impact on Cost
- Group Tours
- Ideal for budget travelers
- Costs are shared among 4–6 people
- Less flexible but affordable
- Private Safaris
- Customized experience
- Perfect for couples, families, or small groups
- More expensive but offers flexibility and privacy
- Fly-in Safaris
- Skip long drives by flying into the parks
- Ideal for luxury travelers or short trips
- Adds around $500–$1,000 to total cost
- Self-Drive Safaris
- Rent a 4×4 and explore independently
- Not ideal for first-timers
- Requires knowledge of the parks and driving in the bush
When to Go and How It Affects Cost
The average cost of safari in Tanzania changes with the seasons:
- High Season (June–October)
- Great weather, best wildlife viewing, especially the Great Migration
- Most expensive time
- Low Season (March–May)
- Rainy but greener landscapes
- Prices can drop by up to 40%
- Fewer tourists
- Shoulder Seasons (January–February, November)
- Decent weather and lower prices
- Good time to save without compromising much
Ways to Save on Safari Costs
- Travel in Low or Shoulder Season
- Enjoy discounts on lodges and tours
- Join Group Safaris
- Reduces the cost per person
- Limit the Number of Parks
- Focus on 1–2 top parks instead of many
- Book in Advance
- More choices and better prices
- Look for All-Inclusive Packages
- Avoid unexpected fees
What’s Usually Included in Safari Packages
Most safari tour operators include the following:
- Park entrance fees
- Accommodation
- Full-board meals
- Safari vehicle and guide
- Drinking water
- Airport transfers
What’s not included:
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees
- Tips (usually $10–$20/day for the guide)
- Optional activities (balloon safaris, cultural tours)
Luxury vs. Budget: Which One is for You?
- Luxury Safari: Best for travelers seeking privacy, gourmet food, and elegant lodges. You get personalized service, stunning views, and often a private guide.
- Budget Safari: Great for backpackers and adventurers. You may camp under the stars, cook simple meals, and share your guide with others.
- Mid-Range Safari: A balance of comfort and cost. Lodges are comfortable, and you still enjoy expert guides and great wildlife sightings.
Final Thoughts
The average cost of safari in Tanzania varies greatly based on your preferences. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to indulge in luxury, Tanzania offers a safari experience for everyone.
Planning ahead, knowing what you want, and comparing prices from trusted safari operators can make a huge difference in both cost and quality. Whatever your budget, the raw beauty of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes is priceless.
