Tanzania Safari Cost
Tanzania Safari Cost
Planning a safari in Tanzania is an unforgettable experience, but understanding the costs involved is essential to making the right choices. The price of a Tanzania safari Adventure can vary significantly based on factors like the time of year, the level of accommodation, the parks visited, and the length of the safari. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key factors that influence safari costs, including examples of typical price ranges.
Key Factors Affecting Safari Costs
| Factor | Description | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Safari | Group safaris are usually more affordable than private or luxury safaris. | Group safaris are cheaper, private safaris are more expensive. |
| Accommodation Level | Ranges from budget camps to luxury lodges. | Luxury lodges significantly increase the cost. |
| Season (Peak vs. Low) | The cost of safaris varies depending on the season. Peak season is from June to October. | Prices can be up to 50% higher in peak season. |
| Duration of Safari | Longer safaris will cost more but offer a more comprehensive experience. | More days = higher cost. |
| Parks Visited | Popular parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater tend to have higher entrance fees. | Visiting multiple parks increases costs. |
| Inclusions (All-Inclusive vs. Pay-As-You-Go) | Some safaris include everything (meals, drinks, park fees), while others may have add-on costs. | All-inclusive trips are more expensive upfront but offer peace of mind. |
| Number of People | The per-person cost decreases with more people on a private group safari. | Larger groups lower the per-person price. |
Tanzania Safari Price Range by Type
| Safari Type | Description | Price Range (per person, per day) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Camping Safari | Basic camping in tents with limited amenities, self-catering or simple meals. | $150 – $250 |
| Mid-Range Lodge Safari | Comfortable lodges or tented camps with decent facilities, meals included. | $250 – $400 |
| Luxury Safari | High-end lodges or luxury tented camps with premium services, gourmet meals, and guided tours. | $500 – $1,000+ |
| Private Safari | Fully private safaris with personalized guides and itineraries, often in luxury accommodations. | $600 – $1,500+ |
| Fly-In Safari | Fly between parks to reduce travel time; typically luxury lodges are included. | $800 – $2,000+ |
Safari Costs by National Park
Different national parks in Tanzania have varying entrance fees and accommodation options, which can impact the overall cost of your safari.
| National Park | Entrance Fee (per person, per day) | Accommodation Options | Price Range (per person, per day) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serengeti National Park | $70 | From budget camping to ultra-luxury lodges. | $300 – $1,500+ |
| Ngorongoro Crater | $70 + $200 vehicle fee | Mid-range lodges to luxury camps overlooking the crater. | $400 – $1,000+ |
| Tarangire National Park | $45 | Mid-range tented camps and lodges. | $250 – $600 |
| Lake Manyara National Park | $45 | Budget to luxury lodges; fewer luxury options than Serengeti. | $200 – $600 |
| Ruaha National Park | $30 | Rustic camps and mid-range lodges, with some luxury options. | $250 – $800 |
| Selous Game Reserve | $75 | Remote luxury lodges and camps. | $500 – $1,200 |
Tanzania Safari Costs by Season
The time of year you visit has a significant impact on the cost of a safari. During the peak season, prices are higher due to better wildlife viewing opportunities and pleasant weather conditions.
| Season | Months | Description | Price Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season (Peak) | June to October | Best time for wildlife viewing, especially in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. | Prices can be 30-50% higher than low season. |
| Low Season (Green Season) | March to May | During the rainy season, there are fewer tourists, lower prices, and lush landscapes. | Significantly cheaper, sometimes up to 50% off. |
| Shoulder Season | November to February | Good wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching and calving season in the Serengeti. | Mid-range pricing, better deals on accommodation. |
Additional Costs to Consider
| Expense | Average Cost (per person) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Park Fees | $30 – $70 per park, per day | Varies by park. Ngorongoro Crater has additional fees. |
| Internal Flights | $200 – $500 per flight | Common for fly-in safaris between parks. |
| Tipping | $10 – $20 per person, per day for guides | Also, consider tipping for lodge staff. |
| Drinks and Extras | $10 – $50 per day (depending on package) | Some lodges may not include alcohol in their pricing. |
| Visa Fee | $50 – $100 (depending on nationality) | Required for most visitors. |
| Travel Insurance | $100 – $200 | Strongly recommended for safaris. |
| Souvenirs | $50 – $300 (varies by item) | Local crafts, carvings, and jewelry are popular items. |
Sample Safari Packages
A. Budget Safari (5 Days)
| Inclusions | Description |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara |
| Accommodation | Budget campsites |
| Meals | All meals included |
| Park Fees and Game Drives | Included in package |
| Price (per person) | $1,200 – $1,500 |
B. Mid-Range Safari (7 Days)
| Inclusions | Description |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Serengeti, Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater |
| Accommodation | Mid-range lodges and tented camps |
| Meals | Full board (all meals included) |
| Park Fees and Game Drives | Included in package |
| Internal Flights | Optional (adds $300 – $500) |
| Price (per person) | $2,500 – $3,500 |
C. Luxury Safari (10 Days)
| Inclusions | Description |
|---|---|
| Destinations | Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, Selous |
| Accommodation | Luxury lodges and tented camps |
| Meals | All-inclusive (gourmet meals, drinks) |
| Park Fees and Game Drives | Included in package |
| Internal Flights | Included (fly-in between parks) |
| Private Guide and Vehicle | Fully private safari experience |
| Price (per person) | $6,000 – $10,000+ |
Tipping Guidelines for a Tanzania Safari
| Service | Suggested Tip (per day, per person) |
|---|---|
| Safari Guide | $10 – $20 |
| Driver/Tracker | $5 – $10 |
| Camp or Lodge Staff | $5 – $10 (pooled and shared among staff) |
| Porters | $1 – $2 per bag |
Ways to Save on a Safari
- Travel During the Low Season: Opting for a safari in the low season (March-May) can save you up to 50% on accommodation and park fees.
- Join Group Safaris: Group safaris are much more affordable than private tours.
- Book in Advance: Securing your safari 6-12 months in advance can often lead to better deals.
- Limit the Number of Parks: Focus on a few parks instead of trying to cover many. This reduces travel time and park fees.
- Stay Longer in Fewer Locations: Lodges often offer discounts for extended stays.
Summary of Safari Costs in Tanzania
Tanzania offers a range of safari options, from budget camping adventures to luxurious, all-inclusive experiences. Your total safari cost will depend on factors like the type of safari, the parks visited, the level of accommodation, and the time of year. Expect to pay:
- Budget Safaris: $150 – $250 per person per day
- Mid-Range Safaris: $250 – $400 per person per day
- Luxury Safaris: $500 – $1,500+ per person per day
By carefully planning and considering these factors, you can tailor your Tanzania safari Adventure to fit both your interests and your budget.
Tour Destinations
Tanzania is home to some of Africa's most renowned safari destinations, each offering unique landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable experiences
Serengeti National Park
Covering an expansive area of approximately 14,750 square kilometers (5,700 square miles), the park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, incredible biodiversity, and the annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras
Kilimanjaro National Park
The park boasts diverse ecosystems ranging from lush rainforests to alpine deserts. Visitors can encounter a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and monkeys, as well as unique flora like the giant groundsels and lobelias that are adapted to the high-altitude environment
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
The Ngorongoro Crater is renowned for its rich biodiversity and dense wildlife populations. The crater floor is home to approximately 25,000 large animals, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos
Lake Manyara National Park
One of the park's main attractions is its abundant wildlife. Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior that adds a unique charm to the safari experience
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is famed for its large elephant herds, which can number in the hundreds. The park's varied landscapes, including grasslands, swamps, and baobab-dotted plains, support a diverse range of wildlife
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is a small but diverse park that offers a variety of ecosystems and stunning landscapes. Covering approximately 137 square kilometers (53 square miles)
Top Pick Tanzania Tour Packages For You
Tanzania boasts Africa’s renowned parks, promising unforgettable luxury safaris. With expertly crafted itineraries, immerse yourself in the finest national parks for a tailored wildlife adventure.
