Tanzania safari cost
The cost of a Tanzania wildlife safari can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the safari, the level of accommodation, the time of year, the specific destinations visited, and the services included in the package.
On average, a budget safari in Tanzania can range from around $150 to $300 per person per day. This typically includes basic accommodation, transportation in safari vehicles, park fees, and some meals.
Mid-range safaris usually cost between $300 and $700 per person per day. These packages often include more comfortable accommodations, better-equipped safari vehicles, professional guides, and additional amenities.
Luxury safaris in Tanzania can range from $700 to several thousand dollars per person per day. These premium packages offer luxurious accommodations, exclusive wildlife viewing experiences, gourmet meals, personalized services, and sometimes even private charter flights between destinations.
It’s essential to research and compare different safari operators and packages to find one that fits your budget and preferences. Additionally, keep in mind that there may be additional costs for optional activities, gratuities, and travel insurance.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of A Tanzania Safari
1. Length Of Safari
The overall price of a Tanzania Safari depends on how long you intend to stay in the country. Typically, shorter safaris are less expensive, while longer ones can become costly. Hence, budget-conscious travelers often prefer shorter 3 to 4-day trips to explore wildlife sanctuaries affordably. Conversely, if you’re on a limited budget but desire a longer safari, there are strategies to consider. You can opt for more budget-friendly accommodation and plan your visit during the off-peak tourist season when prices are lower due to discounts, making an extended stay more feasible on a budget.
2. When To Travel
When you go on a safari in Tanzania can really affect how much you spend. The most expensive times are when lots of tourists are there, usually from December to February and from June to August. During these times, lots of people come, so places to stay get really expensive, almost double the price. Everything costs more because so many people want it.
But if you want to explore Tanzania without spending too much, it’s better to go when there are fewer tourists, from March to May. This is when it rains more, so fewer people come, and things are cheaper.
Another expensive time is during Christmas holidays, from December 24th to January 1st. During this time, places to stay charge extra for Christmas and New Year’s, and you can’t really argue about it. If you plan to visit Zanzibar Island at this time, you might have to stay for at least five to seven nights at some places.
If you want to save money and still see Tanzania, it’s best to avoid the busiest safari times and holidays. Going during the quieter times can save you a lot of money and still let you see this amazing place.
3. Your Mode Of Transport In Tanzania.
When you’re on a safari in Tanzania, getting from one place to another can happen in different ways, depending on your plan. You might take scheduled flights, or you might go for longer drives on the roads. Choosing flights usually costs more, but it saves you from the discomfort of long drives, especially on rough roads in rural areas.
Flights are faster and more comfortable, even though they come with a higher price. On the other hand, traveling by road takes longer and might be bumpier, especially on less developed roads outside the cities.
Even though flights cost more, they’re convenient and smoother. Road trips may be rougher and take longer, but they let you see the landscapes and experience Tanzania’s countryside. Your choice depends on what matters most to you during your safari — saving money, being comfortable, or having an adventure.
4. Which National Parks To Visit.
In Tanzania, the entrance fees to national parks are not the same everywhere, which is different from many other African countries. When you visit famous places like Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Conservation Area, you’ll see that their entrance fees are higher compared to other parks like Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park.
What makes certain places like Ngorongoro Crater unique is the extra fee you have to pay on top of the entrance fee for the conservation area. This extra charge just for visiting the crater makes the overall cost of your Tanzania safari go up.
These different fees show the special features and attractions of each park. The more famous and iconic places usually have higher entrance fees because they’re popular, have unique landscapes, and lots of wildlife. Travelers planning a safari in Tanzania need to think about these different fees when planning their budget, as they can make a big difference in the total cost.
5. Quality Of Accommodation
Where you stay during your Tanzania safari can greatly affect how much you spend. The different options for accommodation available can influence your overall expenses. In Tanzania, there’s a wide range of choices, from basic camping sites to middle-of-the-road facilities and luxurious tented camps and lodges. These varied accommodations cater to different preferences and budgets, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
For travelers aiming to keep costs down, camping can be a smart option for some nights during the safari. Choosing camping over more expensive lodges can help those with tighter budgets get the most out of their trip. It’s a way to enjoy Tanzania’s beauty without paying extra for upscale accommodation.
Each type of accommodation has its own price range, amenities, and special experiences. Budget-conscious travelers might discover that adding camping to their safari plan lets them control costs without losing out on the excitement of exploring Tanzania’s natural wonders.
6. Activities You Engage In
During a typical safari in Tanzania, the main attraction is usually the game drives that go from dawn till dusk. However, Tanzania stands out by offering a wide range of extra activities beyond these standard game drives. These additional options allow visitors to explore a variety of experiences.
From exciting hot air balloon safaris to peaceful bird watching tours, guided walking explorations, calm boat or canoe rides, and thrilling night game drives, Tanzania offers many extra adventures to enrich your safari. Each activity has its own price, which often varies depending on its uniqueness and duration.
The more of these optional activities you choose to do, the more it will add to the overall cost of your Tanzanian safari. Participating in more of these special experiences can make your journey richer but may also increase your expenses. Planning your activities based on your interests and budget can help you find a balance between enjoying these optional adventures and managing the total cost of your Tanzanian safari.
7. Solo Or Group Safari ?
When you’re part of a group or joining one for your trip, many expenses can be divided among the members, which lightens the financial burden. For example, when sharing a vehicle, costs like the vehicle fee, guiding fee, and driver fee can be split among the group members. Group tours are especially attractive for budget-conscious travelers because these shared expenses significantly lower individual costs. It’s a practical option, especially for those who want to explore Tanzania without spending too much.
On the other hand, if you’re traveling solo on a private safari, you’ll have to cover all expenses by yourself. This includes paying for things like park entrance fees, vehicle costs, guide and driver fees, and accommodations entirely on your own. However, another option to consider for reducing these individual expenses is traveling with a friend or loved one. Sharing the adventure not only doubles the fun but also divides the costs, making it more affordable for both individuals.
Opting to travel with companions or joining group tours can be a smart choice for those who want to explore Tanzania while keeping their expenses in check. Splitting these costs among fellow travelers ensures a more budget-friendly experience, allowing everyone to enjoy Tanzania’s wonders without hefty price tags for each person.
8. Additional Tanzania Safari Costs
When planning a trip to Tanzania, besides the main expenses, there are several extra costs that every traveler should think about. These costs might not seem like much individually, but they can add up during your safari:
Insurance Expenses
Getting comprehensive travel insurance is highly recommended for anyone traveling to Africa. A good insurance plan should cover things like medical emergencies, evacuation, property theft, and flight cancellations. Having enough coverage will give you peace of mind during your safari, especially in unexpected situations.
Souvenir Costs
It’s common for safari travelers to bring back souvenirs from Tanzania for their friends and family. The country offers various beautiful mementos that range in price. Setting aside a budget of $20 to $50 for souvenirs while planning your safari could be a good idea.
Laundry Charges
While many lodges offer laundry services, there might be an extra cost, which can vary from one lodge to another. Budget-conscious travelers might choose to do some of their laundry themselves, but it’s important to consider potential laundry costs in your Tanzania safari plans.
Snacks and Drinks
Not all accommodations in Tanzania provide snacks and beverages, even those that offer full board. It’s a good idea to budget for these extra expenses, especially if you want to enjoy sundowners or alcoholic drinks. Some luxury facilities might include beverages in their rates, but it’s not guaranteed.
Tipping Expenses
Tipping in Tanzania isn’t obligatory, but it’s common to tip exceptional staff who have made your safari experience better. It’s a good idea to set aside a tipping budget, and while these amounts aren’t fixed, they provide a guideline on how much to consider tipping during your safari. It’s important to note that tipping amounts can vary based on personal preferences and satisfaction with the service received.
Taking these extra costs into account and including them in your safari budget can help you plan and enjoy your Tanzanian adventure without any unexpected financial surprises along the way.
5 Ways To Travel Budget On A Safari In Tanzania
Here are some tips to help you save money on your safari in Tanzania, especially if you’re working with a tight budget:
1. Avoid Peak and Holiday Seasons
During March, April, and May, Tanzania experiences its rainy season, which is considered the off-peak time for tourists. With fewer crowds, this period is ideal for budget travelers as accommodations often offer discounted rates. On the other hand, peak season from June to August and the holiday season from December 24th to January 1st see increased safari costs due to high demand. It’s best to avoid planning your trip during these times to save on expenses.
2. Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Booking budget-friendly accommodations is essential when traveling on a budget. Consider combining budget facilities with camping for a few nights to further reduce your safari expenses.
3. Opt for Group or Scheduled Safaris
Joining group tours or scheduled safaris is a smart move for budget travelers exploring Tanzania. By splitting expenses among the group, such as vehicle fees, fuel charges, and guide costs, individual expenses are significantly reduced. This allows each person to contribute less, making the overall adventure more affordable.
4. Avoid Hopping Between Tourist Destinations
When traveling on a budget, avoid itineraries that involve hopping between multiple destinations. Moving frequently means spending more on transportation costs and park entrance fees. Instead, focus on crafting an itinerary that centers on a couple of national parks. This minimizes travel expenses, allows more time to enjoy each location, and maximizes the budget safari experience in Tanzania.
5. Use A Safari Guide Rather Than A Fly-In Safari
You will all agree with me that a fly-in Safari is more expensive compared to taking a guided safari in Tanzania.
Best Time To Visit Tanzania
Although Tanzania is considered to be an all year round destination, the best time to visit is from July to October during the dry season a time that coincides with the river crossing of the wildebeest migration within the northern part of the Serengeti. The vegetation is nearly dry making it very easy to spot the different animals in their natural habitat.
Follow our packages created purposely for the big five Safari.
Lodge Safari in Tanzania
Serengeti fly in Safari
