Planning a safari in Tanzania is a dream for many adventurers, with the country offering some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences, from witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti to exploring the Ngorongoro Crater’s unique ecosystem. However, one of the most common questions for prospective travelers is: “How much does a safari cost in Tanzania?” The answer depends on a wide range of factors, including the type of safari, accommodation, time of year, and duration of stay. Let’s break down the costs to help you understand what to expect and how to budget for your Tanzanian safari.

Types of Safaris

The type of safari you choose will significantly influence the overall cost. Here’s an overview of some common options:

• Budget Safaris: These are designed for cost-conscious travelers. You’ll typically stay in basic tents or budget lodges, travel in standard safari vehicles, and join group tours. Budget safaris can start as low as $150 to $250 per person per day.
• Mid-range Safaris: For those seeking a balance between comfort and affordability, mid-range safaris offer lodges or tented camps with more amenities. You’ll travel in 4×4 vehicles with fewer passengers, ensuring a more personalized experience. Expect to pay between $350 and $600 per person per day.
• Luxury Safaris: If you’re after high-end accommodations, personalized service, gourmet meals, and exclusive experiences like private game drives, luxury safaris can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per person per day, with some ultra-luxury experiences even exceeding this range.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation is one of the biggest factors affecting your safari’s overall cost. The range of lodging options in Tanzania is vast, from basic public campsites to ultra-luxurious lodges in prime wildlife-viewing locations.

• Campsites (Budget Option): For the adventurous traveler, campsites are the most economical option, costing around $10 to $50 per night. While affordable, public campsites offer minimal facilities, such as shared bathrooms and limited electricity.
• Mid-range Lodges and Tented Camps: Mid-range options are comfortable, offering en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and decent dining options. These lodges typically cost $150 to $400 per night.
• Luxury Lodges and Camps: These offer top-notch facilities, including spacious suites, private plunge pools, and incredible locations with uninterrupted views of the bush. Luxury lodges often start at $500 to $1,500 per night or more, depending on the exclusivity and location.

Time of Year (High Season vs. Low Season)

The time of year you choose to visit Tanzania can also significantly impact safari costs.

• High Season (June to October): This is Tanzania’s dry season, ideal for wildlife viewing. It’s also the busiest time for safaris, especially around the Great Migration in the Serengeti and calving season in the Ngorongoro Crater. Prices during the high season are at their peak, with luxury accommodations charging up to 30-50% more than in the low season. Expect daily rates to range between $600 to $1,200 per person for mid-range and luxury safaris during this period.
• Low Season (March to May): The low season coincides with the rainy season, and while wildlife is still abundant, the rains can make some areas difficult to access. However, it’s a great time to take advantage of significant discounts, as many lodges and camps reduce prices by 20-40%. Budget and mid-range safaris can cost as little as $250 to $400 per person per day in the low season.

Safari Duration

How long you plan to spend on safari is another key cost factor. Most safaris in Tanzania range from 3 to 10 days, though shorter or longer trips are possible.

• 3-day Safari: Ideal for travelers on a tight schedule, a 3-day safari focusing on the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) costs around $600 to $1,500 per person for budget to mid-range options. Luxury experiences can push this price to $2,500+.
• 7-day Safari: For a more immersive experience, a weeklong safari allows you to visit multiple national parks. Expect prices to range from $1,800 to $4,200 for budget and mid-range options, while luxury safaris will likely start around $6,000 per person.
• 10-day Safari: A longer safari, typically combining the Northern Circuit with more remote parks like Ruaha or Nyerere (Selous), will cost $3,000 to $6,000 for budget and mid-range options and upwards of $8,000 for luxury safaris.

Park Fees and Additional Costs

When budgeting for a safari, don’t forget to account for national park fees and other additional expenses:

• Park Fees: Tanzania’s national parks charge daily fees, usually between $50 and $80 per person per day, depending on the park. For example, Serengeti National Park charges $82.60 per adult per day, while Ngorongoro Crater has a $70 per person entry fee plus an additional $300 vehicle fee to enter the crater.
• Internal Flights: If your itinerary involves flying between parks or starting your safari in a remote location, expect internal flights to add around $150 to $300 per flight.
• Tips: Tipping is customary on safari. You’ll need to budget around $10 to $20 per day for your driver-guide and $5 to $10 per day for camp staff.

Private vs. Group Safaris

• Group Safaris: Joining a group safari is a cost-effective option, with the cost per person typically ranging between $150 to $300 per day, depending on the group size. These safaris often follow set itineraries, so they lack some of the flexibility of private safaris.
• Private Safaris: If you prefer a more exclusive experience, private safaris allow you to customize your itinerary and enjoy personalized game drives. Expect to pay a premium, with private safaris costing $300 to $1,000 per day, depending on the level of luxury and services provided.

Specialized Safaris

• Walking Safaris: These guided walking tours through parks like Nyerere or Ruaha National Park offer a unique way to explore Tanzania’s wilderness. Prices for walking safaris vary but typically range from $200 to $600 per person per day.
• Cultural Tours: For travelers interested in Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage, visits to Maasai villages or Hadzabe hunter-gatherers can cost between $50 and $100 per person, depending on the location and level of interaction.

Final Thoughts

The cost of a safari in Tanzania can vary widely based on your preferences, from budget-friendly group tours to lavish, all-inclusive experiences. On average, most travelers should budget between $2,500 and $7,500 for a 5- to 7-day safari, though the costs can be higher for longer trips or luxury options. By carefully considering your options and planning ahead, you can find a safari that suits both your budget and your desire for adventure.