Going on an African safari is a dream for many people. It is a great chance to see the beautiful wildlife and landscapes of Africa. Planning this trip needs a lot of thought. By thinking carefully about where to stay, you can make sure your safari is a great experience. You will make special memories and enjoy the amazing nature of Africa. But, how much does an African safari cost? We have done our research and broken down the prices for you, helping you to plan your next safari getaway.
Accommodations Options
When planning an African safari, you’ll spend a good chunk of your budget on where you stay. Campsites are great money savers. They cost around $40 to $80 per person each night. Although this option is budget-friendly, you might have to give up some comforts and extras.
For a comfortable yet budget-friendly stay, consider mid-range lodges, which cost around $130 to $400 per person per night. They typically feature private bathrooms, cozy beds, and sometimes even swimming pools. While luxury lodges start at $670 and can go up to $2000 per night,
The best way to travel
Traveling to and around your safari destination will also incur costs. Some factors to consider include flights, transfers, and vehicle rentals.
Air Travel
Flying to Africa might cost between $800 and $1,600 for each person. Plus, you might need to take more flights within Africa, which could add another $200 to $400 per person.
Transfers
Ground transportation between airports, accommodations, and attractions can cost $65 to $270 per person, depending on the distance and mode of transport.
Vehicle Rentals
Renting a 4×4 vehicle for self-drive safaris can range from $110 to $200 per day, plus fuel expenses.
Park Fees
Park fees are another essential component of an African safari’s cost. The fees vary depending on the specific park or reserve you’ll be visiting and the duration of your stay.
Entry Fees
Daily entry fees for parks and reserves can range from $27 to $108 per person, with some iconic parks, like the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, charging even higher fees.
Conservation Fees
Some parks and reserves also charge a separate conservation fee, which can add an additional $13 to $67 per person per day.
Car Costs
For those planning to drive themselves, be prepared to cover vehicle entry fees. These fees can vary from $27 to $134 per vehicle per day.
Activities on Offer
The cost of activities during your safari will vary depending on the type and duration of the experiences you choose. Some examples include:
Game Drives
Guided game drives are often included in the accommodation packages at mid-range and luxury lodges, but for budget travellers, they can cost between $67 and $200 per person per drive.
Walking Safaris
Guided walking safaris offer a more intimate wildlife experience and can cost between $67 and $267 per person, depending on the duration.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
These unforgettable https://www.discoverafrica.com/safaris/south-africa/hot-air-balloon-rides/ hot air balloon safari ride experiences can range from $400 to $800 per person, including a champagne breakfast upon landing.
Additional Expenses
Don’t forget to factor in additional expenses like travel insurance, visas, vaccinations, and souvenirs. You can pay anything from $67 to $200 for travel insurance, depending on the coverage. Visa fees vary by country, but expect to pay $67 to $134 per person. Vaccinations can range from $67 to $267, depending on the required immunisations for your destination.
Knowing the cost of a safari helps you plan better and enjoy your trip more. Think about things like where you’ll stay, how you’ll travel, park fees, and activities. Also, don’t forget extra costs like insurance, visas, and shots. With good planning, you can go on an amazing African safari and see the beautiful animals and scenery there.
Research the various transportation methods, such as self-drive safaris, guided tours, or even hot-air balloon rides, to find the one that suits your adventure style. Look into the park fees and activity prices to help prioritize which reserves and experiences you want to include in your itinerary.
When it comes to additional expenses, always check the visa requirements for the countries you plan to visit and allocate funds for vaccinations to protect yourself against health risks.
Lastly, set aside some money for souvenirs and other personal expenses, so you can bring home memories of your unforgettable African safari.