Find out how much a safari in Tanzania really costs. Explore prices for luxury, mid-range, and budget safaris, including accommodation, park fees, transport, meals, and tips for planning your ideal Tanzanian adventure.
Planning a safari in Tanzania is a dream for many travelers, but one of the first questions is: “How much does a safari in Tanzania really cost?”
The answer varies depending on the type of safari, duration, accommodation style, season, and the parks you choose. From luxury lodges with private guides to budget-friendly camping safaris, Tanzania offers options for all travelers.
This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of safari costs, tips for budgeting, and advice for getting the most value from your Tanzanian adventure.
Several factors influence the total cost of a safari in Tanzania:
Accommodation Type
Luxury lodges: $500–$1,200 per person per night
Mid-range lodges and tented camps: $200–$400 per person per night
Budget camping: $100–$250 per person per night
Duration of Safari
Short 3–4 day safaris: Lower total cost but fewer parks
7–10 day safaris: Higher cost but full wildlife experience
Number of Parks Visited
Popular combination: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire
Off-the-beaten-path: Ruaha, Selous/Nyerere
Season
Peak season (June–October, Jan–March): Higher prices
Low season (April–May, Nov–Dec): Lower prices, greener scenery
Transport
Domestic flights: $150–$400 per person per flight
Safari vehicles: Private 4x4 $200–$350 per day, shared $80–$150 per person
Park Entry Fees
Serengeti: $70 per adult per day
Ngorongoro Crater: $70 per adult per day
Tarangire, Lake Manyara: $45–$60 per adult per day
Meals and Drinks
Included in most lodges
Additional costs for snacks, drinks, and special requests
Guides and Driver Fees
Professional guides: $25–$50 per day per person (often included in packages)
Per Day: $500–$1,200 per person
Includes: Private guide, luxury lodges, gourmet meals, air-conditioned safari vehicle, park fees, and exclusive experiences
Example:
7-day luxury safari in Serengeti and Ngorongoro: $4,000–$8,000 per person
Who is it for: Travelers seeking comfort, exclusivity, and personalized experiences
Pros: Private game drives, premium accommodations, high-end dining
Cons: Higher cost, less social interaction
Per Day: $200–$400 per person
Includes: Comfortable lodges or tented camps, shared safari vehicle, most meals, park fees
Example:
7-day mid-range safari: $1,400–$2,800 per person
Who is it for: Travelers seeking a balance between comfort and affordability
Pros: Good wildlife viewing, comfortable lodges
Cons: Shared vehicles and less exclusive access
Per Day: $100–$250 per person
Includes: Camping or basic lodges, shared safari vehicles, some meals, park fees
Example:
7-day budget safari: $700–$1,750 per person
Who is it for: Backpackers, students, or travelers on a tight budget
Pros: Affordable, authentic experience
Cons: Basic accommodations, less comfort, long drives
| Expense Category | Luxury | Mid-Range | Budget |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $500–$1,200/day | $200–$400/day | $100–$250/day |
| Safari Vehicle & Guide | $200–$350/day | $100–$200/day | $50–$100/day |
| Park Fees | $70–$80/day | $60–$70/day | $45–$60/day |
| Meals | Included | Included | Basic meals included |
| Domestic Flights | $150–$400 | $150–$400 | Optional |
| Miscellaneous | $50–$100 | $30–$50 | $20–$40 |
| Total 7-Day Safari | $4,000–$8,000 | $1,400–$2,800 | $700–$1,750 |
Travel in Low Season: April–May and November–December
Book Early: Discounts on lodges and flights
Combine Parks Strategically: Minimize transport costs
Join Group Safaris: Lower cost per person than private safaris
Use Local Operators: Often cheaper and authentic experience
Limit Domestic Flights: Consider road transfers where feasible
Visa Fees: $50 for most nationalities
Tips for Guides and Staff: $5–$10 per day per person
Souvenirs and Extras: Spices, handicrafts, cultural tours
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended, $50–$150 depending on coverage
Serengeti National Park: $150–$400/day
Ngorongoro Crater: $150–$350/day
Tarangire National Park: $120–$300/day
Lake Manyara National Park: $100–$250/day
Selous / Nyerere: $200–$500/day
Ruaha National Park: $180–$400/day
1. Can a budget safari still see the Big Five?
Yes – wildlife sightings are not restricted to luxury safaris. Budget travelers can see lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and leopards with shared vehicles.
2. Are park fees included in safari packages?
Most packages include park fees, but always confirm with your operator.
3. How long should a safari be for good wildlife viewing?
5–7 days is ideal to cover multiple parks and maximize Big Five sightings.
4. Can I combine a safari with Zanzibar or Pemba?
Yes – combine with 3–5 days in Zanzibar for a post-safari beach experience. Additional costs apply for flights or transfers.
5. Is tipping mandatory?
Tipping guides and lodge staff is customary but optional. Around $5–$10 per day per person is typical.
So, how much does a safari in Tanzania really cost? It depends on your style, duration, and destinations:
Luxury Safari: $4,000–$8,000 per person for 7 days
Mid-Range Safari: $1,400–$2,800 per person for 7 days
Budget Safari: $700–$1,750 per person for 7 days
Regardless of your budget, Tanzania offers unforgettable wildlife experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and the chance to see the Big Five. By planning carefully, choosing the right parks, and selecting suitable accommodations, your Tanzania safari can be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure without unnecessary surprises.
👉 Start planning your Tanzania safari today and discover the wildlife, landscapes, and culture that make this country one of Africa’s top safari destinations.
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