A Tanzania safari is one of the ultimate adventure playgrounds in Africa. There are countless Tanzania experiences to tick off your bucket list, from relaxing on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar to spotting the Big Five on a Serengeti Safari in Africa.
When planning your journey, an essential factor is understanding the cost of a safari in Tanzania. Tanzania safari costs vary widely based on several factors, including the time of year you visit and the type of safari experience you choose, with options ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps.
What Is The Average Cost of Tanzania Safari Tours?
The average cost of a Tanzania safari per person ranges from $300 to $1000 per day. The price varies depending on factors such as comfort level, activities you would like to take up, and the travel season.
For instance, if you’re going for a premium experience in a luxury safari like Serengeti, and you choose the peak season, you may spend up to $2,000. Also, if you decide to go during notable events like the Great Migration, prices are naturally higher.
What Factors Influence Tanzania Safari Cost?
A good understanding of the different factors affecting Tanzania safari tours will help you to plan within your budget. It will help you select the best kind of accommodation and a great overall viewing experience.
The Time Of The Year
Tanzania’s safari season peaks between June and October. During these months, international flight prices rise because so many tourists are visiting. There is another boom during the festive season. Families that travel between December and early January pay a lot due to price hikes.
If you’re looking to travel when the rates are low, mid-January to May is a reasonable period. During these months, you have less crowded camps and lower rates. You may also get a private game drive, which is rare during peak season.
The Number Of People On The Trip
The number of people on your safari tour plays a significant role in determining the overall cost of your Tanzania safari. Usually, the more travelers within your group, the lower the price. This is because most adventures incur a single supplement charge. This means that if a single person goes on an adventure, they will pay the same amount as a group would. Each person in the group can split the cost and pay a reduced fee. Also, many tour companies offer discounts or fee waivers for large families. Accommodation, vehicle, fuel, and guide fees are automatically lower for large groups than for solo travellers.
Mode Of Transport Within the Safari
Local transports within Tanzania Safaris also determine how costly your tour will be. The options range from light aircraft to the 4×4 safari vehicles. A private safari vehicle offers more flexibility and comfort but costs more than joining a shared car. This mode, however, is less costly than flying between camps. Tanzania has a well-established flight network that conveys visitors to remote camps. You pay more, but you get to enjoy scenic safari views while avoiding long, bumpy rides.
The Number Of Tour Days
The number of days you spend on safari is another major determinant of your total Tanzania safari cost. More extended tours, 7-10 days, offer better viewing opportunities but at a higher price. The longer your tour days, the more you spend on national park entry fees, accommodation, vehicles, and guides. If you are on a budget, 3-5 days is enough, but you visit just a few parks. However, if you choose to explore specific experiences, such as the Great Migration or both the Northern and Southern Circuits, you may need to expand your budget.
Preferred Accommodation
Lodging options on Tanzania safaris range from simple budget camps to luxury lodges. Basic camps are the most affordable option with shared facilities and standard meals. A budget camp costs about $100–$150 per night. The camps just above the budget range cost about $250–$350 per night per person. You have access to scenic views, star beds, better dining services, and possibly laundry services. Then at the top, there are the luxury lodges, which are the most expensive. African safari costs with luxury accommodation range from $600 to $1,500 for an entire tour. These accommodations are spacious, fenced with private decks, plunge pools, gourmet meals, and personalized services.
Safari Travel Circuit
The Northern Circuit, the Southern Circuit, and the Western Circuit are three circuits you can pass through to enjoy a Tanzania safari. The northern circuit is the most popular, with famous parks such as the Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, Tarangire National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater. It has well-developed roads, making the distance between parks very short. Many visitors prefer this route because it is cost-effective.
In contrast, the southern circuit is more remote and less crowded. It offers a wider range of wildlife viewing and costs more. The parks are farther apart, so you may need to take a local aircraft between them. You will find Ruaha National Park and Nyerere Game Reserve in the southern circuit. The most remote circuit is the western circuit, which houses the Katavi and Mahale Mountains. This circuit records the fewest visitors as it is the most expensive
Early Booking
Another major cost determinant is how early you book—African safari costs run on a first-come, first-served basis. Many tour companies have limited space for different periods. If you are looking to get the best accommodation, you will need to book early. Also, during peak seasons, many tourists don’t get to enjoy some essential adventures. Destinations like the Serengeti are always in high demand; booking early is the safest way to get the experience.
What Is Included in the Cost of Tanzania Safari Tours?
Tanzania safari costs generally cover several services to give you a memorable wildlife experience. While most packages cannot cover every single detail, the essentials like accommodation, transportation, and Wildlife activities are covered.
Accommodation
Every tour agency provides accommodation as one of the primary inclusions. Accommodation ranges from basic to luxury, with premium amenities. Most lodge packages include breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no additional cost.
Transportation
Transportation is often included in most Tanzania safari costs. It provides aircraft transfers within the safari, 4×4 safari vehicles, and game drives within national parks. The package consists of drivers who are fully knowledgeable about the entire safari, providing a richer experience.
In-destination Support
For each park, you will pay a set fee for park entry. Tanzania’s major national parks, such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, charge daily entrance fees to help maintain them. Companies that organise Tanzania safari tours simply add these fees to your package to prevent any inconvenience.
Safari Activities
Safari tour packages cover simple activities like a guided walk into the bush and community visits to luxury activities like private game drives, fly camping, helicopter transfers, and short scenic flights. Each of these activities has a different price. For instance, a hot-air balloon ride over the Serengeti may cost an additional $550–$600. While these experiences are unforgettable, they are considered luxury extras.
What other Costs are not included in Safari Costs
Other vital parts of Tanzania Safari Tours are not included in the rates quoted by safari companies. Here are some of the unlisted costs.
Visa
Visa costs are not included in Tanzania safari tour packages. Since visitors will be coming from different countries, the visa costs will vary. If you’re coming from the US, you will need a Multi-Entry tourist visa, which costs $100. If you are coming from other countries, including the UK, you only need the ordinary Tourist Visa, which costs $50. You can either apply for an e-visa on the Tanzania Immigration Services official website or wait to apply for a visa at the entry point.
International Flights
While some companies can help you book your international flights, others simply leave you to do it yourself. This means you should budget separately for flights into major entry airports, such as Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). If you want to find a good travel deal, we recommend booking very early or using your airline points. Ensure you inform your tour company of your flight bookings so they can integrate your flights into your tour itinerary.
Vaccines & Medication
When travelling to Tanzania, it is crucial to get the proper vaccinations before your trip. Not all vaccines are necessary. However, confirm which vaccines are required for your safari destination with your medical doctor. A budget of $15 to $100 would suffice for consultation and shot administration.
Tips
Tipping is a cultural practice in Tanzania, as in many other countries around the world. You can tip in your currency or in Tanzanian Shillings. Tips for the driving guide, accommodation attendants, and airport drivers are three essential tips to include in your African safari cost. Tipping varies by safari section. However, set a budget of $50 or more for tips and gratuities.
Travel Insurance
Another important cost that is not included is travel insurance. A few travel companies may offer travel insurance covering 4-6% of your total trip cost. Before agreeing to an insurance offer, ensure it covers basic emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, lost baggage, and travel delays. Additional benefits may include hot-air balloon safaris, hiking, and cultural tours.
How Do You Travel On A Budget To Tanzania Safari?
Tanzania safari tours can be done on a budget. Here are some tips to help you cut the cost of your safari in Tanzania.
Avoid Peak Seasons
Avoid visiting during peak seasons, such as June to August and December to early January. Instead, schedule your travel between April and May, and November. This way, you get maximum safari experience and excellent accommodations at discounted rates.
Choose Budget-Friendly Accommodation
If you are traveling on a budget, shared rooms and dorm tents are your best options. Since you will be spending most of your time outdoors, ignore the luxury treatment that comes with high-end accommodation.
Opt For A Group Safari Tour
Solo travellers often spend more than group travellers. When you travel with a group, you save up to 40% by splitting fees, such as the guide fee, among the group. Group tours also allow you to enjoy a Tanzania safari with fellow adventurers, an experience you will miss if you travel alone.
Reduce Extra Activities
You can have a full Tanzania safari experience on a budget if you minimize optional adventures. The add-ons, including hot-air balloon rides, night game drives, and Maasai cultural visits, increase the cost of your tours. If you are on a budget, stick to the core safari experience included in your package. It doesn’t compromise the quality of your adventure, but it ensures you enjoy Tanzania within your budget.
Use Local Operators Rather Than International Agencies
While international safari companies add an international markup to their Tanzania safari costs, local operators do not. Local tour operators offer the same parks, guides, and wildlife experience at more affordable rates.
As you plan your 3–7-day adventure, explore available options, including curated Tanzania safari packages and exclusive Serengeti luxury safaris. This ensures you choose a safari that aligns with your expectations and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is 5 Days Enough For A Tanzania Safari Tour?
Five days are enough for you to experience memorable adventures on a Tanzania safari. You can visit major parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, spot the big 5 animals, and circle the northern and southern circuits within 5 days.
2. How Much Does A 7-Day African Safari Cost?
A 7-day African safari costs between $2,500 and $7,000 per person. This price depends on the season, safari destination, tour activities, and accommodation style.
3. Is Safari Cheaper In Kenya Or Tanzania?
Kenya and Tanzania offer unique safari experiences, which can affect the cost differently. Kenya has shorter travel distances between parks, while Tanzania has longer distances.
4. How Much Will A Trip To Tanzania Cost?
The total cost for a trip to Tanzania typically ranges from $1,800 to $7,000. Local flights within Africa cost $100–$300, while international flights to Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam range from $700–$1,200.
