Understand exactly what your safari will cost before you book
Most travelers have no idea what a safari actually costs until they start getting quotes. This simple budget breakdown gives you a clear picture of every cost category before you commit — accommodation, park fees, flights, transfers, tips, and the hidden costs nobody warns you about.
Steps
Views
One-time
Everything you need to know before your first African safari
Plan a safe, engaging safari the whole family will love
Experience an incredible safari without breaking the bank
The main safari costs include accommodation (30–50% of total), park and conservation fees ($50–$100 per day), transportation between parks, international flights, travel insurance, visa fees, vaccinations, tips for guides and staff, and personal expenses like souvenirs and drinks.
Standard tipping guidelines are $10–$20 per person per day for your safari guide, $5–$10 per day for lodge/camp staff (shared pool), and $2–$5 per bag for porters. For exceptional service, tip at the higher end. Always tip in USD cash, preferably in small bills.
Most safari packages include park entry fees, but always confirm with your operator. Park fees vary significantly: Serengeti charges $60–$82 per day, Maasai Mara charges $80–$200 depending on season, and gorilla trekking permits cost $700 (Uganda) to $1,500 (Rwanda).