Advice

What does an African Safari cost?

An important question where the answer can range massively. Allow us to break it down

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This is the most common question we receive. Here, we elucidate the various factors influencing the price of your dream African safari, the options that are at your disposal and how we can optimise your budget.

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It's essential to note that a well-executed safari is a premium experience and where the quality of your investment reflects the experience you receive.

Ben Nelson
Founder
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Securing you the best price

The multitude of online prices and diverse approaches by different companies can make it challenging to discern the value of your safari investment. Many individuals assume that booking through a tour operator will incur higher costs compared to planning their own vacation. However, this is far from the truth. A reputable tour operator will save you money and provide you with fantastic service.

Influencing factors

Destination: Selecting your destination plays a significant role in determining the overall cost. Popular destinations like Serengeti or the Okavango Delta may differ in price from more remote options such as Nyerere (formerly Selous), Phinda, or the Lower Zambezi.

Accommodation: Accommodation costs can vary widely. Your choice depends on the nature of your safari—whether it's a once-in-a-lifetime adventure or a bi-annual trip. While we primarily offer luxury itineraries, our accommodation options within this category span from authentic to extremely comfortable to ultra-glamorous. We classify our trips into three categories: Value, Classic and Luxury - see right.

Special interests: Do you have specific interests like photography, birdwatching, horseback riding across the Maasai Mara, or gorilla trekking? Specialized activities and excursions can impact the safari cost, considering additional expenses such as permits, private guides, equipment and more.

Travel timing: The timing of your safari is crucial. Opting for off-peak or shoulder season travel instead of the peak season can result in savings of up to 50 percent. Strategic timing can make luxury destinations more affordable.

Transportation: Would you prefer private transfers, helicopters, camels, or are you open to shared transfers to manage costs more effectively? We offer a range of transportation options and can discuss these choices to align with your budget.

Your group size: African safari pricing is typically presented as a 'cost per person,' although this can be misleading as it is based on two adults sharing a room. Single travellers or children may have a very different rate.

Value Safaris

Value safaris often feature 4-star camps and lodges where the focus is on location over luxury, with prices ranging between £3,500 and £5,000 per adult for 12 nights.

Classic Safaris

Classic safaris typically include exceptional properties known for their high standards of guiding, food and service. Expect between £5,000 and £10,000 per person for 12 nights.

Luxury Safari

Luxury safaris are the epitome of opulence, with prices exceeding £1,500 per person per night. Expect private plunge pools and exceptional hospitality, with prices between £10,000–£30,000 per person for 12 nights.

Speak to us

For expert guidance on selecting the ideal safari category and destination, we highly recommend reaching out to our team. Planning a trip to Africa can be complex, and our expertise can make the process much smoother for you.

What is not included

International flights: While we can arrange international flights for you, we typically do not include them in our quotes. Many clients prefer to book their international flights themselves, and we respect their choice.

Visa costs: Visa costs vary by destination and may be obtained before departure or at border control. Typical visa costs range from US$30 to US$100 per person.

Vaccinations: Prior to your African trip, it's essential to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations. Common vaccinations recommended include hepatitis A+B, typhoid, diphtheria, and, for Kenya, yellow fever. Malaria prophylactics are advised for most safari areas. It's advisable to book vaccinations well in advance.

Tipping: Tipping customs vary by destination and circumstances, such as tipping airport drivers or private professional guides. We provide guidelines on tipping for African safaris.

Travel insurance: As part of our Terms & Conditions, we require all clients to purchase comprehensive travel insurance. This is a crucial additional cost, and we offer a guide to help you choose the right policy.

Inclusions

Unless otherwise specified by the property, our prices include internal flights, transfers, reserve fees, accommodations, meals, soft drinks, local beverages/alcohol, and all activities without additional charges. Activities incurring extra fees, such as hot air balloon safaris, are exceptions.

Start planning your tailor-made holiday

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