A 7-day mid-range private safari in East Africa in 2026: Kenya $3,500–$5,000 per person, Tanzania $4,500–$7,000, Uganda $3,500–$6,000, Rwanda $4,000–$6,500 (without gorilla permit), Botswana $6,000–$10,000. The biggest cost is accommodation and park fees, not the vehicle/guide.
One of the most common questions we get is 'how much does a safari cost?' The honest answer is that it depends on the country, the time of year, and the level of accommodation. This guide breaks down the real numbers for 2026.
A typical safari quote includes:
Usually NOT included:
| Tier | Kenya | Tanzania | Uganda | Rwanda |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid-range private | $3,500–$5,000 | $4,500–$7,000 | $3,500–$6,000 | $4,000–$6,500 |
| Upper mid | $5,500–$8,000 | $7,000–$10,000 | $6,000–$9,000 | $6,500–$10,000 |
| Luxury conservancy/lodge | $9,000–$18,000 | $11,000–$18,000 | $10,000–$15,000 | $10,000–$16,000 |
| Photographic / specialist | $12,000+ | $15,000+ | — | — |
A shared camping safari starts around $1,800 per person for 7 days. A mid-range shared safari (shared vehicle, mid-range tented camp) is $2,500–$3,500 per person. The trade-offs of budget safaris:
The biggest cost drivers in a safari:
South Africa has the cheapest self-drive safaris (Kruger National Park) from around $80/day including accommodation and vehicle. The cheapest fully-scheduled safaris are in Kenya and Tanzania from $250/day for shared camping trips.
Kenya is generally slightly cheaper than Tanzania, mainly because the Mara reserve and conservancy fees are higher than the Serengeti's. Amboseli, Tsavo, and Samburu are all cheaper than the equivalent Tanzanian parks.
Mid-range private: $4,000–$6,000 per person. Upper mid: $6,000–$9,000. Luxury: $10,000–$18,000. Plus international flights ($1,000–$2,000 from the US/Europe), tips ($200–$400), and travel insurance.
TESTIMONIALS
Our greatest compliments come from those who have traveled with us. Check out what our satisfied guests have to say.
"We, a group of 5 recently retired women and two kids put our trust in the hands of Mr. John, the Safari Director. From receiving us from the airport to making sure our stay was perfect, he managed our entire travel logistics meticulously."
United States
"The place's were overwhelming. It felt mesmerising connecting to the nature and people, both in their truest and purest form. People were extremely affectionate and hospitable."
India
"Absolutely unforgettable experience. The attention to detail was extraordinary, from the wildlife guides to the lodge accommodations. Every moment felt carefully curated."
United Kingdom
