This is probably your main question before planning your safari in Tanzania, whether arranging a solo travel tour or traveling with family or friends. Afriswahili Adventures has written this article to provide a full price breakdown for a safari in Tanzania and explain what causes price variations.
Tanzania is renowned as the world’s top safari destination, home to iconic sites like Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater. However, it’s also one of the more expensive safari locations. While transport and entry fees are fixed, we can provide a detailed cost breakdown to help you understand the expenses involved and choose the best safari option for you.
Tanzania Safari Cost Breakdown
The total cost of a Tanzania safari includes several key components: a safari vehicle with a private local guide, entrance fees for national parks, and accommodation. The first two components are fixed costs, though sharing a safari vehicle with others can reduce individual expenses. For example, driving a safari jeep in the Ngorongoro Crater costs $300 per day, making safaris a significant investment. However, you can save on accommodation based on the level of luxury or exclusivity you choose.
What’s Included in the Tanzania Safari Price?
A comprehensive Tanzania safari package typically includes:
- Airport Transfers: Private vehicle transfers for arrival and departure. Though you can arrange these yourself, it’s often included at no extra cost when booking through a tour operator.
- Accommodation: Stays in Moshi or Arusha before and after the safari. Tour operators often get commissions from lodges or hotels, potentially securing better rates than direct bookings.
- Safari Vehicle: A 4×4 safari jeep.
- Park Entry Fees: Including conservation fees and crater entry fees where applicable.
- Accommodation During Safari: Options range from lodges to tented camps or camping gear for budget safaris.
- Ranger Fees: Where applicable.
- Meals and Drinks: Food and drinking water during the safari.
Why Do Safari Packages Vary in Cost?
The main cost determinants for a Tanzania safari are the type of accommodation chosen, with transportation and entry fees remaining constant. Options include budget, mid-range, standard-luxury, and high-end lodges and tented camps, most offering full board (three meals) and some all-inclusive services.
Other factors influencing the cost include the duration of the safari and the number of travelers. Larger groups can distribute the costs of the vehicle and crater entry fees, lowering the per-person price compared to solo or small group travelers. Discounts are often available for larger groups.
Average Tanzania Safari Costs
When planning a wildlife safari in Tanzania, you generally have three accommodation options:
- Budget Safari: Basic accommodations like tents or budget hotels, starting at $250 per person per day.
- Mid-Range Safari: Lodging costs around $400 per person per day.
- Luxury Safari: High-end options with all amenities, ranging from $700 to $1000 per person per day.
These prices exclude international flights, visa fees, vaccinations, travel insurance, and other incidentals.
Why Choose Mid-Range Safari Accommodation?
Mid-range accommodations offer the best balance of price and quality, with excellent locations, stunning views, and good service. While budget options can save you $30–$50 per day, they often compromise on quality and location. Mid-range options ensure a more enjoyable experience without excessive costs.
Low-Budget Accommodation
For those needing to economize further, camping safaris are an excellent option. Tanzania has many good camping sites where you can stay in small dome tents and enjoy freshly prepared meals from safari chefs.
Why Choose Afriswahili Adventures?
Afriswahili Adventures is a local mid-range tour operator in Tanzania committed to providing high-quality service at reasonable prices. While luxury operators charge significantly more for unnecessary extras, and budget operators might skimp on essential services, Afriswahili Adventures strikes a balance.
We recommend determining your safari budget upfront, including whether you want to end your safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar. This helps create a tailored itinerary that suits your needs.
We offer competitive prices for Tanzania safaris, ensuring you enjoy premium quality services at the best rates.
