Understanding the Costs of a Safari in Tanzania

Planning a safari in Tanzania can be a complex process. Sometimes, two seemingly similar trips can have a significant price difference, leaving you unsure about the reasons behind it. From park entry fees and accommodation to vehicle rentals and extra activities, it can be challenging to understand how these costs are structured.

Since a trip to Tanzania is often a once-in-a-lifetime experience and not inexpensive, you want everything to be meticulously organized and ensure that the journey meets all your expectations.

That’s why we have created this comprehensive guide, so you not only gain insight into the various costs but also become better equipped to compare trips and make informed choices. This way, you can be well-prepared and find the safari that suits your needs best. 

 

1. Safari Vehicle & Guide

One of the primary costs in a safari is the rental of the safari vehicle and the services of an experienced guide. The vehicle needs to be robust and well-maintained to handle the rough terrains of the national parks. This cost includes rent, fuel, maintenance, entree fees for the vehicle & guide and the expertise of a knowledgeable guide who can enhance your safari experience by providing insights about the wildlife and the environment.

• Cost: Approximately $250 per day

2. Park Fees

Each national park in Tanzania has entrance fees that contribute to the conservation of the wildlife and the maintenance of the park. These fees are mandatory and vary from park to park. They are usually charged per person per day (24 hours, single entrée).

• Serengeti National Park: $82.60 per person per day
• Ngorongoro Crater: $82.60 per person per day + $295 per vehicle for Crater entry
• Tarangire National Park: $59 per person per day
• Lake Manyara National Park: $59 per person per day
• Arusha National Park: $59 per person per day

3. Accommodation

The type and location of your accommodation significantly impact the cost of your safari. Whether you opt for luxury lodges, tented camps, or budget options, prices vary accordingly. Spending the night inside national parks comes with concession fees, additional charges for lodging within protected areas that offer proximity to wildlife. Lodges inside parks are also generally pricier due to their prime locations and enhanced amenities. Moreover, these accommodations face higher logistical costs for supplies; rough off-road conditions sometimes necessitate deliveries by plane. The prices below are based on the cost of a double room (2 persons). Prices do not include park entrance fees or concession fees. 

• Serengeti: $300 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Ngorongoro: $350 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Tarangire: $250 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Lake Manyara: $200 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Arusha: $180 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)

4. Concession Fees

Concession fees are charged for sleeping inside the national parks or private reserves and WMAs (Wildlife Management Areas). These fees support conservation efforts and ensure that tourism has a minimal impact on the natural habitat. The concession fees in Serengeti and Ngorongoro are $71 per person per night and most other parks cost $59,- per person per night.

Opting to stay outside the parks can save around $71 per person per night in concession fees (wherever possible), but it may affect your overall experience. WMA Fees are kind of similar to concession fees, but only apply for Wildlife Management Area’s (they’re not official national parks) the costs are usually around $35 per person, per night. There is however a chance of spotting wildlife as there are no gates in the national parks.

• Free Region: $0 per person, per night
• WMA’s: $35,- per person, per night
• National Parks: $59 – $71,- per person, per night

5. Meals and Drinks

Most safari packages are full board, covering all meals and (some) drinks during your stay. The cost will depend on the level of luxury and the specific preferences you have regarding your dining options.

6. Excursions and Activities

Additional activities such as hot air balloon rides, guided nature walks, cultural visits, or night safaris are optional but can add to the overall cost. These activities provide unique experiences that enhance your safari but come at an extra cost. If these activities are conducted inside the national parks, additional activity fees may be required. Activity fees are usually around 30 dollar per person. Some activities require an additional ranger as well (see 8. Ranger fees).

7. Internal Flights and Transfers

Depending on your itinerary, you may need to factor in the cost of internal flights or road transfers between different parks or some of Tanzania’s beautiful bounty-islands. These logistics are crucial for seamless travel and can influence the overall cost.

Cost: Varies, typically $100-$300 per person per flight

8. Ranger Fees

In some areas or with certain activities, usually within the national parks, an armed ranger is required to ensure the safety of the visitors. The cost of these rangers is included in your safari package and is usually around 30 dollars.

9. Permits and Licenses

Certain activities, like climbing Kilimanjaro or visiting the Ngorongoro Crater, require special permits. These permits are necessary and are factored into the total cost of your trip.

10. Infrastructure Tax

The infrastructure tax ranges from $1-5 per person per night depending on the accommodation. Some lodges require this to be paid on site, so it might not be included in the upfront cost.

How Choice of Lodges and Location Affects Price

Your choice of lodges and their location can significantly impact the overall cost of your safari. Accommodations inside the national parks are generally more expensive due to their prime location and the immersive experience they offer. These lodges often provide direct access to early morning and late evening game drives, which increases your chances of witnessing wildlife activity. The higher cost also reflects the convenience of being in the heart of the action, as well as additional amenities and services that enhance your safari experience.

Moreover, accommodations inside the parks incur higher costs because they need to be supplied with food and beverages, often transported over rough off-road conditions, which increases delivery costs. Sometimes, supplies are even delivered by plane due to the difficult terrain, further adding to the expense.

Opting to stay outside the parks can save around $71 per person per night in concession fees, but it may affect your overall experience. Staying within the parks allows for easier access to wildlife viewing and minimizes travel time to and from the park, offering a more seamless and enriching safari adventure. Below some examples of cost for spending the night in- and outside of the national parks. 

Cost Breakdown for an Average Day on Safari

Serengeti National Park

• Safari Vehicle & Guide: $250 per day
• Park Fees: $82.60 per person per day (times 2, due to having to cross Ngorongoro to reach Serengeti)
• Accommodation: $300 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Concession Fees: $71 per person per night

Total (for 2 people): $1,022.40 per day (excluding optional activities)

Ngorongoro Crater

• Safari Vehicle & Guide: $250 per day
• Park Fees: $82.60 per person per day
• Crater Entry Fees: $295 per vehicle
• Accommodation: $400 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Concession Fees: $71 per person per night

Total (for 2 people): $1,252.20 per day

Tarangire National Park/Lake Manyara National Park or Arusha National Park

• Safari Vehicle & Guide: $250 per day
• Park Fees: $59 per person per day
• Accommodation: $250 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Concession Fees: $59 per person per night

Total (for 2 people): $736 per day

Cost Comparison: Staying Outside the National Park

Here’s an example cost breakdown for staying outside the national parks in budget-friendly areas like Arusha, Karatu, or Mto wa Mbu:

Arusha

• Safari Vehicle & Guide: $250 per day
• Park Fees: $59 per person per day (for a nearby park like Arusha National Park)
• Accommodation: $150 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Ranger Fees: $20 (if applicable)
• Activity Fees: $30 per person per day (if applicable)

Total (for 2 people): $635.20 per day (excluding optional activities)

Karatu (near Ngorongoro Crater)

• Safari Vehicle & Guide: $200 per day
• Park Fees: $82.60 per person per day (for Ngorongoro Crater visit)
• Accommodation: $150 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Ranger Fees: $20 per person per day (if applicable)
• Activity Fees: $30 per person per day (if applicable)

Total (for 2 people): $635.20 per day (excluding optional activities)

Mto wa Mbu (near Lake Manyara)

• Safari Vehicle & Guide: $200 per day
• Park Fees: $59 per person per day (for Lake Manyara National Park)
• Accommodation: $100 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Ranger Fees: $20 per person per day (if applicable)
• Activity Fees: $30 per person per day (if applicable)

Total (for 2 people): $498 per day (excluding optional activities)

Cost Breakdown for Tanzania’s Islands

Tanzania’s islands offer unique experiences, and the costs can vary based on the island and the activities you choose. Here’s an estimated cost breakdown for a day on each of the main islands:

Zanzibar

• Accommodation: $100-250 per night (mid-range resort, bed & breakfast)
• Meals and Drinks: Included in accommodation
• Transfers: $50 per day (e.g., taxi from airport to hotel)
• Activities: Varies (e.g., spice tour: $30 per person, snorkeling: $40 per person)
• Infrastructure Tax: $1-5 per person per night (depending on accommodation, some lodges may require payment on site)

Pemba Island

• Accommodation: $300 per night (mid-range resort, full board)
• Meals and Drinks: Included in accommodation
• Transfers: $60 per day (e.g., taxi from airport to hotel)
• Marine Park Fees: $20 per person (if applicable)
• Activities: Varies (e.g., diving: $60 per person, cultural tour: $30 per person)

Total (for 2 people): $722 per day (excluding optional activities)

Mafia Island

• Accommodation: $200 per night (mid-range lodge, full board)
• Meals and Drinks: Included in accommodation
• Transfers: $70 per day (e.g., taxi from airport to hotel)
• Marine Park Fees: $23.60 per person per day
• Activities: Varies (e.g., whale shark tour: $100 per person, snorkeling: $50 per person)

Total (for 2 people): $619.20 per day (excluding optional activities)

 

Other Factors That Can Affect the Total Price of Your Safari

High and Low Season

When planning your safari in Tanzania, it’s essential to consider the seasons. The high season runs from July to September and from December to February. These are also the best times to witness the Great Migration. In the low season, which typically includes April, May, and often November, accommodation prices are generally lower.

Mid-range accommodations often maintain consistent rates, while more expensive lodges and resorts can vary significantly in price. This presents an opportunity to find attractive deals during the low season. While the costs for entry, transport, and guides remain constant, accommodation prices can have a considerable impact on your overall expenses. By taking these seasonal factors into account, you can make the most of your budget and fully enjoy your safari experience.

Room Type

The type of room you choose can significantly influence the costs of your safari. Opting for a triple room instead of a combination of a double and a single room can reduce overnight costs by up to 50%. Families often have the option to book a quadruple or family room, which can also lower the total price. While this may not be suitable for everyone, it offers a chance to save on accommodation costs while sharing an unforgettable experience together.

Conclusion

As you’ve read above, the question, “What does a safari in Tanzania cost?” is challenging to answer. Many different factors can influence the final price of your trip. Almost none of our trips are the same, and both the journey and the cost are entirely dependent on the specific preferences of each traveler.

The purpose of this guide is to provide you with better insight into the costs and the various factors involved in planning your safari in Tanzania, equipping you to make informed decisions. The combination of unforgettable experiences, breathtaking nature, beautiful accommodations, and wildlife makes a trip to Tanzania a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Whether you choose a luxury lodge in the Serengeti or a budget-friendly accommodation near the parks, each option offers its own charm and possibilities. It’s essential to balance your desires and budget to get the most out of your safari.

We hope this guide has helped you gain a clear understanding of the cost structure of your safari. Our team is always ready to assist you in planning your dream trip to Tanzania, ensuring, thanks to our specialized knowledge and experience, that you receive the journey that perfectly aligns with your wishes and budget.