A safari is one of the most exhilarating and transformative travel experiences on the planet. But how much does it really cost? While safari prices vary by location, season, and level of luxury, this guide breaks down the expected costs for East Africa, Southern Africa, and gorilla trekking destinations based on 2025 data.
East Africa: Kenya & Tanzania
East Africa is known as the birthplace of the modern safari. It is home to world-renowned national parks like the Serengeti, Masai Mara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Amboseli. It's also the setting for the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Estimated Costs per Person, per Night (Sharing Room)
Country | Comfort (Low / Shoulder / High) | Luxury (Low / Shoulder / High) |
Kenya | $580 / $660 / $750 | $810 / $1,100 / $1,380 |
Tanzania | $580 / $700 / $920 | $1,150 / $1,300 / $1,500 |
Combined | $1,060 / $1,280 / $1,500 | $1,610 / $1,900 / $2,190 |
Prices exclude international flights, visas, and optional activities.
Additional Estimated Costs:
International flights: $700 – $1,500 (round-trip from US or Europe)
Visas: $50 – $100 per country
Domestic transfers (flights/road): $200 – $500
Key Notes:
High season: July to October, Christmas & New Year.
Shoulder season: March–June and November.
Kenya tends to be slightly more budget-friendly than Tanzania.
👉 Explore sample itinerary for East Africa safaris
Southern Africa: Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia & Zimbabwe
Southern Africa offers diverse experiences—from the Okavango Delta to Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls. It's generally more flexible and can be more budget-friendly, especially in South Africa and Namibia.
Estimated Costs per Person, per Night (Sharing Room)
Country | Comfort (Low / Shoulder / High) | Luxury (Low / Shoulder / High) |
Botswana | $810 / $920 / $1,040 | $1,440 / $1,550 / $1,670 |
Namibia | $350 / $430 / $520 | $690 / $750 / $810 |
South Africa | $520 / $650 / $750 | $870 / $1,000 / $1,200 |
Zambia | $1,035 / $1,100 / $1,150 | $1,095 / $1,300 / $1,500 |
Zimbabwe | $805 / $1,050 / $1,265 | $1,095 / $1,400 / $1,670 |
Victoria Falls | $630 / $670 / $700 | $700 / $850 / $1,035 |
Additional Estimated Costs:
International flights: $700 – $1,400
Visas: $30 – $80 per entry
Transfers (domestic flights/road): $150 – $400
Key Notes:
Shoulder season: May–June and October–November.
South Africa and Namibia are ideal for self-drive and budget-conscious travelers.
Botswana offers premier, high-end safari experiences.
👉 Explore sample itinerary here.
Gorilla Trekking: Rwanda, Uganda & Congo
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience available in the lush rainforests of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Congo. The costs here are influenced by the exclusivity and permits required.
Estimated Costs per Person, per Night (Sharing Room)
Country | Comfort (Low / Shoulder / High) | Luxury (Low / Shoulder / High) |
Uganda | $750 / $1,000 / $1,500 | $810 / $1,200 / $1,550 |
Rwanda | $1,440 / $2,400 / $3,510 | $1,500 / $2,500 / $3,510 |
Congo | $1,500 / $1,800 / $2,190 | $1,500 / $1,900 / $2,240 |
Additional Estimated Costs:
Gorilla permits: Uganda: $700 | Rwanda: $1,500 | Congo: $400
Internal flights/4x4 transfers: $200 – $500
Key Notes:
Gorilla trekking permits cost extra and vary by country.
Uganda offers the best value for gorilla trekking.
Congo is for the more adventurous and experienced travelers.
👉 Explore sample itinerary for Gorilla Trekking
Final Thoughts
While African safaris can be a significant investment, they are also rich in value, exclusivity, and unforgettable encounters. Whether you're exploring the plains of East Africa, the deltas of Botswana, or the forests of Rwanda, there's a safari style and price point for every type of traveler in 2025.
Pro Tip: Work with a trustedgo safari specialist to tailor your itinerary to your budget and travel goals. A good agent will help you maximize every dollar.
Prices are for guidance only and subject to change. Always confirm with your travel advisor — or use our Live Quote Generator to get a tailored estimate instantly.
