A safari in Tanzania is a dream come true for many travelers. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti to exploring the Ngorongoro Crater and climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania offers some of the most iconic wildlife and nature experiences on Earth. But how much does it cost to embark on such an unforgettable journey? In this guide, we’ll break down the Tanzania safari cost so you can plan your trip with clarity and confidence.

Why Tanzania?

Tanzania is home to some of the most renowned national parks in Africa:

Serengeti National Park – Known for the Great Wildebeest Migration
Ngorongoro Conservation Area – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Tarangire and Lake Manyara National Parks – Rich in elephants and birdlife
Mount Kilimanjaro – The highest mountain in Africa

Each of these destinations offers a unique safari experience, but the overall cost can vary depending on your preferences.

Factors Affecting Tanzania Safari Cost

Several elements influence the total cost of a safari in Tanzania. Here’s a breakdown of the main components:

1. Type of Safari

There are different types of safaris, and your choice significantly affects the budget:

Budget Camping Safari: ~$150 to $250 per person per day
Mid-Range Safari (Lodge or tented camp): ~$250 to $450 per person per day
Luxury Safari: ~$600 to $1,500+ per person per day

Luxury safaris include gourmet meals, stylish accommodations, private guides, and even charter flights between parks.

2. Group vs Private Safari

Group Safari (Shared): Cheaper, around $150–$300 per day
Private Safari: More flexibility but costs $400–$1,000+ per day

Private safaris are ideal for families, honeymooners, or those seeking a personalized itinerary.

3. Season of Travel

High Season (June to October, December to February): Prices increase by 25–50%
Low Season (March to May): Rainy, but fewer tourists and discounted rates

The Tanzania safari cost during peak migration times (July to October) will be higher due to demand.

4. Duration of Safari

Naturally, the longer you stay, the more you spend. However, some tour companies offer discounts for extended trips.

Examples:

3-day safari: ~$700–$1,500 total per person
7-day safari: ~$1,800–$4,000+ total per person

Sample Tanzania Safari Packages and Their Costs

Here are sample safari packages with approximate pricing:

Duration	Type	Cost (Per Person)	Inclusions
3 Days	Budget Group	$600–$900	Transport, guide, camping gear, meals
5 Days	Mid-Range Private	$1,800–$2,500	Accommodation, park fees, meals, transfers
7 Days	Luxury	$4,500–$10,000+	Luxury lodges, private vehicle, flights

Note: International flights are usually not included in these packages.

What’s Included in Tanzania Safari Cost?

Most safari packages include:

Park entrance fees (can be $60–$80 per park/day)
Game drives and transportation (usually 4x4 safari vehicles)
Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Accommodation (camping or lodges)
Guide and driver services

Optional costs:

Tips for guides/drivers ($10–$20 per day)
Alcohol and drinks (often not included)
Domestic flights (if flying between parks)

Tips to Save on Your Tanzania Safari

Travel in the Low Season: March to May offers lower prices and lush landscapes.
Book Early: Many operators give early-bird discounts.
Go in a Group: Share costs for transport and guides.
Choose Lesser-Known Parks: Parks like Ruaha or Selous (now Nyerere) offer amazing wildlife at lower prices.
Consider Self-Drive Safaris: For experienced travelers, renting a vehicle can cut costs.

Is Tanzania Worth the Cost?

Absolutely. While the Tanzania safari cost can seem high compared to other travel experiences, the chance to see the Big Five, witness the Great Migration, and sleep under African stars in world-class lodges is truly priceless.

In fact, Tanzania’s parks are well-managed and offer better value compared to some other safari destinations. The country’s tourism revenue supports wildlife conservation and local communities—so your money contributes to preserving the ecosystem you’re enjoying.

Sample 7-Day Budget Itinerary and Cost Breakdown

Day 1-2: Tarangire National Park
Day 3: Lake Manyara
Day 4-6: Serengeti National Park
Day 7: Ngorongoro Crater

Total Estimated Cost: ~$2,200 per person
Includes: Park fees, guide, transport, meals, and mid-range lodges

Final Thoughts

A safari in Tanzania is one of the most enriching travel experiences you can have. While the Tanzania safari cost can vary greatly depending on your choices, careful planning ensures you get the best value for your budget. Whether you're sleeping in a tent under the stars or unwinding in a luxury lodge with a view of the savannah, the memories you'll create are truly priceless.

Tanzania Safari Cost: What to Expect and How to Budget for Your Adventure