Tanzania—home to the Great Wildebeest Migration, the endless plains of the Serengeti, and the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater—is the undisputed capital of the African safari. If you are dreaming of witnessing this incredible spectacle, your first big question is likely: “How much is a safari in Tanzania?”
The simple answer is: it varies widely! A Tanzanian safari is a highly customized experience, and the cost can range from a budget-friendly adventure to a luxurious, high-end expedition.
This comprehensive guide from Tanzania Footprints Adventures will break down the variables that determine how much is a safari in Tanzania, giving you the clarity you need to plan your perfect trip.
Tanzania Safari Cost Overview: The Daily Rate Breakdown
The price of a safari is generally quoted as an all-inclusive daily rate per person. This rate covers nearly all on-the-ground costs and is the best way to estimate how much is a safari in Tanzania for your specific travel style.
Here is an estimated range of costs for a 5-7 day private safari on the Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, etc.):
| Safari Style | Estimated Daily Cost (USD) | 7-Day Total (Approx.) | Key Features |
| Budget/Camping | $250 – $400 | $1,750 – $2,800 | Public campsites, simple food, shared vehicle option. |
| Mid-Range/Comfort | $450 – $700 | $3,150 – $4,900 | Mid-range lodges/tented camps, private bathrooms, quality vehicle & guide. |
| Luxury/Premium | $800 – $1,500+ | $5,600 – $10,500+ | Luxury camps, fly-in options, gourmet meals, highly secluded experiences. |
Tanzania Footprints Adventures Insight: The total price per day is lower when shared by a larger group, as the vehicle and guide costs are split among more people. A private safari for two people will always have a higher per-person rate than a group of six.
The 5 Major Factors Determining Your Safari Price
To truly understand how much is a safari in Tanzania, you must look at the five main variables that the operator combines to create your final package price.
1. Accommodation Level (The Biggest Variable)
Where you sleep is the single most significant factor influencing how much is a safari in Tanzania.
- Budget: Public or private campsites. You are staying in a tent, often pitching it yourself, with shared bathroom facilities. This is the most affordable way to experience the parks.
- Mid-Range: Comfortable lodges and permanent tented camps (often referred to as glamping). You have a solid bed, en-suite hot showers, and restaurant dining. This offers the best balance of comfort and value.
- Luxury: Exclusive lodges and high-end tented camps (sometimes mobile to follow the migration). Expect gourmet cuisine, private plunge pools, and unparalleled service in prime locations.
2. Park Fees (The Mandatory Core Cost)
Tanzania’s national parks (like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro) have some of the highest and most important park fees in Africa. These fees fund conservation, anti-poaching, and community development.
Fees are mandatory and usually include:
- Conservation Entry Fee: Charged per person, per 24 hours (e.g., Serengeti is $\approx$ $70-\$83$ USD/day for non-residents).
- Concession/Camping Fee: Charged per person, per night, for staying inside the park (e.g., Serengeti is $\approx$ $60$ USD/night).
- Crater Service Fee: A high flat fee charged per vehicle for descending into the Ngorongoro Crater ($\approx$ $295$ USD).
Crucial Note: These fees are non-negotiable and represent a large portion of the overall how much is a safari in Tanzania calculation, especially for longer trips.
3. Safari Duration and Route (How Many Parks You Visit)
A longer safari naturally costs more in total, but the daily cost can sometimes be more efficient. The popular Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) is generally more expensive than the Southern Circuit (Ruaha, Selous) due to park popularity and the unique fees in the Ngorongoro area.
4. Season of Travel (High vs. Low)
Like any tourism destination, prices fluctuate based on demand:
- High/Peak Season (June to October): Dry season, peak wildlife viewing, Great Migration River Crossings. Prices are highest.
- Shoulder Season (Jan-Feb, Nov-Dec): Excellent value, often less crowded. Prices are moderate (the “Green Season” calving can be fantastic).
- Low/Green Season (March to May): Low demand due to rain, lush landscapes, great for birding. Prices are often lowest with significant lodge discounts.
5. Transport Type (Driving vs. Flying)
- Driving Safari: Using a 4×4 safari vehicle for all transfers between parks. This is the standard and most cost-effective option for the Northern Circuit.
- Fly-in Safari: Taking small internal flights between parks (e.g., Arusha to Serengeti). This significantly reduces travel time but drives up the cost due to the price of domestic airfare.
Secondary Costs to Budget For
When figuring out how much is a safari in Tanzania, remember to factor in expenses not covered in the land package:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (Per Person) | Notes |
| International Flights | $800 – $2,000+ | Varies widely by departure city and season. |
| Tanzanian Visa | $50 – $100 USD | Required for most foreign nationals. |
| Tipping/Gratuities | $20 – $30 USD per day | Customary for your guide/driver and camp staff. |
| Travel Insurance | $\approx$ 5% of trip cost | Essential coverage for medical, cancellation, and emergency evacuation. |
| Optional Activities | $50 – $600+ | Hot Air Balloon ride ($500-$600), Maasai Village visit ($30-$50). |
Planning Your Tanzania Safari with Confidence
At Tanzania Footprints Adventures, we pride ourselves on offering customized, transparent pricing. We’ll work with your budget—whether you’re aiming for a classic mid-range lodge tour or a thrilling budget camping experience—to ensure you get the maximum value for every dollar.
Don’t let the question of how much is a safari in Tanzania hold you back. Start planning your lifetime adventure today!
Ready for an accurate quote tailored to your travel style and budget? Contact Tanzania Footprints Adventures to begin building your itinerary!
