Understanding African Safari Pricing

Planning an African safari is an exciting journey, and one of the most important aspects to consider is the pricing. At Adventure Safari Network, we work hard to design the perfect safari or tour that fits your budget and maximizes your time and money. We prefer to include as many costs upfront as possible, ensuring no surprises once you’re on safari.

The prices on our website are based on a minimum of two people traveling together and sharing accommodations during the low or off-peak season. However, prices can vary significantly depending on several factors, including your itinerary and the time of year you choose to travel.

Here are six main factors that can significantly impact the cost of your safari or tour.

Factors That Affect Safari Pricing

1. Level of Accommodation

The cost of accommodation is one of the most significant factors affecting safari pricing. Safari camps and lodges can range from $250 to over $1,000 per person, per night, excluding transfers between different regions or camps. This price typically includes meals, game drives, and most other game-viewing activities. Some lodges also include drinks and laundry services.

When compared to a typical 4- or 5-star hotel (which may only include accommodation), the safari rate offers excellent value, considering the inclusivity of meals, activities, and more.

2. Length of Your Itinerary

The length of your safari is another critical factor in determining the cost. A good rule of thumb is to calculate the per-day, per-person cost to decide how long you can afford to travel. Reducing the trip by a few days can sometimes save hundreds of dollars, especially if you limit the number of locations you visit, which also cuts down on costly transfers or regional flights.

Staying longer in one place often provides a more relaxed and focused experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the camp’s activities and explore the area. Moving around too much can sometimes lead to seeing less of what you came to Africa for in the first place.

Keep in mind that while it’s tempting to cut your trip short to save money, Africa is a distant and often once-in-a-lifetime destination, so it’s worth spending as much time as possible to make the most of your journey.

3. Time of Year (Season)

The time of year you choose to travel can dramatically affect the price. High-season rates are usually in effect when game viewing is at its peak, and camps are in high demand. However, if you’re flexible with your travel dates and don’t mind less ideal game viewing conditions, you can still enjoy a fantastic safari experience during the low or green season, often at a much lower price.

Traveling during the off-peak season also has its perks, such as fewer crowds and greater availability at camps and lodges.

4. Number of People Traveling

The number of people in your group can also influence the cost. A custom safari for four guests will generally be more affordable than for two guests, as some logistics, such as vehicle transfers, can be split across more people.

In addition, small group safaris or scheduled group tours are usually more affordable than tailor-made safaris. These trips are typically designed for groups of 6-16 people and are costed based on a minimum group size, which helps reduce individual costs.

5. Small Group Safari or Tailor-Made Safari?

Many travelers enjoy a mix of small group travel and independent travel. Small group safaris typically consist of 6-16 participants, allowing for a more affordable experience. Tailor-made safaris, on the other hand, are entirely flexible, allowing you to travel when and where you want.

Even if you choose a customized itinerary, you can rest assured that a representative will meet you at the airport and ensure all transfers are arranged, providing a seamless experience for solo travelers as well.

6. Road Safari or Fly-In Safari?

Another important factor to consider is how you travel between safari camps. Fly-in safaris are generally more expensive but save time and offer the most efficient transfers, allowing you to enjoy more activities at each camp. Small aircraft (typically 4 to 12 seats) are commonly used, so if you’re uncomfortable with flying in small planes, you’ll need to plan accordingly.

Road safaris, while more affordable, can be exhausting due to the long distances on dusty roads, but they offer the advantage of seeing more of the countryside and local villages along the way. For some travelers, this overland experience is an integral part of their African adventure.

Conclusion

In summary, many factors contribute to the overall cost of an African safari, including your choice of accommodation, the length of your itinerary, the time of year, and how you choose to travel. At Adventure Safari Network, we are dedicated to helping you plan a safari that fits your budget while ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a luxury getaway or an adventurous overland trip, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Let us help you plan your dream African safari today!