You may be wondering, ‘What sets a $20-30K safari apart from a $10-15K one?’

Planning a safari can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding all the costs involved. While it’s normal to assume that higher costs equate to more luxury, it’s not always the case. For example, sometimes going to a more rustic, wildlife-rich, area might be pricier, but the overall experience is far superior. 

In this guide, we’ll break down all the factors influencing safari costs and help you understand what truly adds value to your adventure. Let’s dive in.

Destination Dynamics

One Destination, or More?

Visiting multiple countries can hugely elevate your experience. Popular combinations like Rwanda and Tanzania for gorillas and the Big Five, or Botswana and Namibia for desert and delta contrasts, showcase Africa's diverse landscapes and wildlife. 

Furthermore, visiting multiple locations within one country also offers the opportunity for varied experiences.

However, logistics can significantly increase costs. Light aircraft flights, while offering breathtaking views and more convenient transfers, are costly. Additionally, visa requirements can add to the expense. Thorough planning is essential to balance cost with the unique experiences each destination offers.

Finding Your Ideal Destination

The location of your lodge within a game reserve can impact both your experience and your budget. If you’ve never been on an African safari before, you might not realise that reserves are massive (for example, Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve is 55,000 square km!).

Camps located near reserve entrances are typically more affordable but can be crowded and have limited game-viewing opportunities. You might have big sightings, but you’re highly likely to be surrounded by multiple vehicles. 

On the other hand, high-end camps usually offer prime locations in private conservancies, allowing for exclusive experiences like off-road driving, guided walks and night safaris, which greatly enhance wildlife sightings and your overall experience. Naturally, these remote locations will be more peaceful. 

Accommodation Type

Choosing Your Stay

Africa boasts a diverse range of accommodations, from budget-friendly camps to top-tier lodges. High-end lodges can range from $2,000 to $4,000 and more per person per night.  These types of properties provide exclusivity, top-notch comfort, and prime wildlife viewing, making a week-long safari easily surpass $20,000 per person.

It’s essential to understand that higher costs often reflect better overall experiences rather than just luxury. Premium prices are usually associated with more remote, wildlife-rich areas, offering exclusive access to pristine environments and unique wildlife sightings. Investing in these experiences provides unparalleled wildlife encounters, fewer tourists, and personalised service, making your safari experience truly magical. 

All-Inclusive Benefits

The lodges we work with are nearly always all-inclusive, covering meals, drinks, and most activities, as well as all associated national park fees and conservation levies. This not only adds convenience but also value to your stay. It is sometimes the case that lower-cost lodges offer cheaper rates initially, but additional meals, drinks and activities can quickly add up, leading to unexpected costs. 

Choosing an all-inclusive option ensures a stress-free and more convenient experience allowing you to just focus on enjoying your time away.

Convenience and Comfort

Private vs Shared Transfers

We usually opt for private transfers when travelling by road between locations, unless the location dictates that shared transfers are required. Elsewhere, for instance, accessing the majority of safari camps and lodges, it is necessary to take a light aircraft flight, which are shared flights as standard but still carry a cost.

In some locations, such as Tanzania and Uganda, it is possible to navigate an entire circuit by road, with a private guide. This is especially good value for families or friends travelling together.

Opting for private charter flights offers several benefits; minimising your travel time and maximising your time in nature. Flying directly eliminates the hassle and stress of multiple transfers and layovers. While private charters aren’t necessarily luxurious, their efficiency and convenience can make a big difference. However, these advantages do come with a higher price tag. 

Seasonal Travel

Timing Your Trip

The timing of your safari can greatly influence the cost. Peak seasons (July - October and mid-December to mid-January) come at a premium cost. Off-peak seasons, such as the rainy months, can offer significant savings and are often less crowded. 

Travelling in the rainy season, also known as the Green Season, is a photographer's paradise! The lush landscapes during the rainy season are perfect for capturing stunning images. Don’t let the chance of rain put you off.

Safari Vehicle Choice 

Your Mode of Transport 

The type of vehicle used for game drives can significantly impact both your safari experience and your budget. Open-sided 4x4 vehicles with a maximum of six passengers are often preferred. These vehicles ensure everyone has a prime spot for viewing, making your game drives more enjoyable.

Quieter electric vehicles are also an option to consider. While they might come with a higher price tag, their ability to approach wildlife silently is unmatched. The additional cost is balanced by enhanced, less intrusive wildlife encounters.

For a more personalised safari, booking a private vehicle is an excellent option, though it will increase your costs. The benefits include tailored game drives focused on your specific interests, such as bird watching or photography. Private vehicles also offer the flexibility to set your own pace and schedule, allowing for a more relaxed experience. 

Private vehicles cost in the region of $700-$900 per day and usually have to be booked for the duration of your stay, per property.

When planning your safari, we will discuss your options with you to ensure you choose the best fit for your trip, as well as your preferences and budget.

Budgeting for Incidentals

When planning your safari, it’s essential to consider additional expenses beyond the initial trip cost. Tipping is customary in Africa (although always at your own discretion), and acknowledging the hard work of guides, trackers, and lodge staff is a valued tradition.

Additionally, we recommend budgeting for other incidentals like souvenirs, extra activities, and personal items. Having a little extra financial cushion will ensure you have a worry-free experience. 

Culinary Considerations 

How Do You Dine?

When it comes to dining on safari, your budget can play a big part in the culinary experiences you’ll enjoy. 

For example, high-end lodges offer bespoke, multi-course gourmet dining options curated by some of the continent’s most acclaimed chefs. There is generally a bigger variety of fresh, healthy options on offer. You can expect sophisticated wine cellars with access to internationally exclusive and rare wines, plus a broad range of craft cocktails. This level of catering is more likely to suit those with more complex dietary needs too.

For a lower-range safari, you’ll often have a pre-set or buffet-style menu, with more hearty meals. Drinks would usually include a simple, yet very tasty, South African wine selection, a couple of local beers and a few well-known spirits.

Understanding the dining options available can help you decide where to allocate your budget to maximise your experience.

Unique Experiences

Regardless of your budget, many lodges offer unique dining experiences that add a special touch to your safari:  

• Magical Moments: Enjoy bush dinners under the stars, traditional boma meals around a fire, or high tea with sweeping savannah views.

• Cultural Elements: Meals that incorporate local flavours and traditions, making your dining experience as memorable and authentic as your game drives.

Safari Add-Ons

Adding special activities to your safari can significantly enhance your overall experience, making it even more incredible. However, these unique experiences often come at an additional cost. 

Here's a look at some popular safari add-ons:

Extra Activities

• Hot Air Balloon Flights 

• Scenic Helicopter Flights 

• Horse Riding Safaris

• Sleep Outs

• Cultural Experiences

• Conservation Activities

• Private, or Specialist Guides

• Fishing Excursions

• Spa Treatments

Extending Your Adventure: Post-Safari 

Beach and Island Getaways

Adding a few days for R&R at one of Africa’s top beaches after your safari not only enhances your experience but can also balance out the average nightly cost. Destinations like Zanzibar, Seychelles, Mauritius, Lake Malawi and Kenya’s coast offer stunning beaches and luxurious accommodations, often at a lower nightly rate than high-end safari lodges. 

Exploring Cape Town 

Many of our clients either start or end a trip to Southern Africa with a few days in Cape Town. There is so much to see and do in this incredible city, from dining at one of Africa’s world-class restaurants and relaxing in the Cape Winelands to hiking up Table Mountain and swimming with penguins at Boulders Beach. Cape Town offers breathtaking scenery, a vibrant atmosphere, iconic sights, and lovely accommodation options generally at a lower cost than safari lodges. 

Crafting the Ultimate Safari: Final Thoughts

Understanding the many factors that affect the cost of a safari can help you make the best decision for your budget and preferences. Whether your priority is luxury accommodation, exclusive wildlife experiences, or fine dining - there’s a safari out there that is perfect for you. 

At Bonamy, we pride ourselves on our deep knowledge and passion for Africa. We’re here to help you navigate the multitude of options and create a safari that not only meets but far exceeds your expectations. 

Contact us to start planning your trip of a lifetime.