Ultimate Guide: How Much Does a Safari in Tanzania Cost in 2025?

The complete guide to safari pricing and how to budget your dream trip

Planning a safari in Tanzania is one of the most thrilling decisions a traveler can make. With its iconic national parks, legendary wildlife, and postcard-perfect landscapes, Tanzania delivers the safari experience of a lifetime. But how much does it actually cost?

From the budget-conscious backpacker to the couple seeking a romantic lodge experience, safari pricing in Tanzania varies widely depending on your preferences, travel style, and the experiences you want to include. In this detailed guide, we break down everything you need to know about safari costs — including what’s included, hidden expenses to watch out for, and smart ways to save.

Why Safari in Tanzania Prices Vary So Much

Tanzania is not a cheap destination — but it offers incredible value for what you get. Safari pricing is shaped by several key factors:

1. Safari Type

There are three main safari types in Tanzania, and each comes with its own pricing structure:

• Budget Camping Safari:
  You stay in public or semi-permanent campsites, often inside or just outside national parks. Meals are cooked by a safari chef, and you’ll sleep in tents provided by the tour company. This is the most affordable and adventurous option.

• Mid-Range Lodge Safari:
  Comfortable accommodation in lodges or tented camps with ensuite bathrooms, hot showers, and good meals. Ideal for those wanting comfort without luxury pricing.

• Luxury Safari:
  Premium lodges or luxury tented camps with exceptional service, gourmet meals, private vehicles, and often fly-in access to parks. Expect to pay several thousand dollars for a multi-day tour.

2. Length of Your Safari

The longer the safari, the more it costs — but the cost per day usually decreases. Many travelers find that 5–7 days gives them the best value, offering enough time to visit multiple parks without feeling rushed.

3. Number of People Traveling

Private safaris are priced per group, not per person. If you’re traveling solo, you’ll pay more unless you join a group. A group of 4–6 people can significantly reduce per-person costs, especially for private safaris.

4. Time of Year

• High Season (June–October & December–February): Best weather and wildlife visibility, but higher prices.

• Low Season (March–May): Rainy months with lower demand, fewer crowds, and discounted rates — great for photographers.

• Shoulder Season (November): Short rains, but good for wildlife and lower prices.

5. Parks You Visit

Each park has its own entrance fee:

• Serengeti: ~$70 per adult/day

• Ngorongoro Crater: ~$70 + $295 crater descent fee per vehicle/day

• Tarangire, Lake Manyara: ~$50 per adult/day

• Arusha NP: ~$50 per adult/day

Visiting the Serengeti often adds transport cost due to its distance from Arusha.

What’s the Average Safari Cost in Tanzania?

Here’s an estimated price range per person, based on a private safari with standard inclusions:

Note: These prices exclude international flights but include accommodation, meals, guide, transport, and park fees.

What’s Included in Safari Packages?

Most safari tours include:

• Professional driver-guide

• 4×4 safari vehicle (with pop-up roof)

• Park entry fees

• All listed accommodation (camping gear or lodge stay)

• Meals (usually 3 per day)

• Bottled water during game drives

• Airport pick-up/drop-off

What’s Not Included?

Watch out for these common exclusions that may affect your final cost:

• International Flights: From your country to Tanzania (often $600–$1,200 round trip)

• Visa Fees: ~$50 for most nationalities (on arrival or online)

• Tips: Expect to tip your guide ~$10–$20 per day, and cook ~$5–$10/day (for camping safaris)

• Travel Insurance: Highly recommended

• Soft drinks or alcohol: Usually not included in budget packages

• Optional activities: Balloon safari, cultural tours, walking safaris, etc.

Smart Ways to Save on Your Tanzania Safari

Here’s how to stretch your budget without compromising on experience:

1. Travel in the Green Season

Rainy season (March–May) and shoulder season (November) offer significant savings. Park fees and lodge rates drop, and wildlife is still abundant in places like Ngorongoro and Tarangire.

2. Join a Group Safari

Group safaris share vehicle and guide costs across multiple travelers. This can cut your price by 30–50% depending on group size.

3. Focus on Nearby Parks

Skipping the Serengeti and sticking to Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Ngorongoro can save $300–$600 due to lower fuel and access costs.

4. Fly into Kilimanjaro or Arusha

Flights to Nairobi can be cheaper, but you’ll pay extra for the shuttle or local flight to Arusha. Booking your flight straight into Tanzania may save time and stress.

Budget vs. Mid-Range: Which Offers Better Value?

Verdict:
Choose budget camping for a wild, immersive, and affordable experience. Choose mid-range lodges for added comfort, especially for families or couples.

Should You Book Through a Tanzanian Company?

Absolutely. Booking directly with a local operator like Northern Serengeti helps:

• Reduce unnecessary middleman fees

• Support local employment and sustainability

• Get up-to-date regional knowledge

• Ensure smoother logistics once you’re on the ground

Many international resellers charge 20–30% extra for the same tours.

Final Thoughts

A Tanzania safari is one of the most unforgettable experiences in the world. While it does require a financial commitment, the value — in wildlife, landscapes, culture, and personal growth — is unmatched.

By understanding how safari pricing works, what’s included, and how to manage your costs, you’ll be far better prepared to plan the trip that fits your budget and your dream.