A Tanzania safari is one of the most rewarding adventures in the world. With iconic parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara, the country offers unmatched wildlife encounters.
But one question always comes up:
👉 How much does a safari in Tanzania cost?
Prices vary depending on the type of safari, comfort level, season, duration, and group size. Below, we break it all down with clear tables for quick reference.
Key Factors Influencing Tanzania Safari Prices
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Safari Style: Budget camping, mid-range lodges, or luxury tented camps.
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Duration: Longer safaris cost more but average per-day costs may be lower.
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Season: High season = higher prices.
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Group Size: Larger groups = reduced per-person cost.
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Transport: Driving is cheaper; fly-in safaris are premium.
Tanzania Safari Prices by Category
| Category | Budget Camping | Mid-Range Lodges | Luxury Safari | Fly-In Safari |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range (per person/day) | $200 – $300 | $350 – $500 | $600 – $1,000+ | $800 – $1,500+ |
| Accommodation | Public campsites, tents | Comfortable lodges / tented camps | Exclusive lodges & luxury camps | Luxury lodges & camps |
| Transport | Shared 4×4 safari vehicle | Private 4×4 safari vehicle | Private luxury vehicle | Charter flights + private guide |
| Meals | Basic, prepared by crew | Full-board lodge meals | Fine dining, full service | Gourmet meals, private chefs |
| Best For | Budget travelers, backpackers | Couples, families, small groups | Honeymooners, luxury seekers | Time-sensitive or high-end travelers |
Tanzania Safari Prices by Duration
| Trip Length | Budget Camping | Mid-Range Lodges | Luxury Safari |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Days | $600 – $900 | $1,050 – $1,500 | $1,800 – $3,000 |
| 5 Days | $1,000 – $1,500 | $1,750 – $2,500 | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| 7 Days | $1,400 – $2,100 | $2,450 – $3,500 | $4,200 – $7,000 |
| 10 Days | $2,000 – $3,000 | $3,500 – $5,000 | $6,000 – $10,000 |
👉 These prices usually include accommodation, meals, park fees, and transport but exclude flights to Tanzania, visas, insurance, and tips.
Tanzania Safari Prices by Season
| Season | Months | Price Level | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| High Season | June – October & Dec – Feb | $$$ (Most Expensive) | Best wildlife viewing, Great Migration river crossings, dry conditions |
| Low Season | March – May (long rains) | $ (Cheapest) | Green landscapes, fewer crowds, discounted lodges |
| Shoulder Season | November | $$ (Moderate) | Short rains, excellent wildlife, more availability |
Additional Safari Costs to Budget For
| Expense | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| International Flights | $600 – $1,200 | From Europe/USA to Kilimanjaro/Arusha |
| Domestic Flights | $250 – $400 (one-way) | To Serengeti, Zanzibar, etc. |
| Visa Fees | $50 – $100 | Depends on nationality |
| Tips for Guides/Staff | $10 – $20 per person/day | Customary on safari |
| Souvenirs & Extras | Variable | Depends on shopping preferences |
| Travel Insurance | $50 – $200 | Must cover medical & evacuation |
Tanzania vs Other Safari Destinations
| Country | Price Range (per person/day) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tanzania | $200 – $1,000+ | Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Zanzibar |
| Kenya | $150 – $800 | Maasai Mara, Amboseli |
| South Africa | $100 – $700 | Kruger, private reserves |
| Botswana | $500 – $1,500 | Okavango Delta, Chobe |
👉 Tanzania sits in the mid-to-high range, but offers more diversity than most destinations (savannah, crater, big cats, migration, and islands).
How to Save Money on a Tanzania Safari
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Travel in low season (March–May).
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Book a group safari instead of private.
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Choose road safaris instead of fly-ins.
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Limit the number of parks if on a budget.
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Book early to secure mid-range and luxury lodges before they sell out.
Note:
Tanzania safari prices vary from $200 per person/day for budget camping to over $1,000 per person/day for luxury fly-in safaris.
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Budget Travelers: Expect to spend $600–$900 for 3 days.
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Mid-Range Travelers: Around $1,750–$2,500 for 5 days.
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Luxury Travelers: $4,000+ for a week-long adventure.
Whatever your budget, a safari in Tanzania is a once-in-a-lifetime investment into breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable memories.
