If you’re wondering how much a Tanzania safari costs, you’re not alone. It’s one of the first—and most important—questions travelers ask when planning a trip to East Africa.
The good news? There’s no single answer, because Tanzania safari prices vary widely depending on a few key factors like the time of year, the type of accommodation, and whether you go with a budget safari, mid-range safari, or luxury safari.
A safari in Tanzania can cost as little as $150 per day or go upwards of $2,000 per day—and both ends of the spectrum can offer unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re hoping to watch the Great Wildebeest Migration thunder across the Serengeti National Park, descend into the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, or spot wildlife in hidden gems like Nyerere National Park, this guide will help you break down the cost of a Tanzania safari in simple, clear terms.
We’ll cover everything:
- Average costs by safari style (budget to luxury)
- National park entrance fees and conservation fees
- The cost of safari vehicles, guides, and extras like hot air balloon safaris
- Visa costs for travelers from the US, UK, Canada, and EU
- Tips for saving money without sacrificing your experience
Whether you’re traveling on a tight budget or ready to splurge, this guide will help you estimate your total safari cost and choose the best option for your adventure.
Let’s dive in and help you plan the African safari of your dreams—without any pricing surprises.
Main Factors That Influence Tanzania Safari Cost
When planning a safari in Tanzania, it’s important to understand what drives the cost of your safari. The price you pay depends on a number of factors, and knowing these in advance can help you find the best value for your travel style and budget.
1. Type of Safari: Budget, Mid-Range, or Luxury
The type of safari you choose is the biggest factor affecting your overall Tanzania safari cost.
- Budget safaris usually involve group safaris, basic accommodation (like budget lodges or camps), and shared game drives. They’re ideal for travelers on a tight budget and typically cost between $150–$250 per person per day.
- Mid-range safaris strike a balance between comfort and cost. You’ll stay in mid-range lodges, enjoy better vehicles, and possibly have a smaller group or private guide. Expect to pay $300–$600 per day.
- Luxury safaris offer top-tier experiences: exclusive safari lodges, private safaris, gourmet meals, and extras like hot air balloon safaris. Prices start around $700 per day and can exceed $2,000 depending on the safari company and level of service.
2. Time of Year: Peak vs. Low Season
The time of year you travel affects pricing dramatically.
- High season (June to October and December to early January) coincides with the dry season and the Great Migration—meaning higher prices and greater demand.
- Low season (March to May) falls during the rainy season, so accommodation prices are lower and park entry fees may be discounted. This is a great time for travelers looking for lower prices and fewer crowds.
3. Group Size: Private vs. Shared Safaris
A private safari gives you flexibility and a personalized experience, but it’s more expensive than joining a larger group. Many tour operators offer group safaris to reduce costs—especially useful for solo travelers or couples.
4. Length of Safari
The number of days you spend on safari will obviously affect your total safari cost. Most travelers opt for 4 to 7 days, but even a 3-day safari can offer amazing game viewing—especially if you focus on the northern circuit.
5. Location and Parks Visited
The northern circuit (including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire) is the most popular—and often the most expensive due to high park fees and demand. Parks in southern Tanzania (like Nyerere National Park) often offer great value and more intimate experiences.
Budget Safari Costs in Tanzania: Affordable Adventures on a Tight Budget
If you’re dreaming of a safari but working with a tight budget, don’t worry—Tanzania offers some excellent budget safari options that deliver incredible wildlife experiences without the luxury price tag.
In fact, many first-time travelers are surprised at just how much value you can get on a budget safari if you plan smart and travel strategically.
What’s Included in a Budget Safari?
A typical budget safari in Tanzania costs around $150 to $250 per person per day, depending on your group size, time of year, and tour operator.
Here’s what you can expect to be included:
- Shared safari vehicle (usually a 4×4 with pop-up roof)
- Basic accommodation in budget lodges or budget camps
- Three meals per day (simple, hearty local food)
- Daily game drives with a licensed guide
- All park entry fees and conservation fees
- Drinking water during safaris
It’s important to note that budget doesn’t mean basic when it comes to wildlife sightings—you’ll visit the same national parks, see the same Big Five, and enjoy the same landscapes as those on luxury safaris. The difference comes down to comfort, service, and group size.
What’s Not Included?
Budget safaris keep costs low by excluding certain extras. You’ll want to factor in some additional costs:
- Tips for guides and camp staff (typically $10–$15 per day for the guide, $5–$10 for support staff)
- Beverages and snacks (unless otherwise stated)
- Tanzania visa cost ($50–$100 depending on your nationality)
- Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris or cultural village tours
- Airport transfers (sometimes included, sometimes not—check with your safari company)
- International flights and travel insurance
Best Parks for Budget Safaris
The best value for budget travelers is often found in Tanzania’s northern circuit, which includes:
- Tarangire National Park – Known for elephants and baobabs; entrance fee: $59
- Lake Manyara – Home to tree-climbing lions and rich birdlife
- Arusha National Park – Small but scenic, close to Mount Kilimanjaro
- Ngorongoro Crater – Stunning but pricier due to the $250 crater descent fee
If you’re on a tighter budget, you can skip Ngorongoro and focus on Tarangire or Lake Manyara for excellent game viewing at a lower price.
Tips to Save Even More
- Travel in the low season (March–May, November) for lower rates and fewer tourists.
- Join group safaris to split costs—many companies pair solo travelers with others.
- Use local tour operators or book through a reputable international travel agent that works with Tanzanian companies.
- Choose budget lodges outside park boundaries to reduce accommodation prices while still being close to the action.
Bottom Line: Budget Doesn’t Mean Basic
A budget Tanzania safari can be one of the most exciting and affordable ways to experience East Africa. With the right planning, you’ll enjoy the same wildlife, views, and adventure—just with simpler digs and shared experiences. It’s an excellent option for students, backpackers, or anyone trying to stick to a price range without sacrificing the thrill of the wild.
Mid-Range Safari Costs in Tanzania: Comfort and Value Combined
For travelers looking for the sweet spot between comfort and affordability, a mid-range safari in Tanzania is often the best option. It offers a more personalized and relaxed experience than a budget safari, with better safari accommodation, smaller group sizes, and more comfortable vehicles—without venturing into luxury safari territory.
What Does a Mid-Range Safari Include?
The cost of a mid-range safari in Tanzania typically falls between $300 and $600 per person per day. It’s a wide price range because costs will vary depending on the number of people in your group, your tour operator, the time of year, and your type of accommodation.
A mid-range safari usually includes:
- Private or semi-private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Accommodation in mid-range lodges or well-equipped tented camps with ensuite bathrooms and hot showers
- All meals (buffet or plated, often with international and local options)
- Daily game drives with an experienced guide
- Park fees, conservation fees, and crater fees (if visiting Ngorongoro Crater)
- Airport transfer from Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport
What’s Not Included?
While mid-range safaris cover most essentials, you’ll still want to budget for a few extra costs:
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Optional excursions like hot air balloon safaris or guided bush walks
- Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs)
- Tanzania visa cost ($50–$100 depending on nationality)
- International flights and travel insurance
Where You’ll Go on a Mid-Range Safari
Most mid-range safaris focus on Tanzania’s northern circuit, which includes some of the best places for wildlife in Africa:
- Serengeti National Park – Home of the Great Migration and vast open plains
- Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best game viewing areas in Africa
- Tarangire and Lake Manyara – Ideal for shorter safaris or as part of a combined itinerary
The Serengeti safari cost is usually higher than other parks due to its popularity and vast size, but it’s worth every dollar for the wildlife density and scenery.
Why Choose a Mid-Range Safari?
A mid-range safari is ideal if you:
- Want a bit of privacy and comfort without the price tag of a luxury safari
- Prefer smaller groups or a private safari experience
- Value good food, quality service, and relaxing lodging after long game drives
- Are celebrating a special occasion like a honeymoon or milestone trip
Mid-range safaris also tend to offer more flexible itineraries than budget safaris, especially if you book through a local safari company or experienced travel agents.
A Great Value for a Memorable Experience
If you’re looking for a balance of great value and enhanced comfort, a mid-range Tanzania safari delivers. You’ll stay in beautiful, locally-owned lodges, enjoy top-notch guiding, and explore some of the most iconic national parks in East Africa—all without going over budget.
Luxury Safari Costs in Tanzania: The Ultimate Wildlife Experience
If you’re dreaming of a safari that blends world-class service, jaw-dropping scenery, and personalized attention, a luxury safari in Tanzania is the experience of a lifetime. These safaris come with a higher price tag, but they also deliver unmatched comfort, privacy, and access to the most exclusive lodges and camps in the country.
How Much Does a Luxury Safari in Tanzania Cost?
The cost of a luxury safari in Tanzania typically ranges from $700 to over $2,000 per person per day, depending on the tour operator, type of accommodation, and number of days. Many luxury safari packages are all-inclusive, covering every detail from airport transfers to hot air balloon safaris.
This is the best option for travelers who want an immersive, hassle-free, and utterly memorable African safari without compromising on style or service.
What’s Included in a Luxury Safari?
- Exclusive stays at luxury lodges, boutique tented camps, or private villas (many with plunge pools, spa services, and gourmet meals)
- Custom-designed private safaris with your own guide and safari vehicle
- Scenic flights between parks to avoid long drives (especially in remote areas like Nyerere National Park)
- Fine dining, local wine and spirits, and personalized service
- Optional experiences like bush breakfasts, sunset cocktails, and private cultural visits
- All national park fees, conservation fees, and entrance to premium areas like the Ngorongoro Crater
Some packages even include special touches like photography workshops, expert-led game drives, or private guides for the Great Wildebeest Migration.
Luxury Doesn’t Mean Waste—It Means Access
One of the biggest benefits of a luxury safari is access. Luxury camps are often located inside private conservancies or remote corners of the Serengeti National Park, giving you front-row seats to wildlife events without the crowds.
Luxury travelers often get early access to prime viewing spots, intimate sightings, and unique perks like walking safaris, private jets, or fly-in access to Zanzibar Island post-safari.
Additional Costs to Consider
While most expenses are included, there may still be additional costs:
- Premium alcohol or off-menu excursions (like champagne breakfasts or private charter flights)
- Spa treatments or wellness experiences
- High-end souvenirs or donations to local conservation groups
- Tanzania visa cost, international flights, and gratuities for staff
Is It Worth the Higher Price?
If you’re celebrating a honeymoon, milestone birthday, or simply want to experience the best safari in Africa, a luxury safari in Tanzania is worth every penny. You’re not just paying for luxury—you’re investing in privacy, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and curated experiences that are often impossible to replicate in other African countries.
Example Tanzania Safari Cost Breakdown by Style
To give you a clearer idea of what to expect, here’s a breakdown of the total safari cost for a typical 5-day safari in Tanzania. These examples are estimates based on current Tanzania safari prices in 2025 and can vary based on your group size, season, and tour operator.
1. Budget Safari (5 Days, Group Safari)
Estimated Cost: $750–$1,250 per person
- Safari vehicle + guide (shared): $50/day = $250
- Budget lodges/camps: $50–$80/night = $250–$400
- Park fees (Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro): ~$300 total
- Meals: Usually included
- Tips + extras: ~$100
- Tanzania visa cost: $50–$100
✅ Great for travelers on a tight budget
📍 Best parks: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Arusha National Park
2. Mid-Range Safari (5 Days, Private or Semi-Private)
Estimated Cost: $1,500–$2,800 per person
- Private safari vehicle: ~$200/day = $1,000
- Mid-range lodges: $100–$180/night = $500–$900
- Park + conservation fees: ~$400
- Meals and airport transfer: Usually included
- Tips and extras: $150–$200
- Visa and incidentals: $100+
🎯 Great value for travelers who want comfort without the higher price
📍 Best for exploring the northern circuit, including Ngorongoro Crater
3. Luxury Safari (5 Days, Fly-In or Private Lodge Safari)
Estimated Cost: $4,000–$10,000+ per person
- Luxury lodges: $600–$1,200/night = $3,000–$6,000
- Private guide + vehicle: $300/day = $1,500
- Park + concession fees: $500–$800
- Optional extras: Hot air balloon safaris, spa, private flights
- Tips + premium meals: $300+
- Visa + flights: Not usually included
🌍 Ideal for honeymoons or once-in-a-lifetime adventures
📍 Best paired with the Serengeti and post-safari time on Zanzibar Island
National Park Entrance and Conservation Fees in Tanzania: What You Need to Know
When calculating the total cost of a Tanzania safari, it’s essential to factor in national park fees, which can make up a large part of your budget—especially if you’re visiting multiple parks or staying inside them. Each park has its own entrance fee, and many also charge conservation fees, concession fees, or other park-specific charges. Understanding these will help you avoid surprises and choose the best places to visit based on your price range and interests.
Below is a breakdown of the most popular Tanzania safari parks and what you can expect to pay.
Serengeti National Park
- Park entry fee: $70 per adult per day (non-residents)
- Concession fee (if staying in a lodge or tented camp inside the park): $59–$71 per person per night
The Serengeti is one of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, famous for its vast savannahs, big cats, and the Great Wildebeest Migration. While the Serengeti safari cost is higher than other parks, it offers great value for its sheer biodiversity and game density.
Ngorongoro Crater & Conservation Area
- Park entry fee: $70 per adult per day
- Crater descent fee: $295 per vehicle per day
- Conservation fee (overnight inside the area): $59–$71 per person
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is tightly regulated and one of the most expensive places to safari. But it’s also one of the most rewarding. The Ngorongoro Crater is a natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife and offers some of the best game viewing in Africa.
If you’re on a tight budget, visiting the rim without descending into the crater can save money—but it also limits your safari experience.
Tarangire National Park
- Entrance fee: $59 per adult per day
Known for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire is a great addition to any northern circuit itinerary. It’s also quieter and more affordable than Serengeti and Ngorongoro, making it ideal for budget safaris or short trips.
Lake Manyara National Park
- Entrance fee: $59 per adult per day
A smaller but picturesque park famous for tree-climbing lions and rich birdlife. It’s often included in shorter safaris and pairs well with Tarangire for a 2-day adventure.
Arusha National Park
- Entrance fee: $59 per adult per day
Located near Mount Kilimanjaro, this is a great park for a day trip, especially for travelers starting or ending their safari in Arusha. While it doesn’t have big cats, it offers canoe safaris, walking safaris, and beautiful views.
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
- Entrance fee: $75 per adult per day
- Additional costs for fly-in safaris and remote camps
Located in southern Tanzania, Nyerere offers a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience. It’s less crowded than parks in the northern circuit, often more affordable, and known for boat safaris, walking safaris, and large populations of hippos and crocodiles.
Additional Fees to Be Aware Of
- Conservation fees: Usually apply when staying inside park boundaries and vary by location
- Concession fees: Charged by luxury lodges and passed on to guests
- VAT (Value Added Tax): Often included in the safari package but worth double-checking
Pro Tip: Let the Tour Operator Handle It
Most safari companies include all park and conservation fees in your quoted Tanzania safari package, so you won’t need to pay them directly. But it’s always smart to double-check your itinerary and ask for a fee breakdown—especially if you’re comparing different costs across tour providers.
These park entry fees and charges can add up quickly, especially for multi-park itineraries, but they go directly toward conservation, infrastructure, and supporting local communities. Whether you’re exploring the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, or the forests of Arusha National Park, you’re contributing to the protection of these world-class destinations for future generations.
Safari Vehicle and Guide Costs: Getting Around the Wild
Another major component of your Tanzania safari cost is the price of your safari vehicle and guide. Whether you’re on a budget safari or a luxury experience, you’ll need a reliable 4×4 vehicle and a knowledgeable guide to get the most out of your game drives.
How Much Does a Safari Vehicle Cost?
On average, hiring a safari vehicle with a professional guide costs between $150 and $300 per day. This cost usually includes:
- A customized 4×4 Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing
- Unlimited game drives per day
- Fuel, park entry for the vehicle, and basic maintenance
- A licensed and experienced guide
This cost is often shared across the number of people in your group. So, the larger your group, the lower the price per person. For example, a group of six may each pay $50/day, while a solo traveler on a private safari will cover the full amount.
Private vs. Shared Vehicles
- Private safaris offer complete flexibility—you can choose when and where to drive, stop for longer sightings, or customize your route. But this comes at a higher cost.
- Group safaris typically use shared vehicles. These are cheaper and a great value for solo travelers or small groups on a tight budget.
Why You Need a Good Guide
A great guide isn’t just a driver—they’re your animal tracker, storyteller, safety expert, and cultural bridge. Many have years of experience and deep knowledge of the national parks, wildlife behavior, and local traditions. Tipping your guide ($10–$20 per day) is standard and appreciated.
In most cases, your tour operator will handle all vehicle arrangements. Just make sure your package includes unlimited mileage and doesn’t charge extra costs for additional game viewing hours.
Tips, Meals, and Additional Costs to Consider
When calculating the total cost of a Tanzania safari, it’s easy to focus on park fees and accommodation—but don’t forget the smaller, day-to-day expenses. These additional costs can add up quickly if you’re not prepared, especially on longer trips or more luxurious itineraries.
Tipping: How Much and Who to Tip
Tipping is customary in Tanzania and forms a significant part of staff income. Here’s a general guide:
- Safari guides: $10–$20 per day per person (more for private or luxury safaris)
- Camp or lodge staff: $5–$10 per day per guest, usually pooled in a tip box
- Porters or drivers: $1–$2 per bag or short ride
These amounts may seem small, but they go a long way for local staff and are a meaningful gesture of appreciation for good service.
Meals and Drinks
Most Tanzania safari packages—even budget safaris—include three meals per day. However, there can be extra costs for:
- Alcoholic drinks and specialty beverages
- Snacks between meals or on long game drives
- Gourmet or à la carte dining in luxury lodges
If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, let your tour operator know in advance.
Optional Extras
Certain activities aren’t always included in your base safari price:
- Hot air balloon safaris: $500–$600 per person
- Cultural village visits or walking safaris: $20–$50
- Laundry services: often free in luxury camps, extra elsewhere
- Premium internet or satellite phone usage in remote areas
Miscellaneous Costs
- Souvenirs and local crafts
- Debit card or credit card fees (cash is often preferred in rural areas)
- Unexpected medical or travel-related expenses (always get insurance)
Planning ahead for these extra costs ensures a smoother, stress-free experience and helps you stick to your price range without cutting into the fun.
Tanzania Visa Costs for US, UK, Canada, and EU Visitors
When budgeting for your trip, don’t forget to factor in the Tanzania visa cost, which applies to most international visitors. While not as expensive as park fees or accommodation, your visa is a required part of your total safari cost and should be planned for in advance.
Visa Costs by Country
Here’s what travelers from the most common departure countries can expect to pay:
- United States: $100 USD
- Valid for one year, multiple entry
- Canada: $100 USD
- Multiple-entry visa, required even for short visits
- United Kingdom: $50 USD
- Single-entry visa, valid for up to 90 days
- European Union countries: $50 USD
- Most EU citizens are eligible for a single-entry visa
These rates apply to tourist visas and are current as of 2025. Always confirm with the official Tanzanian immigration site or your travel agent before you apply.
How to Apply for a Tanzania Visa
There are two main ways to get your visa:
- eVisa (recommended)
- Apply online at https://visa.immigration.go.tz
- Pay via debit card or credit card
- Processing time: 5–10 business days
- Visa on Arrival
- Available at major airports (like Kilimanjaro International and Julius Nyerere in Dar es Salaam)
- Expect longer wait times and bring exact cash in USD
Pro Tips
- Print a copy of your visa approval if applying online
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry
- Some Tanzania safari companies may offer visa assistance as part of their package
Including your visa in your planning ensures a seamless entry and avoids any extra costs or delays upon arrival.
Final Thoughts: What Will Your Tanzanian Safari Cost?
So, how much does a Tanzania safari cost? The answer depends on your travel style, destination choices, and time of year. The average cost of a safari in Tanzania can range from $150 to over $2,000 per day, with higher costs during the peak season, especially around late June and the dry months. Travelers looking for the best time to visit may prefer shoulder seasons to avoid any extra cost.
Compared to South Africa or Masai Mara in Kenya, a Tanzanian safari offers incredible wildlife, access to the highest mountain in Africa, and a wide range of experiences. Whether you join Tanzania safari tours or attempt self-drive safaris, understanding every additional cost is key.
The best way to pay is usually cash or debit cards, and visiting northern Tanzania ensures epic sightings.
In short: the cost of a safari may vary, but the memories? Priceless.
