cost of south africa safari

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How Much Does a Safari Cost?

Starting planning your trip with our safari cost calculator tool, safari prices explained.

• We’ll work with you to create a journey that makes the most of your time and money.
• As a rule, we prefer to include as many of the costs up-front so that there are no unpleasant surprises once you’re on safari.
• Pricing depends on the destination, your accommodation, how big your group is and the time of year you travel.
• Not all companies price with everything included which means your holiday becomes unnecessarily expensive.

How much does a Safari Cost?

The costings table gives an instant overview of how much a typical safari costs in each of the safari destinations. This will guide you to choose the right destination for your budget.

All prices per person, per night, sharing.

Prices are based on an average of lodge prices within the applicable category and are just an indication pricing.

All prices per person in a double room per night

Prices are based on an average of lodge prices within the applicable category and are just an indication pricing

African Safari Cost Estimator

Curious about the cost of an African safari holiday? Calculate what kind of safari experience you can enjoy within your budget.

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What makes up the Cost of an Safari?

There are three main factors that will make a big difference in the price of your safari:

Our safari pricing excludes international flights, but does include all local flights, transports and transfers.

Pricing displayed is for adults. Child rates vary from lodge to lodge. Some offer reduced rates or family rooms. Talk to our experts and we’ll recommend the best for your family.

If you are a group of six or more, we can negotiate better room rates for your group. We’ll always do what we can to bring your rate down.

Safari Costs: What to Keep in Mind

We’ll work with you to create a journey that makes the most of your time and money. As a rule, we prefer to include as many of the costs upfront so that there are no unpleasant surprises once you’re on safari.

1. Your accommodation

Accommodation usually makes up the bulk of your safari’s cost, so where you stay has the biggest impact on your budget. Options range widely, from a few hundred dollars to over $3000 a night per person.  We know which hotels and lodges offer the best value for money and these are the ones we’ll recommend. Remember to pay attention to what’s included and excluded. A lodge with all-inclusive rates may seem more expensive, but a lower-priced lodge may charge exorbitant rates for your gin & tonic, laundry, internet or other extras.

2. Your travel dates and time

We can advise you on how to benefit from low season rates.

We can help you take advantage of low-season pricing. Every destination has high season rates, which can be twice as costly as low season rates. There are also shoulder seasons, which are priced in the middle of the two. We can advise you on how to take advantage of shoulder and low season pricing if your travel dates are flexible. It’s crucial to note that the prices displayed on our website – and on other travel sites – are based on off-season rates. If the price you’re given is more than what you find online, it’s usually because you’re looking for travel dates that aren’t during peak season. Obviously, the length of your safari has an effect. Reducing the length of your safari will undoubtedly lower the expense!

3. Your destinations

Island and beach destinations are often less expensive than national parks. Each destination and country you add to your itinerary increases the price of your African safari because of the transport involved as well as possible visa costs. However, it is still more cost effective to do one proper safari and see everything, rather than three smaller ones. Island and beach destinations are often less expensive than national parks as there are no entry or park fees involved, and accommodation is also usually more economical. For example, if we were to book you six days on safari in Tanzania and six days in Zanzibar , it would be less expensive than 12 days on safari. Another option would be to include visits to some of the lesser-known parks and reserves, which are more affordable and often just as good. Popular destinations such as the Serengeti, Masai Mara, the Okavango Delta and gorilla sanctuaries come at a significant premium.

4. Your group size

Game packages, where you fly from camp to camp and join the lodge vehicles for game drives, often seem more affordable because you are sharing vehicle costs with other guests. However, the flights between the camps can negate the savings. Depending on your group size, it can be cheaper to hire your own vehicle (with an optional driver/guide) and drive from camp to camp. Your driver, vehicle and fuel costs remain consistent and can be divided by the number of people in your group. This could save you up to $1000 per person over a week. Once again, these are the kinds of things we can help with.

East African Cost Guidelines

Kenya is home to the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park and Samburu National Park, among many others like Mount Meru, Tsavo and the Aberdares. Tanzania counts the equally famous Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Selous and Ruaha among its national parks.

Together, Tanzania and Kenya make up East Africa and are considered to be the birthplace of safari. This is also where you will encounter the Great Wildebeest Migration safari .

The average cost for a low budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 350 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 500 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari tours in Kenya starts from 1000 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 750 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari tours in Kenya starts from 900 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari tours in Kenya starts from 1800 USD in high season.

There is no standard price for a Rwanda safari; each Rwanda gorilla safari tour itinerary has its own pricing, which is influenced by a variety of criteria such as the tour package chosen, the cost of the trekking permit, transportation costs, lodging costs, etc. Request a quotation for the gorilla trekking safari of your choosing today.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Tanzania starts from 350 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Tanzania starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Tanzania starts from 850 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Tanzania starts from 600 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Tanzania starts from 900 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury african safari in Tanzania starts from 2000 USD in high season.

The cost of gorilla trekking in Uganda is determined by a variety of elements, which must be considered in order to determine the cost of Uganda Gorilla Trekking. When calculating the cost, one must consider the entire Uganda tour package. Which includes the cost of the gorilla trekking permit, the vehicles used, the lodgings chosen, the porters you hire etc.

Popular Safaris and Tours in East Africa

These popular itineraries can be customised to match your budget and how many people you're planning to travel with..

Enchanted Kenyan Safari

East Africa Kenya Chyulu Hills Maasai Mara

From $ 8900 /USD

Oltyiani Trail - Camping with the Maasai

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Tanzania Small Group Set Departure Safari

East Africa Tanzania Safaris Arusha Lake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti

From $ 5440 /USD

Southern African Cost Guidelines

Botswana’s most famous wildlife areas are the Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park. South Africa is home to the Kruger National Park, Cape Town and Sun City. Namibia’s big hitter is the astonishing Etosha National Park, while Zimbabwe and Zambia share the Victoria Falls.

Namibia and South Africa are the most affordable of all the safari destinations we offer because you can rent a vehicle and drive yourself around, as well as stay in self-catering accommodation. Driving and cooking yourself will bring costs down but will add to the ‘work’ you do on vacation.

Peak season once again falls between July and August, thanks to a dry winter and huge demand from international visitors. The times between high and low season are known as ‘shoulder season’: the rains are starting or ending, the weather is heating up or cooling down and, generally, both availability and rates are good.

South Africa offers the best year-round game viewing. Many camps still close for Zambia’s intense rainy season, which falls between November and May. October is the hottest and driest month in Botswana, which makes for good game viewing but uncomfortable conditions unless you are in an air-conditioned lodge. By November, the rains have scattered the animals, making for challenging game viewing.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Botswana starts from 400 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Botswana starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Botswana starts from 1000 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Botswana starts from 750 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Botswana starts from 1200 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Botswana starts from 3000 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget  safari in Mozambique starts from 440 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Mozambique starts from 550 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Mozambique starts from 750 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Mozambique starts from 580 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Mozambique starts from 700 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Mozambique starts from 900 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Namibia starts from 70 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Namibia starts from 126 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Namibia starts from 422 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Namibia starts from 155 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Namibia starts from 246 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Namibia starts from 1057 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in South Africa starts from 312 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in South Africa starts from 519 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in South Africa starts from 1039 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in South Africa starts from 450 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in South Africa starts from 246 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in South Africa starts from 1593 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zambia starts from 250 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zambia starts from 400 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Zambia starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zambia starts from 400 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zambia starts from 800 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Zambia starts from 1500 USD in high season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 200 USD in low season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 350 USD in low season.

The average cost for a luxury  safari in Zimbabwe starts from 600 USD in low season.

The average cost for a low budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 300 USD in high season.

The average cost for a mid budget safari in Zimbabwe starts from 650 USD in high season.

The average cost for a luxury safari in Zimbabwe starts from 1200 USD in high season.

Popular Safaris and Tours in Southern Africa

Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe Safari

Southern Africa Zimbabwe Victoria Falls Hwange Kariba

From $ 7800 /USD

Safari & Women Empowerment

Southern Africa Botswana Linyanti Concession Zambia Victoria Falls Zimbabwe

From $ 7600 /USD

Grand Tour of Southern Africa

Southern Africa South Africa Cape Town Botswana Okavango Delta Zimbabwe

From $ 6690 /USD

What Our Guests Have to Say?

Read recent reviews from travellers who have planned and booked their trips with us.

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Matthys designed a perfect safari for my family which ensured we had....

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Tanzania was so wonderful. highly recommended tour operator.

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Dream safari honeymoon.

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Ready to plan your tailor-made safari.

Andre Van Kets, Co-founder, Discover Africa

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South Africa safari: A detailed guide

South Africa is Africa’s most popular and best-developed travel destination, famed for its sun-soaked beaches and vast wildlife-filled game reserves. It also provides exceptional opportunities to combine safari trips with wineland tours, hiking and museum-hopping.

A recent ecological survey ranked it as the third-most important country in the world in terms of biodiversity. The Big Five are present, namely the lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino and roam freely through Kruger National Park, the country’s premier safari destination amongst a host of other mammals.

South Africa offers multiple worlds all rolled into one. Expect stunning coastlines, dramatic mountain-scapes, huge areas of untamed bushveld, beautiful semi-deserts, lakes, waterfalls, canyons, forests and of course Cape Town, one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Consistently voted as one of the top tourist destinations around the world, South Africa is also home to the best luxury safari lodges and camps with something for everyone is this stunning destination.

Table of Contents

Why South Africa for a safari

The country is one of the world’s finest Big 5 safari destinations thanks to its outstanding conservation areas and national parks such as: Kruger National Park and its private reserves like Sabi Sands, Thornybush, Londolozi, Mala Mala, Lion Sands and Dulini.

With nearly one million annual visitors, Kruger National Park is the country’s biggest attraction for wildlife lovers, and it’s easy to see why. All of Africa’s iconic safari species – thrive here with over 12,000 elephants, 27,000 African Buffalo, 2,000 leopards and 2,800 lions.

80% of the world’s rhinos live in South Africa, leopards are found in abundance as well as thousands of elephants, springbok and kudu dominating the plains, a joy to behold for visitors, washed down with a sundowner cocktail, local wine or stunning views of Table Mountain in the iconic Cape Town.

A South African safari can last for three hours or three weeks, depending on your appetite, budget and timeframe. High-end safari lodges with incredible African designs and detail have visitors flocking back to this stunning wildlife destination every year.

Top attractions visitors can expect from a South Africa safari include:

South Africa is a prime wildlife destination with the big five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and the African buffalo) easily seen.

Kruger National Park offers excellent wildlife viewing in general and the scenic KwaZulu-Natal parks are best to see rhinos. In Sabi Sand, the main focus is on seeing the Big Five and it is famous for its habituated leopards.

Other animals to be viewed on a South African safari include hyenas, giraffes, hippos, zebras, African wild dogs, crocodiles, wildebeest, kudu, warthogs, springbok and cheetahs.

Marine life is equally spectacular with visitors treated to sightings of the African Penguin, the Cape Fur seal, dolphins, dolphins, southern right whales and the great white shark among many others.

South Africa has over 840 species listed. It has the highest number of endemic (occurring in South Africa only) and near-endemic (occurring in South Africa and its neighboring countries only) birds in Africa with more than 140 birds in this category.

Most of these species are confined to South Africa’s unique biomes (large, naturally occurring communities of flora and fauna): grassland, fynbos and Karoo. The migratory birds are present from November to April.

Notable birds include the African penguin, Blue crane, Crested guineafowl and the Pel’s fishing-owl.

Best Parks & Reserves

South Africa has a diverse range of wildlife parks and reserves. Aside from lush forest parks, South Africa also has distinct savannah and riverine parks and reserves.

Visitors can go on game drives and bush walks to view the plains game animals and on river boating safaris to view birdlife and aquatic fauna.

These national parks can be explored on foot, by 4×4 or by air and make for a truly unique experience with South Africa’s hidden secrets opening up to those that invest the time and effort to dig beneath the surface.

South Africa’s most populous city is Johannesburg, a top tourist destination in its own right with O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) airport acts as one of the main points of entry for visitors wondering how to get to South Africa .

Of particular note amongst all of the incredible parks and game reserves are Kruger National Park, Phinda Game Reserve, MalaMala GR and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi GR.

• Kruger National Park – The jewel in the African crown and a wildlife lover’s dream. Located in northeast, Kruger is one of Africa’s largest game reserves with high densities of lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffalos and hundreds of other mammals, eagles and storks.
• Phinda Game Reserve – Kwazulu Natal’s best private game reserve. All of the Big Five are easily spotted and the reserve’s flagship species is the cheetah with sightings very common for this unique creature.
• MalaMala Game Reserve – An independent private game reserve that shares unfenced borders with Kruger National Park to the east and Sabi Sand Game Reserve on all other sides. Easy sightings of the Big Five and the leopard.
• Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve – The flagship park of the Kwazulu-Natal province and one of the oldest parks in Africa. Rhino are very common in the park.
• Sabi Sand Game Reserve – Sabi Sands shares a 50km/30mi unfenced border with Kruger NP with each of its individual private game reserves all offering the ultimate Big Five experience, luxury safari accommodation, great service and excellent food.
• Addo Elephant National Park – The third largest national park & one of the best places in South Africa to see large herds of elephants. The Big Five are present also.
• Gondwana Game Reserve – A luxury private game reserve with free roaming Big Five game located on the Garden Route in the Western Cape, a 4 hour drive from Cape Town airport.
• Madikwe Game Reserve – A state-owned, private game reserve with all drives are conducted by the private lodges dotted around the reserve, a very exclusive experience.
• Tembe Elephant Park – Hosts all the Big Five, but above all it is a place for elephant lovers offering incredible encounters with some of the largest elephants in Africa.
• Karoo National Park – Most of the wildlife that once roamed here has been eradicated, but Karoo National Park is a relatively small area where this unique habitat and its animals are protected.
• Amakhala Private Game Reserve – An affordable, family-friendly private wildlife reserve that is fully fenced but relatively small in area. Four of the Big Five animals are quite easily spotted, the exception being leopards which are seldom seen.
• Mapungubwe National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage site with spectacular scenery and Mapungubwe Hill, the site of an ancient civilization. Elephant, white rhino and several antelope species are regularly spotted.
• Shamwari Private Game Reserve – The best-known of the Eastern Cape’s private reserves offering excellent wildlife viewing with a good variety of animals including all the Big Five and luxury safari lodgings with first-rate food and service.
• Lion Sands Private Game Reserve – A private reserve within the Sabi Sand Game Reserve. All of the Big Five and cheetah are present, and sightings are common – including of the normally secretive leopard by the four 5-star exquisite lodges.

Other wildlife parks and reserves of interest include:

• Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve – An authentic wildlife experience is assured at Sabi Sabi, one of the private luxury reserves located within the greater Sabi Sand Game Reserve. Big 5 viewings tend to be superb.
• Balule Private Nature Reserve – All major safari animals are present, and game drives are conducted in open safari-vehicles, which can go off-road.
• Thornybush Game Reserve – A small private game reserve sharing an open boundary with Timbavati NR. Wildlife viewing is generally very good, but the thick bush makes off-road driving more limited than in the neighboring private reserves.
• Dulini Private Game Reserve – A private reserve and part of a vast ecosystem, Dulini offers an authentic experience with Big Five viewing. All big cats can easily be seen.
• Idube Game Reserve – Located within greater Sabi Sand Game Reserve, there is an emphasis on seeing the Big Five, and wildlife viewing is excellent.
• Inyati Private Game Reserve – The wonderful wildlife viewing is focused on seeing the Big Five with all big cats easily spotted. Even the shy leopard is habituated here and easily seen.
• Kapama Private Game Reserve – A private game reserve with several high-end safari lodges offering a range of activities, including day and night drives, bush walks, balloon safaris and elephant interaction.
• Kwandwe Private Game Reserve – Amongst the most exclusive private game reserves in the Eastern Cape, a superb Big Five wildlife experience is complemented by luxury accommodation and word-class food.
• Ulusaba Private Game Reserve – A private nature reserve with open borders to the famous Kruger NP. All of the Big Five animals are easily spotted including the elusive leopard. The park is famed for its rare white lion.
• Londolozi Private Game Reserve – Londolozi offers a genuine wilderness experience and excellent wildlife viewing. Emphasis is given to sightings of the Big Five and other high-profile species such as cheetahs.
• Makalali Private Game Reserve – Makalali is a fenced, private game reserve with two luxury lodges. All of the Big Five and other safari animals are easily spotted.
• Manyeleti Game Reserve – A privately owned reserve, situated between Kruger National Park and Timbavati Game Reserve, with open borders to both. The reserve is owned and managed by the local Mnisi people.
• Mountain Zebra National Park – The best place to see the endangered Cape mountain zebra. The game drive circuit takes you through stunning mountain scenery with several viewpoints. Black rhino, lion, buffalo and cheetah are also present.
• Singita Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve – One of the private reserves located in the greater Sabi Sand Game Reserve and all of the Big Five are easily spotted.
• Timbavati Private Nature Reserve – A private nature reserve with open borders to the famous Kruger National Park. All of the Big Five animals are easily spotted including the elusive leopard. The park is famed for its rare white lion.
• Weenen Game Reserve – A small, off-the-beaten-track game reserve, home to both white and black rhino and several antelope species. A wildlife shelter overlooking a small waterhole and a vulture-feeding site are some of the attractions.
• Zulu Nyala Private Game Reserve – There are no lions in the park, but it is easy to get up close to all the other Big Five animals. Because of the limited size of the park, game drives can become repetitive.

Scenic parks and reserves include:

• Camdeboo National Park – The main attraction is the semi-arid Karoo environment and scenic highpoints such as the spectacular Valley of Desolation, where erosion has left dolerite pillars of more than 100m high.
• Ithala Game Reserve – The park’s scenic beauty is a large part of its attraction. Rolling hills and rugged cliffs create a dramatic backdrop and good viewing of white rhinos can be expected.
• |Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld TP – Spanning both South Africa and Namibia and with some of the most spectacular desert mountain scenery in Africa. The park is mainly a scenic wilderness destination. In Namibia, it features the extraordinary Fish River Canyon, the world’s second largest canyon.
• Golden Gate Highlands National Park – Its name comes from the golden glow on its sandstone rocks in the late afternoon. The park is home to a variety of animals adapted to highland grassland habitat, including several unusual antelope species.
• Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park:  Straddling the border with Botswana, this extensive park covers a total area of about 14,670 sq miles of which about 25% is within South Africa.
• Augrabies Falls National Park – The Orange River thunders down the 56m-high Augrabies waterfall before it continues its path through an 18km gorge.
• uMkhuze Game Reserve – Seldom visited by overseas visitors, but popular with local birders and photographers. Several photographic shelters give close-up viewing opportunities of a wide variety of animals coming to drink in the dry winter months. Although not a typical Big Five reserve, all of these sought-after animals are present.
• Marakele National Park – At the heart of the Waterberg Mountains, the park is home to the Big Five, but sightings are hit-and-miss. A highlight is the vulture viewpoint where Cape vultures can be spotted.
• Mokala National Park – Mokala is a recently established national park, protecting sandy plains dotted with impressive camel thorn trees. The small park isn’t a prime wildlife-viewing destination but offers a range of activities.
• Pilanesberg Game Reserve – The Pilanesberg has a beautiful setting and plenty of wildlife. Set in the eroded remnants of an ancient volcano, the Pilanesberg is a very scenic Big Five destination. A three-hour drive from Johannesburg.
• Spioenkop Game Reserve – A small, but very scenic, game reserve at the base of the Drakensberg Mountains. Central to the reserve is a large dam open to the public for fishing and water sports. White rhino, giraffe and zebra are usually seen.
• Waterberg Biosphere Reserve – Home to the ambitious UNESCO conservation project. For tourists, the Biosphere encompasses the highly regarded Lapalapa wilderness area, Marakele National Park and the upmarket Welgevonden private game reserve.

Safari tours

A safari tour package in South Africa is typically organized by a tour operator, safari tour company or via a self drive Africa safari trip.

Spread across the country, including various tour packages, South Africa’s parks and reserves can take several hours/flights to connect to each other.

Victoria Falls in Zambia is positioned at the heart of the Southern Africa safari experience and the incredible Okavango Delta in Botswana can be easily combined with incredible wildlife destinations such as Kruger NP in South Africa.

It is therefore important to take many elements into account when visitors plan their South Africa tour including:

• Which animals you would like to see
• Budget for the trip
• Travel party (solo, with friends or a larger family group)
• Things to do in South Africa (hot air balloon, hiking)

Guided tour

A guided safari package brings the benefit of:

• Transfer via South Africa fly in safari /4×4 to the safari camps and lodges
• Luxury lodge packages
• Meals/drinks all catered for
• Safari guides and transport
• Facilities prepared including showers, wifi, cocktails and all requests
• Combined trips to neighboring countries and beach trips
• Tailored trips including chimp trekking tours

Self drive safari

For self-drive African safaris, visitors can hire their own 4×4, whilst accommodation can be secured in park campsites or in the vehicle itself if a campervan option is selected.

Part of the fun of a self drive safari is spotting the abundant wildlife on your own and taking the time to spend viewing your favorite animals.

A normal 2 wheel drive car may be sufficient, and of course cheaper, for some parks however other parks have deeper sand and a 4*4 will be required.

Best time to go to South Africa

The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September, as the cooler winter months in the northern regions bring superb conditions for viewing big game.

It can be rainy from November to February, but this is the best time to travel for birding, and temperatures remain warm at 22°C to 33°C.

Certain periods are more favorable for a safari in the best conditions. To know when to travel to South Africa, visitors should take into consideration the following key criteria:

• Regions visited
• Weather conditions

South Africa safari cost

South Africa is marketed as a wildlife haven where visitors will be amazed by the range and number of wildlife on offer as well as the high quality of unique accommodation. These tend to be the most expensive elements of any safari.

High tourist numbers are attracted to South Africa however visitors will be pleasantly surprised that prices for activities and food are very reasonable compared to other African safari destinations.

There are multiple factors that can impact the cost of a safari in South Africa including accommodation selected, trip duration, safari costs, tours, flights, transfers, meal options and additional activities visitors may request.

Travelers on a budget can reduce costs by booking their own flights, accommodation and activities as well as hiring a 4*4 to travel between the parks and reserves.

Organizing your safari

There are a number of different options available for organizing your safari in South Africa including:

Organizing your own safari is possible but only recommended for more experienced travelers and visitors on a strict budget. This option requires time and know-how to plan for all flights, transport, meals, accommodation and safari tours.

Without the knowledge of specific safari destinations and logistics in navigating an African country, this may be a challenging option for many travelers.

Tour operators

The biggest tour operators will offer safaris in South Africa where visitors can book a package that will cover their flight, transport, accommodation, activities and food, an ideal option for those with no previous safari experience in preparing for such a trip.

Safari travel agencies

Visitors will often find dedicated safari travel agencies to be the best option in booking their dream safari. These agencies have many years experience in booking safaris as well as multiple partnerships with local tourism networks and lodges/game reserves.

Travel agencies typically offer:

• Tailor-made tours
• Local tour guides
• Trips to must-see wildlife areas and parks
• All transportation
• High quality accommodation at reduced prices

The cost of the service of these specialized agencies can be a bit higher compared to other options, a cost worth bearing given the quality and ease of services provided.

Accommodation

Visitors typically will have the choice between lodges, chalets and campsites as well as African tent camps, suites and bedrooms.

Luxurious facilities are common including swimming pools, restaurants, bars, spas and terraces. Game viewings and plane transfers are organized by the accommodation providers.

Trip preparation

U.S, U.K, Canadian and many EU citizens can travel visa free to South Africa for up to 90 days for tourists going on a South Africa safari. Citizens of other countries may require a South Africa visa .

U.S. citizens (U.S. passport holders) visiting the Republic of South Africa for ninety (90) days or less for tourism purposes do not need visas.

If you’re visiting South Africa for tourism or business purposes for a period of up to 90 days, you don’t need a visa. You should check the expiry date of your visa or entry stamp and make sure you do not overstay.

EU & Switzerland

Most EU countries can enter South Africa and stay for a period of up to 90 days without a visa, including citizens of France and Germany.

The CDC and WHO recommend the following South Africa vaccines : Covid-19, Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

Yellow fever may be required if traveling from a yellow fever endemic country.

The CDC recommends that travelers going to certain areas of South Africa take prescription medicine to prevent malaria.

The assured malaria-free safari areas are the Eastern Cape, the Pilanesberg National Park and the Madikwe Game Reserve, the Waterberg (just 3 hours north of Johannesburg), and last but not least the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal.

Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Malaria is a risk in South Africa. Consider taking anti-malarial medication if you’re traveling to this area. Other insect-borne diseases include leishmaniasis. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof.

Malaria is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito and so the first line of defense is to protect yourself against mosquito bites. Malaria Prophylaxis may be prescribed to you during your consultation depending on your itinerary.

Check with a travel medicine specialist to see if antimalarials should be considered to help prevent malaria contraction.

At the point of entry into South Africa, you are not need to provide a PCR test or immunization certificate any more. However, additional conditions for entrance are still in effect. To reiterate however, all limitations in South Africa that were associated with COVID-19 have been abolished.

For further details, see our South Africa vaccine requirements resource.

What to pack

The essential items to pack for your South Africa safari include:

• Neutral coloured clothes
• Long-sleeved shirts protecting against the sun and mosquitoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and insect repellent
• Jackets and sweaters for early morning game drives
• Comfortable shoes for walking safaris

The currency of South Africa is the South Africa Rand (ZAR).

USD $1/GBP £0.80 = Approximately 15.80 South African Rand.

Driving in South Africa

South Africans drive on the left-hand side of the road and visitors driving through parks may require a 4×4, whilst carrying a map & GPS is recommended.

Visitors should consider travel insurance when planning their trip to help protect and cover the costs of hospitalization or repatriation if required.

Some credit cards may already include travel insurance. Online travel insurance comparators are also useful in finding suitable offers.

How much does a safari in South Africa cost?

A South Africa safari can cost USD $1,200 per person for a simple 3 day safari.

When to go on a safari in South Africa?

Is south africa a good destination for a safari.

South Africa is a superb safari destination due to its variety of incredible parks and wildlife, high quality lodges combined with incredible scenery and winelands regions.

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How Much Does a South African Safari Cost?

Embarking on a South African safari is a dream for many adventure enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

However, one common question that arises when planning such a journey is "How much does a safari in South Africa cost?"

In this article, we will explore the various factors that influence the cost of a safari in South Africa, delve into different budget ranges, from affordable options to luxurious experiences, and provide recommendations for couples and families.

What Affects a South African Safari Cost?

Safaris are generally not a budget-friendly vacation choice, although South Africa remains one of the most affordable safari destinations .

The cost of a South African safari can vary significantly. It is usually affected by the factors detailed below.

1. Accommodation Cost

Accommodation is a significant factor in determining the cost of your safari. South Africa offers a wide range of options, from budget-friendly campsites and lodges to mid-range and luxury lodges.

Below is a summary of the average costs of accommodation in South African safari lodges (safari programs with guide and vehicle come with these options, and these are covered in more detail below):

• Budget accommodation: Budget-friendly options could start at about $300 to $500 per person per night. These often include comfortable tented camps or basic lodges.
• Mid-range accommodation: For a more comfortable experience, mid-range lodges could cost between $500 and $800 per person per night.
• Luxury accommodation: If you're looking for a luxurious experience, expect to pay between $800 and $1,000 per person per night.
• Super-luxurious accommodation: For the ultimate indulgence, super-luxurious lodges could exceed $2,000 per person per night, offering the pinnacle of comfort and exclusivity.

2. The Type of Safari: Group or Private

The type of safari you opt for could significantly influence the cost and impact your overall experience.

Group safaris , where you share the adventure with fellow travelers, tend to be more budget-friendly. However, they often come with limitations in terms of flexibility and can result in crowded game drives, which may limit your wildlife sightings and diminish the overall sense of intimacy.

Conversely, private safaris offer a more tailored and exclusive experience but typically come with a higher price tag. Private safaris are highly recommended for couples seeking privacy and a romantic escape or for families with children who require a personalized experience and a flexible itinerary.

3. Length of Your South African Safari

The duration of your safari plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. Longer safaris naturally incur higher expenses. A typical safari duration r anges from 3 to 7days , with longer trips costing more.

4. The Time of Year

South Africa typically welcomes the majority of its visitors during the summer months, from November to March, which is considered the peak season . However, the winter months, from May to September, are classified as the low season.

Surprisingly, this low season actually presents optimal game-viewing opportunities and more budget-friendly safari options.

If you could be flexible with your travel dates, it would be a good idea to avoid July and August, which is when international demand surges.

The most expensive time for a safari is from December to January. Prices are at their highest during that period.

For a more cost-effective and less crowded safari experience, consider planning your visit during the months of May to June or September to October.

5. Extra Activities

Participating in optional activities, such as hot-air balloon rides, a night game drive, and cultural tours , could add to the overall cost of your safari. These activities provide unique experiences but should be factored into your budget.

With a wealth of incredible resources at our disposal, we offer competitive prices and an array of options for accommodations and experiences that are tailored to meet your every need. Contact our South Africa specialists to make e your dreams a reality .

Discover real reviews of Highlights Travel Family 's best-rated service across trusted platforms.

How Much Do Budget Safaris in South Africa Cost?

For budget-conscious travelers, South Africa still offers incredible safari experiences. On average, a budget safari can cost between $300 and $500 per person per day.

These often include comfortable tented camps or basic lodges. If you want great places to visit with expert guidance and don't mind staying in simple safari lodges, such as tents with basic amenities, this choice could be a good fit for you.

Here are some recommended safari destinations and reserves that are ideal for couples and families on a budget:

1. Kruger National Park

• Budget-friendly options: Kruger National Park has a wide range of accommodations, including rest camps and self-catering cottages that are budget-friendly.
• Family-friendly: Kruger is a great choice for families with children as it offers a variety of child-friendly activities and accommodations.

2. Addo Elephant National Park

• Affordable accommodation: Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape is known for its elephant herds and offers budget-friendly accommodation.
• Family-friendly: Families would appreciate the easy accessibility of the park and the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and more.

3. Marakele National Park

• Scenic beauty: Marakele is known for its stunning landscapes and offers budget-friendly accommodation.
• Couple's retreat: The park's tranquil atmosphere and diverse wildlife make it an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic safari experience.

How Much Do Mid-Range Safaris in South Africa Cost?

Mid-range safaris provide a balance between comfort and cost. Expect to pay between $500 and $800 per person per day. These packages include more comfortable lodges, better dining options, and a more extensive range of activities.

Here are some recommended safari destinations and reserves in South Africa that are ideal for mid-range travelers:

1. Amakhala Game Reserve

• Malaria-free: Amakhala is a malaria-free reserve in the Eastern Cape, making it suitable for families with children.
• Romantic escapes: The reserve offers intimate lodges and luxurious tented camps for couples seeking a romantic retreat.

2. KwaZulu-Natal Game Reserves (such as Phinda Private Game Reserve)

• Diverse wildlife: KwaZulu-Natal boasts a range of game reserves, including Phinda Private Game Reserve, known for its diverse wildlife, including the Big Five.
• Family adventures: Many lodges in KwaZulu-Natal offer family-friendly accommodations and activities.

3. Pilanesberg Game Reserve

• Close to Johannesburg: Pilanesberg is conveniently located near Johannesburg, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a mid-range safari with easy access.
• Balloon safaris: Consider adding a hot-air balloon ride to your safari for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Our experts have conducted extensive on-site inspections of numerous hotels and are capable of recommending the one that best suits your needs based on your preferences. Contact our South Africa specialists to customize a safari for you.

How Much Do Luxury Safaris in South Africa Cost?

Luxury safaris in South Africa offer the ultimate in opulence and personalized service. Prices range from $800 to $2,000 or more per person per day. These safaris include lavish accommodations, gourmet dining, and exclusive wildlife experiences. Luxury safaris are perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway or families looking to indulge in an unforgettable adventure.

Here are some recommended safari destinations and reserves in South Africa that excel in providing luxurious and memorable experiences for couples and families:

1. Sabi Sands Game Reserve

• Unmatched luxury: Sabi Sands is renowned for its ultra-luxurious lodges and incredible game-viewing opportunities.
• Romantic getaways: The reserve is perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape, offering private plunge pools and indulgent spa treatments.

2. Londolozi Game Reserve

• Exquisite accommodation: Londolozi sets the standard for luxury with its lavish lodges and exceptional service.
• Family-friendly: Some lodges in Londolozi are family-friendly, providing immersive experiences for children.

3. Madikwe Game Reserve

• Ultimate luxury: Madikwe combines luxury with conservation efforts, offering top-tier accommodation and unrivaled game drives.
• Couple's retreat: Enjoy romantic dinners under the African sky and spa treatments for couples.

How Much Do Flights to South Africa Cost?

The cost of a trip to South Africa usually includes a significant amount going to the price of flights. Prices can vary greatly depending on your departure location, time of booking, and airline choice.

The tourist season peaks from November to March, during the warm summer season, as well as from May to September, when travelers opt for a safari. This means that booking flights during shoulder seasons could save you a significant sum of money. You might have to sacrifice the ideal weather conditions, but you'd also get to see this beautiful country with far smaller crowds.

If you're traveling from the UK to South Africa, then expect to pay somewhere between $800 and $1,300, while US travelers should budget for anything between $1,000 and $1,500, depending on airport connections and the time of travel.

However, it's possible to find deals and discounts, especially if you book well in advance or are flexible with your travel dates.

Learn about Costs and More: Get in Touch

The best way to learn about how the pricing of your South African safari could be optimized is to contact us, as we specialize in custom safaris in Africa.

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SAFARIS FOR AFRICA

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• Sep 30, 2022

Cost breakdown of budget, middle-range, and luxury safaris in South Africa

Updated: Nov 27, 2023

There are so many options when choosing a safari package in South Africa, but it is usually the cost of the trip that determines the final decision. To make it easier for you, this article will provide a breakdown of budget, middle-range, and luxury safari packages in South Africa.

What is a standard safari package?

This analysis is based on a standard safari package, which typically includes two safari game drives per day and lodge/safari camp accommodation with meals or on-site restaurant facilities.

In most lodges, adding extra safari activities to your package is available at an additional cost but there is usually the option of exchanging one safari activity for another (for example, a game drive for a bush walk).

Location of the reserve will also affect the cost, as a five-star safari package in KwaZulu-Natal may work out to be more affordable than a five-star safari package in the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

It is up to the traveler to decide how many nights they wish to spend on safari. We recommend a minimum of two nights to give yourself more opportunity to spot Africa’s Big Five and to adapt to the rhythm of Africa’s wilderness.

This cost breakdown is based on the following factors:

Safaris offering lodge/safari camp accommodation within a reserve

Safaris offering meals and restaurant facilities

Safaris offering open vehicle game drive activities

Safaris offering Africa's Big Five (this means that sightings of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo are possible)

Please note: ‘Single occupancy’ rates are always higher than the ‘per person sharing’ rate; High and low seasons affect the rate; location of the reserve will affect the rate (depending on the popularity of the location)

Standard safari package items

Safari Game Drives

Two game drives per day in a Big Five Game Reserve conducted in an open-safari vehicle by a wildlife guide and tracker. These drives depart at approximately 5am/6am in the morning and 33.30pm/4.30pm in the afternoon as temperatures are cooler and the animals are usually more active.

Lodge accommodation in a Big Five Game Reserve

Staying in a Big Five Game Reserve is part and parcel of an authentic safari experience. A standard safari package will include comfortable accommodation in a lodge or camp, whether you have booked budget, middle-range or a luxury safari.

Breakfast is generally included in most safari packages, with some packages including lunch and dinner as well. Catering facilities are available on-site.

We are now able to review how each of these package items are affected when booking a budget, middle-range and luxury South African Safari.

Budget South African Safari

When booking a budget safari package, the quality of the experience (Big Five game viewing) is not impacted, but you may not have all the bells and whistles that a middle-range or luxury safari may offer.

Guests can look forward to an authentic African safari experience with two game drives per day in a Big Five Game Reserve, with great opportunities for Big Five sightings.

Clean and comfortable lodge or camp accommodation can be expected, with en-suite bathroom facilities.

Breakfast will come included in this safari package option, and occasionally with certain places, you may have dinner included as well.

Please note: Although we have used the term 'budget' for this safari cost bracket (R2000-R3500) you will be pleasantly surprised by the star rating of many of these lodges, which are frequented by locals who enjoy quality safari experiences.

Middle-range South African Safari

Two game drives per day in a Big Five Game Reserve with snacks and drinks served on both game drives. Bush walks are usually offered as an alternative to game drives for middle-range safaris; however, this is dependent on the chosen lodge and location.

You can expect attention to detail in a middle-range safari package, from the rooms to the excellent service. Lodges will have swimming pools to lounge at during the day between your morning and afternoon game drives; and spa and gym facilities may also be on offer. (In some places baby-sitting services can be arranged at an extra cost).

Breakfast and dinner are part of the package, and occasionally lunch as well. There are also options for those with specific dietary needs.

Luxury South African Safari

Two game drives per day in a Big Five Game Reserve with snacks and drinks served on both game drives. Nature walks and Big Game viewing walks are often extra or exchangeable safari activities included in this package. (Taking part in conservations projects, for example rhino dehorning, is also available on luxury safari packages at an extra cost).

Aside from communal areas at the lodge like swimming, gym and lounge facilities, your luxury room will usually feature a private plunge pool, an outdoor shower, and a well-stocked personal bar. A luxury lodge is usually equipped with an on-site spa that offers guests a variety of treatments, as well as a safari shop for souvenir purchases. Laundry services are also available to guests.

Five-star cuisine can be expected, with all meals included in your stay, and a selection of local wines, spirits, and soft drinks.

Additional costs involved when going on safari in South Africa

Flights to South Africa from UK & US

Average cost of flight ex London Heathrow to Cape Town International Airport would be GBP600

Average cost of flight ex New York to Cape Town USD1200

Visas costs for UK passport holders are NIL for stays under 90 days

Visas costs for US passport holders are NIL for stays under 90 days

Travel Insurance approximately USD150 per person for US citizens - dependent however on one’s age

Travel Insurance approximately GBP115 per person for British citizens - dependent however on one’s age

Yellow Fever vaccinations may be required, should you have visited a country recently that has the virus. We advise visiting your GP for further recommendations on vaccinations.

Airport transfers to safari destination vary according to distance and the number of guests, with an average cost of GBP150 for a three-hour road transfer in a 4-seater vehicle.

Average cost of a meal at a lodge GBP12

Mandatory Conservation Levy at a Big Five Game Reserve would cost an average of GBP8 per day per person

Gratuities in South Africa are generally done in Rands although foreign notes are also accepted. Tipping at restaurants is 10 % of the total bill. Tipping your guide and tracker at the end of your trip is at your discretion but a guideline would be a minimum of GBP5 per day for both.

The cost of a safari in South Africa is very much up to the individual and as discussed, the number of days, standard of accommodation, and location of the game reserve will determine the price of the package. Embarking on unique safari activities over and above the standard safari package will also influence the cost of the safari.

Should you require any assistance in booking a South African safari we would love to be of help and can be contacted at [email protected]

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12 Top African Safari Tours

Cross this must-do activity off your bucket list.

Courtesy of Micato Safaris

Spot the big five on your safari adventure.

Safari tours in Africa are just as diverse as the continent itself, though these types of trips typically require a large sum of money. Whether you want to spend a few days gorilla trekking in Uganda or a couple weeks spotting the "big five" – lions, leopards, African elephants, rhinos and Cape buffalos – in South Africa, you'll find an array of tours to best suit your needs. To help you narrow down your options, U.S. News compiled a list of 12 can't-miss African safari tours. Read on to find your once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Note: Some of the African countries in this article may require travelers to get an entry visa and certain vaccinations in order to visit. Jump to the list of visa and vaccination requirements by country at the bottom of this page for more information.

&Beyond

Courtesy of &Beyond

Visitors who don't want to sacrifice creature comforts while on safari will appreciate &Beyond's offerings. During the tour operator's 10-day Kings of the Jungle safari – which starts at $11,340 per person – travelers will see breathtaking natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater and the Maasai Mara savanna. But the highlight of this journey is its four-night stay at Tanzania's Serengeti National Park . After watching animals like wildebeest and zebras partake in the great migration while also spotting lions, giraffes and more, vacationers retreat to high-end tents and lodges with private bathrooms.

[See more of Serengeti National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Wilderness Safaris

Courtesy of Wilderness Safaris

For some of Africa's most jaw-dropping scenery, opt for the seven-night Namibian Adventure Safari tour offered by Wilderness Safaris. This weeklong trip features visits to the Namib Desert's dune-filled Sossusvlei region (which you may recognize from the film "Mad Max: Fury Road") and the mountainous Palmwag Concession – a protected area with springboks, giraffes, black rhinos and more. The package's per person fee starts at $6,725, which covers most meals, park entrance fees, and transfers from Namibia's capital Windhoek and between the safari destinations. It also covers your stay at properties like the fully solar-powered Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp and the five-star Little Kulala lodge amid the stunning desert.

Wild Rwanda Safaris

Courtesy of Wild Rwanda Safaris)

Adventurous travelers sticking to a more conservative budget should consider Wild Rwanda Safaris' Bwindi Gorilla Safari. The three-day package features a full day in southwestern Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (a haven for silverback gorillas) and an adjacent Batwa Pygmy community. Wild Rwanda Safaris allows guests to choose between midrange, luxury and super luxury accommodation, which can help keep costs down if necessary. The company's packages include the $700 permit required to visit the gorilla park. The round-trip journey by safari vehicle to and from Kigali, Rwanda, and English-speaking guide services are also covered in all rates. The tour can begin from Kampala, Uganda, as well, although you'll spend longer on the road to the park.

Nomad Tanzania

Courtesy of nomad-tanzania.com

Sign up for Nomad Tanzania's Southern Tanzania safari and you're bound to get an up-close look at Tanzania's diverse wildlife. Offering eight days of activities, including game drives and boat trips in Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park, this safari gives you prime opportunities to spot lions, cheetahs, leopards and elephants, among other species. What's more, lodging at the company's campsites, select meals, and flights to and from Dar es Salaam are factored into the package's prices. Expect to pay a minimum of $5,700 per person; prices vary depending on the time of year, and the tour isn't offered in April and May.

Micato Safaris

If you want to explore multiple destinations while on safari with plenty of comfort (but a price tag to match), book the 15-day Micato Grand Safari. This outing by Micato Safaris starts with a two-day visit to Nairobi, Kenya, before continuing to the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Amboseli and Serengeti national parks for wildlife-viewing excursions. During your trip, you'll see Mount Kilimanjaro as zebras, gazelles and more roam in the foreground. The package costs at least $22,450 per person (based on double occupancy rates) and includes a hot air balloon ride, a camel tour led by members of the Samburu tribe, and lodging at upscale properties like Serengeti's Four Seasons outpost. The company also offers various extensions allowing you to explore other parts of Africa, from the island paradise of Zanzibar to the deserts of Namibia.

Rothschild Safaris

Courtesy of Rothschild Safaris

If your ideal safari vacation consists of customizing your trip from start to finish, consider an outing with Rothschild Safaris. The company offers itineraries in locales like Zambia and Madagascar , but if you're hoping to catch a glimpse of the big five animals, the Essence of Tanzania safari is a good bet. This nine-day experience, which embarks from Arusha and returns there by plane, includes game-viewing drives in Tarangire National Park and accommodations like canvas tents and farmhouse lodges. Elephants, zebras and lions are just some of the animals you may spot during your journey. You'll also have the opportunity to go on a nighttime safari to spot nocturnal wildlife.

Lion World Travel

Courtesy of Lion World Travel

As the trip name implies, Lion World Travel's 10-day Best of Cape Town & Botswana vacation package combines sightseeing in Cape Town, South Africa , with a classic safari in Botswana. During the latter half of the itinerary, visitors will explore Botswana's Okavango Delta (home to cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos and more) and Chobe National Park, which is believed to have Africa's largest elephant population. Prices start at $4,299 per person and cover game drives; many of your meals; and stays at luxury hotels, camps and lodges. You'll need to pay an extra charge for the flights within the tour (Cape Town to Botswana as well as Botswana to Johannesburg ).

[See more of Cape Town: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Bearded Heron Safaris

Neil Heron | Courtesy of Bearded Heron Safaris

Travelers keen on seeing South Africa's Kruger National Park through the eyes of a local naturalist will appreciate the 15-day safari with Bearded Heron Safaris. Led by Neil Heron, a nature guide and wildlife photographer and writer, Bearded Heron Safaris' longest option features small game drives that may include lion, rhino, zebra and leopard sightings throughout all corners of Kruger. Rates are inclusive of in-park cottage accommodations and all breakfasts, dinners, snacks and drinks. Flights and park fees are not included. For a 15-day safari, expect to pay 76,900 South African rand (about $4,500) per person.

[See more of Kruger National Park: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Discover Africa

Getty Images

For an inside-out trip through the natural wonders of Botswana, Discover Africa's nine-day Epic Botswana Adventure is a formidable option. You'll start out at a riverside lodge on the Chobe River – a great location for elephant spotting – before moving onto the marshy Okavango Delta, a wildlife-rich area where you can spot a huge range of animals from leopards to rhinos. The safari ends at the Makgadikgadi Pans National Park, a good place to admire wildlife like zebras and buffalo on the savanna as well as salt pans from a former lake. You'll stay in upscale lodges and campsites within close reach of the wilderness. All meals and transport along the tour are included in the price tag (which starts at $4,800 per person), but international flights are excluded.

Wild Wings Safaris

If you're looking to have a broader experience that mixes in some history and beach time, consider Wild Wings Safaris' eight-day Battlefields, Bush and Beach Safari. You'll start off visiting some of South Africa's historic sites from the Boer wars, before moving on to the Phinda Private Game Reserve, which doesn't allow day visitors, so you should be able to look out for the big five without too many crowds. The tour wraps up at Thonga Beach Lodge, where you can snorkel or scuba dive near coral reefs in the Indian Ocean. As far as safaris go, this one is an affordable option, starting at about $2,795 per person with all meals included as well as a rental car; for the cheapest price, you will need to drive yourself between the destinations, but it's possible to pay an additional fee for a driver to guide you instead.

Cuckoo Safaris

This tour company kicks off its tours from the majestic Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, with a host of safaris that range from two days to nine, across Zimbabwe, Zambia and Botswana, including some family-friendly choices. For an affordable option, there's the four-day Discover Victoria Falls, Chobe and Hwange Park safari, which will take you on two full-day tours to Chobe National Park (across the border in Botswana) and to Hwange, Zimbabwe's largest national park, where you should keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants and more. This safari also includes a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The price starts at $900 per person, which includes the tours plus breakfast, lunch and lodging in Victoria Falls; travelers will need to pay for entrance fees to the parks and dinner.

Compass Odyssey

Courtesy of Compass Odyssey

Explore the savanna and deserts of southwest Africa with Compass Odyssey's eight-day Namibia Wildlife Safari. You'll visit a community-based conservation area in Damaraland – known for its desert-adapted elephants, oryx, giraffes and other wildlife – while staying in the rustic-chic Doro Nawas Camp. You'll also spend two days in Etosha National Park, seeking wildlife at the park's bustling waterholes by day and embarking on an evening game drive as well. Starting at $3,750 per person, the tour includes most meals and all park entry fees, but not flights; the company does allow the tour to be customized on request.

Vaccination and visa requirements for African countries

Some popular safari destinations may require you to have received certain vaccinations in order to enter the country as a tourist. Inoculation requirements can include vaccination against COVID-19 and yellow fever, and you'll need to get these vaccines before departing on your trip. Be sure to bring proof of vaccinations with you. If you are transiting through another country en route to your safari tour, you must check that you also meet immunization requirements for the stopover location.

Note that, outside of what's required, there are a number of other vaccinations that are recommended, so ensure you're up to date and fully protected before you travel. In addition, many safari locations are prone to malaria; you should consult with your doctor to see if you need to bring anti-malaria medication on your trip.

Safari countries have varying visa requirements for travelers from the U.S. – these are detailed below. Depending on your itinerary, you may need a single- or multiple-entry visa, and some visas require you to apply in advance of traveling and/or have a certain number of blank pages in your passport. Regardless of your destination, your passport should be valid for at least six months before you leave for your trip.

Here are the vaccine and visa requirements for major safari destinations as of November 2022:

Botswana: If you have recently visited a country where yellow fever is common, you will need to be vaccinated against this illness. This does not include the U.S. but does include a number of countries in Africa, Central and South America. Consult the World Health Organization's website for a list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, including Kenya and Uganda.

U.S. citizens and nationals can stay in Botswana for 90 days without a visa.

Kenya: Travelers to Kenya must have been vaccinated against COVID-19 with the last shot administered more than 14 days before arrival in the country. Unvaccinated visitors can enter with a negative PCR test, conducted no more than 72 hours before departure. Proof of COVID-19 tests or vaccines must be uploaded to an online system called Panabios. Kenya is a country where you'll be at risk of yellow fever transmission; it also requires those traveling from other places with yellow fever or cholera outbreaks to be vaccinated against these illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you protect yourself against yellow fever before your trip here.

Americans need an e-visa to enter Kenya. You should apply online at the eVisa government website no more than eight weeks before your trip, as visas are not available upon arrival in Kenya. See more on the U.S. Department of State's website .

Namibia: Those traveling from a country where yellow fever is common need to be vaccinated against it. No visa is required as long as you're staying for 90 days or less.

Rwanda: If you're coming from a country where yellow fever is endemic, a yellow fever vaccination is required before departure.

U.S. citizens and nationals can be issued a 30-day visitor visa on arrival in Rwanda or through the Rwandan Embassy in Washington, D.C. A single-entry visa costs $50, and it's recommended you bring sufficient cash in U.S. dollars to pay for this (although credit card payment may be accepted at Kigali International Airport). Consult the State Department website for more information.

South Africa: A yellow fever vaccination is required if you're traveling from a country with a risk of transmission. No visa is required for stays of 90 days or less.

Tanzania: Travelers must be able to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination with a QR code to enter Tanzania. Unvaccinated travelers must take a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure, and the test results should be accessible by QR code. Yellow fever vaccines are mandatory if you're traveling from a location where yellow fever is present – including if you spend more than 12 hours in transit in such a country.

Visas are required for tourism in Tanzania. You can apply for a single-entry, 90-day visa online for $50 – and be sure to print a copy of the approval to bring with you. The processing period takes up to 10 days. You can also obtain a visa on arrival for a $100 fee; it's recommended you bring cash to cover this. Find more Tanzanian visa information on the State Department website .

Uganda: To enter Uganda, you must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or present a negative test taken no more than 72 hours before departure. Like Kenya, Uganda is a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. All visitors must show proof of vaccination against yellow fever to enter Uganda, regardless of where you're traveling from.

American visitors to Uganda must apply online for an electronic visa before departure; arriving in Uganda without completing this process could result in your detainment. Visit the State Department website to learn more.

Zambia: Visitors who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 must show proof of vaccination but do not need a test to enter Zambia; unvaccinated travelers must undergo a PCR test no more than 72 hours before departure. Yellow fever vaccines are only required if you're coming from an area considered at risk.

Visas are required to visit Zambia, but these can be obtained online before your departure or at a port of entry. Check the State Department website for more details.

Zimbabwe: To enter Zimbabwe, travelers must either be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or must take a negative PCR test no more than 48 hours before your departure. As with other countries on this list, visitors from countries with yellow fever outbreaks also require a vaccine against this illness.

U.S. visitors can obtain a 30-day, single-entry visa upon arrival in Zimbabwe for $30. If you're taking a tour that requires you to leave and reenter Zimbabwe, be sure to get a double-entry visa for $45. You can learn more from the State Department website .

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Passport Wallets (That Also Hold Vaccine Cards)
• The Best COVID-19 Travel Insurance Options
• The Best International Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Zoos in the U.S.
• The World's Best Places to Visit

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World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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The Real Cost of an African Safari: From Budget to Splurge

For many people, an African safari is the trip of a lifetime — in part because of the steep price tag. While a luxury lodge or a tented camp can cost upwards of $3,000 per person, per night, there are budget-friendly options out there. 

This article will outline:

• How much is a safari?
• Can you go on a budget safari?
• Budget hotels on a safari
• Budget game drives on a safari
• The best high-end luxury safaris
• Luxury hotels for a safari
• Luxury safari game drives

What does a budget safari look like?

Accommodations: The safaris most of us are familiar with — the ones you see on postcards and Instagram— are situated on private reserves. To avoid a hefty price tag, plan your safari in a national park, like Etosha in Namibia or Kruger in South Africa, which are open to the public for a small fee (less than $25 a day for foreigners) and have plenty of inexpensive lodges and camps in and around the area.

Inside the park, Pretoriuskup  and Satara Rest Camp  (which both have rates as low as $18 per night) grant you the same proximity and access to wildlife as the luxury lodges, for a fraction of the cost. These are run by South African National Parks , and the accommodations can range from traditional camping sites and permanent safari tents, to huts, bungalows, and cottages. Don’t expect any frills here — no hairdryers, meals are not included, and, you may share a bathroom or kitchen with multiple guests. 

Additionally, there are typically accommodations a few miles outside of the park gates. These properties tend to have more comforts than the aforementioned stays, but you have to drive into the park each day. Hazyview, for instance, is a small town fifteen minutes outside of Kruger is home to a handful of boutique properties, including Casterbridge H ollow . Here, you can get a large, air-conditioned room with wifi and cable from $108 per night for a single room, or, for $120 per night, you can reserve a family suite, which sleeps up to four people. (Both rates include breakfast.)

Lastly, there are a number of volunteer programs, like the Big Five Nature Project , with which you can spend two weeks in the bush for less than $1,960, including food and accommodation. In addition to the cost savings, you get to experience what it's like to run a bush camp, and you'll also get to see the Big Five.

Game Drives:

While it is not advisable or feasible for all destinations, national parks are well-suited for renting and driving your own safari vehicle thanks to networks of well-maintained roads. In this scenario, you don’t have to pay a for a daily guide, which can add up quickly. Driving yourself also means you have the freedom to stay in one place, or stay out, for as long as you want: If you want to follow a pack of wild dogs for half the day, you can; whereas on a guided drive, you’ll be limited to two- to three-hour drives and you’re subject to the whims and schedules of those in your shared vehicle.

If you do opt to drive yourself, note that it can be difficult for the untrained eye to spot a leopard amid its surroundings. When you have to keep your eyes on the road, it’s harder to take in the scenery, which can make it difficult to spot animals. Also, because public parks do not have restrictions on the number of vehicles permitted (the way they do in a private reserve), it is possible to be one of a dozen cars huddled around an elephant. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t be afraid to head down a less-busy road.

That said, a self-drive is better suited to those who have been on a safari before. Inexperienced safari-goers will rely heavily on luck to see animals (fortunately, parks like Etosha and Kruger are densely packed with wildlife). We recommend doing extensive research beforehand — and packing a good guide book.

If you have a limited amount of time, it might be better to spring for a guide. A full day can cost from $100 to $110 per person in a shared vehicle, but, you’ll have a better chance of seeing more animals. Guides can access areas that are closed off to everyone else, so they know where to find certain animals, and are able to recognize and follow tracks and detect sounds. Plus, a well-trained guide will be able to give you background information about the wildlife, geology, history, and local culture, as well as keep you safe.

So, what are you actually paying for when you book a high-end safari?

There are two main differences when you go the luxury route.

First, you’ll be staying on a private reserve or a private concession within a national park — both of which place restrictions on the number of people and cars allowed. That means you can actually pull up alongside a pack of lions homing in on a kill and not have to compete for a view.

In addition to encountering fewer vehicles on your drive, you’ll likely share a 4x4 with four to six people, as opposed to eleven or more in a similar car or SUV. It’s not a guarantee, of course, but higher-end lodges tend to avoid packing vehicles. Reserving a private vehicle might make sense for a larger group or a family (which can cost an additional $1,000 or more) to avoid being on someone else’s schedule or agenda (e.g. if you want to keep watching the lions, and they want to move on).

Second, when you book a luxury safari, you can generally expect to have a more comfortable experience. Rooms often include high-ends spa products, patios, and even a private plunge pool and/or clawfoot tub. Oftentimes, rates include all game drives, meals, high tea, drinks, and other activities.

Additionally, a guide and a spotter (the person who notifies the driver of tracks or sightings) escort you on every outing. Because high-end camps ensure their guides are well-trained, they'll be able to provide you with an enhanced experience. At the end of your evening drive, your guide will usually set up sundowner cocktails and snacks in the bush under the stars.

Lastly, location matters. Some of the coolest safari destinations — the most secluded and unique landscapes — are further off the grid. Those harder-to-reach destinations cost much more to get to, due to limited accessibility (e.g. having to rely on private puddle jumper planes to get there).

Overall, it is entirely possible to have an epic safari on both a high and low budget. If you don’t mind foregoing certain frills and sticking to a larger, easier-to-reach national park, then the low end offers a unique opportunity for adventure that certain seasoned travelers prefer. But, there is something to be said for the ease of booking a luxury lodge and not having to plan once you get there. Perhaps it’s a choice of whether you want this to be the trip of a lifetime that you can take more than once.

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What Does an Africa Safari Cost?

How to get the most value for your budget, african safari cost considerations.

When it comes to reviewing Africa safari itineraries provided by Africa safari planners , it is not always easy to compare them “apples to apples,” understand the out-of-pocket totals and see the quality differentiations. However, this is an essential step for you to make an informed choice.

When tabulating your total safari cost for your Africa adventure, the factors below all contribute towards the cost of your trip.

Safari Location

Where you choose to go contributes greatly to African safari cost.

East Africa Safaris - Kenya & Tanzania

• Kenya – boasts over 30 total National Parks and Game Reserves . Most wildlife areas have good access from Nairobi. Kenya safaris offer the opportunity to view all of the Big 5 and offer a variety of accommodation options. The Masai Mara Game Reserve is a favorite of our travelers.
• Tanzania – has over 20 National Parks which offer amazing safaris – including the world-famous Serengeti National Park as well as Mahale National Park where you can experience chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
• East Africa – offers an amazing wildlife experience you can add to traditional safaris – Gorilla Trekking. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda , and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda both offer this life-changing opportunity. You can easily add a detour to one of these countries and travel to visit chimps or gorillas on your safaris to Kenya or Tanzania.  

When it comes to pricing in East Africa, it is pretty middle of the road for an African safari tour, however, adding on a gorilla trekking excursion will add significantly to the cost.

Southern Africa Safaris - South Africa, Botswana, Namibia

• South Africa provides unique safaris with easy travel access from Johannesburg. You can partake in an affordable African safari with many creature comforts. While you’ll still be able to see a variety of wildlife, it doesn’t have the same numbers of wildlife as you can see in East Africa’s Great Migration. Of all Southern Africa locations, South Africa offers your best chance at getting a budget safari package.
• Namibia offers a slightly different take on a safari trip. You can even enjoy a beach holiday in Swakopmund in addition to viewing the desert wildlife at many locations including Etosha National Park .
• Botswana is truly an amazing destination for a safari trip. The Okavango Delta fills with floodwater annually from rains in neighboring Angola. Wildlife concentrates here creating amazing viewing opportunities. Prices tend to be at the upper end in Botswana – especially in and around the Okavango Delta – making it an excellent choice for luxury safari travel.

Safari Guide

Your safari guide is probably the most important element to having a successful African safari. You’ll want to make sure that your safari guide is knowledgeable and skilled – even if this adds to the overall price of your safari trip.

Safari Vehicle

• Self Drive Safaris – Avoid self travel options. While a relatively inexpensive option, we don’t recommend you spend your African safari driving around in remote regions of foreign countries with large, dangerous animals around your vehicle. There are much safer ways to travel the African continent. Skip the self drive safari and get a guide. Guides know the best viewing places for animals. They also understand and can properly deal with animal behaviors, and know how to get help if needed.
• Closed Vehicle – these safaris may feature an older vehicle with more passengers that don’t allow for the best game viewing.
• Open / Specialized Vehicle – A higher-end safari may feature an open safari vehicle or a vehicle with a pop-top roof – both of which allow for great game viewing. There are even safari vehicles with platforms for photographers so they can capture that perfect wildlife moment.
• Private Vehicle – While it will significantly add to your overall safari cost for Africa, a private vehicle (usually part of a private safari) adds a tremendous level of freedom and flexibility to your African safari.

Private Safaris vs Group Safaris

A private safari in Africa is more costly than a group safari, but you’ll have much more control of your safari experience. You’ll get to decide when to wake up, where to go, and when to call it a day. You’ll also get much more control over meal choices.

Group safaris are much more regimented and don’t allow for the same level of flexibility as private safari tours. Going with a group on an African safari tour can definitely save you money.

Accommodations for Safaris

When working with a safari company in choosing your safari destination, you’ll learn that there are a wide variety of safari camp and lodge options to choose from in Africa.

Permanent Tented Camp – these are in a fixed location usually near great viewing and are commonly used as part of a luxury safari.

Seasonal Safari Camp – while comfortable, offer less luxury than a permanent tented camp and they are usually positioned for excellent game viewing.

Mobile Safari Camp – these offer the most rustic safaris and are a great, comfortable option for a budget safari.  In general, travel distances generally won’t be as far as these camps are positioned to be near great viewing opportunities.

Safari Lodge – these are fixed structures that vary greatly. While you can certainly stay at a luxury safari lodge (there are many), don’t assume that lodge = luxury lodge. In some cases, especially in South Africa, you can stay at a lodge as part of an affordable African safari.

For more information about accommodations, see our types of safari camps page.

Extra Travel Extensions

Getting to Africa can be a time-consuming process especially if you’re coming from North America. That’s why many safari-goers like to travel elsewhere on the continent after they leave their original Africa safari destination.

We oftentimes get travelers who will add on a beach holiday in Zanzibar (Tanzania), Mombassa (Kenya), or Mozambique after their initial African safari trip has concluded.

Cape Town (South Africa) is also a popular post-safari travel destination for its world-class beaches and wineries.

Obviously, African safari prices will increase when you enhance your safari experience by adding these to your African adventure.

Other Price Considerations for Safaris

Watch out for hidden fees.

Make sure when you’re analyzing African prices for safaris from a safari company, that all relevant costs are included.

Park fees, mileage limitations, and other necessary travel expenses might be left out of a package in order to showcase a competitively-priced option. For this reason, it is entirely possible that a $300 per day quote for safaris will eventually cost more than a different quote at $550 per day.

Just like bargain travel flight fares that later charge for a personal item, you may discover that the safari price quote was discounted because it was missing critical elements. Quotes should include, or note when not included:

• Game drives/activities
• Applicable rental fees

Incidental African Safari Costs not Included in Your Safari Quote

Beyond these major costs for safaris, other typical expenses to take into account include:

• Vaccinations and other health considerations
• Tips for safari guide and staff
• Trip travel insurance
• Tourist visas
• Travel incidentals (on the way to Africa)

Don't Forget to Price in Your Packing List

You’ll also want to be properly equipped for safaris to Africa. Many choose to make the following purchases prior to travel:

• Camera equipment
• Reference books
• Clothes for safaris

Questions to Ask Your Safari Planner

The following questions should be helpful when evaluating a proposal from a safari company. Use these questions to not only gauge the knowledge of your planner but to make sure that you get the most out of your Africa Safari.

• What would you change if it was your trip?
• Are the camps in the right location for the season?
• What is the accommodation bed night capacity for your planned safaris?
• How do your safaris support local communities? Can you share the reports?
• What is the maximum group size for safaris?
• What is the maximum number of guests allowed in a vehicle?
• How far are the transfer travel distances on your safaris, and are they experiential?
• Are there unavoidable costs being left out of the quote, such as park fees?
• What are the vehicles like on the safaris you offer? Does the quote include fuel and unlimited driving distances?
• What is your repeat customer and referral rate?
• What is the experience level of the guide leading my safari? Is the person named and guaranteed?  

How We Determine African Safari Prices

Since we specialize in custom safaris, the cost of safaris is highly dependent upon your personal choices. For most travelers, a safari is a significant investment, and that is why the planning process is critical. Our philosophy is to focus on the quality of guiding and locations. These are areas most important to have an exceptional safari, and cutting costs on them will compromise your experience.

One of the largest cost components where you have flexibility is your accommodation. In some areas (like Northern Tanzania), we have a wide range of choices to work with. In other countries, like Botswana, there are often no mobile, budget safari, or rustic options that meet our quality standards. We classify accommodation budget categories into three tiers:

• Classic Safari . Prices range from $700 to $900 per person per night. While not a true budget safari, this is our most affordable African Safari Option. If you’re looking for top locations and great guiding but are happy with classic, rustic safari accommodation, including en-suite tents with bucket showers, this may be for you. This category means you will consider low and shoulder seasons to get better value while still having great game viewing. In some destinations in low season, you may be able to get pricing in the $500 to $600 per person per night range. 
• Authentic Luxury Safari. This is our mid range option for safaris, and prices range from $900 to $1,200 per person per night. This traveler’s budget is somewhat flexible, and they care most about top-notch guiding and outstanding wildlife. Accommodation for these safaris is excellent with great service. The camps often have special small touches but maintain the authentic safari style rather than the high luxury focus. In most safari areas, this price point is possible even in peak season. However, in Botswana we still must target low or shoulder seasons to fit this price range.
• Peak Luxury Safari. Prices range from $1,200 to $2,500 per person per night (and up!) for these safaris. This traveler wants luxury accommodation in peak season. Within this, $1,200 to $1,800 is possible in East Africa and parts of Southern Africa (Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia). The higher end of this range is needed for high luxury in Botswana and South Africa.  

We will always do our best to meet any budget with a high-quality itinerary. If we cannot provide a high level of quality, we will honestly inform you that we can’t make that budget.

As such, we will not beat high-volume, budget operators on price because the cost of guiding, unlimited mileage on game drives, and many other quality factors that we offer are not places where we can cut costs. We are not willing to compromise the experience for our clients or our reputation.

Your Safari Guide

Despite how incredibly important this role is, very few safari-goers have any idea who their safari guide will be until they arrive. Typically, a safari company is simply unable to commit a guide at the time of booking.

However, we keep a small team of outstanding guides in Tanzania and Kenya and a private specialist Bushman safari guide in Botswana to ensure that each client has a spectacular safari. For itineraries featuring Tanzania’s northern circuit or Kenya’s Masai Mara Game Reserve, and case by case in Botswana, we can tell you who your guide will be ahead of your safari.

We do provide excellent pricing and value within the bespoke top-quality safari market segment. We do our best to include deals and recommend low seasons or best value accommodation choices (more expensive is not always a better experience!), and other proven secrets to provide the best pricing for your dream safari.

Special opportunities often add large costs beyond our control. For example, each gorilla trek requires a $1,500 per person permit cost in Rwanda, or $700 per person permit cost in Uganda.

Learn About Costs and More: Get in Touch

The best way to learn about the pricing of your African Safari is to contact us .  Fill out the form below or give us a call: (720) 497-1250.

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Budget Safari Guide: How Much Does a South African Safari Cost?

South Africa is a prime wildlife safari destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. Many of them, fall in love with the country to return time and again. But, how much does a South African safari cost? 

With over 20 national parks and hundreds of private game reserves, South Africa is one of the best safari destinations in the world. It is home to Africa's wildest animals and a wide variety of insect, bird, and plant life, boasting some of the richest ecosystems on the planet. Yet, you can experience South Africa on a budget safari!

In South Africa, safari experiences come in many different forms; from private game drives to walking safaris, travellers can decide how they would like to explore the wilderness. There’s more to South African safaris than seeing the Big 5 animals, an item on many travellers' bucket lists. At African Budget Safaris, we offer a host of South Africa safari packages for the adventurous and brave, families, first-timers, and seasoned safari-goers.

In this budget safari guide, we will look at a range of different South African safari experiences. From exciting one-day tours to longer overnight adventures, we’ll show you what a budget South Africa safari costs. We will explore different types of South African safari locations and accommodation options. You can also check out our comprehensive list of South Africa safari tours for more ideas or browse our  budget safari tours across Africa.

One-day South Africa safari costs  

For under $200 per person, there are several one-day South Africa safaris leaving from the cities of Cape Town and Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). Our Big 5 Cape Town Safari takes travellers to Aquila Private Game Reserve, a privately owned game reserve about a 2-hour drive from the city. This full-day safari includes a two to three-hour game drive in an open 4x4 game-viewing vehicle. Accompanied by professional game rangers, guests enjoy the best of African wildlife: the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo), zebras, giraffes, and more. Optional extras include spa treatments, a quad bike safari, or even a horseback safari.

Sea lovers will delight in our Marine Big 5 Safari - the Great White Shark Cage Diving Day Tour . On this South Africa safari, it is common to see two or more of the Marine Big 5 (sharks, dolphins, seals, whales, and penguins). About a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Cape Town, this boat tour includes all cage diving gear, a private guide, and light meals -  all for just $191 per person! 

If elephants are your thing, then we recommend a visit to Addo Elephant Park - one of South Africa's top national parks. Our Full Day Addo Elephant Park Safari starts and ends in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), or PE as it is known by the locals. For under $160 per person, you can enjoy a full day at Addo Elephant Park with a small group of up to eight travellers. Addo is the third largest National Park in South Africa and is home to 400 Cape buffaloes, nearly 50 black rhinos, and one of the largest populations of African elephants in the world. 

If you can't decide between a regular Big 5 South Africa safari and a Marine Big 5 safari, then our Full Day Addo Elephant Park Big 7 Safari is for you. For just $186 per person, you'll start your day with a boat cruise to a colony of African Penguins before heading into Addo for a 4x4 game drive. You’ll have the chance to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats, both on land and in the sea!

Multi-day South Africa safari costs

If one day just isn't going to cut it, then you’re looking at going on a safari for two or more days. In South Africa, safari cost ranges from just $220 per person, for a two-day budget lodge safari at Aquila, to more for luxurious accommodation options. 

Our 4-Day Luxury Kruger Lodge Safari  starts at $2,095 per person and includes stays at two different safari lodges and game drives in three of South Africa's top game reserves: Kruger National Park, Balule Private Reserve in the Greater Kruger Park, and the scenic Motlala Reserve.

Apart from the length of your safari, the type of accommodation you choose makes a big difference to the cost. Typically South African safari accommodation includes bungalows, chalets, lodges, and tented camps. Let’s do a cost comparison of a few three-day South Africa safaris that include some of these different accommodation options. 

South Africa safari costs for different accommodation options

Starting at $1,118 per person, our 3-Day Kruger Park Exclusive Lodge Safari includes three-star lodge accommodation. Surrounded by lush indigenous vegetation, guests can make use of an outdoor swimming pool and laundry services. Rooms have air conditioning and en-suite bathrooms, making your stay comfortable while still being affordable. 

With this tour package, a maximum of 10 travellers experience an intimate South African safari. Included in the price is an afternoon or evening game drive on the first day, a full-day game drive on day two, and a final game drive on the third day.

A more affordable three-day South Africa safari is our 3-Day Kruger Safari - Lodge & Treehouse Tour . Starting from $673 per person, guests spend the first night in a budget-friendly game lodge in the Greater Kruger. On the second night, guests stay at an enchanting Treehouse Camp near Kruger National Park. This tour starts with a sunset-to-night game drive on day one. 

The highlight of day two is exploring Kruger National Park in an open safari vehicle with an experienced guide. Day three starts with an early morning bushwalk with an armed ranger who explains the wonders of South Africa's wild ecosystems as you explore the area on foot. 

For adventurous travellers on a tight budget and limited time, our 3-Day Budget Kruger Safari - Backpackers Tour brings you right into the heart of the South African bush for just $614 per person sharing. With two nights and affordable lodge accommodations, such as en-suite chalets, travellers can enjoy a budget safari without camping.

Semi-luxury camping safari costs in South Africa

While some of us prefer our creature comforts, others revel in the thought of sleeping in a tent nestled deep in the African bush. Starting from just $841 per person, you can enjoy three days of semi-luxury camping in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve with our 3-Day Kruger & Sabi Sands Safari-Tented Camping tour. Camping options include standard, luxury, and superior tented suites - you choose the one that suits your budget and needs. 

Sabi Sands is the ideal base camp for exploring the Sabi Sands Reserve and Kruger National Park. Diverse habitats and wild animals abound. This exclusive yet affordable South Africa safari hosts up to 12 guests at a time. 

The standard tents are spacious and set on wooden platforms with an en-suite bathroom and shower. These canvas tents have either a king-size bed or two twin beds. The luxury tent is a larger and more private option. Luxury tents include a bathtub, and an outdoor shower and can accommodate two guests and one child. Superior tents are completely secluded and can host two adults and up to three children.

Enjoy a seven-day South Africa safari on a budget

The last part of this budget safari guide is dedicated to seasoned safari goers looking to get a bit more out of their time in South Africa . These travellers should consider one of our longer South African safari packages. For just $1,232 per person, the Addo to Durban via the Drakensberg - Overland Lodge Safari combines a safari experience with hiking and sightseeing. 

Our South Africa Safari - Kruger to Durban Lodge & Camping tour costs $1,096 per person for a seven-day tour starting in Johannesburg and ending in Durban. It includes game viewing in the Kruger National Park with expert local guides, a visit to KwaZulu-Natal game reserves, and optional extras, such as rhino tracking, boat cruises, game walks, and turtle and whale watching tours (seasonal).

The most dedicated safari goers will enjoy our 7-Day Sabi Sands & Kruger Safari - Tented Camp Safari. This South African safari includes seven days of semi-luxury camping inside the Sabi Sands Reserve where you can enjoy crowd-free game viewing with a private guide. For just $1,656 per person sharing, you get seven days of uninterrupted nature.

South African Safari Cost - Budget Safari Guide

South Africa offers some of the most affordable and comfortable wildlife safaris. With a wide range of destinations, safari types, and accommodation options, there is something to suit any budget. For example, our 4-Day Budget Kruger Park Safari Package (Bungalow Tour) starts from $847 and is also available as a 3-day Kruger Safari ($641) or as a 5-day Kruger Safari ($1,023).

Check out our budget South Africa safari packages or get in touch with the team of safari experts at African Budget Safaris.

Pick from a range of South African safaris or let us custom design a private tour according to your personal specifications. Simply let us know how long you want to go, where you want to stay, and which areas you like to visit and our team of travel consultants will do the rest. We look forward to planning your next budget South Africa safari with you!

Kate Explorer Writer, Linguist, Explorer

Related Destinations

Explore these destinations mentioned in this post.

Addo Elephant Park

Cape Whale Route

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• African Safari Cost: 10 Factors + How We Saved $6,800+!

by Nichole | Last updated Aug 15, 2023 | South Africa , Travel Hacking

For many, a trip to Africa and experiencing an African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And, it is not cheap if you want a little luxury and modern comfort! How do you make that dollar stretch and drive down that overall African safari cost? What is worth splurging on? What is not? Here are the 10 cost factors to consider and a personal real-life example of how we saved over $6,800 on our Africa trip. Dream trips can be turned into reality!

* Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are from first-hand experience that I feel will deliver value to you! Thank you for your continued support.

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01- Safari Location

02- quality of the safari lodge , 03- low season vs. high season, 04- cost of internal flights, 05- other destinations in the itinerary, 06- number of days spent on safari , 07- national park vs. private reserve , 08- the extras, 09- self-drive vs. guided drive , 10- currency exchange rates , how we saved over $6,800 for our africa trip, #1- airline points, #2- credit card points, final thoughts, related content.

Map of top African safari destinations

Where you choose your safari location will dictate the cost.

For example, Botswana is one of the most expensive safari destinations whereas South Africa and Zimbabwe offer more affordable options.

For more comparisons between all the top 7 safari destinations, check out my article below.

Lion Sands River Lodge fire pit

There are typically 3 price points  for safari lodges: moderate, premier, and luxury.

For example, in South Africa, a moderately priced safari lodge in Sabi Sands will cost you around $300-$700 USD per person, a premier lodge will cost around $800-$1200 USD per person, and an ultra-luxury lodge will cost about $2000+ USD per person.

Quite the range. Impeccable service and food and a smaller number of rooms (and thus guests) come at a premium.

We stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sands, South Africa for one of our safari experiences. It was incredibly luxurious without being pretentious and had some of the best staff we have encountered.

We also had another amazing safari experience at Chobe National Park in Botswana.

We used the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel in Zimbabwe as our base, which was absolutely stunning. The hotel also offered its own safari drives right on its property.

Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel guest lounge area

To give you a sense of the price points, I constructed a chart comparing the cost of the safari lodges we had researched in the Sabi Sands and Timbavati private game reserves in South Africa. 

Motswari (Timbavati/Umbabat): from ZAR 4,959 ($279 USD)

Arathusa (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 7,729 ($435 USD)

Kambaku River Sands (Timbavati): from ZAR 9,834 ($553 USD)

&Beyond Ngala Safari Lodge (Timbavati):  from ZAR 10,199 ($573 USD)

Inyati (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 11,305 ($636 USD)

&Beyond Kirkman’s Kamp  (Sabi Sand) from ZAR 11,434 ($643 USD)

* Timbavati properties, in general, will be cheaper than Sabi Sand 

* Exchange rates are accurate as of 10/5/22. These rates are starting rates and will vary depending on the season. 

Lion Sands (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 15,114 ($850 USD)

Londolozi Varty Camp (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 18,645 ($1049 USD)

Savanna (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 12,947 ($728 USD) 

Dulini (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 19,129 ($1076 USD)

MalaMala  (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 15,730 ($885 USD)

Silvan (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 19,614 ($1104 USD)

Singita (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 32,959 ($1855 USD)

Londolozi Pioneer Camp (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 31,625 ($1780 USD) or the Private Granite Suites (Sabi Sand): from ZAR 33,495 ($1885 USD)

If this is your first time planning a safari, don’t miss my article on how to choose a safari lodge.

We stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge in Sabi Sand, South Africa during the month of September.

If we had stayed at the end of December, we would have paid $250 USD more per person per night. Staying during the peak season will drive the price up dramatically.

For me, the ideal time is picking the shoulder season that still coincides with the dry season.

Courtesy of Shutterstock: small propellor plane in the African bush

Some safari destinations can be quite remote, and others are near well-established airports. The location of the safari lodge will dictate the cost of transfers via plane or car.

We stayed at Lion Sands River Lodge, which is about a 25-minute drive from the local airport, Skukuza Airport. Because of the lodge’s close proximity, transfers were included in our lodge rate.

Plus, Skukuza Airport had direct flights to/from major airport hubs like Cape Town and Johannesburg, which made the internal flights more affordable. The cost per passenger when we went was $480 USD through SA Airlink.

If you are trying to reach more inaccessible lodges, the African safari cost is going to be much higher because you are relying on light charter flights.

2-week South Africa itinerary

If you fly to a destination where the safari experience is the only activity, your cost is going to be higher than if you combine it with more affordable destinations.

The safari will be the most expensive part of your trip.

One reason why South Africa is such a desirable safari location is that it can be combined with places such as Cape Town and the Cape Winelands which are significantly less expensive. 

PRO TIP : We offset our African safari cost in Sabi Sands by staying at much more affordable accommodations while in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands. Splurge on the safari experience and then pick more budget-friendly hotels in the other destinations.

You can get incredible value for your money while staying in Cape Town and the Cape Winelands.

We stayed at the highly-rated Derwent House Boutique Hotel while in Cape Town and the adorable bed & breakfast Cape Vue Country House while in Cape Winelands.

Both properties offered incredible value for the money, which drove the overall cost of our trip down.

Derwent House Boutique Hotel in Cape Town, South Africa

Obviously, the more days you spend, the higher the African safari cost.

However, some safari lodges like Singita Kruger National Park will offer a nice package deal such as “Stay 4 Days/Pay for 3.”

Always be on the lookout for these special deals to reduce your African safari cost.

Two lionesses consuming a giraffe in Sabi Snds Private Game Reserve

National parks tend to be much more affordable than private game reserves.

For example, if you stay in Kruger National Park in South Africa, which is owned and managed by the government, the cost is going to be substantially cheaper but much more crowded.

In contrast, if you stay in a private reserve in Sabi Sands in South Africa, the cost will be higher but fewer people and jeeps and more close-up wildlife encounters.

If you want to know more differences between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands, check out my article below.

Our safari ranger and tracker at Lion Sands River Lodge

What do I mean by “the extras”?

Think tipping, airport transfers, laundry, park fees & permits, premium drinks, etc.

It is important to factor in all fees because they can certainly add up quickly. For example, if you are going to Rwanda to see gorillas, the gorilla trekking permit alone costs $1500 USD per person! 

Also, it is imperative to know what is included in your all-inclusive safari lodge rate. For example, some lodges charge for premium drinks.

Laundry service is another factor to consider. You cannot carry much weight in your luggage on those little planes. Packing light is important, which will likely require you to do laundry while at the lodge. Some lodges will include it, and some will not.

That is why I’m a big fan of the incredibly lightweight Anatomie travel clothing, specifically the Kate Skinny Cargo pants . They take up very little room in the suitcase.

An Africa safari is one of the most expensive vacations you will probably take. The staff at these safari lodges go above and beyond to take great care of you. The safari guides are spending at least 6+ hours with you daily to deliver an exclusive experience.

I know this is a touchy subject because every country has a different tipping culture, but please consider showing your appreciation for good service by leaving a tip. Budget accordingly.

It is customary in Africa to tip the staff (but not mandatory).

Courtesy of Shutterstock: Safari jeeps watching a lion

If you want more flexibility and are looking to cut costs, you can do a self-drive safari in certain countries such as South Africa.

For example, in Kruger National Park, many opt to rent a car and drive independently around the park looking for the animals.

Although you have the freedom of when and how long you want to stay in each location, you do not have the expertise and knowledge of a guide who can greatly add to your experience.

Most African countries will quote and charge you in USD. There are a few countries, however, like South Africa and Namibia, that only quote the cost in their own currency.

Because the currency exchange rate is volatile, your US dollar could stretch further if the rate is favorable. The opposite, of course, would be true as well.

Breakdown of how we saved over $6800 USD on our 2-week Africa trip

I am NOT a travel agent who gets discounts on properties.

I am NOT an influencer who gets sponsored free trips.

I work full-time, have limited PTO hours, and take 3-4 vacations a year.

So, how am I bringing my African safari cost down?

Airline and credit card points!

An African safari is usually just one component (and the most expensive!) of most travelers’ Africa itinerary. The key to making this epic trip affordable is knowing where to spend and where not to spend and utilizing airline and credit card points to erase some or all of the cost.

A premier safari experience in Sabi Sands, South Africa for 2 people for 3 nights/4 days costs around $5,400 USD.

So, how did we save over $6,800 for our entire 2-week Africa trip ? 2 ways. Let’s break it down.

Courtesy of Shutterstock: airplane

We used 2 different strategies for the major international legs of our Africa trip:

UNITED POINTS:  For this Africa trip, we used 40,000 United points per person (+ nominal $11 USD per person for taxes) to pay for our flight from the United States to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

The cash price per person for the flight would have been $1,121 USD. Our total savings for two people was $2,220. The redemption value was 2.8 cents per mile.

By the way, one strategy for getting a bulk amount of points is to sign up for a travel credit card during a big sign-up bonus promotion, where you have to meet x amount of minimum spend within x amount of months.

VIRGIN ATLANTIC POINTS: For our return flight from Johannesburg, South Africa back to the United States, we used 22,500 Virgin Atlantic points per person (+ $350 USD per person for taxes).

The cash price per person for the flight would have been $888 USD. Our total savings for two people was $1,076. The redemption value was 2.4 cents per mile.

How did we get Virgin Atlantic points? From my Amex Membership Reward (MR) Points.

If you want to know more about travel hacking tricks and how to know if you are getting a good redemption value, don’t miss my travel hacking 101 guide.

Chase Trifecta Travel Credit Cards

What credit cards we used and how we used them:

AMERICAN EXPRESS PLATINUM

We used Amex Membership Reward (MR) points to pay for our international flight home from Johannesburg to the United States.

We transferred 22,500 MR points to Virgin Atlantic at a 1:1 transfer rate. Our total cost was 22,500 points + $350 USD for taxes/fees per person for a flight that would have cost $888 per person.

Our total savings for two people was $1076.

CHASE SAPPHIRE RESERVE

We used 239,138 Chase Ultimate Reward (UR) points to pay for the majority of our hotels on our Africa trip. That saved us a whopping $3,587.07!

When you redeem your UR points through the Chase travel portal for hotels (or flights if you choose), you redeem at 1.5x the rate .

What does that mean?

Pretend you have 200,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points, which is equal to $2,000 USD. If you redeem those same 200,000 points through the travel portal, they are now worth $3,000 USD. Incredible value!

THIS IS THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL CREDIT CARD.

An African safari was one of the most memorable travel experiences we’ve had. It can be quite expensive depending on the location and quality of the safari lodge.

You can make it quite budget-friendly by picking cheaper safari locations, going during low season, doing a self-drive safari, and picking a more affordable safari lodge.

Since this was a trip of a lifetime for us and we were celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary, we wanted a little more luxury.

When we started planning our African safari and adding up the costs, it was clear the price for our dream vacation was much higher than our travel budget would allow.

Luckily, because we had started to accumulate airline and credit card points years ago, we were able to cash in those points to erase much of the African safari cost. Those airline and credit card points made this epic trip a reality.

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Questions about how to reduce your African safari cost?

Let me know in the comments below!

Hi there! I was about to book Lion Sands on Chase but cant find it anymore as their booking look up has gotten more complex. What did you use to find it? An airport code?

Thanks for reaching out. I booked 3 out of the 4 Africa hotels we stayed at (Derwent in Cape Town, Cape Vue in the Cape Winelands, and Stanley & Livingstone in Zimbabwe) through the Chase travel portal. Lion Sands was the only one I didn’t book through Chase. I went through booking.com: https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/lion-sands-private-game-reserve.en-gb.html .

I just checked to see if Lion Sands was on the Chase travel portal, and I could not find it either (even with using the airport code, SZK). I’m surprised though because it’s a MORE property, and their other property (Stanley & Livingstone in Zimbabwe) is on there. You could always call Chase just to make sure.

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Luxury african safari pricing guide for 2024 /2025, the prices for a luxury african safari may differ greatly depending on the level of luxury accommodation you require..

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100% satsa bonded & trusted, luxury african safari prices, the most common question we get asked is, how much does an african safari cost this definitive guide to prices, specials, seasons, destinations and more provides the information you need to plan your vacation budget. , star rating, this guide is for four and five-star luxury african safaris. the property grade is the biggest factor affecting the price of your african safari holiday.  ​ all prices below are per person sharing..

7 Nights from $5,297 pps

You'll be surprised to learn that the good four-star safari lodges would be considered five stars in most countries, and many of them will no doubt be upgraded in due course, but until then you can get them at four-star prices.  four-star properties also come with all-inclusive packages and a good 4-start african safari for 7 days starts at around $5,297 but with a few upgrades here and there you should realistically budget for closer to $6000. .

7 Nights from $6,757 pps

The five-star safari lodges enjoy the finest locations for animal viewing and the most luxurious finishes.  if you want to experience a more intimate wildlife experience then these lodges provide more remote access more often than not in private concessions.  a five-star luxury african safari holiday typically costs around $1,000 per person daily.  if you book multiple properties from the same operator you can expect to get free night offers or other savings on the overall accommodation cost of your booking. .

Five Star Premium

7 nights from $8,897 pps, there are only 10 lodges and hotels in africa boasting the prestigious title of five star premium.  these are the very best of the best and no attention to detail is missed when striving for such an honour.  you can expect to pay from $1,000 up to $3,000 per person daily at one of these exquisite properties and their locations are the best available in africa. , the seasons vary depending on the location but for the most part, the busiest time of the year and therefore the most expensive time to travel is from december to february.   this is the busy vacation period in africa when demand surges and prices are often 20 - 50% more than in other months.    this is also the hottest time of the year and not the best for game viewing - although it is still very good - it's just that the animals seek shelter from the hot day sun and the bush is denser due to the higher rainfall. typically july to october is ideal for game viewing. , money saving tips, if you want to enjoy a luxury safari experience but want to either add value or cut a few costs, these tips below will help you. , free night offers, get more value for your african safari when you book multiple properties from the same operator. this way you can get bed night discounts and of course, the good news is, we have all the contacts in place already. .

Bride Pays 50%

If you're lucky enough to be on your africa honeymoon then you can claim specials like bride pays 50% as well as benefit from suite upgrades, discounted spa treatments and a host of uniquely tailored tours just for you. .

Free Upgrades

If you select the right lodges at the right time of the year you can oftentimes get free upgrades on the rooms. contact us for special offers and we'll use our vast network and close relationships to get you the best deal available. .

PRICE BY DESTINATION

Africa has so many wonderful safari destinations to choose from and the average pricing differs slightly from location to location.   this quick safari pricing overview below sheds light on the starting prices per person daily you can expect to pay.   these locations offer great safaris for families , couples, groups and seniors safaris too.   .

Kruger Park

South africa, the #1 most popular wildlife safari destination in all of africa is the kruger national park in the north of south africa.  here you'll find the largest variety of large mammals and birdlife on the continent, including the much sought-after big five animals. the kruger also boasts the best accommodation variety giving you superb value for money. , big five safari, 140+ mammal species, 500+ bird species, private guides, private reserves, honeymoon specials.

Located at the southern most tip of Africa and regarded as the number one city in the world to visit, Cape Town boasts a mixed bag of breathtaking scenery, endless ocean views, blue flag beaches, award-winning wine estates, world Top 50 rated restaurants, cultural excursions and a large variety of day tours.    The prices per person in Cape Town for a good four-star hotel near the iconic Waterfront start at around $167 per person.  

Table mountain, southern peninsula, robben island, cape winelands, ocean adventures, world-class cuisine.

Victoria Falls

Zambia / zimbabwe, situated on the mighty zambezi river at the border of zimbabwe and zambia lies "the smoke that thunders", more commonly known as victoria falls - the world's biggest waterfall.  the area is more than just one massive mountain of water cascading over the fall's edge however, it is an adventure-lovers dream with white water rafting, tiger fishing, bungee, hiking trails and wildlife safaris on your doorstep. , biggest waterfall, wildlife safaris, white water rafting, zambezi cruises, aerial tours & safaris, honeymoon destination.

East Africa

The luxury villas and hotels of seychelles off the coast of east africa in the indian ocean are the perfect way to end off your luxury african safari package with days spent in paradise.  the warm azure waters and white sands of this pristine island afford you the opportunity to relax and rewind or explore, all in warm indian hospitality. , warm indian ocean, azure waters, white sandy beaches, excellent diving, world-class spas, island getaway.

Benguerra Island

The benguerra island location in mozambique is a short flight from south africa and another unspoiled beach location.   the local marine reserve is a scuba diver or snorkeler's ideal setting or you can spend days around your own private villa pool or explore the island and surrounds. this is the preferred location for many southern african safari travellers. , beach honeymoon, marine reserve, tropical getaway, relaxation therapy, luxury accommodation, island flavour.

Okavango Delta

When you want a remote african safari destination with all the luxury trimmings and vip service of five star hotel, you want to visit the world heritage site that is the okavango delta.   here you'll spend days at a lodge perched on the river banks where animals quench their thirst and birds chirp away happily in their unspoiled surroundings. the price of an okavango safari may be more than other locations, but anyone who can afford it will tell you it's well worth it. , 50,000+ elephant, mokoro safaris, remote african luxury, five star lodges, walking safaris.

The far-stretching plains of the Serengeti are perhaps most famously known for The Great Animal Migration, also referred to as the Great Wildebeest Migration.  Each year more than 2million animals move through the park in search of grazing pastures and food, with a number of excellent accommodation options giving you a front-row seat to one of nature's most spectacular displays. 

Great migration, big five safaris, endless views, balloon safaris, luxury camps.

The Masai Mara and the local tribes provide an "Out of Africa" experience for any traveller in search of an authentic "1920s" African safari holiday.  You'll also get the benefits of the Great Animal Migration if you pick your travel month correctly and prices for a luxury Kenya safari start at around the mid $400 per person mark, daily. 

Masai mara tribe, authentic safari, mount kilimanjaro, roaming tented camps.

Franschhoek

Franschhoek is the food and wine capital of africa with a strong french influence and jaw-dropping location at the foot of the cape fold mountains, less than 60 minutes outside cape town.  ​ here you'll find a strong south of france influence with an african flair to treat your palette and senses alike. franschhoek boasts many boutique hotels with prices from $218 per person sharing., cape fold mountains, food & wine capital, private tours, boutique hotels, outside cape town, french influence.

Home of the walking safari and a fantastic value for money destination complete with the Big Five animals and a wide variety of wildlife in unspoiled and commercialised settings.  ​ Zambia is undoubtedly the forgotten gem of Africa and prices for an Africa safari are considerably lower here, but with all the benefits and more of other reserves or concessions. 

Large elephant herds, exceptional value.

Zimbabwe has a storied past and is slowly getting back to the popular safari destination it was in the past.  ​ The Victoria Falls side is still the biggest draw card to Zimbabwe but the country offers great value for money to entice visitors to their newly refurbished properties in idyllic game viewing locations, with all the luxuries of the other reserves. 

Big five animals, vistoria falls, singita pamushana.

Straight out of "Gorillas in The Mist" is the home of the mighty apes, Rwanda.  Now keep in mind that this is absolutely a life-changing experience, but it does come at a steep price with accommodation from $767 at private lodges and day passes to the gorillas equally priced. 

African Safari Quote

Get a free tailored quote to design the perfect luxury african safari of your dreams based on your bucket list.  ​ we don't do cookie-cutter packages but rather go the extra mile to make sure your safari is uniquely yours. , tailored packages, vip service, 24/7 local support, fully bonded, 20+ years experience, best rates available, african safari prices, the prices quoted here for an african safari give you a good indication of what to expect, but the best way to lock down a package price is to have one of our experienced consultants chat with you, decide on a budget and then put together the best prices and options so you may enjoy your african safari as you envision it.  for more information and a no-obligation quote, get in touch today and let's design your perfect package at a price that makes you smile.  if you're travelling on your africa honeymoon special offers may apply and we have a host of free upgrades, discounts and more to add value and memories to your honeymoon. for the best african safari vacation prices enquire today.  our packages start at $5k and go up to an ultra-exclusive  $150k luxury african safari. the average price you can expect to pay for a luxury safari is around $7k-$10k per person sharing, with five-star all-inclusive luxury safari lodges. .

© Lauren Mulligan/Lonely Planet

South Africa

Check out this year's Best in Travel winners

Black-maned lions framed against desert dunes, powdery beaches lapped by two oceans, star-studded night skies, jagged mountains – South Africa is the place to go wild.

Best Time to Visit

Best places to visit, attractions, must-see attractions.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Location and unique flora combine to make these 5.28-sq-km botanical gardens among the most beautiful in the world. Gate 1, the main entrance at the…

Constitution Hill

Johannesburg

Do not leave Jo'burg without visiting Constitution Hill. One of South Africa's most important historical sites, the deeply moving and inspirational…

Cape of Good Hope

Simon's Town & Southern Peninsula

This 77.5-sq-km section of Table Mountain National Park includes awesome scenery, fantastic walks, great birdwatching and often-deserted beaches. The…

Kruger National Park

In terms of wildlife alone, Kruger is one of the world's greatest national parks. The diversity, density and sheer numbers of animals is almost…

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum illustrates the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation and oppression, and is an absolute must-see. It uses a broad…

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Blyde River Canyon

This stunning 260-sq-km reserve centres on the 30km-long Blyde River Canyon, where epic rock formations tower above the forested slopes and eagle-eye…

Table Mountain

Around 600 million years old, and a canvas painted with the rich diversity of the Cape floral kingdom, Table Mountain is truly iconic. You can admire the…

Three Rondavels Viewpoint

The area's highlight, with a staggering view of these enormous rounds of rock, their pointed, grassy tops resembling giant huts carved into the side of…

Top picks from our travel experts

15 of the best things to do in south africa.

uShaka Beach

The somewhat sheltered beach at uShaka Marine World marks the southern end of the Golden Mile.

Robben Island

Green Point & ­Waterfront

Used as a prison from the early days of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) right up until 1996, this Unesco World Heritage site is preserved as a memorial…

Pot Luck Club

The sister restaurant to Test Kitchen is a more affordable Luke Dale-Roberts option. Sitting at the top of an old silo, it offers panoramic views of the…

South African Astronomical Observatory

Northern Cape

During the day you can take a guided tour of the huge research telescopes, including the Southern African Large Telescope, but it's the two-hour night…

Sterkfontein Caves

One of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, Sterkfontein Caves include a permanent hominid exhibit and a walkway down into the…

Hector Pieterson Museum

This powerful museum, named after the 12-year-old boy shot dead during the student protests in Soweto on 16 June 1976, illuminates the role of Sowetan…

Bay of Plenty Beach

At the heart of the beachfront along Durban's Golden Mile. Popular with sunbathers and beach-sports enthusiasts.

Blue Lagoon Beach

This playful beach once had a reputation for being dangerous, but after an extensive revamp it's now a haven for families. There are playgrounds, food…

Test Kitchen

Luke Dale-Roberts creates inspired dishes with top-quality local ingredients at his flagship restaurant – generally agreed to be the best in Africa…

Shortmarket Club

Star chef Luke Dale-Roberts' latest venture hides in plain sight on the street it is named after. It's a gorgeous attic space with a wall of paper…

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park

The Elephant Coast

Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is one of South Africa’s best-known, most evocative parks. Covering 960 sq km, it is best visited in the dry winter months (May to…

KwaZulu-Natal

Created as a set for the telemovie Shaka Zulu, the slightly Disney-fied Shakaland beats up a touristy blend of perma-grin performance and informative…

Boulders Penguin Colony

This picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves, is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. A boardwalk runs…

Goegap Nature Reserve

This 150-sq-km semidesert reserve, 8km east of Springbok past the airstrip, supports some 600 indigenous plant species, 45 mammal species and 94 types of…

Addo Elephant National Park

Sunshine Coast

Located 70km north of Port Elizabeth, South Africa's third-largest national park protects the remnants of the huge elephant herds that once roamed the…

Namaqua National Park

Your experience at Namaqua National Park depends a lot on when you visit. From October to July it's an extremely quiet place to hike or spot birds against…

Mandela House Museum

Nelson Mandela lived with his first wife, Evelyn, and later with his second wife, Winnie, in this four-room house, just off Vilakazi St. The museum…

Partly housed in a building that looks like a giant grassy mound on one side and shiny modern steel on the other, Maropeng is an all-in-one information…

Dwesa Nature Reserve

The Wild Coast

One of South Africa's most remote and beautiful reserves, Dwesa Nature Reserve blends lush forests, winding rivers, open grassland and rugged coastline,…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Things to Do

From safari to wine tasting, experience the best of South Africa with these top things to do.

Things to Know

Get excited but also be prepared for adventure. Here's what you need to know prior to your first South African safari.

Transportation

South Africa is twice the size of Texas, which can make getting around a little tricky. But don't worry – we've got everything you need to know.

Visa Requirements

Don't spoil your trip to sensational South Africa by not having your travel documents in order. Here's what you need to know about visas for South Africa.

Money and Costs

No matter what your budget, get the most from your money while traveling in South Africa with these helpful tips.

Traveling with Kids

South Africa has plenty to offer families, from safari experiences to resort stays. Here are the best kid-friendly experiences.

Best Road Trips

South Africa is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on the planet – it's the perfect road-trip country. Here's our pick of the best.

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South africa and beyond.

A Luxurious (and Stylish!) Journey from Cape Town to Cairo

Reporting from the midpoint of a nine-country trek through Africa.

I associate the journey from Cape Town to Cairo with grand, doomed endeavors, made on foot or by bike. A quest undertaken by ambitious Royal Geographical Society types in search of fame and fortune—while, ultimately, scouting for empire—under the camouflage of science. Well, to hell with all of that. I can’t see that any good came of those treks. Still, I am awed by the grandeur of a mission, by the idea of a journey as some sort of opus. So in the first week of April, I set about ruining myself financially and otherwise to undertake my own three-month trip from the tail to the top of Africa—in part to engage with our romanticized image of the traveler and perhaps also to overwrite some of the khaki-clad narratives of yore.

This is, after all, what I do. Since the middle of 2020, when I got a book deal to write a biography of the late American artist Peter Beard and came to Africa to do some of the research, travel writing and photography has more or less been my day job. And one of my recurring theses on this beat is that so much of the way we travel now has been informed by the way those old Victorians saw and moved through the world. To see travel as acquisitive, extractive, for one. Going on the road for a souvenir—be it a material object, or a story, or even just a sense of the self being enriched, as the travel-pamphlet cliches like to encourage us. And so I thought I might see if I could unwind some of the stories we tell ourselves about the world, about our place in it, on a saga of my own. Maybe I’d even make some nice pictures along the way, chase down some travel stories, and possibly end up cooking up a book.

The trip got off to an auspicious start, with an upgrade to first class on the United flight, the only direct one from New York to Cape Town. And though I wish I could do as Barry Sanders did when scoring a touchdown—“act like you’ve been there before”— there’s something about getting in a lounge or the front of the bus that makes me lose my mind and act like the kid in Big, if the kid in Big drank his weight in Champagne.

In Cape Town, I thought about how seaborne travelers during the spice trade thought of the port as a place for revictualing—restocking their food and drink supplies—and decided to use that as an excuse to over-enjoy the great food and wine on hand. From Cape Town, I flew to Windhoek, Namibia, where I rented a skittish Toyota and proceeded to drive and slosh and gravel-slide into Namibian desert on a kind of mad-dash pilgrimage to see the Dune -scape wonderworld of the landscape there.

Somewhat dustier and sun-soaked for my troubles, I flew back to South Africa—Johannesburg, this time—where I met with a new suit the guys at J. Mueser in New York had made and mailed ahead for me. Suit in hand, I boarded a family-owned luxury train, the Rovos Rail, in Pretoria, bound for Victoria Falls. If you have seen any Agatha Christie adaptation, you may have a fair idea of the train cars. But you have to imagine them rocking and rolling through Zimbabwe, past baobabs and baboons on the side of the tracks, to get a sense of the wild wonder of this leg of the trip.

Then I arrived at a grand crack in the Earth, one of the natural wonders of the world—“the smoke that thunders,” as it is called in Tonga. Victoria Falls is a bit of a brain wobbler (especially for those of us who are absolutely terrified of heights). From Zambia, I drove across the border into Botswana and hopped a four-seat Cessna down to the Kalahari Desert and a spot called Jack’s Camp. This legendary former hunting lodge is situated in the Makgadikgadi Salt Pans—“the great nothing,” as one of the guides called it—and a great spot to play with the meerkats and ride around on ATVs. From Jack’s, I flew due north, into the geological marvel that is the Okavango Delta, an enormous floodplain teeming with game and some of the best safari lodges I’ve ever seen. On my last morning in Botswana, at a tented lodge called Tuludi in a mopane forest, I spent a few unbelievable hours watching a family of leopards play together and was then escorted to a gravel airstrip by at least 200 elephants. Peter Beard loved to call these sorts of sightings “the greatest show on Earth.” And I don’t disagree. I almost don’t miss getting to see The Fall Guy at home right now.

As I traveled further into the interior of the continent, the planes—and baggage allowance—shrank drastically. And it occurred to me that I brought far too much stuff, and too many bags, in part because part of the impetus for this sort of trip, for me, is to build a world and outfit myself for it. Just ask Yves Saint Laurent, or Ralph Lauren, or Kim Jones—the idea of outfitting for a safari is incredibly exciting, and so I went whole hog.

There was, of course, that J. Mueser linen suit in a mushroomy tobacco color, complete with a matching field jacket. My oldest and dearest friend, Rick Owens, made my safari suit—a plaid overshirt in the same vein as Peter Beard’s preppy version of bush attire and a pair of caramel cargo trousers—plus my basics, tees, and wash bag (the contents of which I have nearly run through now, a month and a half into the trip).

But most of the weight of my carryalls from the heritage luggage brand Ghurka has nothing to do with clothes. Instead, it’s the ’90s Nikon SLRs I insist on using and the 220-odd rolls of film I brought along, like an idiot. The one book with me was a gift, from a friend in Johannesburg, about an overland journey from the eastern edge of the Congo to the Atlantic.

And then there’s my Globe-Trotter case, which houses an Hermès poncho, to hold off the chill of early-morning game drives, and a bucket hat and scarf by same; two more safari suits, by Rick and by Stòffa; a Rick swimsuit; District Vision workout gear and sunglasses; and my beloved Jacques Marie Mage sunglasses.

Also in that case is another J. Mueser suit, in olive cotton. Because man cannot survive on bush gear alone, and sometimes one does have to look a bit smarter, whether dressing for dinner aboard the train or going out on the town in Cape Town or, eventually, Cairo. But I’m not in Cairo yet. Instead, I’m right in the thick of it, at the midpoint of the journey, wondering what all of it—the travel and the trappings, the clothing and the continent—might mean.

If, at the outset, I wanted to enter into a sort of conversation with the generation of travelers emboldened by the Royal Geographical Society, I am now thrilled to think how differently I am taking the trip than a Grogan or a Livingstone. If, at the beginning, I thought I might do my own Cape-to-Cairo trip with some of the glamour and glitz of Agatha Christie’s golden-age stories, as well as some of the gone-bamboo adventures of a Patrick Leigh Fermor, as a way to think about how those travelers’ patterns and behaviors and tastes have shaped our journeys today, maybe the halfway point in a journey is too soon to see the whole story.

Right now, I am only in the middle. The middle of the trip, the middle of this story, and the middle of Africa. Middles are a great place to be. Every good story needs one of those.

Story and photos by Chris Wallace

@media(max-width: 73.75rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.4375rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1ktbcds:before{margin-right:0.5625rem;color:#FF3A30;content:'_';display:inline-block;}} Big Black Book: Summer 2024

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South Africa Luxury Safari Tours

South Africa’s luxury safari tours take in some of the highlights of what is arguably the continent’s most diverse and developed tourist circuit. A trip might include the impressive cities of Cape Town and Stellenbosch, the fossil sites of the Cradle of Humankind, the ancient rock art of the Drakensberg mountains and the spring flowers of Namaqualand. The country’s 2,700km/1,680mi coastline is varied and scenic. As if that were not enough, South Africa is also a fabulous wildlife-viewing destination – from the vast Big Five country protected within the Greater Kruger, malaria-free Madikwe and Pilanesberg and the desert landscapes of Kgalagadi to the seasonal whale-calving grounds below Hermanus.

7-Day South Africa Luxury Tour

$3,171 to $3,684 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Guest House

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Franschhoek (Winelands) , Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Hoedspruit Airport (Hoedspruit) , Hoedspruit (End)

4.8 /5  –  152 Reviews

4-Day Greater Kruger Safari at Simbavati River Lodge

$1,716 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Hoedspruit (Start) , Timbavati NR (Greater Kruger) , Hoedspruit (End)

Indigo Safaris

4.8 /5  –  129 Reviews

5-Day Malamala Exclusive Fly in Safari

$4,722 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , MalaMala GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Ranger Buck Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  28 Reviews

4-Day Ultra Luxury Radisson Kruger Safari and Pano Tour

$891 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 10 people per vehicle) Luxury Hotel

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Panorama Route (Highlight) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

MoAfrika Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  1309 Reviews

3-Day Kruger National Park Safari Experience

$13,750 to $14,960 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury+ Private Villa

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger NP, Kruger NP, Nelspruit (End)

Elephant Herd Tours & Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  99 Reviews

6-Day Sabi Sands and Kruger Park Safari

$4,293 to $4,682 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sabi Sand GR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Discover Africa Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  434 Reviews

5-Day The Best of Both Worlds-National and Private Parks

$1,864 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 8 people per vehicle) Luxury Tented Camp

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Balule NR (Greater Kruger) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Wildlife Encounters   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  21 Reviews

3-Day Kruger Mid Range Safari from Johannesburg

$724 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 6 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Southern Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Balanta Imagine Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  1 Reviews

4-Day Kruger National Park Train on the Bridge Safari

$2,082 to $2,431 pp (USD)

South Africa: Shared tour (max 9 people per vehicle) Luxury Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg Airport (End)

The Kruger Safari Co.   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  135 Reviews

3-Day Kruger Park & Private Game Reserve Safari

$887 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hoedspruit (Town) , Kruger NP, O.R. Tambo Airport (Johannesburg) , Johannesburg (End)

Shinzelle Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  63 Reviews

4-Day Unforgettable 4-Day Safari at Kapama River Lodge

$2,234 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury+ Lodge

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kapama GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

African Wildlife Plains   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  3 Reviews

3-Day Madikwe Luxury Safari

$1,482 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Madikwe GR, Johannesburg (End)

Safari With Us   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  220 Reviews

5-Day Luxury Kruger Park and Sabi Sand Safari

$2,921 pp (USD)

South Africa: Private tour Luxury Lodge & Chalet

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Sabi Sand GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari.com   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  186 Reviews

3-Day Safari at Mjejane River Lodge-Greater Kruger Park

$779 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Greater Kruger, Johannesburg (End)

Mmilo Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  125 Reviews

14-Day Whale Coast & Madikwe Exclusive Honeymoon Safari

$10,975 pp (USD)

South Africa: Self-drive Luxury Lodge & Private Villa

You Visit: Cape Town (Start) , Hermanus (Whales) , De Hoop NR, Madikwe GR, Johannesburg (City) , Johannesburg Airport (End)

5.0 /5  –  42 Reviews

3-Day Luxury Mdluli Game Lodge Kruger National Park

$495 to $537 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Kruger NP, Johannesburg (End)

Gems of Africa Safari and Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.9 /5  –  103 Reviews

5-Day Luxurious Greater Kruger Safari

$1,623 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Hoedspruit (Town) , Johannesburg (End)

Safari Reinhardt   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  9 Reviews

3-Day Pilanesberg Safari

$682 to $743 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Pilanesberg GR, Johannesburg Airport (End)

Africa Incoming   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.7 /5  –  13 Reviews

4-Day 3 Nights Luxury Fly in Safari Kruger National Park

$3,657 pp (USD)

You Visit: Johannesburg (Start) , Sabi Sand GR (Greater Kruger) , Johannesburg (End)

African Welcome Safaris   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

5.0 /5  –  235 Reviews

6-Day Hoyo Hoyo Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park

$2,964 pp (USD)

BST Tours   Tour operator has an office in South Africa

4.8 /5  –  30 Reviews

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6 Questions About South Africa Luxury Safari Tours

Answered by

Philip briggs.

Why should I choose South Africa for a luxury trip?

“South Africa has many private reserves and concession lodges that cater specifically to the luxury market. All the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) are present in good numbers in the major private reserves. On luxury safaris, game drives and walks are generally guided by knowledgeable and experienced guides and trackers. A bonus of most private reserves and concession lodges is that night drives are permitted, as is a certain amount of off-road driving. This enhances the likelihood of close encounters with lions, leopards and other carnivores. As a bonus, South Africa has a very organized and efficient tourist infrastructure by African standards. This, combined with a luxury safari, makes it a reliable holiday choice for nervous first-time visitors to the continent.”

What is included in a South Africa luxury safari?

“A South Africa luxury safari usually operates on an all-inclusive basis. This covers four- or five-star accommodation, all meals, and expertly guided activities such as game drives in open 4x4s. Some top-end lodges also include laundry and drinks in their prices. Booked directly through the lodge, prices are unlikely to include transportation there and back. However, any package price quoted by a tour operator should include road or air transfers from the specified starting point. Tips are not included in either case, and these can add up.”

What parks do you recommend for a South African luxury safari?

“There are plenty of choices. In my opinion, the first choice for general wildlife viewing and Big Five sightings is a cluster of private reserves on the western border of Kruger National Park. These reserves are collectively managed and marketed as Sabi Sands. The only drawback to Sabi Sands is that some (not all) properties share traversing rights with several neighbors. The strict rules limiting vehicle numbers often result in a long wait to join a sighting or being hurried off to make space for another lodge’s clients. A better option, from this point of view, is Timbavati Nature Reserve, which borders Kruger, and has a scattering of exclusive concession lodges. A trip to Greater Kruger carries a low but genuine risk of contracting malaria, in particular during the hotter, wetter months of November to April. Many safari-goers, particularly those with young children, prefer to head to malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve for this reason. Madikwe boasts some superb luxury lodges and fine Big Five wildlife viewing. Convenient for those whose South African holiday includes the Western and Eastern Cape is a cluster of malaria-free private reserves situated in Addo Elephant National Park, inland of Port Elizabeth. The pick of the private reserves in KwaZulu-Natal is Phinda. It offers great Big Five viewing and is also maybe the most reliable place in South Africa to spot cheetah.”

Can you describe a typical day on a South Africa luxury trip?

“Most lodges set in private reserves or concessions are exempt from the restrictions on driving between sunset and sunrise enforced in most national parks and public reserves. This has an impact on a typical day, allowing for a schedule that makes the most of the wildlife-viewing hours when predators are active. A typical day starts with a pre-dawn wake-up call and a pot of tea or coffee, before heading out on an early morning game drive. Return to the lodge mid-morning for brunch or late breakfast. Then plan on a long and relaxed lunch break, especially during the southern hemisphere summer when days are longer and temperatures higher. Following a nap or swim and a light afternoon tea, you head out on an evening game drive. This usually incorporates a sundowner drink and a night drive, where the tracker will use a spotlight to pick out wildlife ranging from chameleons and nightjars to genets and bush babies. After this, it’s back to the lodge for a three-course bush dinner and a drink around the campfire. Some lodges offer guided game walks to see birds and smaller wildlife, either first thing in the morning or – more commonly – after breakfast. These provide a welcome change of pace for those people spending more than two days on safari. Ideally, a game walk is undertaken in the morning cool rather than the heat of the afternoon.”

What type of accommodation can I expect?

“Your South Africa luxury safari will almost certainly be based at exclusive small lodges offering the safari equivalent variation of a three- to five-star city hotel. Most of these lodges are designed to make the most of their African bush surroundings and are constructed from a combination of stone, canvas, wood and thatch. Some pricier lodges offer even more ambitious designs and facilities. Wherever you stay, accommodation will likely be spacious, comfortable freestanding units with en suite showers and private verandahs. Many lodges also have swimming pools, spas and/or quality gift shops. World-class cuisine is usually complemented by carefully selected Cape wines. The service is top-notch. The upmarket lodges in South Africa’s numerous private wildlife reserves are scattered all around the country. The most important and best of them are clustered in three areas: along the western border of Kruger National Park, in northeastern KwaZulu-Natal close to iSimangaliso and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi, and in the Eastern Cape in the vicinity of Addo Elephant National Park. In addition to the private reserves, similarly exclusive lodges can be found in various concessions set within public reserves such as Kruger National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve.”

How much will this safari cost?

“The price of the safari leg of a South Africa luxury tour depends on which part of the country you choose and how much luxury you want to experience. You’d be lucky to pick up an all-inclusive luxury safari package for less than US$250 to US$300 per day per person sharing. At the absolute top end of the range you might be looking at an all-inclusive daily price of US$700 to US$1,000 per person. Safaris in Sabi Sands and Phinda are more costly, while the concession lodges in Kruger and Madikwe are somewhat cheaper. Most lodges offer discounted low-season rates and special one-off packages during the southern hemisphere winter (May to September). This is the best time of year for Big Five sightings in most parts of the country.”

South Africa Reviews

Lizzie is a reputed guidebook writer and author of the Footprint guides to South Africa, Namibia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

South Africa is rightly celebrated for its magnificent natural beauty and excellent choice of parks

South Africa has a wonderful range of landscapes, a near-perfect climate, and the choice of destinations, activities and itineraries is virtually inexhaustible. Aside from its beautiful coastline and cosmopolitan cities – both of which I...

Full Review

Anthony is a photographer and writer for travel magazines and Lonely Planet, including the guides to Kenya and Botswana & Namibia.

South Africa: World-class Safaris

South Africa is one of my favourite places to go on safari, with all the necessary ingredients for a wildlife experience that will begin your enduring love affair with the continent. Primary among these ingredients is the wildlife....

Every day was better than the day before!

My friend & I were on a cruise that stopped in Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, & ended in Cape Town. We went to Addo Elephant Park & it was so beautiful! The scenery & the animals were so stunning! The next day, we did a Game Drive at...

Stunning views, awesome food, great people.

Travelling in May the weather was fair and temperatures comfortable between 22-28 degrees. Umkumbe Safari lodge was absolutely stunning and the game drives very good. Booking and confirmation with Rochelle Buys was very straightforward and...

Great Safari Kruger Park Safari with Red Africa!

We enjoyed our 7day/6nights Safari with Red Africa. The price was very reasonable and staff Amelia when booking and our guide Jocko was very accommodating. Our flight was delayed into Johannesburg and he was able to pick us up at the...

South Africa offers incredible natural beauty, an abundance of animal life, and cultural diversity.

Took a full day tour of Pilanesburg Reserve, Ultimate Johannesburg Tour which included Nelson Mendela House and Museum, Constitutional Hill, and Soweto. The tour guides were extremely knowledgeable and fun to be with. Our visit to Soweto...

South Africa's future depends on an 'unholy alliance' solving its real-world problems before time runs out

Analysis South Africa's future depends on an 'unholy alliance' solving its real-world problems before time runs out

From Constantia Nek, a pass across the spine of rugged mountain that runs all the way to the Cape of Good Hope, day trippers are afforded a stunning view across centuries-old vineyards all the way to Cape Town's city centre.

A quick jaunt down the other side past Michelin-star restaurants and gated housing estates leads to Hout Bay, a thriving fishing port on the city's Atlantic coast.

There, butted up against architect-designed trophy houses, sits Imizamu Yethu, an 18-hectare "informal settlement" of mostly corrugated iron shacks that is home to almost 35,000 residents.

The contrast couldn't be more incongruous. But it is a stark illustration of the unachieved ambitions and dashed hopes that accompanied the end of apartheid 30 years ago and stands as a monument to the failure of the African National Congress (ANC) to deliver meaningful change after three decades of uninterrupted rule.

It's not an isolated case.

Right across the country, townships have sprung up and existing ones have expanded as African workers have flooded into urban and regional centres, graphically hammering home the message that while forced racial segregation may have ended, wealth still is largely delineated along racial lines.

The rich, most of whom are white, live very, very well. The rest struggle to eat regularly.

A fortnight ago, the ANC's iron grip on power was smashed, an idea once considered unthinkable. For decades, it was considered that democracy played out through the party framework rather than through the electoral process.

But the country's crumbling infrastructure, endless revelations of corruption at the highest levels and an inability to deliver basic services saw the ANC garner just 42 per cent of the national vote.

After a fortnight of post-poll haggling, the ANC late last week announced a coalition with the Democratic Alliance (DA), which it has long accused of pandering to the interests of white South Africans, and two minor parties.

Under the deal, Cyril Ramaphosa will remain as president with the DA nominating the deputy.

In reality, the ANC had little choice. Financial markets were rattled by the prospect of the alternative; an alliance with the two major left-wing parties which advocate the resumption of mines and land without compensation.

The DA, supported by white and mixed-race South Africans, has long controlled the Western Cape province that includes Cape Town and has a far better track record on service delivery than its rivals in other provinces.

For many voters, it was the outcome for which they were hoping; a coalition government held to greater accountability.

Economy on the slide

There aren't too many statistics that put South Africa in a competitive global position.

But crime is one. Cape Town slots in at 10th place when it comes to murders, with Mexican cities occupying seven of the top nine.

Then there's unemployment. At 40 per cent, and with a social security net that offers minimal support, many South Africans have little option but to resort to crime simply to put food on the table.

Most suburban houses now hide behind high walls with barbed wire and electric fencing, festooned with placards denoting which armed response company has been contracted for protection.

While many would point to these developments as a sign of a deteriorating society, in reality, there has been little change in the past 30 years.

The main point of difference is that crime is now more visible. During the apartheid era, Africans were prohibited from moving beyond designated areas, controlled by a violent regime determined to brutally suppress any form of opposition.

More heartening was that the recent elections were unhindered by any major incidents, apart from long lines at polling stations, and campaigning largely was peaceful. Even the results largely were accepted until last week when former president Jacob Zuma claimed the elections were rigged.

Uncertainty over the results, however, temporarily dented international confidence in the currency which has been on the slide for decades.

On my first visit almost 40 years ago, I was stunned to discover the rand had slumped from parity with the Aussie and was delivering two rand to the dollar. Last week, it was yielding just shy of 13 rand.

Former finance minister and once senior ANC official Trevor Manuel, now the chair of investment group Old Mutual, argues global investors have dumped about 1 trillion rand worth of South African shares in the past decade.

"This money is being redirected to competing markets that appear to be on a more sound governance and regulatory footing," he wrote in this year's annual report.

A vocal critic of the government in recent years, Manuel has frequently lashed out about rising corruption that has seen vast amounts of taxpayer funds squandered.

When friends fall out

Former president Jacob Zuma loomed large over the most recent polls.

The octogenarian, who regularly has pleaded ill health during the many court proceedings against him, assumed a leading role in the relatively new MK Party.

Having been previously jailed for contempt, his status as a future politician is under a cloud. And he continues to fight multiple corruption allegations including taking bribes from French group Thales in 2000 over a defence contract.

Even his surprise elevation to lead the MK Party has been subject to legal action from the former leader who claims Zuma's daughter penned his "resignation letter".

Despite that, the MK Party did surprisingly well, garnering 14.6 per cent of the vote, and it has joined forces with the Economic Freedom Fighters as the official opposition with almost 30 per cent of seats in the National Assembly.

As breakaways from the ANC, they are largely responsible for the collapse in support for the party that has dominated South African politics for the past 30 years. But both are now wedded to a policy of forced resumption of assets, including mines and farms.

Adding to the disquiet, Zuma's party last week launched proceedings in the country's highest court, alleging vote rigging, a claim the court quickly dismissed.

Over the weekend, the former president lashed out against the ANC liaison with the DA, labelling it a "white-led", "unholy alliance".

Zuma and Ramaphosa are archenemies. The former president managed to strike a blow against Ramaphosa four years ago after it was revealed that two thieves had broken into his farmhouse and stolen $US580,000 ($870,000) in cash that had been stuffed into a sofa .

Exactly why the money was there has never been explained but Ramaphosa came close to losing his position over the scandal.

New battles, old territory

On Sunday, Zuma raised the spectre of the age-old fight against white colonialism and apartheid in his attack on the ANC and his successor Ramaphosa.

The new Patriotic Front would operate both within and outside parliament, his spokesman said, reading from a prepared statement, where he placed his nemesis alongside the apartheid-era Afrikaner leaders.

It may be a clever domestic political ploy but threats to seize property will do little to instil confidence in the country's ability to compete globally. Further deterioration of the currency will only exacerbate the extreme cost-of-living pressures facing South African households and businesses.

It also ignores history. The DA's forebears once were labelled left wing for their efforts to overthrow apartheid.

Ultimately, however, dissatisfaction and unrest within the electorate have been fuelled by the abject failure to provide even basic services, much of which occurred during Zuma's decade-long presidency.

Delivery of new housing, education and jobs fell well short of promises. And the country's crumbling infrastructure has seen crippling power shortages during the past year as aging, coal-fired generators have been shut but not replaced.

Oddly, the "load shedding", which was really blackouts, stopped shortly before the election was announced.

For a country with so much promise and natural bounty, so culturally rich and diverse, time is running short to find solutions to real-world problems.

Otherwise, South Africa may well become another textbook case on what happens when inequality is allowed to fester.

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How Much Does an African Safari Cost?

B eing surrounded by giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras, and cheetahs in Africa sounds like a dream come true. But it also sounds expensive. Getting a guide, secluded accommodations, and travel can add up. So, how much does an African safari cost? An African safari can cost between $200 and $1,600 per person per day. Read more on the breakdown of these costs below.

How Much Does an African Safari Cost on Average?

The cost of an African safari will vary depending on where it is, what type of accommodations you get, and what time of year you go.

The most budget-friendly, camping in a tent, will cost about $200 per person per day. The most luxurious African safari can cost up to $1,600 per person per day. 

Your African safari cost includes all park admission fees, meals, camping equipment, drinking water, and transportation. They can be a short one-day adventure to a multi-week long excursion. You should account for tipping your guides during your journey. The standard tip is $10 to $20 per person per day.

Things That Impact Your African Safari Cost 

You can do many things to cut your African safari cost, while other things will bring the price up. I always tend to focus on what’s important to me and splurge on those aspects. For instance, if you like staying in luxury accommodations, you can splurge on your stay and go during the off-season to save a little bit.  

The Length of Your Safari

Obviously, the total cost of your safari will be more the longer your safari is. However, the daily cost is cheaper when you book multiple days under one guide. It’s like buying in bulk at Sam’s Club. You save money in the long run.

The Time of Year You Go

There is a high and low season for African Safaris. The high season is when school is out, and during the dry season. There will be more tourists and higher costs from June to September on most safaris. 

The low season is during the rainy season, typically between March and May. The problem with going during the rainy season is animals don’t tend to come out as much. The best time to go on an African safari is during the winter, between January and February. 

Where Your Safari Is

The country and park you decide to do your safari in will sway the cost. Doing a safari that goes across multiple countries will cost more while staying in one park is less expensive. South Africa has some of the cheapest safari options because they have more self-drive options, and the parks are built better for these types of excursions. 

The Level of Accommodation

You can stay in everything from a camping tent that you could buy at your local outdoor store to permanent yurts with furniture and modern technologies. There are even resort-like stays that you can book for your African safari with pools, villas, and bar and restaurant service. 

Your Mode of Transportation

Driving yourself through one of the many parks and reserves is an option sometimes, but it’s not the best option. Your best bet is to book a guided safari because the guides know where all the animals like to go. That way, you’re more likely to see all the wildlife you want. 

Less costly guided safaris are also typically in open-roof minivans that they cram people into. The nicer African safari tours use nice jeeps that are entirely open, giving you a chance to see everything wherever you sit. 

How Many People Go On The Safari

The more people that come with you, the less your African safari will cost. Most accommodations will hold two people, and some will hold up to five. They will still charge per person for the safari. Even though, it will be less than if you go by yourself because you are sharing one accommodation.

The Best African Safari Destinations

You can go on a safari in different areas of Africa. Each location has unique wildlife that they are known for. You should choose a particular destination depending on what kind of African safari experience you want. Some destinations are also more budget-friendly. 

Kenya is the original safari destination. It makes sense, with multiple large game reserves, the great migration, and a slew of cultural experiences to encounter. Some of the best reserves to visit in Kenya are:

• Masai Mara National Reserve- The most popular park in Kenya.
• Samburu Game Reserve- Has unique wildlife, like Beisa Oryx, Reticulated Giraffes, and Somali Ostrich .
• Tsavo National Parks- The largest and most remote park in Kenya.
• Amboseli National Park- You can see Mount Kilimajaro at this park.
• Lake Nakuru National Park- Millions of flamingos and white rhinos live here .

There are many great lodges to stay at in and around these parks that will take you on a drive to see the wildlife every day. One that I recommend is Elephant Bedroom Camp. It gets its name because elephants frequent the grounds, making sure to say hello to all of the visitors. You may also see monkeys and Impalas from your luxury tent. 

This camp has all of the comforts that you would see at any modern accommodation, including a pool, hot and cold water, electricity, and WIFI. You will get a daily drive through the bush in an open-air vehicle, a picnic lunch, cultural visits, and entertainment by Samburu warriors.

If your dream is to see a gorilla or chimpanzee in the rainforest, then Uganda is the African safari destination for you. It’s different than most other African safaris in the way that the safaris in Uganda are set in rainforests instead of desert land. You can even stop by some amazing waterfalls along your safari. Some parks to check out in Uganda are:

• Murchison Falls National Park- Has various mammals, like giraffes, buffaloes, and crocodiles. 
• Bwindi Forest National Park- Has the largest population of endangered silverback gorillas. 
• Kibale Forest National Park- Has the highest diversity of primates in Africa.
• Mgahinga National Park- A large park spanning three countries where endangered silverback gorillas live. 
• Queen Elizabeth National Park- One of two places you can find lions that climb trees.

To be fully immersed in the rainforests that gorillas and chimpanzees roam, stay at Bwindi Lodge . You may get the chance to spot some birds and chimpanzees swinging from the trees in the Bwindi forest right from your room. There’s also a village nearby that has the award-winning Bwindi Bar.

Another advantage of staying at the Bwindi Lodge is you can trek into the forest to see the mountain gorillas and other wildlife instead of having to take a drive. They also have a waterfall trail for you to enjoy the landscape as well. 

Botswana is a lesser-known safari destination, so it will feel more exclusive at a smaller cost. Even though it has a variety of landscapes to view different types of wildlife. One of the most popular types of safaris you can do in Botswana is a boat safari, where you can see elephants and hippos. The best parks to see in Botswana are:

• Okavango Delta- The most popular park in Botswana, famous for boat safaris on the wilding channels.
• Chobe National Park- You can take a car to this park, making it more accessible. Elephants are a popular group here.
• The Kalahari- You can find a black-maned lion here during the wet seas on.
• Makgadikgadi Pans- Find unique African animals across glistening salt pans. 
• Moremi Wildlife Reserve- One of the most remote and diverse wildlife areas of Botswana.

Staying at Abu Camp gets you up close and personal with elephants. Since the camp is next to a lagoon, there is a herd of elephants that call this camp home. There’s even a chance to sleep in the elephant boma for the ultimate experience. You can also experience every type of safari you want, whether it’s a game drive or a boat safari.

Abu Camp has super comfy accommodations with modern furnishings and all the luxuries you would see in any other hotel. There’s a plunge pool to cool off during the day while you wait for your evening safari. Each private canvas tent overlooks the Delta for amazing views. 

Tanzania is home to the well-known Serengeti, known for the safaris that explore the great herd. It is also the home to Mount Kilimanjaro, where the most adventurous can summit its peak. This place is basically the home of everything you think of when someone says “Africa.” The most popular safari parks in Tanzania are:

• Serengeti National Park- The world’s most popular destination for a safari.
• Ruaha National Park- The largest park in Tanzania with many elephants and giraffes.
• Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area- Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, where you can find the largest population of lions in the world . 
• Lake Manyara National Park- Home to a massive lake where you can spot animals looking for water during the dry s eason.
• Mikumi National Park- Mostly flat grassland, making it easy to spot wildlife. 

For the best views over the Serengeti day and night, Klein’s Camp is a great place to stay for your safari. It is situated just on the border of the national park, so they are one of the only camps to offer open-air night drives. It is also in the perfect position to watch over the Serengeti from your room.

Klein’s camp feels extremely exclusive because they have 10,000 hectares of privately leased land. You can go offroading, go any time of day, or follow a zebra trail. They will also take you on specialized photography tours and visit the Maasai village to see their unique culture. 

South Africa

South Africa is where you want to go to save a few dollars. There is plenty of wildlife, but it has better infrastructure than most other safari destinations. That means there’s more opportunity to do a self-guided tour, which saves you tons. There are also great guided tours too. The best reserves in South Africa are:

• Kruger National Park- The most popular park in South Africa with the big five.
• Madikwe Game Reserve- A malaria-free, affordable park with rare wild dogs.
• Sabi Sands Game reserve- A private reserve bordering Kruger National Park.
• Phinda Private Game Reserve- Famous for cheetah sightings.
• Tswalu Kalahari Reserve- The largest private game reserve in South Africa.

If you want to stay in luxury on your South African safari, Loapi Tented Camp gives you the safari aesthetic. However, it comes complete with a butler, fully stocked kitchens, and an environmentally friendly plunge pool. Each of the six accommodations has plenty of space between each, giving you a secluded feel. 

Each safari home has its own butler, a private chef to cook all your meals en-suite, a study with wifi, a full bar, and indoor/outdoor showers. You will also get your own safari vehicle with a private tour guide to take you out every evening. If you don’t feel like taking a vehicle out, go horseback instead. 

The post How Much Does an African Safari Cost? appeared first on honeymoons.com .

Traveling Without a Passport

Best Safari Destinations in Africa for 2024

The Big Five have never been more appealing. Here are our big five safari destinations Africa for 2024 and beyond

“There is something about safari life that makes you forget all your sorrows and feel as if you had drunk half a bottle of champagne—bubbling over with heartfelt gratitude for being alive.” Karen Blixen, of Out of Africa fame, waxed rhapsodic about the wonders of the mighty continent and the appeal of a safari. Most of us have only seen wild elephants and lions in documentaries, but there’s nothing more thrilling than seeing these mighty beasts in their natural habitat. An elephant calf playfully following the herd, an ochre-hued lion gazing intently at wildebeests, a giraffe slowly chewing the branches from an acacia tree. Witnessing these animals on a safari in Africa truly transforms you and your views on conservation and sustainability.

Africa boasts dozens of countries, each with their own cultures, languages and norms, but across this dynamic continent, from north to south, lie wilderness parks, savannahs and velds where the Big Five—lions, elephants, cape buffalos, rhinos and leopards—and other animals live peacefully under the watchful eye of park rangers and conservationists. Check out our top five best safari destinations in Africa for 2024. 

Botswana boasts so many natural wonders, it’s hard to pick a place to start when heading here for a safari adventure. The Okavango River Delta, the largest inland delta in the world, offers miles upon miles of myriad waterways, lagoons and grassy flood plains where one can admire mighty beasts from a safe vantage point in an overland truck. Get as close as you can get to African elephants as well as lions and leopards on a Botswana safari .

The Moremi Game Reserve, situated in the heart of the delta, is the perfect campsite for any driving safari as you’ll be rewarded with hippos, Cape buffalos, lions, leopards and the ever elusive Tawny Eagle. If you love elephants as much as we do, Chobe National Park on the border of Botswana and Zambia, boasts a herd population of around 50,000 elephants across the savannah. A Botswana safari is the perfect choice if you want to splurge on a private African safari tour as you get personal chefs and other amenities.

Kenya offers tantalizing glimpses of wildlife from any budget or luxury African safari tour. With more than 800 safari tours to choose from, travelers will find it hard to pick just one. Head to the Masai Mara for gaming drives that ensure you see at least one or two of the Big Five. Tsavo West National Park goes beyond the Big Five and offers rhinos, hippos, cheetahs and plant and bird species that you can’t find anywhere else. This rugged wilderness boasts verdant plains thanks to watering holes such as Mzima Springs. 

Mt. Kilimanjaro is the resident icon here and with its snow-capped peaks as a backdrop, you’ll find elephants migrating from one watering hole to another at Amboseli National Park. Lake Naivasha, a freshwater lake, is a great vantage point to admire birds as well as hippos among papyrus reeds and flat-topped acacias. After six days of trekking and hiking, relax in your air-conditioned hotel in Nairobi when you’re done.

South Africa

When one thinks of the Big Five, South Africa immediately comes to mind as it’s considered the place to see all of these animals in their natural habitat. A safari in South Africa means you’ll be guaranteed lions, leopards, rhinos, and other wildlife across a five- to eight-day African safari. 

From the verdant banks of Lake Saint Lucia in iSimangaliso Wetland Park to the grassy plains of Kruger National Park, South Africa teems with wildlife that is indigenous to the continent. Blyde River Canyon, the third largest of its kind in the world, boasts gorges and greenery like you’ve never seen anywhere else on earth. Expect views of the rivers and valleys laid out like a banquet feast for the senses. Meandering ribbons of blue traverse the landscape and waterfalls are carved into cliff sides, offering a pleasing respite from long days in an overland truck tour. 

For African safari tours, Tanzania is always at the top when one thinks of best safari destinations in Africa. With sites such as Ngorongoro Crater, Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tarangire National Park, and Serengeti National Park it isn’t not hard to see why. A Tanzania safari is a one-of-a-kind experience thanks to the Great Migration. This annual event sees more than 2 million animals, mainly wildebeests, zebras and giraffes, traverse the golden plains of Serengeti National Park, from Tanzania to nearby Kenya. A safari in Tanzania is always appealing thanks to conservation efforts that preserve the Big Five and other wildlife as well as fertile soil and abundant watering holes.  

On any given Tanzania safari, expect iconic wildlife while on a game drive and close-but-not-too close interactions with animals (perfect for anyone looking for an African safari photography tour); it’s one of our favorites because of this personal interaction. Descend into Ngorongoro crater where you might be lucky enough to spot an endangered black rhino or visit a Maasai village to learn about their way of life. 

While most people head on an African safari to see the Big Five, there are other animals just as majestic and endangered as the mighty lion. Uganda boasts gorilla safaris so you can do your best Jane Goddall impression watching primates in their native habitat.

Before you get to the primates, travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to admire rare white rhinos, which have been saved from the brink of extinction by park rangers here. Track chimpanzees, our closest animal relatives, in Kibale Forest National Park. Then it’s time to hike 4-6 hours to see mountain gorillas.

In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park you’ll get to spend one hour admiring these majestic beats in the dense foliage. Grab your camera and quietly take photos of these sociable creatures who are often in family groups of more than a dozen, led by an alpha male. These mighty animals can look placid but can be quite intimidating when viewed up close so don’t use your video camera or flash. You’ll leave your Uganda gorilla safari with a new appreciation for primates of all sizes. 

See Also: Best Safari Destinations In the World

Shandana A. Durrani

Shandana A. Durrani is the Head of Content & Brand at TourRadar. A former Senior Editor at Cigar Aficionado and a former Dining Editor at Google, Durrani has written about travel for Condé Nast Traveler, Afar, Silverkris and Metro London and is the author of “Day Trips from New York City.”

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Chemmy Alcott re-creates her African safari honeymoon with husband and two sons - see the magical photos

The ski racer tied the knot with dougie crawford in 2014.

After making her name hurtling down snow-covered mountains, former Olympic skier Chemmy Alcott found herself in very different surroundings to experience a moment she'll never forget. 

The Ski Sunday presenter was celebrating her tenth wedding anniversary in Africa with her husband Dougie Crawford and their sons Locki, seven, and Cooper, five, when together they watched a magical sunset over the Serengeti. 

"It was incredible to watch the magic through their eyes and to see how enchanted they were," she tells HELLO ! , exclusively sharing photos from the family holiday, which re-created the couple's honeymoon to Tanzania ten years ago. "It felt like the boys' first proper adventure. I know they will remember it forever."

Chemmy, 41, and fellow professional skier Dougie, 37,  tied the knot on 6 June 2014 in a fairytale ceremony  at West London's Syon House, followed by a honeymoon safari, which marked the beginning of their "adult life" – made all the more poignant by the fact the pair had just retired from competitive racing. "This trip reminded Dougie and me of our new beginning we had ten years ago," says Chemmy. 

The family stayed at Nimali Tarangire and Nimali Mara, sleeping in beautiful safari lodges, with the glass-fronted tented suites offering stunning panoramas of grassy savannahs. 

Excursions into the wild brought thrilling sightings of lions, giraffes, baby elephants and hyenas. "We also saw a rhino, which sparked a conversation with the boys about extinction and how important it is to protect the world around us," Chemmy says. "The one thing we didn't see was a leopard, so we'll have to come back."

Organised with the help of Stubborn Mule Travel , which specialises in holidays tailored for families, and the   Tanzania Tourist Board , the trip saw Chemmy and Dougie re-create memories from their honeymoon. Among them were visiting a Maasai village, where the boys were "enthralled" to meet a warrior who had lost his fingers to a lion, and a primary school helped by the children's charity   Right to Play . 

"We're very fortunate for the incredible life we have, so I wanted my boys to see other children their age who are living with challenges. They got so much from it. We had a two-hour drive back from the school and they asked Dougie and me questions the whole way."

Chemmy and her family ended the weeklong trip in Zanzibar, at the archipelago's Lux* Marijani hotel,  where they enjoyed snorkelling, dolphin-spotting and climbing coconut palms - and even feasted on a luxurious floating breakfast in the resort's pool. 

It was the perfect way to celebrate a decade of marriage, says Chemmy, and the couple's love has only grown stronger over the years. 

"We're team-mates," she says. "There's a silent understanding that we'll always support each other through everything and that's become ingrained in our love after ten years. What I love most is how Dougie brings out the best in me. He's the gel that keeps our family together and happy. I'm so lucky to have found my soulmate." 

A two-week holiday for a family of four in Tanzania, including safari and beach, costs from £19,000. For further information or to book, visit  nimaliafrica.com ,  luxresorts.com/en/zanzibar/hotel/luxmarijani  or  stubbornmuletravel.com . For further information on Tanzania, visit  tanzaniatourism.go.tz .

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