How Much Does a Kenya Safari Cost?

A Kenya safari is a dream experience, providing you with amazing wildlife encounters, splendid landscapes and rich cultural experiences. However, the cost of a safari differs depending on factors such as the type of safari, level of accommodation, duration, time of year, and included activities. In this guide, we will talk about the key factors which guide the cost of safaris in Kenya.

Key Factors Affecting the Price of Safari in Kenya

a) Type of Safari 

There are different kinds of safari, each has its own structure 

• Budget Safari – Group tours, self-drive safaris, or budget lodges
• Mid-Range Safari – Comfortable lodges and guided game drives
• Luxury Safari – High-end lodges, private safaris, and high-class experience

b) Duration of the Safari

The longer the stay is, the more it costs. A 3-day safari is much more economical than a 7-day safari, but with longer trips, you usually get a better value per day.

c) Time of Year

• Peak Season (July – October & December – January) – Most costly due to the great migration and good weather 
• Low Season (April – May) – The rates are low due to the rainy season but you can still see some wildlife 

d) Accommodation Type

• Camping / Budget Lodges – $50 – $150 per night
• Mid-Range Lodges – $150 – $400 per night
• Luxury Lodges – $400 – $2,000+ per night

e) Park Fees

National parks charge a daily entry fee for each person.

• Maasai Mara – $100 (non-residents), $70 (East African residents)
• Amboseli – $80 (non-residents)
• Lake Nakuru – $60 (non-residents)

Kenya Safari Cost Estimates

a) Budget Safari ($150 – $300 per day)

• Best for: Budget travellers, backpackers, or those who are looking to join group tours.
• Accommodation: Budget lodges, campsites, or hostels.
• Transport: Shared safari vans or self-drive.
• Activities: Game drives, park entry, and basic meals.

Example:

• 3-Day Maasai Mara Budget Safari – $450 to $900 per person.
• Includes: Transport, park fees, basic lodge/camping, meals, and game drives.

b) Mid-Range Safari ($300 – $600 per day)

• Best for: Couples, families, and travellers looking for comfort.
• Accommodation: Mid-range lodges or tented camps.
• Transport: 4×4 safari vehicle with a guide.
• Activities: More extensive game drives, and some cultural visits.

Example:

• 5-Day Amboseli & Tsavo Safari – $1,500 to $3,000 per person.
• Includes: Park fees, game drives, accommodation, and meals.

 Luxury Safari ($600 – $2,500+ per day)

• Best for: Honeymooners, photographers, and those who are looking for high-end experiences.
• Accommodation: High-end lodges and private tented camps.
• Transport: Private 4×4 or charter flights.
• Activities: Private game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and spa treatments.

Example:

• 7-Day Maasai Mara & Serengeti Safari – $7,000 to $15,000 per person.
• Includes: Luxury lodges, private guides, charter flights, and premium meals.

Additional Kenya safari costs

a) Flights

• International flights to Nairobi: $600 – $1,500 round-trip.
• Domestic flights to parks: $100 – $300 per flight.

b) Visa Fees

• Kenya eVisa: $50 per person.

c) Tips & Extras

• Safari guide: $10 – $20 per day per group.
• Lodge staff: $5 – $10 per day.

Sample Kenya safari cost for Different Travelers

How to Save Cost of Safaris in Kenya

• Travel during the low season (April – May) when the prices are low 
• Go for a group tour instead of opting for private safaris.
• Book accommodation and safaris in advance to get better offers and discounts.
• Try finding accommodation  outside the parks in nearby towns as they usually have low prices

Conclusion 

A Kenya safari cost changes greatly based on many elements, including the safari type, travel duration, lodging standards, and timing decisions for your visit. People interested in economical travel can plan budget safaris that cost between $150 and $300 each day. Families and couples will find the mid-range safari an ideal choice since it offers comfort at reasonable prices between $300 and $600 per day. People who want to enjoy ultimate luxury during their safari trip should budget $600 to $2,500+ per day because it includes personalized exploration and gourmet dining with upscale accommodation facilities.

You can lower the cost of safaris in Kenya by going during low-season months and selecting group tours as well as getting advanced booking to access discounted rates. Safari’s cost-effectiveness can be done by picking accommodations outside of the national parks. A Kenya safari promises you extraordinary adventures at any cost level while creating memorable encounters with wildlife along with cultural backgrounds.