How Much Does a Safari Cost in Kenya?

Kenya has a long history as one of Africa’s premier safari locations. Kenya’s iconic National Park and Reserve locations include the Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, Samburu National Reserve, and Lake Nakuru National Park.

Millions of travelers visit Kenya each year with the hopes of witnessing the Great Migration, the Big Five game animals, and the amazing scenery that ranges from vast open savannah to a snowcapped view of Mount Kilimanjaro.

As you begin to plan your trip, the most common question travelers have is:

“How much does a safari in Kenya cost?”

The answer in short is: It is variable. Safari pricing is variable depending on your travel style, accommodations, length of stay, time of year you will be traveling, size of group, and level of exclusivity. Below is a comprehensive and detailed breakdown of what you can expect to pay for your safari in Kenya to assist you in your planning and preparations with confidence.

Average Cost of a Safari in Kenya

1. Budget Safari

USD 150 – 250 per person per day

A budget safari is for people who want an authentic wildlife experience at a price lower than other safaris. Most low-cost safaris offer budget-conscious travelers a good time and an authentic wildlife experience. Most budget safaris are accomplished through

• shared safari vehicles (usually a van or Land Cruiser) and
• accommodations outside of the national parks in rustic lodges, hostels, or budget camping (tents) with a fixed itinerary and set departure date(s) for the entire group (together)

Typical budget safaris are great for people traveling on a limited budget, traveling alone or with others, and willing to share space with other passengers and spend a little more time on the road.

Common destinations for Budget Safaris are Maasai Mara (outside gate) camps, Lake Nakuru, and Amboseli; many budget Safaris combine these three parks in group package tours to help save every traveler money over time.

2. Mid-Range Safari

USD 250 – 450 per person per day

Mid-range safaris strike a balance between quality and price.

The mid-range safari includes:

• Accommodation in the form of either comfortable lodges or well-furnished tented camps;
• Accommodation inside the national park or in proximity to it;
• Accommodation in a small group or private safari vehicle;
• A professional English-speaking safari guide; and
• The highest level of comfort, safety, professionalism, and most importantly, enjoyment of animals and nature.

Most couples, families, and people who are going on safari for the first time choose to go on a mid-range safari.

As stated above, the reasons mid-range safaris are so popular include that they provide excellent viewing of wildlife, are higher quality in food and accommodation facilities, provide en suite rooms, and also allow for much more relaxed travel schedules without the expense of luxury lodges.

3. Luxury Safari

USD 500 – 1,200+ per person per day

Luxurious safaris are primarily designed for exclusivity, privacy, and premium quality service.

Luxurious safaris can provide the following:

• High-end lodges and luxurious tented camps (often located inside the park or conservancy), personalized safari driving schedules, premium amenities, gourmet meals, spa services, and many other amenities.
• Fly-in safari options available for easy access to the safari area.

This luxury safari is ideal for honeymoon or other special occasions, luxury travelers, photographers, and families who want privacy and comfort.

Ultra-luxury safari options may be up to USD 1,500 per person per day, depending on booking within peak migration season, especially in private conservancies.

What Affects the Cost of a Kenya Safari?

Understanding these factors will allow you to give your selection a better shape and will better represent your needs and your budget.

1. Where You Will Stay (Accommodations Location)

• In a park or conservancy: More expensive because you spend more time viewing animals and drive less
• Out of the park: You will pay less for your accommodation; however, you will need to enter the park each day and drive to get inside the park.

Those who stay inside the park can see wildlife during early morning and late night hours. These two opportunities give the traveler an incredible opportunity to have an amazing experience on their safari trip!

2. Type of Safari (Private/Solo & Shared)

• Private safari: More expensive, but with flexibility in schedule, use of a specific vehicle, and many benefits to having exclusive use of the vehicle.
• Shared safari: Less expensive, scheduled travel only, shared-vehicle usage.

Families or photographers would benefit from a private safari, while individuals traveling alone would enjoy a shared safari.

3. High/Shoulder/Low Season

• High season (July to October; December): Higher charge due to high-end migration and holidaying.
• Shoulder season (January to March; November): Moderate charge and good opportunity for viewing animals.
• Low season (April/May): Lowest charge, fewer tourists, beautiful scenery.

Contrary to what many people believe, animals in Kenya can be viewed very well throughout the year, even if the migration does not occur.

4. Group Size

• Solo travelers will generally pay the highest per-person rate for a trip to Kenya, while couples and families can divide costs and therefore make any per-person rates lower.
• Groups typically have the best value. In most cases, groups of 10 or more will have a lower price per person.

What Is Usually Included in a Kenya Safari Package?

Most Kenya safari packages include:

• Accommodation with meals included (typically on a full board basis)
• Fees charged to enter the parks and conservancies
• Transportation (including a professional guide in the vehicle)
• Scheduled game drives
• Transfers to and from the airport or hotel
• Bottled water (drinking) provided during your safari

Usually not included:

• International airfare
• Kenya visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Tips and gratuities
• Your own personal expenses and any optional activities.

[Important Note] Verify what is included and what is excluded from your safari package prior to booking. Some packages will exclude fees charged to enter the parks and will have your meals based on a half-board or full-board basis.

Sample Safari Cost for a Family in Kenya

Family of 4 (2 adults + 2 children)

• Mid-range private safari
• 4–5 days (Maasai Mara and Lake Nakuru)
• Accommodation inside or near the parks

Estimated total: USD 4,500 – 6,000

This option provides flexibility, comfort, and excellent wildlife viewing for families.

• Couple Safari Example

Couple on a 6-day safari:

• Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Amboseli
• Mid-range private safari

Estimated total: USD 3,000 – 4,500 per couple

Perfect for romantic getaways and first-time safari travelers.

• Safari + Beach Holiday Cost

Many travelers combine a safari with a beach stay in Diani or Zanzibar.

• 5-day safari + 4-night beach holiday
• Domestic flights included

Estimated total: USD 2,500 – 4,000 per person, depending on accommodation level.

Is a Kenya Safari Worth the Cost?

Absolutely. Kenya offers:

• Diverse Wildlife – Kenya offers an array of wildlife experiences, the Big Five, and the Great Migration.
• Qualified and experienced safari guides.
• Well-maintained Safari Parks and Lodges
• Ease of combining beach/fishing locations with your safari tour itinerary.

Paying a little more often means more wildlife time, less driving, and better comfort.

If you invest a little more money, you will often be rewarded with better wildlife viewing opportunities, less travel time, and a more relaxed safari experience.

Saving Money While Traveling on a Kenya Safari:

• Travel during shoulder and/or off-peak seasons.
• Travel as part of a group instead of individually.
• Stay a short distance from the National Parks.
• Consider using a local, reputable safari outfitter.

Plan your safari travel itinerary to maximize your time in the parks and reduce transportation expenses.

Final Thoughts

A Kenya safari can cost anywhere from USD 150 to over USD 1,000 per person per day, depending on your preferences. The key is choosing the right balance between budget, comfort, and experience.

Finding a good mix of cost, comfort, and time spent in the bush is the most important thing.

Plan Your Kenya Safari

Planning a safari to Kenya?

If you are considering planning a safari holiday to Kenya, send us your travel dates, the number of people travelling together, and what your budget is, and we will create a unique safari itinerary for you, tailored specifically to your requirements.

Contact us today for a free safari quote.