“So… how much will this actually cost?” It’s the question we hear most, and the one most websites answer vaguely. At Unpredictable Safaris, we believe in radical transparency. A 7-day Tanzania safari can range from $2,500 to over $12,000 per person. Why such a huge range? And what are you really paying for?
Let’s demystify safari pricing together. Think of this not as a price tag, but as a blueprint for building your perfect adventure within your comfort zone.
“The cheapest safari isn’t always a bargain, and the most expensive isn’t always luxury. It’s about value, not just cost.” – Our Head Guide,…
To make sense of costs, let’s match them to travel styles.
You want: The authentic wildlife experience, not frills. You’re happy with basic comforts to stay longer.
Sleep: Public campgrounds or basic tented camps (shared facilities possible).
Travel: Group joining safari, 4-6 people per vehicle.
Experience: Focus purely on incredible game drives.
You want: Comfort, great food, and excellent guiding without over-the-top luxury.
Sleep: Comfortable permanent tented camps or lodges with en-suite bathrooms.
Travel: Private vehicle for your group, more flexible schedule.
Experience: The classic, well-rounded safari most people dream of.
You want: An exclusive, seamless, and indulgent experience. Privacy and design matter.
Sleep: Boutique lodges or luxury tented suites with private decks, plunge pools, butler service.
Travel: Private vehicle, specialist guides (e.g., photographic guides).
Experience: Wildlife viewing blended with supreme comfort and exceptional service.
Here’s what you can expect for a classic 7-day Northern Circuit (Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti) safari.
| Cost Component | Intrepid Explorer | Balanced Traveler | Luxury Seeker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | $80 – $150 | $250 – $450 | $600 – $1,200+ |
| Park Fees & Taxes | ~$400 – $500 (fixed cost) | ~$400 – $500 | ~$400 – $500 |
| Private Vehicle & Guide | Included (group share) | $250 – $350/day | $350 – $500/day (premium guide) |
| Meals & Drinks | Mostly included | Included, better quality | Included, premium brands |
| Internal Flights | Optional (long drives) | Often included for Serengeti | Always included (saves time) |
| **EST. TOTAL per person | $2,500 – $4,000 | $4,500 – $7,500 | $8,000 – $15,000+ |
Unpredictable Safaris Reality Check:
“Park fees are the great equalizer. They’re fixed by the government and make up 30-40% of your safari cost. A $3,000 budget trip and a $10,000 luxury trip pay the same $500 in fees. This is why upgrading your accommodation doesn’t double the overall price.”
High Season (Jun-Oct, Dec-Feb): Rates up 30-50%. Best weather, best wildlife.
Low/Green Season (Mar-May): Rates drop 20-40%. Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, some rain.
Solo: Highest per-person cost (single supplement).
Couple: Standard private safari rate.
Family/Friends (4-6): Best value. Vehicle cost is split, some lodges offer family suites.
“A family of four often pays only marginally more than a couple for the same vehicle and guide.”
This is where you control your budget most.
Location: A lodge inside Serengeti costs more than one outside the gate.
Inclusions: All-inclusive (drinks, laundry) vs. full board (just meals).
Road Safari: More time driving, lower cost.
Fly-In Safari: Saves days, incredible aerial views, higher cost.
“For a 7-day trip, flying into the Serengeti adds ~$500-800 per person but gives you an extra 8+ hours of game viewing.”
Hot Air Balloon Safari: $550 – $600 per person.
Maasai Village Visit: $20 – $50 per person.
Premium Drinks & Laundry: $20 – $50 per day at high-end camps.
Travel Insurance: Essential. 5-10% of trip cost.
Your Guide: A great guide turns animals into stories and sightings into memories. This is our #1 recommendation.
Time in the Serengeti: Add an extra night. The difference between 2 and 3 nights is profound.
Location: Pay to stay inside the park, not outside. Waking up to wildlife is priceless.
City Hotels: Book a comfortable but not luxurious hotel in Arusha for arrival night.
Souvenirs: Buy from local markets, not hotel gift shops.
Drinking Water: All good operators provide unlimited free water. Don’t buy bottles.
Many operators quote a “from” price that excludes:
Park Fees (we include them in our quotes)
Concession Fees (we include them)
Tips (we provide clear, recommended guidelines)
Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance (we require it and can arrange it)
“Our quotes are ALL-INCLUSIVE of safari costs. The only things not included are international flights, visas, and personal shopping.”