How Much Is a Safari Trip to Kenya?

How much is a safari trip to Kenya? 

Is Nairobi good for safari? 

How much is a safari in Nairobi?

These are common questions that everyone who is thinking of visiting Kenya has—and with good reasons. One, you want to know how much you're going to pay for your trip so you can budget accordingly, and two, you certainly want to be sure that the place you're visiting is worth your money.

When it comes to answering these questions, however, there's no one-fits-all answer. Kenyan safaris are incredible, so the country is considered a premier tourist location. You can choose from multiple options, depending on your budget. 

See related: Which Is the Best Safari in Kenya?

In this article, I will go over the three safari categories you can choose from and give tips on saving money when planning a Kenyan safari.

So, how much does a safari to Kenya cost? Let's find out.

For tour planning assistance in Kenya, don't hesitate to contact us.

How Much Budget Safaris in Kenya Cost 

Do you want to go on a safari but don't have that much money to spend? A budget safari is exactly what you're looking for. It's an affordable option that allows you to sample what Kenya has to offer. 

Typically in a budget safari, you will receive the essentials of a safari without all the extra frills. For example, if you're staying in a tented camp, you will receive tents with basic amenities like a bathroom and shower. You will also be mostly travelling with a small tour group. This is the best option for adventurers.

The price range for budget safaris in Kenya is between $1,000 - $1,700, which is about $200 - $250 per person daily.

What's included in a budget safari

This is what you will usually get while on a budget safari:

  • Meals - 3 meals a day

  • Travel - on four-wheel safari vehicles.

  • Accommodation - either in tents or 3-star hotels

  • Park fees - price is inclusive of any relevant park fees

  • Drinking water - the tour company will provide drinking water

  • A driver and/or guide - you will get a good driver who will also act as a guide

  • Activities - a limited number of game drives 

What's not included in a budget safari 

Since budget safaris are bare bones, here is what will not be included:

  • Local flights - doesn't include flights within the country if you choose to fly instead of using a safari vehicle

  • Airport transfers - you will need an additional payment for this

  • Accommodation before and after the safari - if you arrive before your safari starts or you intend to extend your holiday, you will need to pay extra

  • Luxury meals, drinks and personal items - again, you will have to pay for any items that aren't in your budget.

How Much Mid-Range Safaris in Kenya Cost 

Mid-range safaris are the most popular option, and with good reason too. They are suited for the average tourist and come with more comfort than budget safaris. As far as accommodation is concerned, you will stay in 4 or 5-star hotels. 

Most mid-range safaris include a visit to Kenya's beautiful beaches. You'll have the pleasure of cultural interactions with the locals by either visiting indigenous villages or meeting them while at the park or beach. With this budget, you will go on a private safari with your loved ones which is why we recommend mid-range safaris to honeymooners and families. 

The price range for mid-range safaris is $1,800 – $3,900 (about $290 - $500 per person daily).

What's included in a mid-range safari 

Here's what you'll receive in a mid-range safari:

  • Meals - all three meals on full board basis

  • Transport - 4x4 safari vehicles. Flights may be included

  • Accommodation - in 4 or 5 star hotels or well-equipped camps

  • Park fees - price is inclusive of any relevant park fees

  • Drinking water - the tour company will provide drinking water

  • A driver and/or guide - you will get a guide to help understand the local cultures and help you you spot animals

  • Activities - including game drives, a visit to the coast, and visits to indigenous villages, particularly the Maasai

What's not included in a mid-range safari

Despite the increase in budget, there are still some things that won't be included:

  • Flights - while some flights may be included, you'll do most of your travelling on road

  • Accommodation before and after the safari - you will still need to make additional payments if you arrive early or stay in the country longer than planned

  • Some meals and drinks - since you're staying at premium hotels, you will get better food and drinks but there are limitations such as alcoholic drinks. 

How Much Luxury Safaris in Kenya Cost 

Now, if you're willing to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you might want to go on a luxury Kenya safari. With this option, you can choose what activities you want to participate in and customise the safari to suit your needs. You will stay in 5-star hotels and exclusive safari lodges. Not only that you'll definitely interact with the locals and their cultures.

The price range for luxury safaris is  $4,000 – $13,000 (above $600 per day per person).

What's included in a luxury safari 

Luxury safaris have the most accommodations provided to give you a high-end experience you will never forget.

  • Meals - all three meals in 5-star locales on an all-inclusive basis

  • Transportation - you will get a private 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep for you and your family

  • Accommodation - You will stay in the best 5-star hotels and lodges. You will get luxury suites, delicious meals, swimming pools, and much more

  • International flights - luxury safari tours come with the benefit of booking international flights for you (at an additional fee) 

  • Tour managers and guides - your guides will speak English and are excellently trained to assist you

  • Airport transfers - someone can come to pick you up and drop you at the airport

  • Luggage handling - you'll get help handling and even carrying luggage

  • Internet access - safaris tend to occur in remote areas making internet connectivity a problem. Luxury safaris, though, will ensure you have a decent internet connection

  • Laundry service

  • Activities - night game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and the usual safari activities are all offered for Kenyan luxury safaris.

What's not included in a luxury safari 

With prices that high, there's not much that isn't included in luxury safaris since most of them are custom-made to suit your individual needs. 

Are Luxury Safaris Worth It?

Accommodation for luxury Kenyan safaris tends to be in private or community-owned conservancies with a level of exclusivity that's totally worth the price. You'll get to enjoy the Kenyan wilderness in peace. In fact, it's so quiet that animals tend to come close to the lodges or hotels you're staying in. 

The accommodation provided ensures that you get the maximum enjoyment out of your experience. Many of the activities in luxury safaris are not available for the other types of safaris. 

Simply put, luxury safaris give you a much fuller experience.

What Affects the Safari Price in Kenya? 

Still wondering how much is a safari trip to Kenya? It's hard to tell because there are multiple factors at play. Here are the main things that can affect the price of your safari tour:

  • International flights

  • Mode of transportation (safari van or 4 x 4 Land Cruiser Jeep)

  • Accommodation 

  • National parks and reservations you visit

  • Activities

  • The time of the year

Most Expensive Time to Go on Safari in Kenya

The most expensive time to go on Safari is July to October, which is the peak season in Kenya. 

The Most Affordable Time to Go on Safari in Kenya 

The most affordable time to go on a safari is in April and May, the rainy season in Kenya.

Other Expenses That Add to Your Total Safari Budget 

The souvenirs you buy and tips for your guides and hotel staff can also add to the cost.

Tips for Saving Money on a Kenya Safari 

If you don't have a big budget to spend for your Kenyan safari, you can follow these tips to save money: 

  • Choose a vehicle to get around instead of flying within the country

  • Travel outside of peak season, for example, visit during the shoulder season (January to March), which is cheaper 

  • Spend some nights at the beaches to relax instead of constantly going on safari

  • Schedule your safari, so you don't waste time or get distracted by the many options available within the country.

So, how much is a safari trip to Kenya really? As you've seen, it depends on which type of safari you choose to go on. Regardless of your choice, you will be guaranteed to have a blast in this beautiful nation.

What are you waiting for? Contact us today via the contact form below for an unforgettable Kenyan safari experience.