- Mega Complex F4, Arusha, Tanzania.
- info@serengetiwildlifesafaris.com
- +255 756 941 443
How much does Tanzania Safari Cost?
Understanding the costs upfront helps you plan better, set expectations, and turn your dream adventure into reality.
One of the first questions every traveler asks is: "How much will my Tanzania safari cost?"
In this guide, we break down the total safari experience into two key parts:
What you'll actually spend on your safari adventure
The essential preparations and travel necessities
By covering both, we'll give you a complete picture so you can plan with confidence, clarity, and excitement.
Knowing your budget is the foremost important step when planning your safari because your budget determines what type of safari you can afford, including accommodation, park fees, transport, and activities.
For adventure-focused travelers prioritizing wildlife and nature exploration
Balancing comfort and affordability for a memorable experience
For those seeking comfort, exclusivity, and premium services
Before entering any Tanzanian national park, visitors must pay mandatory park fees. These charges support wildlife conservation, habitat protection, and park maintenance. The rates vary by park, visitor age, citizenship status, and the tourism season (high or low).
| National Park | Non-EA Citizens | Children (5–15 yrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Serengeti | $83 | $23.60 |
| Arusha | $59 | $18 |
| Tarangire | $59 | $18 |
| Lake Manyara | $59 | $18 |
| Mt Kilimanjaro | $83 | $23.60 |
| Nyerere (Selous) | $83 | $23.60 |
| Ruaha | $35.40 | $11.80 |
| Gombe | $118 | $23.60 |
Among the key factors that determine the nature of a safari whether it's luxurious, midrange, or budget accommodation plays a central role. The type, location, and quality of lodging significantly influence the overall experience, comfort, and appeal of the safari.
Luxury hotels and tented camps, often located in prime wildlife areas, attract tourists seeking comfort, exclusivity, and premium services.
Midrange accommodations provide a balance between comfort and affordability, catering to tourists who want a memorable safari experience without a high cost.
Budget accommodations, including public campsites or guesthouses, attract adventure-focused travelers who prioritize wildlife and nature exploration.
Prices also depend on the location of the accommodation. Lodgings in the Ndutu area tend to be more expensive, so it's not uncommon to pay higher rates even for budget options. This is why it's sometimes said that there are no true budget accommodations in the Ndutu region.
In areas hosting special events, such as the Great Migration or calving season, most accommodations are mobile. As a result, it's common to hear that there is no accommodation available in a particular area outside of the season. So, if you want to plan your safari perfectly, consider the seasonality of special events and tourism in general.
Generally, the accommodations outside the national parks are much affordable compared to the ones inside, and sometimes it's not about the actual direct cost that you are paying but rather indirect cost such as concession fee that is mandatory for as long as you stay inside a national park.
| National Park | Adult Fee | Children (5-15 years) |
|---|---|---|
| Serengeti and Nyerere | $71 | $11.8 |
| Lake Manyara, Tarangire, Arusha and Mt Kilimanjaro | $48 | $11.8 |
| Ruaha, Ibanda Kyerwa, Saanane Island, Mahale Mountains, Katavi, Gombe, Burigi Chato, Rubondo, Rumanyika | $35.4 | $11.8 |
| Mkomazi, Saadani, Mikumi, Udzungwa mountains, Kitulo, Kigosi and Ugalla River | $29.5 | $11.8 |
When you purchase a safari package from a tour operator or travel agency, it typically includes your meal plan from arrival to the end of your safari. This covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals on the day of arrival or departure may vary depending on your arrival and departure times.
If you have any food allergies, be sure to inform the company in advance so they can accommodate your needs and prevent any potential incidents.
Prices for meals and beverages vary depending on the location and category of the hotel or restaurant. It is advisable to check the menu or confirm prices before ordering to avoid any misunderstanding.
The cost of a safari often includes the use of 4x4 vehicles, fuel for a game drive, and a professional tour guide who will also be a driver. So never forget to include it when planning. Most safaris in Tanzania are conducted using these specially designed vehicles, which can handle rough terrain such as dirt roads, uneven paths, and river crossings, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience.
$200 - $260 per day
Transportation cost is among the things that drives the overall safari cost high as most companies charge within this range.
Some companies may offer alternatives such as vans or other types of vehicles; however, these often have limitations on where they can go during game drives, which can reduce the quality of your safari experience. For the best adventure and access to all areas, it's always recommended to choose a 4x4 vehicle.
Sometimes, travelers may choose to use local flights to connect between destinations. Although this option is slightly more expensive than ground transportation, it saves a significant amount of time and offers a more relaxed and comfortable safari experience.
Planning and booking early can help secure better rates for domestic flights.
| Destination / Park | Main Airstrips | Location / Coverage Area |
|---|---|---|
| NORTHERN CIRCUIT | ||
| Serengeti National Park | Seronera Airstrip | Central Serengeti |
| Serengeti National Park | Kogatende Airstrip | Northern Serengeti (near Mara River) |
| Serengeti National Park | Lobo Airstrip | Northern Serengeti (Lobo Hills) |
| Ngorongoro Conservation Area | Ndutu Airstrip | Southeastern Serengeti / NCA |
| Tarangire National Park | Kuro Airstrip | Inside Tarangire |
| SOUTHERN CIRCUIT | ||
| Nyerere National Park (Selous) | Mtemere Airstrip | Eastern Selous, near main gate |
| Ruaha National Park | Msembe Airstrip | Central Ruaha, near park HQ |
| WESTERN CIRCUIT | ||
| Katavi National Park | Ikuu Airstrip | Central Katavi |
| Mahale Mountains National Park | Mahale Airstrip | Near Lake Tanganyika shore |
| Airline | Routes |
|---|---|
| Flightlink | Arusha ↔ Serengeti (Fort Ikoma, Kogatende, Ndutu, Seronera), Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar; Zanzibar ↔ Dar es Salaam |
| Precision Air | Kilimanjaro ↔ Zanzibar; Dar es Salaam ↔ Kilimanjaro, Arusha |
| Air Tanzania | Dar es Salaam ↔ Zanzibar, Arusha, Kilimanjaro |
| Auric Air | Dar es Salaam ↔ Saadani; Zanzibar ↔ Saadani; Arusha ↔ Serengeti (Seronera, Kogatende, Lobo), Tarangire, Lake Manyara; Kilimanjaro ↔ Serengeti |
| Coastal Aviation | Dar es Salaam ↔ Zanzibar; Arusha ↔ Serengeti (Seronera, Lobo, Kogatende), Tarangire (Kuro airstrip), Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro / Ndutu; Kilimanjaro ↔ Serengeti |
A Tanzania safari offers more than just game drives, tourists can enjoy a variety of activities designed to enhance their experience. The prices for these activities vary across national parks, depending on the type of activity, its environmental impact, and other determining factors.
With over 120 tribes, Tanzania offers an incredible diversity of cultural experiences. Each tribe has its own unique traditions, customs, and way of life, all contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the nation. However, we understand that your time and budget may not allow you to explore them all. Therefore, we have carefully selected a few tribes whose cultures remain authentic and less influenced by commercialization.
Delight in the Maasai's Adumu, the famous jumping dance, where warriors display skill, stamina, and unity. Set to rhythmic chants, these dances mark important ceremonies and celebrations.
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Maasai traditions! Witness colorful initiation rites, blessings, weddings, and community celebrations rich with songs, dances, and symbolic rituals.
Explore the Maasai's circular mud-and-stick homes and see how families live, work, and thrive on the plains. Walking through the bomas offers a personal and immersive experience of daily life in a living culture.
Day tours: Expect to pay between $50 and $200 per person for a cultural tour, which often includes a village visit, traditional performances, and activities like jewelry making.
But with Serengeti Wildlife Safaris, this incredible Maasai experience is completely free! Immerse yourself in authentic culture, enjoy dances, ceremonies, and crafts, and create unforgettable memories all without spending a dime. Your cultural adventure begins here!
Step into the fascinating world of Tanzania's Hadzabe hunter-gatherers and Datoga blacksmiths! Track wildlife on a morning hunt, witness traditional metalwork, and learn ancient survival skills passed down for generations. This authentic, hands-on cultural adventure offers rare insights into living traditions andunforgettable experience for curious travelers.
"This journey from Lake Eyasi to their villages is truly awe-inspiring. It's an authentic, hands-on adventure that captures the heart of Tanzania's cultural heritage, not to be missed!"
$60 – $150 per person
Offering an authentic, immersive cultural adventure
The Sukuma snake dance is one of the tribe's most captivating cultural performances and a must-see experience in Mwanza. Dancers mimic the movements of snakes with graceful, slithering motions, accompanied by rhythmic drumming and traditional songs.
Performed during celebrations, harvest festivals, and special ceremonies, the dance symbolizes fertility, protection, and the harmony between humans and nature.
Feel the heartbeat of Tanzania! Experience vibrant drums, xylophones, and rattles as they set the rhythm for mesmerizing dances and captivating ceremonies.
"Join in, move to the beat, and immerse yourself in the energy and soul of Sukuma culture an unforgettable, must-see performance"
Tanzania's staple maize porridge, served with vegetables, meat, or fish. Hearty, authentic, and a true local favorite!
Fragrant spiced rice cooked with meat or vegetables. Aromatic, flavorful, and a must-try taste of Tanzania's Swahili cuisine! Most common in Zanzibar and Pwani region.
A hearty, velvety soup made with beef, potatoes, and green bananas that are mashed during cooking to create a smooth texture common in Maasai and Arusha region. It's warm, flavorful.
Tanzania's fun street-food favorite: an omelette filled with crispy fries. Delicious, filling, and a must-try local treat!
The traditional Chaga banana beer, brewed from ripe bananas and millet. A cherished drink symbolizing unity and celebration among the Chaga people.
A hearty Tanzanian mix of maize and beans, slow-cooked to perfection and sometimes mixed with coconut milk or crushed groundnuts. Nutritious, comforting, and a true taste of local tradition!
Cooked in coconut milk and spices, highlighting Swahili coastal flavors. Zanzibar and Tanga are top spots.
Grilled or stewed with coconut, garlic, and chili. Widely enjoyed in coastal villages and beach resorts.
Slow-cooked in coconut sauce with herbs and spices. Popular in Zanzibar's Stone Town and coastal markets.
Combines prawns, crab, fish, and calamari for a true taste of the Indian Ocean. Found in Zanzibar, Pangani, and coastal lodges.
Freshly caught fish grilled over open flames, often seasoned with local spices. Popular in Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, and Zanzibar.
A rich and flavorful freshwater fish, made from Lake Victoria's fresh tilapia cooked in different ways with traditional spices. Savored with ugali or rice, it's a true taste of Mwanza's Sukuma culinary heritage.
Tanzania is home to a vibrant calendar of festivals celebrating culture, wildlife, music, and cuisine, offering tourists unique and immersive experiences throughout the year.
A must-see festival for music lovers! Experience East Africa's finest traditional, contemporary, and fusion sounds in historic Stone Town. Feel the vibrant Swahili culture, dance to lively rhythms, and immerse yourself in this unforgettable cultural celebration. Held every February, it's a perfect addition to your itinerary.
Approximately 430,000 TZS for 4 Days
Approximately 590,000 TZS for 4 days
(Special seating & Bar Access)
Celebrates the traditional Shirazi New Year with vibrant mock battles, rituals, and lively dancing. Tourists can witness colorful ceremonies, fire rituals, and captivating storytelling, gaining an authentic glimpse into Zanzibar's unique culture and traditions. A truly immersive and unforgettable cultural experience held in July.
Africa's largest cultural festival, celebrating film, music, and the arts. Tourists can watch films from across Africa, attend workshops, and enjoy captivating cultural performances, experiencing the continent's creativity and heritage firsthand. Held every July, it's a highlight of Zanzibar's cultural calendar.
Step into Tanzania's wild heart with a Nature Walking Safari, an intimate eco-adventure guided by expert naturalists. Wander through scenic bushlands, trace animal tracks, and experience wildlife up close in its natural rhythm.
"This sustainable journey supports conservation and local communities while offering a truly unforgettable connection with nature as it is a journey where every step tells a story of the wild."
$12 - $18
$24 - $30
NOTE: The prices include 18% VAT and they vary with the distance and time used.
Tanzania offers breathtaking hiking experiences that take you deep into its diverse landscapes, from lush forests and rolling hills to volcanic craters and mountain trails. Trek through iconic destinations like Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru, the Ngorongoro Highlands, and Usambara Mountains, enjoying panoramic views, rich biodiversity, and encounters with unique wildlife and local communities.
Glide gently through Tanzania’s scenic waters and experience its wilderness from a new angle on a canoeing or boating safari. Paddle across tranquil lakes and calm rivers while spotting hippos, crocodiles, colorful waterbirds, and elephants refreshing at the banks.
"This intimate, low-impact adventure brings you closer to nature, offering incredible photographic opportunities, peaceful surroundings, and a sense of harmony that can only be felt on the water."
16 years and above: $24
Price per person: $25 - $345
Children (5–15 years): $12
NOTE: The above prices include VAT and may vary depending on the national park, distance covered, and duration of the safari.
Relax with a drink as the African sun sets, painting the savannah in golden hues perfect for reflection, photography, and soaking in nature's beauty.
$3 - $7
Experience the thrill of Africa after dark with a Night Game Drive, a unique safari adventure that reveals a completely different side of Tanzania's wildlife.
Age 5-15 years
$30 - $59
Adults
$59 - $118
NOTE: They are offered in few national parks and the prices vary with national parks
Guided by experienced rangers with spotlights, you'll encounter nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, bush babies, civets, and porcupines, along with predators on the hunt. It's perfect for adventurous travelers.
Discover Tanzania's beauty on a cycling safari, an eco-friendly adventure through savannahs, hills, and vibrant villages. Ride quietly past wildlife, baobab trees, and scenic landscapes while connecting with nature and local culture.
$25 - $59
Depending on national park
Quiet exploration through Tanzania's stunning landscapes
Experience Tanzania's wilderness from horseback, combining adventure, elegance, and close encounters with nature. Guided by experienced riders, traverse scenic savannahs, rolling hills, and open plains while spotting wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes from a unique vantage point.
$30 per person
In applicable national parks such as Arusha National Park
Get closer to nature from an elegant perspective
Explore Tanzania's rich history and cultural heritage through ancient ruins, colonial-era buildings, and fascinating museums that showcase the country's diverse traditions, archaeology, and art.
$5 - $20 per person
Depending on the nature of the historical site or museum
Discover the vibrant culture, history, and everyday life of Tanzania's towns with a guided Town Tour. Wander through bustling markets, historic streets, and cultural landmarks while learning about local traditions, architecture, and cuisine.
Arusha
Gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit
Moshi
At the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro
Zanzibar
Spice islands with rich history
Bagamoyo
Historic coastal town with colonial architecture
Experience vibrant local markets with fresh produce and crafts.
Visit important historical landmarks and learn about local history.
Taste authentic Tanzanian dishes and street food specialties.
Bring a piece of Tanzania home with unique, authentic souvenirs. Explore vibrant handcrafted Maasai jewelry, beadwork, and textiles, or choose traditional wood carvings, batik fabrics, and paintings that reflect local culture and craftsmanship.
Maasai Jewelry
Beadwork
Wood Carvings
Batik Fabrics
Tingatinga Art
Traditional Baskets
Purchasing souvenirs supports local communities and artisans, making your memories both meaningful and impactful. Perfect for gifts, personal mementos, or a lasting reminder of your Tanzanian adventure.
Swing into adventure on a chimpanzee safari in Gombe Stream or Mahale Mountains National Parks. Trek through lush forests with expert guides and meet our mischievous primate friends watch them gossip, play, and show off their acrobatic skills.
Gombe Stream National Park
Mahale Mountains National Park
This safari offers unforgettable encounters and plenty of laughs in Tanzania's incredible wilderness.
Wildly entertaining experience!
Soar above Tanzania's golden plains on a hot-air balloon safari in Serengeti or Ngorongoro. Watch wildlife from above, enjoy breathtaking sunrise views, and toast with champagne after landing. This magical experience offers unforgettable memories and a unique perspective of Africa's iconic wilderness.
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Includes champagne toast after landing
Unique aerial perspective of wildlife
Perfect for travelers who want privacy, flexibility, and luxury on their safari.
Great for solo travelers or budget-conscious clients who still want quality safari experiences.
$200 - $250
per person
| Safari Type | Price per person per day |
|---|---|
| Budget | $300 - $350 |
| Midrange | $400 - $550 |
| Luxury | $600 - Above |
The price of your safari will reduce with the increase in number of travelers as you will be sharing vehicle and other costs such as crater fee and others.
Also, with the large group of people, Serengeti Wildlife Safaris offer discount prices.
First before travelling you have to know the prerequisites/ Mandatory conditions that you must have before travelling to Tanzania safari.
Tanzania immigration requires your passport to have at least two blank pages - one for the entry stamp and another for the exit stamp. Travelers without enough blank pages may be denied entry.
If you're traveling with children, remember that each child must have their own passport. Tanzania does not allow minors to be listed under a parent's passport.
It's advisable to carry photocopies of your passport's bio-data page and keep a digital copy stored securely online or on your phone. These copies can be useful in case your passport is lost or stolen during your safari.
If you wish to visit Tanzania you must have a Visa unless Citizens from visa-exempt countries (mostly in East Africa and a few others) but others must apply in advance or on arrival and their costs are as mentioned below depending on your tourism purpose whether its for business, relaxation or simply education and research.
| SN | Type of Visa | Visa Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Ordinary Visa | 50 USD Visa fee to all visitors coming for tourism purpose |
| 2. | Multiple Visa | 100 USD Specifically for American citizens which is valid for 12 months, allowing multiple visits for holiday or tourism purposes. |
| 3. | Business Visa | 250 USD For short business trips like meetings or training. Valid up to 90 days. Requires an invitation letter from a Tanzanian company. |
| 4. | Transit Visa | 30 USD For travelers passing through Tanzania to another country. Valid up to 7 days with proof of onward travel. |
| 5. | Student Visa |
50 USD (single 3 months)
250 USD (Multiple 2 years)
300 USD (Research 6 months)
550 USD (PhD 2 years)
|
Apply through the official government website
visa.immigration.go.tz
Available at major airports (Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar) and border posts
You can also apply at a Tanzanian embassy in your country before traveling
In case you wish to visit Zanzibar, worry out the same visa is applicable, because it's a part of Tanzania.
Required if arriving from or transiting through a yellow-fever risk country. Must show the original certificate, valid 10 days after vaccination, to enter Tanzania, digital copies are not accepted.
Travel insurance protects you during your Tanzania safari by covering:
Cost: Ranges from USD 20–100 per week depending on coverage, age, and activities like safaris or hiking.
Travelers to Tanzania must show a return or onward ticket to prove they will leave the country. Without it, entry may be denied.
Make sure to check your health before traveling for anything that may affect your safari. You should also inform your tour operator or travel agent about any health issues so they can customize your safari activities according to what you can safely participate in.
Always keep a safe distance; never feed or disturb animals.
Stay on designated trails and follow your guide's instructions.
Dress modestly, ask before photographing locals, and learn basic greetings.
Avoid littering, Refrain from picking plants or disturbing natural habitats.
Choosing the right clothes can make your safari more comfortable and enjoyable; and therefore, the best is to follow the following tips:
Wear khaki, brown, or olive to blend with nature and avoid disturbing wildlife
Temperatures vary; mornings and evenings can be cool, afternoons hot
Protect against sun, insects, and thorny vegetation
Sturdy walking shoes or boots for game drives and nature walks
Shield from the strong African sun
Essential during wet seasons or unexpected showers
Optional: Scarves or buffs for dust, and swimwear if visiting lakes or lodges with pools.
Costs vary depending on safari type, duration, accommodation, and activities. Budget safaris start around US $150/day, mid-range $300–$600/day, and luxury $600–$1,500+/day.
Accommodation type, transport mode, park fees, included activities, group size, and optional extras like balloon safaris or cultural visits.
Typically: park fees, accommodation, meals (depending on the package), professional guide/driver, and safari vehicle. Optional activities may cost extra.
Yes. Private safaris are more expensive due to dedicated vehicles and guides, while joining safaris are shared, making them more budget-friendly.
Yes. High season (June–October, December–January) is more expensive due to wildlife migration and peak travel demand. Low season offers lower rates but more rain.
Most reputable tour operators include park entrance fees, but always check, as some special permits (like Ngorongoro or chimpanzee tracking) may be extra.
Budget safaris often include breakfast and dinner; mid-range and luxury packages may include all meals and drinks. Extras like alcohol may be charged separately.
Tips are usually not included. Standard practice: $10–$20/day per guide/driver, depending on satisfaction.
Children aged 5–15 often pay 50–75% of adult fees, depending on the park and safari operator. Kids under 5 sometimes enter free or pay minimal fees.
No, optional extras like balloon safaris, cultural tours, night drives, or canoeing are usually charged separately and can be added based on preference.
From thrilling wildlife encounters to the warmth of local culture, we bring Tanzania to life in ways that are personal, authentic, and unforgettable. Trust us to guide you safely and comfortably through the heart of Africa, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime, all tailored to suit your safari budget.
Mega Complex F4,
Arusha, Tanzania.
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