Tanzania Safari

When it comes to unforgettable travel and safaris in East Africa, Tanzania stands out as a premier destination. While its incredible biodiversity and varied landscapes are immense draws, Tanzania is most celebrated for the Great Wildebeest Migration, a spectacular cyclical event where vast mega-herds embark on a natural gauntlet, including thrilling river crossings, captivating safari-goers year after year.

Tanzania offers the perfect elements to surprise and delight any discerning traveler – home to the Big 5, iconic landscapes, and experiences suited to families, groups, couples, and honeymooners. The real question is, what does a safari in Tanzania cost? Let’s break down what a Tanzanian adventure could look like and the associated costs.

Types of Safaris in Tanzania & Their Cost

Fly-in Safaris & Charters

Tanzania boasts international airports like Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), providing convenient access. Internal flights are a fantastic way to navigate Tanzania and explore its sensational national parks and conservancies, especially for visiting remote areas like the Serengeti or Ruaha.

Self-drives

While less common, self-driving is possible in certain areas of Tanzania, particularly in northern circuit parks like Tarangire and Lake Manyara. However, national parks and game reserves feature unpaved and often challenging conditions, especially during or after the rainy season. An appropriate 4×4 vehicle is essential.

Please note: Park entry permits must be obtained.

Classic Safaris

A typical safari journey involves being expertly guided through a reserve in a fully equipped 4×4 game vehicle, often by an experienced guide or a guide and tracker.

This is usually an comprehensive experience with your accommodation and may entail sharing a vehicle with other guests if you are a couple or small group, unless you opt for a private vehicle (subject to availability).

Road Transfers

While charter flights are an excellent option for convenience, road transfers are also available between many destinations. This is typically done via 4×4 vehicles or small buses, depending on your group size or if you’ve chosen to share transportation, which can be a more budget-friendly option.

Tanzania Safari Tour Costs

Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas, and optional activities. Conservation fees, levies, and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.t of the first large release following the Original 9.

Tanzania Accommodation Costs per Night

Tanzania accommodation spans a wide range, from classic tented camps and colonial-style lodges to unique mobile tented camps that follow the Great Migration, and luxury lodges that truly defy imagination. For those looking to combine a safari with a beach vacation, Tanzania’s stunning coastline and islands like Zanzibar offer sensational private villas, boutique hotels, and indulgent retreats. When budgeting for accommodation in Tanzania, factors beyond luxury include the location, especially during peak Great Migration season when demand is highest.

Please note: all the costs are guidelines only and an average for per person, per night, sharing a room in High and Low Season. They exclude international flights, visas, and optional activities. Conservation fees, levies, and permits are all subject to change. Peak or High Season generally runs over Christmas and New Year, and from about July to October.

How the time of year can affect the cost of a Tanzania safari

The best time to visit Tanzania largely depends on your safari objectives. If the Great Migration is your primary focus, peak season is typically considered July to October, when the dramatic Mara River crossings occur. However, it’s crucial to remember that timings are not definite, and predicting exact crossing dates is impossible, which adds to the excitement. The Migration is a year-round phenomenon, offering opportunities to spot herds at various times.

Low or shoulder season, typically from mid-March to June and November to the end of December, sees fewer visitors due to the rains. However, don’t overlook this period, as it means fewer crowds, lower rates, and still excellent game viewing. Peak season is generally considered January to the end of March, and again from June to October. Tanzania tours and safaris are available year-round, so when to go truly depends on what you wish to see and experience.

Additional Costs To Consider

International flights / getting to the country

As a general rule, consider these excluded.

Getting from place to place: Internal transfers may be included with some accommodations, while others might be at your own cost. Charter flights are popular in Tanzania for efficiency, but road transfers are also available to most destinations.

Getting from place to place

Internal transfers may be included with some accommodations, while others might be at your own cost. Charter flights are popular in Tanzania for efficiency, but road transfers are also available to most destinations.

Vaccinations

Certain destinations require vaccinations prior to arrival. These are excluded, and you’ll need to consult your healthcare professional for requirements. Tanzania has a requirement of yellow fever vaccination for travelers arriving from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Tipping

Tipping is always optional but highly recommended. Carrying cash is often the easiest way to manage this.

Personal and travel insurance.

The exchange rate

International card payments may incur small fees for currency conversion. Tanzania’s national currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, but other currencies, such as the US dollar, are widely accepted for tourist activities.

Please note: for US Dollar bills, notes printed prior to 2003 may not be accepted, and post-2006 notes are recommended due to the circulation of counterfeit notes.

Should you wish to plan your next great adventure with the help and guidance of one of our Africa Safari Experts, they can advise you on all of the above and ensure each transfer is organized seamlessly in advance. Remember, in travel, anything can happen, and sometimes delays are unavoidable.