Can You Afford a Safari?

A safari doesn't have to be expensive if you are willing to rough it a bit. That generally means you'll help wash the dishes, set up camp and ride a truck with a group of people (where you'll almost always find a friendly Australian or two.) The budget safari shouldn't set you back more than $75-$125 a day. If you start to include some smaller lodges in your itinerary or don't feel like helping set up camp or cook then you are probably looking at $125-$250 a day. If you enjoy upscale lodges or gourmet meals and hot showers while you camp, then the price tag will move up to about $400-$600 a day.

These prices don't include airfare and usually you'll be spending around $1200 to get to East or Southern Africa from the US. If you live in the UK you can get much better flight deals.

Generally speaking you will find Kenya to be the cheapest safari destination. Booking a safari during the rainy season (April - June in East Africa) will also help your budget. Now you know you can afford it, find a travel agent who specializes in Africa or adventure travel and book that trip!