How to Travel Cheap and Still Experience the Wild
When people think of an African safari, they often imagine luxury lodges, private jeeps, and a trip that costs thousands of dollars. The truth is, safaris don’t have to break the bank. With the right planning, you can explore Africa’s incredible wildlife, landscapes, and culture without spending a fortune.
In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions about cheap African safaris, including how much they cost, where to go, and whether budget safaris are worth it. By the end, you’ll have all the tips you need to book an affordable adventure with Pleasant Adventures.
How to do Safari Cheaply?
Safaris are often marketed as luxury trips. But if you’re smart about planning, you can cut costs without losing the magic. Here’s how:
- Travel in a group
Group tours are almost always cheaper than private safaris. Costs for transport, guides, and fuel are shared, which lowers the price per person. Check out some good options here - Choose budget lodges or camping
Instead of staying in luxury lodges, go for basic camps, guesthouses, or mid-range hotels. Camping inside or near the parks is not only cheap but also gives you a true wilderness experience. - Pick shorter safaris
A 3–4 day safari can still deliver a full Big Five experience. You don’t always need a week to see the highlights. - Book directly with local operators
International agencies often add large markups. Booking with trusted local companies like Pleasant Adventures saves you money and ensures your money supports the local economy. - Travel during the low season
Prices drop during off-peak months like April–June or November. You’ll still see plenty of animals but at half the cost.
How to Go on Safari on a Budget?
Going on a budget safari requires balancing comfort and affordability. Here’s what works best:
- Use overland tours – These tours combine transport, food, and camping in one package.
- Self-drive in some countries – In places like South Africa and Namibia, renting a car and driving yourself can be much cheaper.
- Limit the number of parks – Visiting one or two major reserves saves on park entry fees and transport.
- Bring your own gear – If you’re camping, bringing sleeping bags, tents, or even snacks can cut costs.
What Is the Cheapest Way to Book a Safari?
The cheapest way is to book locally and early. International sites charge more, but local operators offer better deals. Booking a few months in advance helps lock in lower prices.
Pleasant Adventures, for example, offers daily departures to popular parks like Maasai Mara. That means you can join a group anytime, without needing to pay for a private trip.
How to Get a Safari for Free?
While nothing is truly free, there are a few creative ways to cut your costs to almost zero:
- Volunteer programs: Some conservation projects offer free or discounted safaris in exchange for volunteer work.
- Travel blogging or photography: If you have a large online following, some operators may sponsor your trip.
- Competitions and giveaways: Travel companies sometimes run contests for free trips.
But realistically, most travelers will need to pay. The good news is that budget safaris make it very affordable.
How Much Is the Cheapest Safari?
Prices vary depending on the country, park, and duration. On average:
- Kenya (Maasai Mara) – from $150–$200 per day for group camping safaris.
- Tanzania (Serengeti) – from $180–$250 per day.
- Uganda (Queen Elizabeth NP) – from $120–$180 per day.
- South Africa (Kruger NP, self-drive) – as low as $50 per day if you camp and cook your own food.
So, the cheapest safaris start at around $100–$150 per day. You can book here
What Is the Average Cost of an African Safari Trip?
On average, a safari costs between $2,000 and $7,000 per person for a week. Luxury options go much higher, while budget group safaris with camping bring costs down to $800–$1,500 for 5–7 days.
Which African Safari Is Best for Money?
If you’re looking for the best balance between cost and experience:
- Kenya’s Maasai Mara – Affordable daily departures, high wildlife density, and year-round action.
- Tanzania’s Serengeti – Slightly pricier but worth it for the great migration.
- Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth NP – Cheaper than Kenya or Tanzania, with a mix of savannah and river wildlife.
- South Africa’s Kruger NP – Best for self-drive and flexibility.
Is Safari Cheaper in Kenya or Tanzania?
In general, Kenya is cheaper. Park fees are lower, and there are more group tour options. Tanzania’s Serengeti safaris tend to be more expensive because of higher fees and longer distances between parks.
If you’re on a tight budget, Kenya is the better choice.
Where Is the Cheapest Place to Do a Safari in Africa?
The cheapest options are:
- Kenya (Maasai Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo) – Great for group safaris and daily departures.
- Uganda (Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls) – Affordable and less crowded.
- South Africa (Kruger) – Ideal for self-drive safaris.
How Far in Advance Should I Book a Safari?
Booking at least 3–6 months in advance is smart, especially for peak seasons (July–October and December). However, Pleasant Adventures offers last-minute group trips, so even if you’re late, you can still find a spot.
What Is the Cheapest Country to Go on Safari?
- Uganda and South Africa often rank as the cheapest.
- Kenya is slightly more expensive than Uganda but offers easier group safari options.
- Tanzania is more costly due to park fees.
So, the cheapest countries are Uganda, Kenya, and South Africa.
How Much Does a 2-Week African Safari Cost?
For 14 days, costs range widely:
- Budget camping safari – $2,000–$3,500 per person.
- Mid-range lodge safari – $4,000–$6,000 per person.
- Luxury safari – $10,000 and up.
How Much Is the 7-Day Safari in Tanzania?
A budget 7-day Tanzania safari costs $1,500–$2,000 per person. Mid-range lodges push it to $2,500–$4,000. Luxury options are much higher.
What Is the Safest Country to Go on Safari?
Most safari destinations are safe if you travel with a licensed operator. Popular safe choices include:
- Kenya
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- South Africa
- Botswana
Stick to guided tours, follow your guide’s instructions, and you’ll be safe.
Are Budget Safaris Worth It?
Absolutely! You don’t need five-star luxury to enjoy Africa’s wildlife. Budget safaris offer:
- The same animals as luxury safaris.
- Authentic experiences like camping under the stars.
- More connection with fellow travelers.
The main trade-off is comfort, but the adventure remains unforgettable.
Is Safari Worth the Cost?
Yes. Seeing elephants, lions, giraffes, and rhinos in the wild is priceless. A safari is not just a holiday—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
How Much Should I Budget for an African Safari?
For a budget safari, plan for $150–$250 per day. For mid-range, $350–$500 per day. Luxury safaris go upwards of $700–$1,500 per day.
Why Can’t You Wear Black on Safari?
Dark colors like black and navy attract tsetse flies. Light, neutral colors like beige, khaki, or olive are best for comfort and safety.
Where Is the Best Place to Go for an Affordable Safari?
- Kenya’s Maasai Mara – Best mix of price and wildlife.
- Uganda – Cheap but underrated.
- South Africa (Kruger) – Perfect for independent travelers.
How Much Does a 10-Day African Safari Cost?
- Budget camping safari – $1,500–$2,500.
- Mid-range safari – $3,500–$5,000.
- Luxury safari – $7,000 and up.
Final Thoughts: Affordable Safaris with Pleasant Adventures
A safari doesn’t have to be a luxury that only a few can afford. With the right choices, you can enjoy the magic of Africa on a budget. From Kenya’s Maasai Mara to Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, there are affordable options for everyone.
At Pleasant Adventures, we specialize in making safaris budget-friendly without losing the magic. With daily departures, group safaris, and flexible “Lipa Pole Pole” (installment) payments, your dream safari is closer than you think.
So why wait? Start planning your African safari today—and let Pleasant Adventures take you there.
Call/WhatsApp: +254 748 057 500
Email: info@pleasantadventure.com
Website: www.pleasantadventure.com