What
is your budget?
This
is perhaps the most important question. An African safari can cost as
little as $100 per day for a participation camping overland safari to
well over $500 a day. Some companies specialize in budget safaris for
the young “back-packer” wanting to “rough it”
on an overland safari, while others cater to the more affluent seasoned
traveler who wants to experience Africa in style and comfort. Here are
some things to consider when thinking about choosing a safari that matches
your budget and desired comfort level.
Accommodation:
·Overland
safaris, where you pitch your own tent and participate in camp chores,
are the least expensive of all safaris.
·Large lodges are less expensive than small-tented camps and
lodges.
·Luxury mobile-tented safaris are normally the most expensive
but exclusive permanent tented camps can be a similar price.
Transportation:
·Overland
safaris use big trucks with a low level of comfort.
·Land Rovers and Land Cruisers are comfortable but more expensive
than the typical East African minivan safari.
·Fly-in or 'winged' safaris are more expensive than using vehicles,
however they give you more time to spend quality time at your destination,
cutting out time consuming travel.
Other
issues affecting your decision:
·Often
more expensive safaris have more experienced guides.
·Always check what is included in the safari cost, you must compare
apples and apples.
·Private game reserves are more expensive than government managed
parks and reserves.
·As a general rule, the more expensive the lodge or camp, the
better the food, comfort and service.
·Up-market camps and lodges usually include wine with dinner
and sometimes have an open bar policy.
In
summary:
·Cheap
– Under $100 per day – Overland safaris and participative
camping.
·Budget – $100 - $200 per day – Cross-country and
driving safaris where you stay in large lodges.
·Moderate - $200 - $275 per day – Full service camping,
the larger lodges, and safaris that have some flights.
·Deluxe
- $275 - $350 per day – Smaller lodges and camps and flights between
the game parks and reserves.
·Luxury - $350 - $500 per day – Luxury mobile tented camping,
Exclusive lodges and tented camps. Private reserves. Charter aircraft.
·The Best - $500 + per day – Over the top but worth it
if you can afford it.