A luxury safari is one of the most unforgettable travel experiences you can have: waking up to the sound of lions in the distance, sipping champagne as elephants stroll past your tent, and ending the evening under a canopy of African stars. But luxury safaris aren’t cheap—and knowing what’s worth the price is essential.
This guide breaks down how much luxury safaris cost, what typical packages include, and which destinations deliver the best value.
How Much Do Luxury Safaris Cost?
Luxury safaris are typically all-inclusive, covering accommodation, meals, guided game drives, and often flights between camps. Prices vary widely based on destination, season, and exclusivity.
- Entry-level luxury: $700–$1,200 per person, per night
- High-end luxury: $1,500–$3,000 per person, per night
- Ultra-luxury & private safaris: $4,000–$8,000+ per person, per night
Example:
A 7-night luxury safari in Kenya or Tanzania can range from $10,000–$25,000 per person depending on the lodges and activities chosen.
What’s Included in a Luxury Safari Package?
Most high-end safari tours include:
- Accommodation: Exclusive lodges, luxury tented camps, or private villas
- Meals & Drinks: Fine dining, often paired with wine selections
- Game Drives: Twice-daily guided drives with professional rangers
- Transfers: Charter flights or luxury vehicles between reserves
- Activities: Bush walks, hot air balloon rides, cultural visits
- Personal Service: Private butlers, dedicated guides, spa treatments
Not always included: International flights, premium wines/spirits, travel insurance, and gratuities.
Top Destinations for Luxury Safaris
1. South Africa
South Africa offers world-class infrastructure and varied safari experiences.
Highlights:
- Sabi Sands Game Reserve for leopard sightings
- Kruger National Park luxury lodges like Singita and Londolozi
- Private villas with plunge pools overlooking the bush
Typical Cost: $1,200–$2,500 per night
2. Kenya
The birthplace of the safari, Kenya is iconic for its sweeping savannahs and the Great Migration.
Highlights:
- Maasai Mara luxury tented camps
- Hot air balloon safaris at sunrise
- Cultural experiences with Maasai communities
Typical Cost: $1,000–$2,500 per night
3. Tanzania
Tanzania offers vast wilderness areas and exclusive camps.
Highlights:
- Serengeti for the Great Migration
- Ngorongoro Crater luxury lodges
- Zanzibar add-ons for beach & safari combos
Typical Cost: $1,200–$3,000 per night
4. Botswana
Botswana is known for exclusivity and ultra-luxury safaris.
Highlights:
- Okavango Delta luxury water safaris
- Chobe National Park for elephants
- Small, intimate lodges with just a handful of guests
Typical Cost: $1,500–$4,000 per night
5. Namibia
A safari with a twist: dramatic desert landscapes and wildlife in unique habitats.
Highlights:
- Etosha National Park for black rhinos
- Skeleton Coast fly-in safaris
- Luxury desert lodges with surreal views
Typical Cost: $800–$1,800 per night
6. Rwanda & Uganda
For those seeking primate encounters, gorilla trekking safaris are unmatched.
Highlights:
- Private lodges in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
- Gorilla trekking permits ($1,500 per person in Rwanda)
- Exclusive lodges with spa and wellness facilities
Typical Cost: $1,200–$3,500 per night
What Makes a Safari “Luxury”?
Luxury isn’t just about five-star accommodation—it’s about exclusivity and personalized experiences.
- Small guest numbers: Often fewer than 10–15 rooms per lodge
- Prime locations: Private concessions with fewer tourists
- Design & comfort: Infinity pools, designer interiors, gourmet dining
- Service: Butler service, private guides, and custom itineraries
- Experiences: Night drives, walking safaris, helicopter tours
Seasonal Pricing: When to Go
- High Season (June–October): Peak wildlife viewing; prices highest
- Shoulder Season (April–May, November): Lower rates, fewer crowds
- Low Season (December–March): Green season, baby animals, discounted rates
Packages Worth Considering
1. Fly-In Safaris
- Includes private charter flights between lodges
- Saves time and adds exclusivity
- Cost: $12,000–$20,000 per person for 7–10 days
2. Private Villa Safaris
- Entire lodge or villa for families/groups
- Private chef, guides, and vehicles
- Cost: $30,000–$50,000+ per week
3. Combination Safari + Beach Packages
- Safari in Kenya or Tanzania + beach retreat in Zanzibar or Seychelles
- Blends adventure and relaxation
- Cost: $15,000–$25,000 per person for 10–12 days
Is Luxury Safari Travel Worth It?
For many, yes—because you’re not just paying for accommodation, you’re paying for:
- Privacy: Fewer tourists, more wildlife encounters
- Exclusive experiences: Sundowners in the bush, helicopter safaris, private game drives
- Comfort: World-class dining, spa treatments, infinity pools in the wilderness
- Memories: Bucket-list experiences that are once-in-a-lifetime
If your budget is tight, mid-range safaris can deliver incredible wildlife sightings—but the luxury experience guarantees privacy, personalization, and unparalleled comfort.
Final Thoughts
Luxury safaris are among the most expensive and rewarding travel experiences in the world. With prices ranging from $700 to $8,000 per night, choosing the right destination and package makes all the difference.
- South Africa & Kenya: Best balance of cost and experience
- Botswana & Rwanda: Ultra-luxury exclusivity
- Namibia & Tanzania: Unique landscapes and iconic wildlife
A luxury safari is more than a holiday—it’s a transformational journey that connects you to nature in the most extraordinary way possible.