Daily costs per person in USD. Migration safaris are the most expensive activity in East Africa but budget camping options make it accessible. All prices are approximate and season-dependent.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: USD (for tours) (KES/TZS for local purchases)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safari Package | $85–135/day | $200–350/day | $500+/day | Budget camping → mid-range lodge → luxury tented camp |
| Park Fees | $70–80/day | $70–80/day | $70–80/day | Included in most packages — verify before booking |
| Transport to/from | $0 (included) | $0 (included) | $100–200 | Overland included → flights optional |
| Tips | $10–15/day | $15–20/day | $25+/day | Guide + cook tips expected — budget for it |
| Extras | $5–20 | $20–50 | $450+ | Souvenirs → village visits → hot air balloon |
| Daily Total | $80–150 | $200–400 | $600+ | Budget camping → comfortable lodge → luxury experience |
Money-saving tips
Budget group safaris
Group camping safaris from Nairobi or Arusha cost $250–400 per person for 3 days/2 nights, all-inclusive (transport, park fees, camping, meals, guide). Book in-country for the best prices — online agencies add 30–50% markup.
Kenya vs Tanzania
The Kenya side (Masai Mara) is cheaper than Tanzania (Serengeti) for budget travellers. Mara park fees are lower, Nairobi is a cheaper base, and budget safari operators are more numerous. The migration crosses both — the wildlife is the same.
Timing matters
The migration moves in a clockwise loop: Dec–Mar in southern Serengeti (calving season), Apr–Jun heading north, Jul–Oct in the Masai Mara (river crossings), Nov heading south. Plan your visit around the spectacle you want to see.
Join a group
Solo travellers pay more per person. Join a group of 4–6 to share vehicle and camping costs. Hostels in Nairobi and Arusha have noticeboards where travellers form safari groups. Roammate helps you find companions for exactly this.
Bring your own gear
Budget safaris provide tents and sleeping bags but bringing your own sleeping bag liner and headlamp improves comfort significantly. Also pack warm layers — the Mara is cold at night.
Park fee strategy
Masai Mara conservancy fees ($70–100/day) can be lower than the main reserve entry ($80/day for non-residents). Some budget operators use conservancies with less traffic and similar wildlife — ask what is included.
