Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Safari Package | $85–135/day | $200–350/day |
| Park Fees | $70–80/day | $70–80/day |
| Transport to/from | $0 (included) | $0 (included) |
| Tips | $10–15/day | $15–20/day |
| Extras | $5–20 | $20–50 |
| Daily Total | $80–150 | $200–400 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Visa & Entry
- Kenya eVisa ($50) at evisa.go.ke or Tanzania eVisa ($50) at visa.immigration.go.tz — apply before arrival
- The East Africa tourist visa ($100) covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda — excellent value for multi-country trips
- Most safaris depart from Nairobi (Kenya side) or Arusha (Tanzania side). Both cities have international airports
Health & Safety
- Yellow fever vaccination recommended. Malaria prophylaxis essential — the Mara and Serengeti are high-risk malaria zones
- Bring insect repellent (DEET 30%+) and long-sleeved clothing for evenings. Sleep under a mosquito net in camp
- Stay in the vehicle during game drives. Lions, buffalo, and hippos are dangerous — never leave the vehicle without your guide's permission
Getting There
- Budget safaris include overland transport from Nairobi (5–6hrs to Masai Mara) or Arusha (8–10hrs to Serengeti)
- Flights from Nairobi to Masai Mara airstrips (from $100 one-way) or Arusha to Serengeti (from $200) save time
- Self-driving is possible but not recommended — you need a 4x4, park knowledge, and the tracks are challenging in wet season
Connectivity
- Mobile signal is patchy in the Mara and Serengeti — do not rely on data. Download offline maps and guides before departure
- Some lodges and camps have WiFi but speeds are minimal. Budget camps have no connectivity — embrace the disconnection
- Bring a portable battery pack — there are no charging points at most budget camps
Money
- Safari packages are usually paid in USD by bank transfer or cash before departure. Bring USD cash for tips and extras
- Guide tips ($10–15/day) and cook tips ($5–10/day) are expected and important — budget for them in advance
- There are no ATMs or shops in the reserves. Bring everything you need from the city including snacks and personal items
Packing Tips
- Neutral colours (khaki, green, brown) — avoid bright white or blue that scares wildlife. Long sleeves and trousers for sun and mosquitoes
- Binoculars, a camera with a 200mm+ zoom lens, and a dust-proof bag for electronics. A bean bag for steadying cameras on the vehicle window
- Warm layers (fleece, beanie) for early morning drives — the Mara is at 1,500m and dawn temperatures can be 8–12°C
Cultural tips
Respect Wildlife
Never pressure your guide to drive closer to animals than is safe. The migration is wild and unpredictable — enjoy what you see from a respectful distance. Flash photography disturbs animals and is prohibited at close range.
Conservation Impact
Your safari fees fund wildlife conservation and local communities. The Masai Mara and Serengeti are protected because tourism makes wildlife more valuable alive than dead. Choose operators that employ local guides and support community projects.
Masai Communities
The Masai people have coexisted with wildlife for centuries. If visiting a Masai village, approach with genuine respect and curiosity. Buy beadwork directly from the artisans at fair prices. Photography fees ($10–20) support the community.
Photography Ethics
Do not ask your driver to block other vehicles at a sighting. Share viewing space at river crossings. Never use drones in national parks — they are banned and disturb wildlife. The best photos come from patience, not proximity.
Leave No Trace
Take all rubbish back to camp. Do not throw anything from the vehicle — even organic waste. Stay on designated tracks and do not drive off-road to chase animals. The ecosystem is fragile despite its vast appearance.
Be Present
Put the camera down sometimes and just watch. The sounds, smells, and feeling of witnessing 2 million animals on the move cannot be captured in a photograph. Some moments are meant to be lived, not documented.
