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Absolute Holiday Safaris

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Safari costs explained: what shapes the price

Safari prices can be hard to compare. This guide explains what goes into the cost of a safari, and why some of our packages show a published price while others are quoted on request.

By Absolute Holiday Safaris · · 3 min read

Wildebeest on a lakeshore under a pale sky

What a safari price usually covers

  • Park and reserve entrance fees, which can be a large part of the cost.
  • Accommodation and meals.
  • The vehicle, fuel and driver-guide.
  • Activities included in the itinerary.

Each of our packages lists what is included and what is not. International flights, visas, insurance, drinks, tips and optional activities are usually extra.

What changes the price

  • Accommodation level: budget camps cost less than lodges.
  • Season: some safaris have low- and high-season prices.
  • Group size and travel style: shared group-joining safaris cost less per person than private ones.
  • Distance and transport: flights cost more than road transfers but save time.
  • Permits: gorilla permits in Uganda are a significant part of a gorilla safari's cost.

Published prices and prices on request

Many of our budget safaris have published per-person prices; some show separate low- and high-season rates. Mid-range, lodge and luxury safaris are quoted on request because lodge rates vary with dates and availability.

When you enquire, we confirm the price for your dates and party size in writing.

Put it into practice

Safaris for this guide.

  • Male lion standing in dry golden grassGroup joining

    2 days · Kenya · Group joining

    2 Days Maasai Mara Budget Safari

    A first taste of the Mara

    Wildlife safari · Budget

    The shortest way to see the Maasai Mara from Nairobi: a long first-day game drive, a night at Miti Mingi Eco Camp and a morning drive before heading back.

    Standard USD 430 ppLow budget USD 350 pp

  • Narrow gorge with sculpted orange rock wallsGroup joining

    4 days · Kenya · Group joining

    4 Days Maasai Mara & Lake Naivasha Budget Safari

    Plains, a freshwater lake and a gorge on foot

    Wildlife safari · Budget

    Two nights in the Maasai Mara, then Lake Naivasha and Hell's Gate National Park, where you can cycle or walk among wildlife.

    Low season USD 590 ppHigh season USD 690 pp

  • Zebras beneath a lone acacia tree at golden sunsetGroup joining

    7 days · Kenya · Group joining

    7 Days Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha & Amboseli Budget Safari

    Kenya's essential circuit in a week

    Wildlife safari · Budget

    A week covering four of Kenya's best-known destinations: the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha with Crescent Island, and Amboseli beneath Kilimanjaro.

    From USD 840 pp

From reading to travelling

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