The high cost associated with the African safari may make it seem like an impossible dream but it doesn’t have to be that way. Knowledge is power and with a little knowledge on African safaris and a bit of planning, you will be dancing in the rain with the big five without breaking the bank. For as little as $ 110 per day, and yes cheaper safaris are possible even if you were hoping for a five star experience in the bush, check out companies like AfricanSafariHome.com for an awesome experience.
The Maasai Mara and Serengeti national parks are the real deal, although the the Okavango Delta also plays host to many Botswana Safari Home Holidays. They have some ideal places to look at if you are looking for a budget safari. They are not only two of the top safari destinations in Africa but they are also so big you might not be able to fully explore it on a short safari. The trick with safaris is, the longer you stay, the cheaper it gets so stay as long as you possibly can.
Nothing beats the savings you will by make by opting for a self guided tour. The Maasai Mara and Serengeti reserves, however, do not offer self guided tours and you will have to do with guided tour which is still affordable. The better option would be to do a self drive from where you are staying like from Nairobi or Arusha and get a tour guide when you reach the reserve.
The Maasai Mara camping safari is available all year but the prices are higher during the peak seasons. The low season is in April to May and will cost only $360 for a 3 day/2 nights Maasai Mara camping safari while it would cost about $375 for the rest of the year for the same package. Booking a tour operator would be your best bet for a budget safari. Africa guide, for example, offers a 3-day camping safari (inclusive of camping, food, transport and park fees) starting from $270 which is just amazing!
The Serengeti offers a truly breathtaking show of the wildlife with its highlight being the annual migration of wildebeests which takes place around February/March. The rainy season that runs from March to June tends to have fewer travelers and is therefore the cost of a Tanzanian safari would be lower and you will still have a great view of the game. A typical Serengeti safari in the low season would cost about $ 450 per person sharing for a 4-day safari inclusive of food, camping and transportation and park fees. Transportation is by road and can be tedious but it is worth every penny especially if you are looking to spend less.
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