We count your actual nights in Africa: The typical length of a safari to Africa is 10-14 nights on the ground. Many companies count nights on the way to Africa or in-flight as part of the safari cost which pads the number of nights you are actually paying for. We base costs on your nights in Africa. Rack versus Wholesale: When a lodge or hotel put rates on their website, they are rack rates. The rates we get as a safari operator are confidential wholesale tour operator rates considerably below rack rates so that we can do the work we need to and put the nights together into a custom itinerary for you. As a safari wholesale operator, we put together your itinerary and are able to offer you one price for the entire itinerary.
Regional differences also contribute to cost: For example, in Botswana, there is a well established policy of keeping the camps very small. From a conservation point of view there's very little doubt that it's a good policy - especially since a large portion of the safari earnings go back into actual conservation. So prices are generally higher, supply and demand is a big factor. Per Night Costs on Safari: The cost per night, per person will run typically from anywhere between $500-1400, with an average cost around $850, and less in the cities. These prices may include all activities, meals, game drives, guides, park fees, accommodations, your internal African flights, transfers and more. Per Night Costs In Cities: On your arrival and departure nights in cities, costs run between $200-800, per person, per night, and includes breakfast and transfers. Sightseeing can be included as well. International Air: Safari rates do not include international air, however we have excellent airline contracts and can do your air for you. If you have frequent flyer miles, we are happy to handle your safari, and have you do your own air. During busy periods, if using frequent flyer miles, it makes sense for you to secure your international air first since it is sometimes difficult to get. Factors that Drive Costs: Five Star, Three Star... Rates at safari lodges, camps and hotels range depending on luxury, service, location and how inclusive they are, as well as whether the safari is completely private. Just because a lodge is more rustic and off the beaten path, doesn’t mean it is inexpensive. Typically the more staff on the premises, the fewer number of rooms and the more exclusivity, the higher the quality of the experience, and typically the cost. Tented or not: Just because a property is tented doesn’t mean it is rustic. Some of the most deluxe camps in Africa are canvas, such as Sabora Tented Camp in Tanzania with rack rates starting at $995 per person, per night.
Regional differences also contribute to cost. For example, in Botswana, there is a well established policy of keeping the camps very small. From a conservation point of view there's very little doubt that it's a good policy - especially since a large portion of the safari earnings go back into actual conservation. So prices are generally higher, supply and demand is a big factor.
Most of these safaris are a very fair deal when you start adding in logistical costs.
Logistical Costs: One of the biggest cost drivers on a trip are the logistical costs of getting in and out of remoter spots. Typically a 7 day trip covering the South and North Luangwa is going to be far more cost effective than trying to cover the Luangwa, Kafue, lower Zambezi and Victoria Falls in the same period. Aside from costs, you'll probably be too exhausted by the series of light aircraft charters to appreciate the latter trip. Top Private Guide: Add one of our top professional guides and you may need to add 30% to the rates - and there's no question that these safaris are fair value for money.
As a rule you get what you pay for....but at the same time you need to watch that you're getting real value for money...
We provide all of our clients with personalized consultation which allows you direct access to expert safari advice without having to wade through guide books or try to decipher how, what, when and where to visit during your trip.
