Which country is cheapest for safaris?

Which East African Country Is Cheapest for Safaris?

If you’ve been dreaming of going on a safari in East Africa, you’re not alone. This region is the birthplace of the African safari, home to iconic wildlife destinations like the Serengeti, Maasai Mara, Bwindi, and Volcanoes National Park. But when it comes to choosing a safari destination, budget is often the deciding factor.

So, which East African country is the cheapest for safaris?

In this post, we break down the cost of safaris in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda—four of the most popular safari destinations in East Africa. We’ll look at prices for park entrance, accommodation, transport, and activities, helping you pick the perfect destination that fits your adventure dreams and your wallet.

Countries Compared: The Big Four

1. Uganda – The Pearl of Africa

Uganda is increasingly recognized as the cheapest safari country in East Africa, especially for travelers who want to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and experience classic wildlife game drives without breaking the bank.

What Makes Uganda Affordable?

• Lower park entrance fees compared to Kenya and Tanzania.

• Budget-friendly accommodations, especially in national parks.

• Affordable gorilla trekking permits ($800 as of 2025 vs. $1,500 in Rwanda).

• Plenty of tour operators offering competitive rates for self-drive or guided trips.

Sample Safari Cost (per person for 5 days):

• Park Fees: $120

• Accommodation: $50–$100 per night

• Transport: $80/day for vehicle + $40/day for driver (optional)

• Gorilla Trekking: $800 (optional but a major highlight)

Total Estimated Cost: $1,200 – $1,800 depending on the itinerary

Highlights:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Gorilla trekking paradise

• Murchison Falls National Park – Game drives & Nile boat safaris

• Queen Elizabeth National Park – Tree-climbing lions & boat cruises

• Kibale Forest – The best place for chimpanzee tracking

2. Kenya – The Classic Safari Destination

Kenya is the most iconic safari destination in East Africa, home to the legendary Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Lake Nakuru. It offers rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and world-famous migrations.

But is Kenya the cheapest safari country in East Africa?

Not Quite.

While Kenya offers world-class safari experiences, its popularity drives up the prices, especially in peak seasons (June to October and December to February).

Sample Safari Cost (per person for 5 days):

• Park Fees: $80–$100/day for Masai Mara

• Accommodation: $100–$300 per night

• Transport: $150/day for 4×4 vehicle + driver

Total Estimated Cost: $2,000 – $3,500

Highlights:

• Masai Mara – Big 5 and Great Wildebeest Migration

• Amboseli – Elephants with Kilimanjaro views

• Lake Nakuru – Flamingos and rhinos

• Laikipia Plateau – Luxury conservancies and community tourism

Verdict:

Kenya offers excellent value for luxury and mid-range travelers, but for strict budget safaris, Uganda often wins.

3. Tanzania – The Land of the Serengeti

Tanzania is arguably the best overall safari country in East Africa, with its vast landscapes and unmatched wildlife density. However, it’s not the cheapest—especially not for budget travelers.

Why Tanzania Is Pricier:

• Higher park fees (up to $83 per day in the Serengeti)

• Mandatory conservation fees for accommodations inside parks

• Limited self-drive options in national parks

Sample Safari Cost (per person for 5 days):

• Park Fees: $80–$100/day

• Accommodation: $150–$400 per night

• Transport: $150/day for vehicle and guide

Total Estimated Cost: $2,500 – $4,000

Highlights:

• Serengeti National Park – Big cats and the Great Migration

• Ngorongoro Crater – High wildlife concentration in a unique setting

• Tarangire National Park – Elephants and baobabs

• Selous (Nyerere) and Ruaha – Off-the-beaten-path gems

Verdict:

Tanzania is a dream safari destination, but comes at a price. For those on a tight budget, Uganda remains a cheaper option.

4. Rwanda – Luxury Gorilla Treks and Pristine Parks

Rwanda is famous for its luxury gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park and its safe, clean tourism infrastructure. It’s a rising star in East African tourism but is not budget-friendly.

Why Rwanda Is Expensive:

• Gorilla permit: $1,500 (most expensive in the world)

• High-end lodges dominate the market

• Fewer budget accommodation options around parks

Sample Safari Cost (per person for 5 days):

• Park Fees: $100/day

• Gorilla Trekking: $1,500

• Accommodation: $200–$500 per night

• Transport: $100/day

Total Estimated Cost: $3,500 – $5,500

Highlights:

• Volcanoes National Park – Gorilla trekking

• Akagera National Park – Big Five game drives

• Nyungwe Forest – Canopy walks and chimp tracking

Verdict:

Rwanda is ideal for luxury travelers. For backpackers and mid-budget travelers, Uganda offers nearly identical experiences at a fraction of the cost.

Price Comparison Table

Hidden Costs You Should Know

Even if a safari package looks cheap at first glance, you need to factor in some hidden costs:

• Visa fees ($50–$100 depending on nationality and country)

• Tipping (guides, porters, lodge staff)

• Domestic flights (especially in Kenya & Tanzania)

• Optional activities (hot air balloons, night game drives)

• Travel insurance

In Uganda, many of these extras are optional or available at a lower cost, making it even more budget-friendly.

Why Uganda Wins as the Cheapest Safari Country in East Africa

Uganda stands out for several reasons:

• Affordable accommodation in or near national parks

• Gorilla trekking is much cheaper than Rwanda

• Diverse experiences—game drives, boat safaris, gorillas, chimps, culture—all in one trip

• Lower park entrance fees

• Growing network of local tour operators offering affordable packages and self-drive options

You can explore savannahs, rainforests, crater lakes, and the Nile River—all in one affordable itinerary.

Budget Travel Tips for an East African Safari

To keep your safari affordable:

1. Travel in the low season – Prices drop between March–May and October–November.

2. Use local tour operators – They offer more competitive prices than international companies.

3. Join group safaris – Shared costs reduce the total expense.

4. Go self-drive – If you’re confident, this is a major cost saver in Uganda and Kenya.

5. Camp or choose budget lodges – Many offer excellent views and experiences without the luxury price tag.

6. Book in advance – Especially for gorilla permits or popular parks.

Suggested Itinerary: Budget Safari in Uganda (5 Days)

Day 1 – Arrive in Entebbe, transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Day 2 – Morning game drive, boat cruise, drive to Queen Elizabeth NP
Day 3 – Game drive in Ishasha sector (tree-climbing lions), overnight in Bwindi
Day 4 – Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Day 5 – Return to Entebbe, stop at the equator

Total Cost: From $1,200 per person, including accommodation, meals, gorilla permit, guide, and park fees.

Final Verdict: Cheapest Safari Country in East Africa

After comparing the four countries, it’s clear:

🏆 Uganda is the cheapest East African country for safaris.

While Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda offer unforgettable experiences, Uganda combines affordability, diversity, and authenticity in a way that no other country currently does.

Whether you’re trekking gorillas in Bwindi, cruising the Nile in Murchison, or watching lions in Queen Elizabeth, Uganda lets you do it all without emptying your wallet.

Ready to Plan Your Safari in Uganda?

We specialize in budget-friendly safaris that don’t compromise on experience. Whether you’re looking for self-drive trips, private guided tours, or camping safaris—we’ve got a package tailored for you.