The Best Budget Safaris in East Africa
Seeking an extraordinary safari experience? We've meticulously examined various safari tours in East Africa from highly-rated companies, taking into account important criteria such as price, guest ratings, service, destinations, and activities. The result? A handpicked selection of the finest safaris in East Africa that will immerse you in nature's wonders and create cherished memories. So, pick out one of the safaris below for an epic journey into the wilderness, as we're confident it will be fantastic.
The Best Budget Safaris through East Africa
Including guided tours, organized tours, holiday packages, all-inclusive vacations, and guided itineraries.
All tour prices are listed in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically. While we do our best to evaluate all tours to maintain accuracy, always confirm the details directly with TourRadar or the tour company before booking. The information provided on this website is sourced directly from TourRadar and may change at any time.
Why does East Africa appeal to travelers on safari?
East Africa is synonymous with iconic safari experiences, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters. East Africa's expert-guided tours and various accommodation options enhance the safari adventure, making it a top choice for wildlife lovers.
How much do budget safaris in East Africa cost?
The average daily price of Budget Safaris in East Africa is $136 per day. Prices can vary widely due to the included amenities, length of the trip, number of guests on the tour, and many other factors. If you want more information about prices, we have put together a complete analysis of the costs of Budget Safaris in East Africa here.
We partner with TourRadar because they offer the world's largest selection of multi-day organized tours, offering seamless travel experiences while supporting local businesses. It's the perfect way to explore new destinations with ease and confidence.
Which Tour Companies Offer Budget Safaris?
A number of fantastic tour companies offer budget safaris in East Africa. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.
Bonvoyage Kenya Safaris
Bonvoyage Kenya Safaris offers local safari safaris through Kenya. Most participants are adults and the safaris range in length from 3 days to 10 days. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many safaris focusing on families with children. Budget travelers will appreciate the relative affordability of the company's offerings. Because of their specilization in safaris, you can be sure to have a spectacular adventure.
See All Tours from Bonvoyage Kenya Safaris
Safari Serengeti Booking
Safari Serengeti Booking offers local safari tours through Tanzania. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 1 day to 6 days. Despite being priced a bit higher, the small group sizes create a more personal and unique experience for travelers. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. A large number of their tours fall within in the mid-range price category. By specifically offering wildlife safaris, this company offers a number of great adventures that can't be missed.
See All Tours from Safari Serengeti Booking
Oasis Overland
Oasis Overland is a large company with a focus on overland truck tours through Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and Argentina. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 5 days to 38 weeks. Overland truck tours are their primary specialty, offering travelers the chance to visit remote destinations. Budget travelers will appreciate the relative affordability of the company's offerings. Their expertise is in wildlife viewing tours, so you can count on having a fun time.
See All Tours from Oasis Overland
Sterling Travel
Sterling Travel offers local safari tours through Kenya. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 3 days to 6 days. Traveling with Sterling Travel provides for a very personal experience, because most of their tours have less than 8 people. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. This company's tour offerings are generally priced lower than others, which makes them attractive for budget travelers. If you're looking for a great safari tour company, they provide many great options.
See All Tours from Sterling Travel
Budget Safari Destinations in East Africa
Wondering where budget safari tours visit in East Africa? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.
A few of the most popular places visited by tours in East Africa include Nairobi, Maasai Mara National Reserve, Lake Nakuru, Serengeti National Park, and Arusha.
Budget Safaris vs. Independent Travel: Pros and Cons
If you're torn between arranging your own trip and booking a guided tour, take a moment to weigh the differences between the two approaches.
Organized Tours
- Guided safaris provide expert wildlife trackers and guides who enhance the experience.
- Professional guides know the best times and places to spot animals.
- Safari vehicles are specially equipped for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Guided tours handle permits and park fees, simplifying logistics.
- Knowledgeable guides offer detailed insights into animal behavior and habitats.
- Accommodations are often located in prime spots for wildlife viewing.
- You can join a group, making the experience more social and shared.
- Guided tours offer increased safety, especially in remote or dangerous areas.
- Pre-planned itineraries ensure you maximize time in key wildlife hotspots.
- Guides can adapt the tour to improve your chances of seeing specific animals.
- Fixed itineraries might not align with your specific preferences.
- Larger group sizes can make it harder to enjoy quiet wildlife moments.
- Departure times and schedules are not always flexible.
- The tour may focus on popular attractions, missing hidden or less-visited gems.
Independent Travel
- You have complete flexibility in choosing destinations and timing.
- Independent trips allow you to prioritize animals or parks you want to visit most.
- Planning your own trip allows for more privacy and solitude.
- You can create a personalized itinerary based on your interests.
- Some parks and wildlife areas require guides for safety purposes
- Researching and organizing the trip can be time-consuming and complex.
- Navigating unfamiliar terrains without a guide can be challenging.
- Spotting animals without expert knowledge can be difficult.
- You need to arrange permits, park fees, and accommodations on your own.
- Safety concerns, such as wild animals or remote locations, can be stressful.
- Missing key details, like optimal viewing times, can limit the experience.
- Without local expertise, you might overlook prime wildlife areas.
Which is cheaper?
Are guided budget safaris more expensive than independent travel? It depends. Tours typically bundle accommodations, transportation, meals, tickets, guides, and activities into one price, while independent travel requires paying for these elements separately. To understand the cost difference, compare the total price of a tour with the estimated cost of handling all arrangements yourself. Personal preferences, like staying in budget accommodations or dining at upscale restaurants, could tip the balance either way. Always check what's covered in the tour to make an informed comparison.
Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.
More Tour Options
See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to East Africa, The Best Wildlife Tours to East Africa, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in East Africa, The Best Historical Tours in East Africa, The Best 10-Day Tours in East Africa, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in East Africa, The Best 3-Day Tours in East Africa, The Best 2-Week Tours in East Africa, The Best 3-Week Tours in East Africa, The Best 4-Week (1-Month) Tours in East Africa, The Best Extended Trip Tours in East Africa, One Month or Longer, The Best Bicycle Tours in East Africa, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in East Africa, The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in East Africa, The Best Overlanding Trips in East Africa, The Best Coach Bus Tours in East Africa, The Best Bird Watching Tours in East Africa, The Best Adventure Tours to East Africa, The Best Eco Tours in East Africa, The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in East Africa, The Best Water Sports Tour Packages in East Africa, The Best Sightseeing Tours in East Africa, The Best Cultural Tours in East Africa, The Tours for Animal Lovers in East Africa, The Best Volunteering Tours in East Africa, The Best Photography Tours in East Africa, The Best Camping Tours in East Africa, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in East Africa, The Best Safaris in East Africa, The Best Walking Tours in East Africa, The Best Honeymoon Tours in East Africa, The Best Tours Under $1000 in East Africa, The Best Luxury Tours to East Africa, The Best Budget Tours to East Africa, The Best Tours for Seniors to East Africa, or The Best G Adventures Tours to East Africa for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.
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