East and Central Africa are some of the best places in the world for safari. The region has an incredible variety of wildlife, including birds, primates, fish, savannah animals, and wetland species. Because of this, it is still seen as one of the most special travel experiences in the world. Travelers to East Africa can choose from many safari options, depending on their budget. There are short and affordable trips, as well as high-end safaris that visit several destinations in the range of East Africa Safari Costs. This means you can plan a safari that fits both your preferences and your budget.
The cost of a safari in 2025 and 2026 depends on several factors. These include park conservation fees and gorilla or chimpanzee trekking permits, the type of accommodation you choose (from budget guesthouses to luxury lodges), your mode of transport (such as private vehicles, internal flights, or group transfers), and wider issues such as regional stability and currency changes. This guide explains safari costs in Rwanda, Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Kenya, and Tanzania. It also gives details about gorilla trekking permits, seasonal price changes, and tips on how to plan your budget. The aim is to help you prepare clearly so that your safari matches both your expectations and your finances.
Safari Costs by Country
Uganda Safari Costs
Uganda is known for gorilla trekking in Bwindi at USD 800 per permit and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale at USD 200. Visitors can also enjoy safaris in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth, with park fees around USD 40 to 50. Uganda is best for adventurous travelers who want both primates and traditional safaris in one trip.
| Accommodation | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 4-star comfort | USD 450 – 650 | USD 850 |
| 4-star luxury | USD 1,100 – 1,400 | USD 1,700 |
| 5-star luxury | USD 1,900 | USD 2,400 |
Rwanda Safari Costs
Rwanda offers high-end safaris with easy travel between parks. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park costs USD 1,500 per permit. Nyungwe is famous for chimpanzees and canopy walks, while Akagera is home to the Big Five. Rwanda is best for travelers who prefer luxury, short journeys, and conservation-focused tourism.
| Accommodation | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 4-star comfort | USD 600 – 850 | USD 1,000 |
| 4-star luxury | USD 1,400 – 1,700 | USD 2,000 |
| 5-star luxury | USD 2,200 | USD 2,800 |
Read: Rwanda Safari Costs , Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari Packages
Congo Safari Costs
Congo is a raw, adventurous destination. Gorilla trekking permits in Virunga cost USD 400 in high season and USD 200 in low season. Travelers can also hike Mount Nyiragongo or track lowland gorillas in Kahuzi-Biega. Congo is best for travelers who want affordable gorilla permits and off-the-beaten-path adventures. It has the most pocket friendly East African Safari costs.
| Accommodation | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 4-star comfort | USD 300 – 500 | USD 700 |
| 4-star luxury | USD 800 – 1,100 | USD 1,300 |
| 5-star luxury | USD 1,500 | USD 2,000 |
Burundi Safari Costs
Burundi is less visited but offers unique experiences. Rusizi National Park has hippos and crocodiles, while Kibira offers primate tracking and forest hikes. Park fees are usually under USD 40 per day. Burundi is best for explorers who enjoy rare destinations, often combined with trips to Rwanda or Tanzania.
| Accommodation | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 4-star comfort | USD 250 – 400 | USD 550 |
| 4-star luxury | USD 600 – 850 | USD 1,100 |
| 5-star luxury | USD 1,300 | USD 1,700 |
Tanzania Safari Costs
Tanzania is famous for the Great Migration in the Serengeti and the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater. You can see the Big Five, enjoy cultural visits, or take a hot air balloon safari for about USD 500 to 600. Park fees are around USD 70 per day. Tanzania is best for travelers who want classic African safaris with dramatic landscapes and plenty of wildlife.
| Accommodation | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 4-star comfort | USD 580 – 810 | USD 920 |
| 4-star luxury | USD 1,150 – 1,500 | USD 1,730 |
| 5-star luxury | USD 2,000 | USD 2,530 |
Kenya Safari Costs
Kenya offers world-class safaris, especially in the Maasai Mara where the Great Migration takes place. You can also see elephants in Amboseli, rare wildlife in Samburu, and wide wilderness in Tsavo. Park fees in the Mara cost USD 200 to 400, and vehicles range from USD 80 to 350 per day. Kenya is best for families, first-time safari travelers, and photographers who want variety and easy access.
| Accommodation | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| 4-star comfort | USD 500 – 700 | USD 900 |
| 4-star luxury | USD 1,200 – 1,500 | USD 1,800 |
| 5-star luxury | USD 2,100 | USD 2,700 |
Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs
It is hard to visit East Africa without a brief visit with the Mountain Gorillas, and as such gorilla trekking permits are the single most important cost to consider in your East African Safari costs when planning your safari, and they vary greatly by country.
Rwanda charges USD 1,500 per person for a gorilla trekking permit. In the low season months of March, April, May, and November, travelers who spend at least two nights in either Akagera or Nyungwe can receive a 30 percent discount on the gorilla permit. For longer combined stays, this discount can increase up to 50 percent, making Rwanda’s premium luxury experience more accessible.
Uganda offers gorilla permits at USD 800 per person. This makes it one of the most balanced choices, combining affordability with reliable infrastructure, multiple trekking regions, and excellent park management.
Congo remains the most affordable option, with permits at USD 400 per person. However, travelers should carefully consider safety concerns, as access to Virunga National Park can be irregular due to regional unrest.
Read: Rwanda vs Uganda Gorilla Trekking Costs
Gorilla Permit Cost Comparison
| Country | Cost per Permit | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rwanda | USD 1,500 (up to 50% discount in low season with extra nights in other parks) | Premium experience, short travel times, strong conservation focus |
| Uganda | USD 800 | Balanced choice, reliable trekking, good infrastructure |
| Congo (DRC) | USD 400 | Cheapest option, but safety and service availability can be uncertain at the moment. |
Budget vs. Midrange vs. Luxury Safaris in East Africa
East Africa Safari costs depend mostly on where you stay and the level of comfort you prefer. Budget Safaris cost about USD 150 to 200 per person per day. You stay in simple guesthouses, budget hotels, or basic lodges near the parks. Good for backpackers and travelers who want to keep costs low. Midrange Safaris cost about USD 250 to 400 per person per day. This includes boutique hotels, eco-lodges, or mid-level tented camps with good service and comfort. Best for couples, families, or small groups who want value and comfort. Luxury Safaris start from USD 500 per person per day and above. You stay in high end lodges or luxury safari camps with excellent service, fine dining, and exclusive experiences. Perfect for honeymooners and travelers looking for premium comfort.