An Expert Guide To Planning a Kenya Budget Safari

Written By

Diwaka Safaris
15/11/2022
Safaris
Kenya Budget Safari

The process of planning a Kenya Safari depends on some factors. They include the number of days, types of accommodations, destinations, safari activities, etc. Yet, it’s still possible to plan a Kenya Budget Safari in this wonderful country.

Below, we’ll closely look at how you can plan a perfect Kenya Safari Tour on a reasonable budget.

1. Consider Visiting In The Low Or Shoulder Season

Best Time To Visit Kenya

The low season in Kenya is from April to May. And, the shoulder season is in November, December, and March. During these months, international flights and accommodations will cost significantly less.

Traveling in the low (green) season has another advantage – the landscapes are vibrant and the game-viewing is great. Because animals move towards the watering holes that are now filled.

2. Pick a Camping Safari

Kenya Camping Safari

There are many campsites located outside the national parks of Kenya. Their costs start from $10 onwards (per person, per night). Below are a couple of budget campsites for visitors on a Kenya Safari:

Crocodile Camp – It’s located next to the town of Talek. And is the top-rated camp in the Maasai Mara and a great budget choice. The service is also exceptional and the camp is great in terms of comfort. Crocodile Camp provides great quality – at an affordable price!

Greenwood Safari Camp – This camp is also situated nearby Talek. Though already pitched tents are available, you can also set up your tent. You’ll get to enjoy the day relaxing in a hammock or swimming in the pool.

Our Insights – Most of the budget camps are booked quickly. So, make sure to book in advance. Furthermore, if you have your equipment for camping, you can pitch a tent as well.

3. Overview of Budget choices from the airport to your camp

You can save money right from the moment you land in Kenya. Below is a rundown of budget choices along the way to your camp:

3.1. Choose A Bus To Narok

For a Budget Kenya Safari, you should pick local transportation. Matatus (minibuses) are popular in Kenya. For this, you’ll have to go to Narok. It’s a town situated 150 km from Nairobi. The usual cost for a matatu is $4.

The bus station is located in the Central Business District Area. The first bus departs at about 7-8 am. The coordinates are – 1.283412, 36.830169.

3.2. Book A Shared Taxi From Narok To The Campsite

There’s a public shared matatu that goes straight to the villages just outside the national parks. The time is till 1.30 pm. And the matatu is named C12. The costs are around $5 (per person).

3.3. Book A Safari After Arriving At The Camp

After arriving at the camp, go to the reception area and make arrangements for a safari the next day. For people on a budget, they can choose a Kenya Group Safari and share the cost between people.

4. National Park Entrance Fees in Kenya

Before you go on a Safari in Kenya, you should know about the entrance fees of the national parks. Don’t worry, because the fees are very reasonable and won’t affect the overall budget too much.

National ParkCosts for Adults (per person, approx.)Costs for Children (under the age of 15)
Nairobi National Park$60$20
Maasai Mara National Reserve$80$45
Amboseli National Park$70$20
Lake Nakuru National Park$70$20
Tsavo East and West National Parks$60$20
Hell’s Gate National Park$30$20

Notes – The method of payment is by Visa, MasterCard, or MPesa. And cash is not accepted. Children under the age of 5 are not charged any entrance fee.

5. Overall Cost of a Kenya Safari

The cost of a Kenya Budget Safari starts from $200 and can go upwards of $2000. For your convenience, below are some itineraries that will help you figure out the costs in more detail:

1 – Day Kenya Safari in Maasai Mara National Reserve

  • Local transportation Cost – $7
  • Groceries – $6
  • Shared Taxis – $10
  • Accommodation (in campsites) – $30
  • Dinner – $10
  • Maasai Mara Entrance Fee – $80
  • Game Drives – $60

6. Daily Costs of things in Kenya

Name of thingsCosts (in KSh), approx.Costs (in USD), approx.
Double room in a midrange camp or lodge3575 to 17,875$30 to $147
Airbnb7150$58.75
Dorm beds in hostelsFrom 1190 onwardsFrom $9.77 onwards
Midrange Kenya Safari Package (for 3 days)47,650 to 71,550$391.54 to $587.92
Public transport120 to 600$1 to $5
Uber across the town120 to 750$3 to $7
Taxis for sightseeingFrom 3575 (for half a day)From $30 (for half a day)
Coffee230 to 350$2 to $3
Dinner for twoFrom 1200 onwardsFrom $10 onwards
Lunch at a caféFrom 400 onwardsFrom 3.29 onwards
Beer at a barFrom 120 onwardsFrom $1 onwards

7. Kenya Budget Safari Packages

Below are 2 Kenya Budget Safari packages that’ll give the best experience for visitors on a Safari In Kenya:

4 Days Lake Nakuru & Masai Mara Camping Safari – Including Lake Nakuru National Park and Maasai Mara National Reserve.

6 Days Kenya Safari Kongoni – Including Nairobi, Maasai Mara, and Lake Nakuru National Park.

8. Budget Safari Tips From Our Safari Experts

The following are some suggestions that you should follow on your Kenya Safari:

  • Avoid staying in private concessions.
  • Book your Kenya Safari Tour visit in advance.
  • Select locally owned lodges (e.g. Lewa Wilderness Lodge and Ol Malo Lodge).
  • Choose off-beaten destinations (like Samburu National Reserve and Lake Nakuru National Park).
  • Plan your safari itinerary carefully.
  • Be aware of exchange rates.

You should keep these tips in mind for a hassle-free Kenya Budget Safari.

If you have any questions and/or, suggestions, you can reach out to our safari expert at the following information:

+254 767 500100

Email: info@diwakasafaris.com

Moreover, you can follow us on different social media platforms as well:

Conclusion

Finally, yes Kenya Safari is possible on a budget. Just keep in mind the suggestions and plan your Kenya Safari Tour with a reliable tour operator.

Diwaka Safaris offers some of the best and most unique camping safaris. Our safari experts will go above and beyond to make your Kenya Budget Safari as great as possible.

Go On, Share This Post

Related Post

What To Expect on a Typical Kenya Day Trip Safari: A Journey into the

10/08/2023

A First-Timer's Guide to Planning a Safari in Kenya

20/07/2023

Kenya Cultural Tour: Immerse Yourself in the Rich Heritage

06/07/2023

Encounters with Wildlife: A Close-Up Look at Kenya's Safari Marvels

20/06/2023

Masai Mara Safari - Discover The Magic Of Masai Mara On Your Kenya Saf

30/05/2023

Tanzania Destinations - A Journey To The Heart Of Africa With Diwaka S

22/04/2023

Popular Posts

Categories

Latest Posts