A trip to the Kruger National Park is a dream come true for anyone who has a deep love of the wilderness. Whether you’re driving yourself through the park or booking that once-in-a-lifetime Kruger Park safari, understanding your spending budget can help you plan a stress-free and enjoyable safari.
Costs can vary widely based on your travel style, so let’s break down the main expenses to help you budget accordingly.
What Factors Influence Your Kruger Park Safari Spending?
The amount of money you’ll need for a Kruger Park safari depends on several things.
First, your type of safari plays a big role. Self-drive safaris are much cheaper than guided tours.
Accommodation choices also make a difference, and they from budget-friendly campsites to five-star resorts. Additionally, there are conservation fees to enter the park, which vary based on your nationality.
Food and drink expenses are another consideration and the amount you spend will depend on whether you’re self-catering, dining at rest camps, or enjoying gourmet lodge meals.
Activities such as guided game drives, night safaris, and bush walks may also add to your budget.
Lastly, don’t forget to factor in tipping for guides and staff, as well as any souvenirs you might want to bring home as a memory of your safari adventure.
Estimated Daily Budget for a Kruger Park Safari
Whether you’re travelling on a shoestring budget or indulging in a luxury experience, here’s a general breakdown of daily expenses for a Kruger Park safari:
| Category | Budget Traveller | Mid-Range Traveller | Luxury Traveller |
| Accommodation | $30 – $80 | $100 – $300 | $400 – $1,500+ |
| Park Fees | $25 per day | $25 per day | $25 per day |
| Food & Drinks | $10 – $30 | $40 – $100 | $150+ |
| Game Drives & Activities | Self-drive ($10 fuel) | $50 – $150 | $200 – $500 |
| Tipping & Souvenirs | $5 – $20 | $20 – $50 | $50 – $150 |
| Total Estimated Cost (per day) | $80 – $150 | $200 – $600 | $800 – $2,500+ |
If you’re planning a 3-day safari, you can expect to spend anywhere from $250 on a budget trip to $7,000+ for a high-end, all-inclusive experience.
The Little-Known Costs & Our Money-Saving Tips
When budgeting for your trip, there are some costs that can sneak up on you. Such costs include:
- Flights to South Africa and transfers to the Kruger can be a significant expense, especially if you’re coming from overseas.
- Travel insurance is another important cost to factor in, as it ensures peace of mind in case of unexpected medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
- Many lodges also charge premium prices for alcohol and speciality drinks, so if you enjoy a glass of wine at sunset, your bar tab can add up quickly.
Want to save money?
Book your accommodation well in advance as the Kruger’s rest camps fill up fast.
If you’re open to adventure, a self-drive safari can save you a lot compared to a private guided tour. Staying just outside the park’s gates can also lower your lodging costs while still giving you easy access to the Kruger’s wildlife.
And if you love to cook, bringing your own food and drinks is a great way to cut down on meal expenses.
A Kruger safari is one of the most wonderful wildlife experiences in the world and watching elephants at a waterhole or hearing lions roar at night, is worth every cent you spend.
Want to Save More on Your Kruger Park Safari?
Check out official SANParks rates www.sanparks.org and contact Elephant Herd to discuss safari prices and how we can accommodate your expectations.
