A private Serengeti safari offers the ultimate freedom and exclusivity, allowing you to experience the wonders of Tanzania’s most famous national park at your own pace. Unlike group tours, where schedules are fixed, a private safari is tailor-made around your preferences—whether that means spending more time watching the Great Migration, enjoying a picnic in the wilderness, or relaxing at a luxury lodge after a day of adventure. But how much does a private Serengeti safari really cost?
Accommodation and Style of Travel
The cost of a private safari largely depends on the type of accommodation and style of travel you choose. Budget private safaris, which often include camping or basic lodges, can start from around $250–$350 per person per day. These are perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience without overspending. Mid-range private safaris, combining comfortable lodges or tented camps with guided 4×4 game drives, typically range between $400–$700 per person per day. For travelers who want the very best, luxury private safaris can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500+ per person per day, offering high-end tented camps or lodges, gourmet dining, and highly experienced private guides.
Park Fees and Other Costs
In addition to accommodation and guide services, park fees apply to every Serengeti safari. As of 2025, visitors pay around $70 per adult per day in high season and about $60 in low season, plus a concession fee of around $50–$60 per night for those staying in lodges or tented camps inside the park. These fees directly support conservation efforts and ensure that the Serengeti remains a pristine wilderness for future generations.
Transport Options
Another factor that influences your safari cost is transportation. Private safaris often include a dedicated 4×4 Land Cruiser with your own driver-guide, which typically costs around $250–$300 per vehicle per day. Some travelers prefer to fly directly into the Serengeti from Arusha or Kilimanjaro, which costs about $200–$250 one way. Though flights are more expensive than road transfers, they save time and allow you to enjoy breathtaking views from the air.
Budget Serengeti Safaris vs Luxury Serengeti Safaris
One of the biggest factors in your safari cost is the type of accommodation and level of comfort you choose.
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Budget Serengeti Safaris: With camping or basic lodges, budget safaris can cost around $250–$350 per person per day. They include private vehicles and guides but focus on simple yet authentic experiences. Budget safaris are perfect for travelers seeking affordability without compromising on game viewing.
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Luxury Serengeti Safaris: For those who want world-class service, luxury tented camps and lodges can cost $800–$1,500+ per person per day. These include spacious en-suite tents, infinity pools overlooking the plains, gourmet dining, and expert private guides. Luxury safaris are ideal for honeymooners, special occasions, or travelers who want to experience Serengeti in style.
Both options guarantee incredible wildlife encounters—the difference lies in comfort, exclusivity, and extra amenities.
Traveling with Kids to the Serengeti
The Serengeti is also a wonderful destination for families. Many lodges and camps offer family-friendly accommodations, with larger rooms, safety considerations, and even special children’s safari activities. Private safaris are especially suitable for families, as parents can set the pace and plan flexible game drives around the kids’ needs.
Costs for traveling with children are often lower since some lodges offer discounted rates for kids under 12, and park fees for children are also reduced. At Hilltop Travel, we customize itineraries to ensure a safe and fun Serengeti adventure for the whole family.
Hot Air Balloon Safari in Serengeti
For a truly unique and magical experience, you can add a hot air balloon safari to your private Serengeti trip. Floating over the endless plains at sunrise gives you a bird’s-eye view of elephants, giraffes, hippos, and even the Great Migration herds. A hot air balloon safari typically costs $550–$600 per person, and includes a champagne breakfast in the bush. While it’s an additional expense, many travelers consider it a highlight of their Serengeti safari.
Serengeti Great Migration
No discussion of safari costs is complete without mentioning the Great Wildebeest Migration—the largest overland animal migration on Earth. Witnessing over 1.5 million wildebeest and hundreds of thousands of zebras move across the plains is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The timing of your private Serengeti safari can influence costs. Peak migration months (June to October for river crossings, December to March for calving season) are in high demand, which means accommodation prices are higher and availability is limited. Planning ahead ensures the best experience, whether you want to see dramatic river crossings at the Mara River or the newborn calves in Ndutu.
Sample Budget for a Private Safari
A 3- to 4-day budget private Serengeti safari can cost between $1,200 and $1,800 per person, including accommodation, park fees, transport, and meals. A 5- to 7-day mid-range safari is usually between $3,000 and $5,000 per person, while a luxury private safari of the same length can range from $7,000 to $12,000 or more per person.
Why Choose a Private Safari with Hilltop Travel?
When you book a private Serengeti safari with Hilltop Travel, you are guaranteed a personalized adventure tailored to your travel style and budget. You’ll have your own professional driver-guide, flexible daily itineraries, and exclusive use of a private safari vehicle. Whether you want an affordable yet private camping trip or a luxurious lodge-to-lodge experience, we design safaris that give you the best value while ensuring comfort, safety, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Start planning your dream private Serengeti safari today with Hilltop Travel—your gateway to Tanzania’s greatest wilderness.
