Going on a safari in Kenya doesn’t have to cost a fortune. For around $1,200, you can enjoy a Budget Safari in Kenya that covers the country’s top national parks, travel in a proper 4×4 Landcruiser, and full-board stays at clean, comfortable camps and lodges. Whether you choose a short trip to Masai Mara or a full week visiting multiple parks, there are budget-friendly packages that cover all the essentials without cutting corners.
What to Expect from a Budget Safari in Kenya
A Budget Safari in Kenya is surprisingly complete. Most packages typically include:
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Park entry fees
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Accommodation and all meals during the safari
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A professional English-speaking guide
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Shared transport in a 4×4 Landcruiser with a pop-up roof
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Shared game drives
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Bottled mineral water
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Picnic lunch (especially in Masai Mara)
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Government taxes and tolls
Here’s what’s not included:
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International flights
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Airport transfers
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Pre/post-safari hotel nights in Nairobi
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Tips (suggested $10 per person per day)
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Souvenirs, visa fees, travel insurance
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Masai village visit ($30 per person)
Safari Options Under $1,200
Kenya has a variety of Budget Safari in Kenya options to fit different travel styles and schedules. Here are two standout choices:
1. 3-Day Masai Mara Safari (Joining Group)
This is ideal if you’re short on time but want a classic safari experience.
Season | Cost (Per Person) | Transport | Accommodation | Destination |
Jan–Jun (Low) | $440 (sharing), $460 (solo) | Shared 4x4 Landcruiser | Flair Mara Camp or similar | Masai Mara |
Jul–Dec (High) | $700 (sharing), $800 (solo) | Shared 4x4 Landcruiser | Flair Mara Camp or similar | Masai Mara |
Highlights:
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2 nights inside or near the park
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Several game drives with experienced guides
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Picnic lunch at Mara River
The Masai Mara is known for its large populations of big cats and the seasonal Great Migration. Even during the low season, you’re likely to spot lions, elephants, and herds of wildebeest—making it a great value for a Budget Safari in Kenya.
2. 7-Day Safari: Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Amboseli
If you’re seeking a more immersive adventure, this extended Budget Safari in Kenya offers remarkable diversity.
Season | Cost (Per Person) | Transport | Accommodation | Destinations |
Jan–Jun (Low) | $1,120 (sharing), $1,215 (solo) | Shared 4x4 Landcruiser | Flair Mara, Buraha Zenoni (Nakuru), The Nest (Naivasha), Nyati Safari Camp (Amboseli) | Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Amboseli |
Jul–Dec (High) | $1,500 (sharing), $1,800 (solo) | Shared 4x4 Landcruiser | Same as above | Mara, Nakuru, Naivasha, Amboseli |
What makes it worth it?
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Explore Mara’s big cats, Nakuru’s flamingos and rhinos, Naivasha’s lake life, and Amboseli’s elephants with Kilimanjaro as a backdrop.
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Stay in clean, secure, and scenic budget lodges and camps.
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Enjoy a deeper wildlife experience across Kenya’s top parks.
Traveling in the low season saves you up to $600 compared to high season prices, with fewer crowds and more personalized guiding.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Budget Safari in Kenya
I. Travel in the low season
From January to June, prices drop significantly and parks are quieter. Wildlife remains active, and guides can offer more individual attention.
II. Join a group tour
Group tours spread the cost and add a social element. Most budget safaris in Kenya accommodate 6 to 7 travelers per vehicle, keeping prices down while maintaining comfort.
III. Stick to one region if needed
If you’re on a tighter budget or schedule, focusing on just one region—like the Masai Mara—can still give you an incredible wildlife experience at a lower cost.
IV. Don’t overspend in Nairobi
Stay in affordable lodges or hostels before and after your safari. Many good ones offer airport transfers and breakfast for under $40 a night.
V. Clarify what’s included
Before booking, ask your tour operator for a complete breakdown. A reliable company will clearly state what’s included and what you need to budget separately.
VI. Bring your own gear
Save on extras by packing things like binoculars, reusable water bottles, and snacks. Some camps may charge for extras, and having your own supplies adds convenience.
What Kind of Wildlife Can You Expect?
Even on a tight budget, you’ll get close to some of Africa’s most iconic animals. Here’s what you might see:
- Masai Mara: Lions, cheetahs, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, hyenas, leopards, wildebeest (especially during the Great Migration)
- Lake Nakuru: White and black rhinos, flamingos, pelicans, baboons
- Lake Naivasha: Hippos, waterbucks, and plenty of birds; optional boat ride
- Amboseli: Large elephant herds, views of Kilimanjaro, lions, zebras, wildebeest, and giraffes
Guides know where to find these animals and are skilled at positioning vehicles for great views. The pop-up roof in the Landcruisers allows for better photography and visibility.
Final Budget Breakdown Example (7-Day Safari, Low Season)
ITEM | ESTIMATED COST |
7-Day Safari Package | $1,120 |
Tips ($10/day x 7 days) | $70 |
Pre/post hotel in Nairobi (2 nights) | $80 |
Airport transfers (round trip) | $40 |
Extra meals/snacks | $30 |
Masai village visit | $30 |
Total | $1,370 |
You can still come close to the $1,200 mark by skipping optional extras like the village visit or choosing a dorm room instead of a private one in Nairobi.
If you’re traveling with a friend and splitting certain costs, that also brings the total down.
Is It Worth It?
Yes. A budget safari in Kenya doesn’t mean compromising on experience. You still travel in proper safari vehicles, have expert guides, and stay in decent accommodations. The key difference is that you share resources and stay in simpler lodges. With the right tour operator and smart planning, you can see Kenya’s incredible wildlife without overspending.
There’s no need to break the bank to enjoy Africa’s most iconic wildlife. With around $1,200, a good plan, and a bit of flexibility, your Kenyan safari can be just as unforgettable as any luxury trip.
