What Is Included in a Typical Safari Package in Kenya or Tanzania? Whether you’re visiting the Masai Mara National Reserve, Serengeti National Park, or combining safari with a beach stay in Diani Beach, understanding inclusions is essential for comparing quotes and avoiding hidden costs.
Leading safari companies like Safari Bookings, Discover Africa Safaris, and Go2Africa generally follow a similar structure when building safari packages, though details vary depending on budget and travel style.
This guide breaks down exactly what’s included (and what’s not), so you can plan and book with confidence.
What Is Included in a Typical Safari Package?
Most safari packages in Kenya and Tanzania are semi all-inclusive, meaning they cover all essential travel components once you arrive.
1. Accommodation (Lodges, Camps, or Hotels)
Accommodation is always included and usually forms the largest portion of your safari cost.
What to Expect:
- Safari lodges or tented camps or near national parks
- Room type based on package level (standard, luxury, premium)
- En-suite bathrooms and full-service hospitality
👉 According to Discover Africa, safari accommodations are designed to “blend comfort with immersion in nature.”
2. Game Drives in a 4×4 Safari Vehicle
Game drives are the core of every safari.
Typically Included:
- Shared or private 4×4 vehicle (Land Cruiser with pop-up roof)
- Daily morning and afternoon game drives
- Fuel and park access during drives
SafariBookings highlights that most packages include “unlimited game drives within park regulations.”
3. Professional Safari Guide
A knowledgeable guide is a key part of the safari experience.
Included:
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Wildlife tracking expertise
- Local knowledge and safety
👉 Go2Africa emphasizes that guides “play a major role in the quality of your safari experience.”
4. Park Entry Fees
Park fees are mandatory and often expensive, but they are usually included in your package.
Examples:
- Masai Mara: ~$200 per adult per day
- Serengeti: ~$70–$100 per day (varies by season)
👉 These are fixed government fees and are included in most quoted safari prices.
5. Meals (Full Board on Safari)
Most safari packages include meals throughout your stay.
Typical Meal Plan:
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner (Full Board)
- Drinking water during game drives
- Some lodges include snacks and tea/coffee
SafariBookings notes that safari packages are usually “full-board while on safari and flexible at beach destinations.”
6. Airport Transfers and Ground Transport
Your package typically includes all internal logistics.
Included:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Transfers between parks
- Transport in safari vehicle or domestic flights (if booked)
7. Domestic Flights (On Fly-In Safaris)
If you book a fly-in safari, flights are included.
Example Routes:
- Nairobi → Masai Mara
- Masai Mara → Coast (Diani Beach)
👉 Discover Africa recommends fly-in safaris for saving time and maximizing game viewing.
8. Drinking Water During Safari
Most operators provide:
- Bottled or filtered water in safari vehicles
- Refillable water stations at lodges
What Is NOT Included in a Safari Package?
Understanding exclusions is just as important as inclusions.
1. International Flights
- Flights to/from Africa are almost never included
2. Visa Fees
3. Travel Insurance
- Strongly recommended but not included
4. Tips and Gratuities
- Guide tips: ~$10–$20 per day
- Lodge staff tips: optional but expected
5. Alcoholic and Premium Drinks
- Often excluded unless in all-inclusive lodges
6. Optional Activities
These are usually add-ons:
- Hot air balloon safari (Masai Mara / Serengeti)
- Maasai village visits
- Boat safaris (Lake Naivasha)
- Snorkeling/diving at Diani Beach
👉 Go2Africa notes that optional experiences can “enhance your safari but significantly increase overall cost.”
Differences Between Budget, Mid-Range, and Luxury Packages
Budget Safari
- Basic lodges or camps
- Shared vehicles
- Limited extras
Mid-Range Safari
- Comfortable lodges
- Better locations
- Small group or private options
Luxury Safari
- High-end lodges or tented camps
- Private vehicles
- Flights included
- Premium service and experiences
👉 Discover Africa highlights that luxury safaris focus on “exclusivity, comfort, and personalized experiences.”
Safari vs Beach Add-Ons: What Changes?
When you combine safari with a beach holiday:
Safari Portion:
- Fully inclusive (lodging, meals, game drives)
Beach Portion:
- Often half-board or all-inclusive
- Activities charged separately
👉 This is common when combining Masai Mara with Diani Beach or Serengeti with Zanzibar.
Why Understanding Inclusions Matters
According to SafariBookings:
👉 Many travelers compare safari quotes without realizing that:
- One package includes park fees
- Another excludes them
This can create misleading price differences of $500–$1,500+
Pro Tips from Safari Experts
Based on insights from top safari companies:
✔ Always ask for a full breakdown of inclusions
✔ Confirm whether park fees are included
✔ Check if transport is private or shared
✔ Ask about drinks and optional activities
✔ Compare value—not just price
Final Verdict: What’s Included in a Safari Package?
A typical safari package in Kenya or Tanzania includes:
✔ Accommodation
✔ Game drives
✔ Safari vehicle and guide
✔ Park entry fees
✔ Meals (full board)
✔ Transfers and logistics
And excludes:
❌ International flights
❌ Visa fees
❌ Tips and personal expenses
❌ Optional activities