10 Tips & Tricks to an Affordable Safari in Kenya
African safaris are known to be quite costly, especially in East Africa. If an African safari is on your bucket list, this article is for you. I will share with you my 10 tips & tricks to an affordable Safari in Kenya.
Maasai Mara National Park in Kenya is one of the most desired safari destinations but it can also be insanely expensive. If I told you you could watch the great migration in the peak season for less than $500 would you believe me? Let me tell you how you can do it!
1. Avoid Accommodation within the Parks
Safari lodges and resorts are breathtaking and unique in many different ways. In some you have wild animals grazing or relaxing in your backyard and many other perks. This experience of course costs more but you get your money’s worth.
However, if you are on a budget you’ll want to steer clear of the lodges within the parks. Book accommodation outside the park or camp. Hotels in the nearby towns cost only a fraction of what you would pay in a safari lodge.
2. Consider Camping
In Maasai Mara, the best time to spot the great migration and other wildlife is early morning or evening. Depending on what time you arrive in the park, sometimes sleeping within the park makes more sense and saves time.
The park is very large and you will only waste time driving to the nearby town, then driving back into the park in the morning. Consider camping within the park, safari camps are the most affordable accommodation options for those traveling on a budget.
During the peak season, camping per night will cost you anywhere from $50 to $90 a night. Mid-range tented safari camps start from $120 and above.
3. Join a Group safari
Group safaris are cheaper compared to solo safaris. Most tour companies offer group safari packages which will include meals, snacks, and accommodation (usually camping).
The costs will carry depending on the type of vehicle used. Some use vans, over lands, or a 4WD for small groups. Overland’s are the most comfortable and fun to travel in.
On a group safari, you not only save money but also meet new people. As a solo traveler consider joining a group safari. The only downside to these types of safaris is that the itinerary is fixed or you may not enjoy the company.
4. Self-Drive Safari
Another way to do a safari on a budget in Kenya is through a self-drive safari. Hire a 4WD as these are the best when driving through all-weather roads inside the parks. When visiting the parks during the rainy seasons, make sure the tires are in good condition and stick to the driving trails.
Self-drive safaris save you transfer costs from your hotel to the park. Keep in mind you will have to pay an entry fee for the vehicle depending on the number of seats and the visitors also pay an entry fee.
In most large parks such as Maasai Mara National Park, a guide is mandatory. The large road network can be confusing to new visitors and you may end up driving in circles. It’s easy to get lost in the park and miss out on the important things to see.
In smaller parks such as Amboseli National Park, you are allowed entry without a guide. The roads here are easy to follow even for a first-time visitor.
5. Take advantage of Safari Deals
Many local tour companies have safari offers throughout the year. Be on the lookout as these opportunities could save you a couple of dollars. Follow safari lodges and companies online, and subscribe to the email for updates when offers are available.
During the low season, safari lodges and companies offer budget-friendly packages to attract more visitors. Some can offer 3 nights’ accommodation for the price of 2 and other perks. Always be on the lookout and grab the offers when you come across them.
6. Bring your food and Snacks
Always carry enough food and snacks with you during a safari. Meals in the safari lodges are quite costly. In addition, since the parks are huge, you may be miles away from any lodge when hunger strikes.
When using a travel company, simple meals are always included but have your own snacks. If self-driving, hire a vehicle with a stove to prepare meals or pack enough for the day. Don’t forget to include snacks and lots of water.
7. Visit Other parks and game reserves
The number one mistake most visitors make is only focusing on one park and ignoring the rest. Every African county has that one popular park that everyone wishes to visit. In Kenya, the most popular park is Maasai Mara, and it’s easy to see why.
We all want to witness the great wildebeest migration at least once in our lifetime right? If not visiting during the great migration season, consider a safari in the other national parks.
A day safari at the Nairobi National Park is more affordable and you will spot most wild animals. In addition, you are left with plenty of time to visit other facilities in the park or near the park such as the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and the Giraffe Center.
If you love elephants or are traveling with kids who love elephants, visit Amboseli National Park. Here you will spot hundreds of them and have a beautiful view of Mount Kilimanjaro on your backdrop.
Always do some research on the parks and game reserves in any African country. You might just surprise yourself at how much the underrated parks have to offer.
8. Make the most of your time
If your goal is to witness the great migration in the Mara, be prepared for early mornings. Safaris can begin as early as 5.30 am, this way you have the opportunity to spot lions and other predators that hide during the day.
You are also likely to catch a migration action early morning or in the evening. With poor timing, you may end up missing the action along the Mara River or spend more time and money in the camp than intended.
9. You don’t need safari outfits
Safari outfits are cool and stylish for the pictures but you do not need them. If you can’t afford safari outfits don’t worry, they are not mandatory in any African park. Simply wear regular clothes appropriate for the outdoors and avoid bright colors.
The only thing you should consider having is the right shoes. Avoid open shoes, high heels, and official shoes. If you have hiking shoes these will do for an African safari.
10. Travel during the Low season
The low season comes with affordable safaris, accommodation, and great safari deals. You’ll want to avoid doing safaris during holidays or when the great migration is at its peak (June to October).
Contrary to what most people believe, wildebeest migration continues even after this peak season. Wildebeests keep on migrating from Maasai Mara into Serengeti all year long in search of greener pastures. With a seasoned guide, you can luckily spot this phenomenon any time of the year.
11. Don’t be afraid to negotiate
Always negotiate especially during the low season, and don’t be shy or afraid to ask for a price reduction. After all, if you don’t ask the answer will always be NO!
If traveling as a group, you have a higher chance of landing a good deal if you have good negotiation skills.
12. Use local tour companies
If you are looking to save some money, book your safari with a local tour company. You’ll be surprised at what you can get on a budget. Packages include transfers to and from your hotel or the airport, refreshments, snacks, lunch, water, and photography.
In addition, local travel companies are more familiar with all parks in the country so you are guaranteed to enjoy your safaris.
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