Uganda Safari Cost

Estimated Uganda Safari Costs

Budget Safari: If you're looking for an affordable option, budget safaris in Uganda typically cost between $150–$300 per person per day. These safaris often include group tours, basic accommodations (such as simple lodges or tented camps), shared transport, and meals. Park fees are usually included in this price range.

Mid-Range Safari: For those seeking a balance of comfort and cost, mid-range safaris range from $300–$600 per person per day. These packages often include stays in more comfortable lodges, private transport, and a more personalized safari experience with smaller group sizes and better amenities.

Luxury Safari: For the ultimate in comfort and exclusivity, luxury safaris can cost anywhere from $600–$1,500+ per person per day. This includes stays at high-end lodges or exclusive tented camps, private game drives, gourmet meals, and additional experiences such as gorilla trekking, bird watching, or boat safaris.

Factors Affecting Your Uganda Safari Cost

• Accommodation Type: Choices range from budget camps to luxury lodges, influencing overall cost.
• Gorilla Trekking Permit: This major highlight costs around $700, significantly impacting your safari budget.
• Duration of Stay: Longer safaris increase the total cost, with additional nights and activities.
• Season: High season (June to September) has higher rates; low season offers discounts.
• Transportation: Private 4x4 vehicles, shared vehicles, or internal flights affect transportation costs.
• Activities: Chimpanzee trekking, boat safaris, and nature walks add to the total cost.
• Park Fees: Each national park has entry fees, which vary by location.
• Group Size: Traveling in a group can reduce per-person costs by sharing transportation and guide fees.

Wet Season (March to May, October to November)

• Lush Landscapes: The wet season brings rainfall, but this results in lush, green landscapes that are spectacular for photography and nature enthusiasts. Uganda’s national parks come alive with vibrant scenery, providing a unique experience.
• Bird Watching: The wet season is a fantastic time for birdwatching in Uganda. Migratory birds arrive in the country, making it an excellent period for spotting over 1,000 species of birds. National parks like Mabamba Swamp and Semliki Wildlife Reserve are perfect for avid birdwatchers during this time.
• Fewer Tourists: During the wet season, the number of tourists drops, allowing you to enjoy Uganda’s attractions in a more serene and peaceful environment. This also means less crowded parks and more intimate experiences.
• Gorilla Trekking: While trekking conditions can be more challenging in the wet season due to muddy trails, fewer tourists and the lush forest make for a more private and intimate encounter with the gorillas.

Extra Safari Costs to Consider

• Tipping: It’s customary to tip guides, drivers, and lodge staff, typically $10 to $20 per day.
• Visas: Ensure you budget for a Ugandan visa, which usually costs around $50.
• Vaccinations and Health Precautions: Pre-trip vaccinations, malaria medication, and other health precautions may incur additional costs.
• Travel Insurance: Essential for covering any emergencies or trip cancellations.
• Internal Flights: Domestic flights between parks or remote areas can be an extra expense.
• Souvenirs: Budget for any souvenirs or locally made crafts you might want to purchase.
• Personal Expenses: Items like snacks, drinks, or personal gear (e.g., walking sticks for trekking) are extra costs to consider.

Tips for Saving on a Uganda Safari

• Travel During the Shoulder Season: Consider visiting Uganda during the shoulder season, just before or after the peak tourist season, to benefit from lower prices and fewer tourists.
• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Opt for affordable accommodation such as campsites, guesthouses, or mid-range lodges to reduce costs without compromising the safari experience.
• Join Group Tours: Group safaris are generally more cost-effective than private safaris since you’ll be sharing transportation and accommodation costs with others.
• Book in Advance: Planning your safari well in advance can help secure early bird discounts and ensure you avoid last-minute price hikes.