Make a Request

Tanzania Safari FAQs: Cost, Regions, Tourism Tax & More

  • Home >> Blog >> Tanzania Safari FAQs: Cost, Regions, Tourism Tax & More
Benson Safaris | Flock of pink flamingos from Lake Manyara, Tanzania
Olive baboon
Impalas grazing peacefully in manyara national park, tanzania

Planning a safari in Tanzania? Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about safari costs, regions, tourism tax, and whether Tanzania is a top safari destination.

Tanzania is one of Africa’s top safari destinations — home to the Serengeti, the Great Migration, the Big Five, and much more. If you’re considering a trip to this beautiful country, you probably have questions about cost, safari options, tourist taxes, and the geography of the country.

Here’s a helpful guide covering all the essentials.

Lion, Panthera leo, Tarangire National Park, Tanzania

1. How Much Does a Safari Cost in Tanzania?

The cost of a safari in Tanzania depends on a few key factors:

  • Accommodation type (budget, mid-range, or luxury)
  • Number of days on safari
  • Private vs. group safari
  • Season (high vs. low/green season)
  • Destinations visited (some parks are more remote or expensive than others)

💰 General Price Range (Per Person, Per Day):

  • Budget safari: $180 – $300
  • Mid-range safari: $350 – $550
  • Luxury safari: $600 – $1,500+

Prices usually include:

  • Park entrance fees
  • A professional guide and vehicle
  • Accommodation and meals
  • Game drives and transfers
  • Sometimes internal flights (if flying between parks)

🎯 Tip: Booking with a local operator can offer better value than going through large international agencies.

2. Does Tanzania Have Safaris?

Yes — and not just any safaris. Tanzania is one of the best safari destinations in the world. It offers:

  • Incredible wildlife diversity
  • World-famous national parks and conservation areas
  • A variety of landscapes: savannah, crater, mountains, forests, lakes, and wetlands
  • Unique experiences like the Great Wildebeest Migration, chimpanzee trekking, and walking safaris

🌍 Top Safari Parks in Tanzania:

  • Serengeti National Park – endless plains and wildlife action year-round
  • Ngorongoro Crater – high chance to see the Big Five in a compact area
  • Tarangire National Park – large elephant herds and ancient baobabs
  • Lake Manyara National Park – known for tree-climbing lions and birdlife
  • Ruaha & Nyerere (Selous) National Parks – remote and wild, perfect for off-the-beaten-path safaris
  • Gombe & Mahale Mountains – home to wild chimpanzees

🎯 Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned safari-goer, Tanzania has a safari for you.

Benson Safaris | herd of zebra in the Serengeti

3. Which Regions Are in Tanzania?

Tanzania is divided into 31 administrative regions, each offering its own unique attractions. These regions fall into several zones:

🧭 Key Safari Zones:

  • Northern Circuit – Arusha, Kilimanjaro, Manyara, Mara
    Home to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara
  • Southern Circuit – Iringa, Morogoro, Lindi, Ruvuma
    Home to Ruaha, Nyerere (Selous), Mikumi
  • Western Circuit – Kigoma, Katavi
    Home to Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains (chimpanzee trekking)
  • Coastal & Zanzibar Regions – Dar es Salaam, Tanga, Unguja, Pemba
    For beach escapes, culture, and marine wildlife

Each region offers something different — whether it’s game viewing, hiking, culture, or beach relaxation.

4. What Is the Tourism Tax in Tanzania?

Tanzania applies Value-Added Tax (VAT) and other levies to tourism services. Here’s what you need to know:

  • VAT (18%) is included in most published safari prices — covering accommodation, transport, and guide services.
  • Park Entry Fees: Charged per person, per day. Varies by park.
    • Serengeti: ~$70–$83/day
    • Ngorongoro: ~$70/day (plus crater vehicle fee)
    • Tarangire/Lake Manyara: ~$59/day
  • Concession Fees: Charged if you stay inside national parks — often $50–$70 per night.
  • WMA Fees: Wildlife Management Areas may charge small community support fees ($10–$20 per day).
  • Hotel Levy: Some hotels and lodges apply a small local tax (usually $1–$5 per night).

🎯 Good safari operators include all taxes and park fees in your quoted price — always double-check!

Final Thoughts: Know Before You Go

Planning a safari in Tanzania doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With a basic understanding of costs, safari regions, and taxes, you can make informed decisions and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

🦓 Still have questions? We’re happy to guide you through planning the perfect safari — based on your interests, travel dates, and budget.

Our Latest posts

Let us tailor you dream safari!

Make a Request

Send Us A Message

Social Media

Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube Skype

Read Our Reviews on TripAdvisor

Picture of Benson Safari

Benson Safari

There’s nothing better than exploring the true magic of Africa! Enjoy games drive in the wilderness, luxury lodges, amazing sceneries, fascinating cultures and life changing moments in the African bush.

Lets Make a Request

© All Rights Reserved 2020