Budget safari vacations

You can still expect great wildlife on a budget safari: we have good value trips to top wildlife destinations like the Okavango Delta, Ngorongoro Crater and Kruger National Park. You can still see the Great Migration, for example, but you might struggle to see gorillas or chimpanzees, both of which require expensive permits. You can also expect great local guides, and in some instances, local operators too. To cut costs you should expect to share your experiences in the company of a small group rather than more expensive tailor made options. Prepare for comfortable but more basic accommodation and don’t bank on air conditioning, high cotton count or other creature comforts. For even better value opt for overland travel and camping along the way. Expect long days on the road and sharing a tent: and a lot of adventure for your money.

Look out for last minute offers on small group trips: you can often find a good deal if you’re prepared to be flexible and travel at shorter notice, or travel in the ‘off season’, at hotter or wetter times of year. If you’re traveling solo in a small group, you can save money if you share a room or tent with another person, rather than paying a single supplement. Choose your destination wisely: for example, Namibia is a great self drive destination, meaning you’re not paying for transfers or drivers, whilst visiting private reserves may turn out more expensive than visiting a national park. Lastly, book a trip with no hidden costs, where all activities and park entrance fees are included.