Booking a luxury safari package in Africa promises extraordinary wildlife encounters paired with unmatched comfort. To make your African safari luxury tour smooth and worry-free, it’s important to understand what is included in your package, and what expenses are typically extra. Whether you’re planning a private African safari tour or a curated group experience, this guide helps you plan confidently.
What Luxury Safari Packages Usually Include
Accommodation and Dining
Luxury safari lodges in Africa and upscale tented camps typically cover your stay, three gourmet meals a day, and most beverages. At top-tier luxury safari resorts in Africa, meals are often highlights themselves, paired with fine wines and local delicacies.
Game Drives and Activities
Daily morning and evening game drives led by expert guides are standard. Many packages also include walking safaris, night drives, mokoro excursions in Botswana’s Okavango Delta, or river cruises on the Zambezi – making your African safari luxury tour both immersive and unforgettable.
Park and Conservancy Fees
Some luxury safari packages include national park and conservancy fees. When included, these costs are already covered in the package price.
Transfers Within the Itinerary
Transfers between airstrips, lodges, and local airports are often part of the package. In remote regions, light aircraft transfers are usually included to connect you to your private African safari tour.
Expert Guides and Trackers
Professional rangers and trackers bring the wilderness to life. Their expertise and storytelling are key to any African safari luxury tour experience.
What is Usually Not Included
International Airfare
Flights from the United States to African hubs are generally separate. Most packages begin at your arrival point in Africa.
Premium or Optional Experiences
Balloon safaris, helicopter tours, horseback rides, private vehicles, spa treatments, and specialized photography tours usually cost extra.
Tips and Personal Spending
Gratuities for guides, trackers, and lodge staff are typically not included. Personal expenses such as souvenirs, specialty drinks, or additional services are extra.
Certain Beverages and Services
Premium liquors or exclusive vintages may be additional. Laundry is often included at luxury lodges but may not be at mid-range camps.
Visas, Travel Insurance, and Health Preparations
Travelers are responsible for visas, travel insurance, vaccinations, and malaria prophylaxis.
Typical Additional Costs to Budget For
- International flights: $1,000 to $1,800 round-trip from the U.S.
- Regional charter flights: $300 to $400 per person per person.
- Gorilla permits: $800 to $1,500 per person
- Balloon or helicopter safaris: Several hundred dollars per person
- Gratuities: Many lodges provide suggested amounts
Questions to Ask Before Booking
- Are park fees included or separate?
- Do internal flights come with the package or cost extra?
- Which drinks and services are covered?
- Are gratuities expected, and what are the local guidelines?
- Are visas, travel insurance, and medical evacuation included?
Final Reflections
A luxury safari package offers more than just wildlife sightings, it is a fully curated experience where comfort, safety, and adventure intersect. Understanding what is included and budgeting for extras like flights, permits, and tips ensures your African safari luxury tour is smooth and stress-free. With Ameliya Safaris, each itinerary is clearly itemized, giving you peace of mind so you can focus entirely on the extraordinary moments that make a safari unforgettable whether on a private African safari tour or a group adventure.
