Affluent travelers now desire new experiences in luxury safaris.

Safari-goers seeking luxury were previously focused on observing lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, all while enjoying upscale accommodations and fine dining.

But that's changing.

"Lori Cohen, a luxury safari writer, stated that safaris are no longer just about the "Big Five." Instead, people value using their limited time off to engage in unique and transformative experiences."

"She said that they desire "personalized experiences" and "emotional connection.""

Olivia Gradidge, a marketing manager at exhibition organizer RX Africa, stated that the definition of luxury tourism in Africa is evolving.

""Luxury travelers are increasingly seeking unique and exclusive experiences, rather than just top-tier amenities," she stated."

Cohen mentioned the possibility of going on a walk with a veterinarian who specializes in gorillas or observing the lifestyle of a nearby community.

Travelers are increasingly interested in behind-the-scenes access to participate in conservation activities, meet researchers, or learn about anti-poaching efforts, said Gradidge.

"These experiences turn the traditional safari from a passive viewing of wildlife to an active and thrilling adventure," she stated.

How luxury safaris are changing

According to Business Research Insights, the luxury safari market is projected to expand from $1.7 billion in 2023 to $1.98 billion by 2032.

The travel website Africa Travel Week reported a rise in "7+ star experiences" and "ultimate luxury" in Africa in a 2024 trend report. However, Discover Africa noted that luxury travelers are shifting towards "conscious luxury," which combines sustainable safari tourism and personalized itineraries.

The CEO of the African Travel & Tourism Association, Kgomotso Ramothea, stated that walking and trekking safaris are increasingly popular as they generate less carbon emissions compared to traditional safaris.

Discover Africa's head of product, Murielle Mignot-Vegezzi, stated that Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Botswana continue to be popular choices for luxury safaris.

Visitors seeking more immersive experiences are opting for multi-country safari itineraries instead of single-country trips.

The cost of a luxury safari booking increased to $9,600 per person in 2024, she stated.

How much does a safari cost?

Basic and midrange safaris

The cost of a fundamental African safari is between $100 and $300 per individual on a daily basis.

Shared game drives on this budget are typically scheduled at specific times. While wildlife sightings may be less frequent compared to luxury safaris in private game reserves or conservancies, they are still a highlight of the experience.

Meal are also rather basic, compared with high-end safari camps.

Experienced rangers and guided bush walks are often available for travelers who book a room for $300-$600 per day.

In Kenya, there are several camps that fall under this category, such as Mara Intrepids Tented Camp, Ashnil Mara Camp, Tangulia Mara Camp, and Kitumo Mara Lodges.

These are some of the top safari lodges in Africa: Tanzania's Serengeti Sopa Lodge, South Africa's Sabi River Sun Resort in Kruger National Park, Botswana's Moremi Crossing, and Namibia's Sossus Dune Lodge in the Namib Desert.

Luxury safaris

Luxurious accommodations, private game safaris, gourmet meals, and personalized services like private guides and butlers are typically offered at these lodges, which usually cost around $600 per person per day.

Luxury safari camps in Kenya's Maasai Mara include Angama Mara, Emboo, Richard Branson's Mahali Mzuri, and JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge. Finch Hattons is near Tsavo National Park, and the Angama brand has another luxury camp in Amboseli National Park. The Elewana Collection has camps in pristine locations in Kenya and Tanzania, as does Asilia Camps, which also runs safaris in Uganda.

In Tanzania, Singita Sabora Tented Camp and Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti offer stunning views of the Serengeti, as well as plunge pools and an infinity pool.

There are numerous safaris available in South Africa at this price range, including the Royal Malewane and the Babohi at Qwabi Private Game Reserve, an exclusive adult-only lodge.

Ultra-luxury safaris

To have the best safari experience, be ready to spend between $1,500 and $10,000 per day on customized activities, luxurious amenities, and top-notch services.

In Rwanda, there are lodges such as Bisate Lodge and One & Only Gorilla's Nest that are situated near Volcanoes National Park, where the country's mountain gorillas reside. These lodges provide guests with delectable meals in breathtaking surroundings, private gorilla trekking excursions with knowledgeable guides, and remote locations that guarantee a secluded experience for those seeking solitude.

Singita Grumeti in Tanzania and Phinda Private Game Reserve in South Africa are both luxurious destinations that offer private villas with plunge pools, game drives, and walks with trackers.