Botswana safari cost guide
This guide will help you plan your Botswana safari budget, covering everything from accommodation to hidden expenses.
Understanding the premium
Understanding the premium
Botswana's safaris carry a higher price tag – and for good reason. The country follows a strict low impact, high-value conservation model, deliberately limiting guest numbers to protect its fragile ecosystems, while ensuring travellers enjoy rare exclusivity and uninterrupted wilderness.
The remoteness of Botswana’s camps also contributes to the cost, but travellers are happy to invest in privacy and experiences that help fund conservation and support local communities.
And while Botswana is known for its premium safari experiences, there are more budget-friendly options too.
Flights & transfers
In addition to your international flights to and from Botswana, remember to factor in the cost of light-aircraft transfers, which are often required to reach safari camps located in remote wilderness areas far from the main national airports.
What’s included in a Wilderness package?
Wilderness Travel Designers have you covered
From seasonal changes to those pesky hidden costs, our brilliant travel designers are here to help you navigate your travel needs.
Talk to a Travel DesignerAdditional costs
All Wilderness camps operate on a Fully Inclusive (FI) rate, meaning that the price you’re quoted already covers your accommodation, all meals, twice-daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, local drinks, and laundry services. The only costs not included are premium imported spirits and champagne, gratuities, curio purchases, and any other personal expenses you may incur during your stay.
Activities
Most activities – like mokoro (canoe) experiences, game drives and walking safaris – are included in your accommodation rate, but specialist activities like scenic helicopter flights incur extra costs (USD250 – 500 per person). Every tour operator is different, so be sure to ask which activities are included in your rate to avoid surprises.
Park & conservation fees
It’s important to remember that national parks, private concessions and community-leased land charge their own fee to tour operators and property owners. National park fees can cost anywhere between USD10 – 40 pppd. Wilderness camps are located on private concessions both within and outside of national parks, and we factor all land-use fees into your accommodation rate.
Tipping & gratuities
Tipping is customary in Botswana and you may want to factor it into your budget. We recommend the following per guest:
Safari guides
USD 20 per day
Mokoro polers
USD 7 per person
Camp staff
USD 20 per day
Drivers
USD 10 per transfer
Massage therapist
USD 5 per treatment
Additional expenses
Due to flight schedules or personal preference, you may need to budget for accommodation before and after your safari. Generally speaking, depending on your budget, you can plan for: USD100 – 300 per night for Maun/Kasane lodges & hotels and USD80 – 250 per night for Johannesburg airport hotels.
Activities
Activities
Most activities – like mokoro (canoe) experiences, game drives and walking safaris – are included in your accommodation rate, but specialist activities like scenic helicopter flights incur extra costs (USD250 – 500 per person). Every tour operator is different, so be sure to ask which activities are included in your rate to avoid surprises.
Park & conservation fees
Park & conservation fees
It’s important to remember that national parks, private concessions and community-leased land charge their own fee to tour operators and property owners. National park fees can cost anywhere between USD10 – 40 pppd. Wilderness camps are located on private concessions both within and outside of national parks, and we factor all land-use fees into your accommodation rate.
Tipping & gratuities
Tipping & gratuities
Tipping is customary in Botswana and you may want to factor it into your budget. We recommend the following per guest:
Safari guides
USD 20 per day
Mokoro polers
USD 7 per person
Camp staff
USD 20 per day
Drivers
USD 10 per transfer
Massage therapist
USD 5 per treatment
Additional expenses
Additional expenses
Due to flight schedules or personal preference, you may need to budget for accommodation before and after your safari. Generally speaking, depending on your budget, you can plan for: USD100 – 300 per night for Maun/Kasane lodges & hotels and USD80 – 250 per night for Johannesburg airport hotels.
Seasonal price variations
Keep in mind there are significant price variations based on the time of year you choose to travel, and understanding these may help you get better value out of your trip. Below is a brief summary of the different seasons, but you can find a more in-depth guide here.
Cost saving strategies
Cost saving strategies
Travel during green season
Combining areas
Extend your stay
Book in advance
Use a knowledgeable specialist
Plan your Botswana safari
Enquire nowValue comparison
While Botswana is among Africa's most expensive safari destinations, it offers distinct advantages that justify its premium pricing for many travellers. Across all operators, in Botswana you can expect:
- Unfenced reserves
- Lower density of visitors
- Excellent guiding
- Responsible tourism
Hidden costs to consider
Whether you choose to indulge in the ultimate luxury experience or opt for a more value-conscious approach, Botswana delivers unforgettable safari experiences among the finest in Africa.
Be sure to add a buffer into your budget for those unexpected costs, and keep the following in mind:
Pre/post safari activities
Dont just take our word for it
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When we say we’re there every step of the way, we mean it, literally. From planning the perfect circuit, to private inter-camp transfers on Wilderness Air, and easing you through Customs. We’re with you on the ground, at your side, 24-7, from start to finish. Ready to take the road less travelled? Contact our Travel Designers to plan an unforgettable journey.