How much does a 2 week African safari cost?

2 week African safari cost: Learn the average cost of a 2-week African safari, including budget, mid-range, and luxury options in Uganda’s stunning parks at costs from $3,500-$7,000. Discover what’s included and Book your eco-friendly safari now!

A 2 week African safari  in Uganda offers an immersive experience, covering premier destinations like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, Kibale Forest for chimpanzees, and Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Parks for Big Five game drives.

Uganda’s compact size (241,000 km²) allows you to explore its diverse ecosystems—rainforests, savannas, wetlands, and mountains—within a single trip. Costs vary based on accommodation, activities, season, and group size, but Uganda remains one of the most budget-friendly safari destinations in East Africa, with gorilla permits at $800 compared to Rwanda’s $1,500. This guide breaks down expenses, planning tips, and what to expect, ensuring you can budget effectively for an unforgettable adventure.

Factors Influencing the 2 week African safari cost, Uganda

Several variables determines how much does a 2 week African safari cost, specifically in Uganda. Understanding these helps you plan a trip that aligns with your budget and preferences:

• Destination and Activities: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and Big Five game drives require permits and park fees, significantly impacting costs. For example, gorilla permits cost $800 per person, while park entry fees range from $40-$45 per day
• Accommodation Type: Options range from budget camps ($30-$100/night) to mid-range lodges ($100-$250/night) to luxury lodges ($400-$1,000+/night).
• Season: Dry seasons (June-August, December-February) have higher lodge rates and permit demand, while wet seasons (March-May, October-November) offer discounts but muddy trails.
• Group Size: Group tours reduce per-person costs through shared transport and guides, while private tours are pricier but personalized.
• Transportation: Road transfers in 4×4 vehicles are standard, but chartered flights to remote parks like Bwindi or Kidepo cost $600-$1,500.
• Additional Expenses: International flights, visas, meals, tips, and optional activities (e.g., cultural tours, rafting) add to the total.

Detailed Cost Breakdown for a 2 week African safari cost

A 2 week African safari cost in Uganda typically costs $3,500-$7,000 per person, depending on the level of luxury and inclusions. Below is a detailed breakdown of expenses based on budget, mid-range, and luxury options, assuming two people sharing accommodations.

Permits and Park Fees:

Permits and entry fees are non-negotiable and form a significant portion of the budget:

• Gorilla Trekking Permit: $800 per person per trek (Bwindi or Mgahinga). A 2-week itinerary often includes 1-2 treks.
• Chimpanzee Trekking Permit: $250-$300 per person (Kibale or Budongo Forest).
• Gorilla Habituation Experience: $1,500 per person (Bwindi, 4 hours with gorillas, limited to 4 people per group).
• Park Entry Fees: $40-$45 per person per day for foreign non-residents (e.g., Murchison Falls: $45; Queen Elizabeth: $40). A 2-week safari visiting 3-4 parks averages $300-$500 in entry fees.
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: $50-$60 per person for rhino tracking.

Accommodation: 

Accommodation costs vary widely:

• Budget: Campsites or basic bandas ($30-$100/night per person), e.g., Bwindi Backpackers Lodge, Red Chilli Camp.
• Mid-Range: Lodges with en-suite facilities and meals ($100-$250/night per person), e.g., Chobe Safari Lodge (Murchison), Ishasha Wilderness Camp.
• Luxury: High-end lodges with premium amenities ($400-$1,000+/night per person), e.g., Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Bwindi), Paraa Safari Lodge (Murchison).
• Average for 14 Nights: Budget ($420-$1,400), Mid-Range ($1,400-$3,500), Luxury ($5,600-$14,000).

Transportation:

• Road Transfers: 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs cost $85-$150/day, including fuel and driver-guide. A 2-week safari averages $1,200-$2,100 for the group.
• Chartered Flights: $600-$1,500 per person for flights to Bwindi, Kidepo, or other remote parks (optional for faster travel).
• International Flights: $500-$2,400 round-trip to Entebbe, depending on origin and season.

Meals and Drinks:

• Budget: $20-$40/day per person, often self-catered or at basic camps.
• Mid-Range: $40-$80/day, included in most lodge packages.
• Luxury: $80-$150/day, with gourmet meals and drinks included.
• Average for 14 Days: $280-$2,100 per person.

Additional Costs:

• Visa: $50 for a Uganda tourist visa; $100 for an East Africa Tourist Visa (Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya).
• Tips: $10-$20 per guide/porter per day, totaling $150-$300 for 2 weeks.
• Optional Activities: Cultural tours ($20-$50), white-water rafting in Jinja ($100-$150), hot air ballooning ($350-$500).
• Travel Insurance: $100-$300, covering trekking and remote travel.
• Miscellaneous: Souvenirs, insect repellent, sunscreen ($50-$200).

 Estimated Costs for 2 week African safari cost (Per Person, Sharing)

Note: International flights ($500-$2,400) vary by origin. Costs are per person, based on two sharing

What to Expect on a 2 week African safari in Uganda

A 2 week African safari cost itinerary allows comprehensive exploration of Uganda’s highlights. Here’s a sample itinerary and what travelers can expect:

Sample 14-Day Itinerary

• Days 1-2: Murchison Falls National Park: Game drives (lions, elephants, giraffes), boat cruise to Murchison Falls, hike to the falls’ top.
• Days 3-4: Kibale Forest National Park: Chimpanzee trekking, Bigodi Wetlands birdwatching, cultural visits.
• Days 5-7: Queen Elizabeth National Park: Game drives (tree-climbing lions in Ishasha), Kazinga Channel boat cruise (hippos, crocodiles).
• Days 8-10: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Gorilla trekking (1-2 treks), Batwa cultural experience, optional Lake Bunyonyi canoeing.
• Days 11-12: Lake Mburo National Park: Game drives (zebras, impalas), boat trips, nature walks.
• Days 13-14: Jinja and Entebbe: White-water rafting on the Nile, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, return to Entebbe.

Activities and Experiences:

• Gorilla Trekking: 1-7 hour hikes in Bwindi or Mgahinga to spend an hour with gorillas (99% sighting rate).
• Chimpanzee Trekking: 1-4 hour treks in Kibale, observing playful chimps and other primates.
• Big Five Safaris: Spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos (Ziwa Sanctuary) in Murchison, Queen Elizabeth, or Kidepo.
• Boat Cruises: See hippos, crocodiles, and birds on the Nile (Murchison) or Kazinga Channel (Queen Elizabeth).
• Cultural Tours: Visit Buganda Kingdom, Batwa communities, or Karamojong villages for cultural immersion.
• Adventure Activities: White-water rafting in Jinja, Rwenzori hiking, or hot air ballooning.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Seasons (June-August, December-February): Easier trails, better wildlife viewing, but higher costs and crowds. Book permits 6-12 months in advance.
• Wet Seasons (March-May, October-November): Lower lodge rates (up to 30% off), fewer tourists, but muddy trails and scattered wildlife.

Planning Tips for a 2-Week Uganda Safari

Booking and Logistics:

• Permits: Book gorilla ($800) and chimpanzee ($250-$300) permits 6-12 months in advance through operators like Hail Tours Uganda Safaris or the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Operators may charge $60-$100 extra for permit handling.
• Accommodation: Choose budget (e.g., Buhoma Community Rest Camp), mid-range (e.g., Ishasha Wilderness Camp), or luxury (e.g., Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp) based on budget.
• Transportation: 4×4 vehicles are standard; consider charters for remote parks to save time.
• Packing List:
  • Sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, moisture-wicking clothing.
  • Insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, camera (no flash).
  • Reusable water bottle, daypack for treks.
• Visa: $50 for a Uganda tourist visa; $100 for an East Africa Tourist Visa. Yellow fever vaccination certificate required.

Health and Safety:

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever mandatory; malaria prophylaxis, hepatitis recommended.
• Safety: Uganda is safe for tourists, with ranger escorts in parks. Exercise caution in urban areas like Kampala.
• Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance ($100-$300) covering trekking and remote travel is essential.

Budget-Saving Tips

• Travel in the wet season for discounted lodge rates (up to 30% off).
• Join group tours to share transport and guide costs.
• Opt for budget or mid-range accommodations to reduce expenses.
• Book early to secure permits and avoid peak-season price hikes.

Why Choose Hail Tours Uganda Safaris for your 2 weeks African Safari?

Hail Tours Uganda Safaris, a top-rated operator accredited by the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, is the ideal choice for your 2-week Uganda safari. Here’s why:

Local Expertise and Customization:

Based in Uganda, Hail Tours leverages extensive knowledge of the region’s parks, wildlife, and cultures to craft tailored itineraries. Their expert guides ensure a 99% gorilla and chimpanzee sighting rate, enhancing your experience with insights into animal behavior and local traditions. Sample packages include:

• 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari: $5,500-$12,000, covering gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, Big Five game drives, and cultural tours.
• 10-Day Gorilla and Wildlife Adventure: $4,000-$8,000, including Bwindi, Kibale, and Queen Elizabeth.
• 7-Day Primate and Savanna Safari: $3,000-$6,000, focusing on southwest parks.

Eco-Friendly and Community-Focused:

Hail Tours prioritizes sustainable tourism, with permit fees supporting gorilla conservation and 10% allocated to local communities. Their eco-friendly vehicles and lodges minimize environmental impact, ensuring your safari contributes to Uganda’s biodiversity and local economies.

Affordable and Transparent Pricing:

Hail Tours offers competitive pricing with no hidden fees, securing permits early to avoid peak-season shortages. Their all-inclusive packages cover accommodations, meals, transfers, and activities, making budgeting straightforward

Exceptional Service:

With glowing reviews on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, Hail Tours is praised for responsive customer service, reliable logistics, and personalized care. They handle all details—permits, transfers, dietary needs—ensuring a stress-free adventure.

Comprehensive Itineraries:

Hail Tours designs itineraries that maximize Uganda’s highlights, combining gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, boat cruises, and cultural experiences. They also offer multi-country tours, adding Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park or Kenya’s Maasai Mara for a broader East African adventure.