We believe in radical transparency. Here is where your safari money actually goes, based on our average 7-day Kenya safari at $1,640 per person.
**The big four cost categories**
**1. Park & conservation fees: ~32% ($525)**
This is the single biggest line item. Entry fees for Masai Mara, Amboseli, Nakuru, and Naivasha add up fast:
- Mara: $80 per person per day (non-resident)
- Amboseli: $60 per person per day
- Nakuru: $60 per person per day
- Naivasha: $25 per person per day
- Plus vehicle entry fees ($10-40 per vehicle per day)
This money funds Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), county governments, and conservation NGOs. Without park fees, the parks cease to exist. **It is the single most important expenditure in your safari.**
**2. Accommodation: ~28% ($460)**
Lodge costs vary wildly:
- Budget camp: $50 per person per night (full board)
- Mid-range lodge: $150 per person per night (full board)
- Luxury tented camp: $400-800 per person per night (full board)
- Top-tier (e.g., Angama Mara, Cottar's): $1,200-2,000 per person per night
We typically book mid-range lodges. The marginal experience from mid-range to luxury is real but not transformational.
**3. Vehicle & fuel: ~15% ($245)**
A 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, maintained to tourist standard, costs $180-280 per day to operate (depreciation, fuel, maintenance, insurance). Fuel is 20-30% of that.
**4. Guide: ~8% ($130)**
A KPSGA Silver-level guide earns $80-120 per day (salary plus tips). Bronze guides earn $50-80. Gold guides earn $200+.
**What's left for the operator: ~17% ($280)**
This covers: office overhead, marketing, customer service, and profit margin. Most operators run at 5-10% net margin. We run at 8%.
**What this means for you**
- If a quote is dramatically cheaper than the breakdown above, something is being cut. Usually: guide level, vehicle age, or lodge quality.
- If a quote is dramatically more expensive, you are paying for luxury (which is fine, if that's what you want).
**Our commitment**
We send every confirmed traveller a written cost breakdown. You see exactly where your money goes. We make 8% margin. If you want a quote, message us.