What’s Included in a Safari Package (And What’s Not)

Booking a safari in East Africa is an exciting step toward adventure, but many travelers wonder what exactly is covered in the  safari package cost. Understanding this breakdown helps you budget better, avoid surprises, and enjoy your journey stress-free. At Traford Safaris, we believe in clear communication so you know exactly what to expect when booking with us.

What’s Typically Included in a Safari Package

1. Accommodation

Your safari package almost always covers your accommodation. Depending on your budget, this could range from luxury lodges and tented camps to mid-range hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses. Rooms are usually on a full-board basis (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).

Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge Bwindi

2. Meals

Most safari packages include three meals a day while on tour. Meals during transfers (like airport days) may vary, but your itinerary will specify this. Some lodges also provide drinking water, tea, and coffee at no extra cost.

3. Park Entry Fees and Permits

National parks and reserves in East Africa charge entry fees, which are included in your package. For specialized experiences like gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, permits are also arranged in advance and covered. These fees directly support conservation and community initiatives.

4. Transport

Transport within the safari is covered usually in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing. This includes fuel, driver-guide fees, and transfers between destinations.

5. Professional Safari Guide

A knowledgeable, experienced driver-guide is included. Their expertise in wildlife tracking and local culture makes your safari more enriching.

6. Domestic Flights (if applicable)

If your safari involves long distances (e.g., Serengeti to Zanzibar), domestic flights may be included. This depends on the package chosen and will always be stated clearly.

What’s Usually Not Included in a Safari Package

1. International Flights

Your package generally starts once you land in your safari country. Flights from your home country to destinations like Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda are not included.

2. Visas and Travel Insurance

Entry visas for East African countries must be arranged separately by travelers. Similarly, we recommend comprehensive travel insurance, which is not part of the safari package.

3. Tips and Gratuities

While not mandatory, tipping your driver-guide, lodge staff, and porters is customary and highly appreciated. This is usually left to the guest’s discretion.

4. Alcoholic Beverages and Soft Drinks

Unless you’re on an all-inclusive plan, alcoholic drinks and certain soft drinks are billed separately. Some lodges offer bottled water for free, but it’s best to confirm.

5. Optional Activities

Not all activities are included. For instance, hot air balloon safaris, cultural visits, city tours, or luxury spa treatments come at an extra cost. Traford Safaris always labels these clearly as optional add-ons.

6. Personal Expenses

Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls, and other personal purchases are not covered.

Tips for Understanding Your Safari Inclusions

• Ask for a detailed itinerary – Traford Safaris provides itemized breakdowns so you know exactly what’s included.

• Confirm your meal plan – Some accommodations may be full-board, others half-board.

• Budget for extras – Set aside funds for drinks, tips, and optional activities.

• Check if domestic flights are included – This can significantly affect your overall cost.

Why Transparency Matters at Traford Safaris

At Traford Safaris, we aim to make your safari planning simple and stress-free. We clearly outline what’s included and excluded in every package. This way, you can budget confidently, avoid hidden costs, and focus on creating unforgettable memories in East Africa’s wild landscapes.

✅ Final Takeaway:
Your safari package covers almost everything you need for a smooth, enjoyable experience lodging, meals, transport, guides, and park fees. What’s not included are mostly personal expenses, visas, and optional extras. Knowing this helps you plan ahead and enjoy your safari worry-free.