When you hear the word safari, it’s likely you imagine venturing into the African wilderness in search of majestic lions or towering elephants. While the Swahili word actually means journey, the spirit of a safari has transcended continents, bringing wildlife enthusiasts closer to nature in various corners of the globe. Whether it’s spotting bears in Canada, birdwatching along the Black Sea, or observing red squirrels closer to home in the UK, a safari is about embracing the beauty of the wild.
But does such an adventure always have to break the bank? Not necessarily. By planning smartly—traveling during off-peak seasons, opting for budget-friendly accommodations, or exploring regions with favorable exchange rates—you can fulfill your wildlife dreams without draining your savings. Here’s a closer look at how to enjoy a memorable safari on a budget.
Africa is the quintessential safari destination, and for good reason. Kenya’s Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru, and Lake Naivasha are renowned for their rich biodiversity, including the iconic Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo). Budget-conscious travelers can join a week-long guided tour starting at £1,339 per person (excluding flights), offering a mix of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling animal encounters.
For an alternative African experience, consider Senegal’s Fathala Wildlife Reserve. Here, you can spot elands, monkeys, and warthogs before unwinding with a Gambian beach retreat. A seven-night package, including flights, starts at £1,749 per person. South Africa is another great option for those seeking value. Combine a self-drive safari in Pilanesberg National Park with a stay in Cape Town to enjoy both wildlife and city life, all from just £1,090 per person (car hire included, flights excluded).
A Canadian adventure lets you explore the great outdoors while keeping costs low. Rent a motorhome for a two-week trip across British Columbia and Vancouver Island, where you can spot bears, moose, and orcas. With prices starting at £3,995 per person, including flights, this all-in-one package covers campsites, city stays, and on-the-road support.
If elephants and leopards fascinate you, Sri Lanka’s Yala and Uda Walawe National Parks are ideal. These family-friendly safaris, paired with a beachside retreat, provide a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. Two-week packages begin at £3,185 per person, excluding flights.
Turkey offers a fascinating blend of familiar and exotic wildlife. Nature enthusiasts can discover colorful bee-eaters and turtles on a week-long small-group tour of Central Turkey. With trips starting at £3,295 per person, including flights, Turkey’s favorable exchange rate makes this a budget-friendly choice.
Europe also boasts spectacular wildlife experiences. Romania’s Danube Delta and Carpathian Mountains teem with birds, bears, and wolves. Three-night packages for birdwatching start at just £383 per person (excluding flights), while longer tours incorporating large mammals cost around £2,495 per person, including flights.
Estonia offers another affordable option, with its forested landscapes hosting lynx, bears, and wolves. A six-night, self-guided tour through its national parks starts at £860 per person, including flights—a fraction of the cost of similar trips in Norway or Sweden.
For a budget-friendly option, the UK is brimming with wildlife opportunities. Head to Yorkshire’s Bempton Cliffs for gannet colonies or join a Seabirds & Whales cruise for just £90. In Wales, you might encounter peregrines and polecats, while Scotland’s Cairngorms offer a chance to spot stags and golden eagles on a winter walking tour, priced from £845.
Planning a wildlife adventure doesn’t have to stretch your finances. By exploring less-touristy locations, embracing self-drive options, and traveling in the off-season, you can experience the magic of nature on your terms. Whether you stay close to home or venture to far-off lands, affordable safaris prove that the best journeys don’t always come with a hefty price tag.
