Zimbabwe is a wildlife lover’s dream—home to vast savannas, majestic waterfalls, and the Big Five. And with the right planning, it’s possible to experience all of this without breaking the bank. This guide walks you through how to plan an unforgettable, cost-conscious safari in Zimbabwe, including navigating entry requirements, budgeting smartly, and making the most of your adventure.
Understanding the Entry Process and Costs
Zimbabwe e-visa online requires securing entry clearance, and the fees vary depending on your passport and the type of entry. For most visitors, the basic one-time entry charge is around US$30, while a return trip option runs about US$45, and a multiple-entry pass may go up to US$55.
For travelers looking to explore both Zimbabwe and nearby Zambia—such as at the splendid Victoria Falls—the special cross-country pass (UNIVISA) can cost about US$50.
Tip: Be sure your passport is valid for at least six months and has a blank page or two available. These are common requirements for entry.
Budget Safari Cost Overview: What to Expect Daily
Here’s a snapshot of typical safari costs in Zimbabwe. Prices are in US dollars, per person, per day:
| Type of Safari | Typical Cost (USD/day) | What’s Included |
| Budget | $250 – $350 | Group camping, shared facilities, game drives |
| Mid-Range | $350 – $550 | Comfortable chalets or lodges, more meals & activities covered |
| Luxury | $700+ | Upscale lodges, private guides, premium services |
On average, options at the low end of budget safaris cost about A$500/day per person—roughly US$325—while midrange and higher-end experiences are priced correspondingly.
Smart Tactics to Make Your Safari More Affordable
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Travel During the Shoulder or Low Season
Visiting outside the peak dry months (June–September) can yield significant savings, as lodges and camps lower rates to attract travelers. Wildlife viewing remains excellent even in the rains.Â
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Choose Group Options or Self-Drive Tours
Sharing guides, transport, and lodging costs with others—such as in group camping—reduces costs. Self-driving or using ground transfers instead of air travel also saves.
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Opt for Basic but Comfortable Accommodations
Park-run campsites or basic chalets are budget-friendly alternatives to high-end lodges, offering enough comfort without the hefty price tag.
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Keep an Eye on Hidden Costs
Don’t forget to include tipping (around US$15 per person per day), insurance, vaccinations (yellow fever if originating from affected zones), and travel insurance in your budget.
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Travel Smarter, Not Longer
Minimize internal flights. Opt for road transfers and multi-day tours to cut transportation costs without compromising the wildlife experience.
Step-by-Step Budget Planning Guide
Step 1: Choose Your Safari Type
Decide whether you’re comfortable with a group-focused camping experience, a mid-tier lodge stay, or something more indulgent based on budget.
Step 2: Factor in Entry Costs
Include the one-time entry charge (US$30–55) or cross-border pass (US$50) early in your budgeting.
Step 3: Add Daily Safari Expenses
Refer to the cost table above and multiply by your intended number of days. Budget about US$250–350/day for the most affordable options.
Step 4: Plan for Extras
Estimate an extra US$15/day per person for gratuities, plus insurance and possible vaccination costs.
Step 5: Book Strategically
Book tours early, look for shoulder-season discounts, and consider group or shared tours to stretch your budget.
Step 6: Prepare Practical Details
Bring small USD notes, verify passport validity, keep a blank page available, and arrange travel insurance well in advance.
Why Zimbabwe Offers Great Value for Safari Seekers
As outlined by travel experts, Zimbabwe combines wildlife-rich parks like Hwange and Mana Pools with affordability and fewer crowds, compared to more tourist-heavy destinations.
With smart timing, shared accommodations, and careful planning, you can achieve a wildlife-rich safari experience at a fraction of what you’d spend in other regions.
Final Thoughts
Planning a budget-friendly safari in Zimbabwe is entirely possible with thoughtful preparation. Start by sorting out your entry clearance cost, then choose the type of safari that fits your budget—whether that’s a communal camping trip or a modest lodge stay. Factor in necessary extras like tipping and insurance, hunt for shoulder-season deals, and pack smartly. With these steps, your dream escape into the Zimbabwean bush – home to elephants, lions, and unforgettable landscapes – can be both magical and affordable.
