All-inclusive safari packages: what's really included
"All-inclusive" means different things to different operators — checking the fine print before booking avoids unpleasant surprises later.
All Inclusive African Safari · African safari holidays
Before comparing two all-inclusive quotes, check whether they include the same things. The term all-inclusive is used loosely across the safari industry, and coverage varies significantly between luxury camps and boutique operators. Knowing what is typically bundled and what costs extra ensures you compare quotes fairly without hidden surprises later.
What to check before comparing quotes
| Item | Commonly included | Worth confirming |
|---|---|---|
| Meals and house drinks | Yes, at most camps | Premium drinks brand/selection |
| Park and conservancy fees | Usually, at reputable operators | Confirm in writing per park |
| Balloon safaris and spa | Rarely | Ask for exact add-on cost |
Highlights
- What is usually included
- Commonly excluded extras
- How to compare quotes properly
01
What is usually included
Accommodation, meals, scheduled game drives, park or conservancy fees, and transfers between camps on the same itinerary are standard inclusions at most Kenyan properties. You can generally expect professional guiding services and local taxes to be incorporated into the base price of a reputable luxury package.
02
Commonly excluded extras
International flights, visa fees, premium imported spirits, and laundry are often excluded. Specialized activities like hot air balloon safaris, spa treatments, and cultural village visits typically carry surcharges. Gratuities for your guide and camp staff remain a personal discretion and are rarely part of the upfront cost.
When planning your budget, remember to account for these specific items:
- Usually included: Meals, game drives, park fees, camp transfers
- Often excluded: International flights, premium drinks, balloon flights, tips
- Variable items: Domestic bush flights and specialized medical evacuation cover
03
How to compare quotes properly
Ask for inclusions listed line by line against each quote rather than comparing nightly rates alone. Two itineraries with similar headline prices can differ substantially once extras are added back in. Always check if the quote covers the mandatory daily conservation fees, which can range from $80 to $200 per person.
Dos
- Wear neutral colours — khaki, olive, sand
- Pack layers for cold early game drives
- Stay seated and keep voices low near animals
- Follow your guide's instructions at all times
- Drink plenty of water and use sunscreen
Don'ts
- Don't wear bright colours, white or camouflage
- Don't feed or call to animals
- Don't leave the vehicle unless your guide says so
- Don't use drones — they need special permits
- Don't bring plastic bags (banned in Kenya and Tanzania)
What's usually included
- Accommodation in your chosen level
- Meals as listed in your itinerary
- Game drives with a professional guide
- Park and conservancy entry fees
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Drinking water in the vehicle
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Published fees to plan around
Sources checked 7 October 2026 · US dollars · fees only, not full safari prices
| Fee | Published amount | Who and when |
|---|---|---|
| Maasai Mara reserve · July–December | US$200 | Non-resident adult entry; published seasonal tariff, not a camp rate. Entry and exit rules affect the number of chargeable visits.Narok County published fee schedule |
| Maasai Mara reserve · January–June | US$100 | Non-resident adult entry; the low-season rate in the same published schedule. Reconfirm for your travel year.Narok County published fee schedule |
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
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Frequently asked questions
Are park fees included in safari packages?
They usually are in reputable all-inclusive packages, but this should always be confirmed explicitly in the written costing before booking to avoid paying extra at the gate.
