African Safari Proves More Affordable Than Spanish All-Inclusive Getaway
Social News Reporter Alice Sjoberg has shared her surprising discovery that a week-long safari adventure in Africa can be significantly cheaper than a standard all-inclusive holiday to Spain. In a detailed account of her recent trip, Sjoberg explains how she managed to experience the wilds of Kruger National Park without breaking the bank.
From European Holidays to African Adventures
Sjoberg, who previously stuck to European destinations like Greece for cruises and city breaks, was initially skeptical about affording a safari. "I always assumed it would be way out of my budget," she admits. However, inspired by her South African partner's stories of growing up with wild monkeys and zebras, she decided to take the plunge in February 2026.
The trip included three weeks in South Africa, with one week dedicated to exploring Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves. Days were spent driving through the park in search of the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos—followed by relaxing by the pool in 35-degree heat.
Breaking Down the Costs: Flights and Accommodation
Sjoberg provides a comprehensive breakdown of expenses to demonstrate the affordability of her safari experience:
- Flights: Direct return flights with Virgin Atlantic cost around £800 per person, even during half-term. Cheaper options are available with stopovers.
- Accommodation: Outside the park, B&Bs averaged £50-£80 per night for two. Inside Kruger, four nights in safari camps totaled £250 for two people (£125 per person), including luxurious tents with air conditioning, meals, and pools overlooking the park.
- Park Fees: A £200 conservation fee for foreigners, which Sjoberg was happy to pay to support wildlife efforts.
On-Site Expenses: Food, Transport, and Guided Tours
Daily costs within South Africa were notably lower than in the UK:
- Food: On-site restaurant meals ranged from £5-15 per person, while grocery shopping for a week, including snacks and biltong, cost around £40 per person. Braais (barbecues) are a staple of South African cuisine.
- Transport: Car rental for two weeks was approximately £100, with an additional £80 for insurance. Petrol prices were around £1 per litre, much cheaper than UK rates.
- Guided Safaris: Optional guided tours cost £20-30 per person and were highly recommended for tracking animals like lions and leopards with expert guidance.
Total Cost Comparison and Personal Recommendation
In total, Sjoberg spent about £1,500 per person for the safari week, including flights to South Africa. She emphasizes that this is comparable to or even less than the cost of an all-inclusive holiday to destinations like the Canary Islands during school holidays.
"I'd much rather go back for another safari," Sjoberg concludes, highlighting the value and unique experience of an African adventure over traditional European getaways. Her journey proves that with careful planning, a safari can be an accessible and budget-friendly option for travelers seeking something beyond the ordinary.
