How much does a Kenya trip cost per day?

Budget travellers using hostels, local food and matatus spend approximately $60-90 per day. Mid-range travellers spend approximately $150-300 per day. Luxury travellers spend $600+ per day, mostly on safari lodges. Figures are approximate, as of 2026, and exclude flights.

How much should I budget for a 1-week Kenya safari?

Budget camping safaris start from approximately $150-250 per person per day all-in. Mid-range tented camp safaris run approximately $350-600 per person per day, and luxury safaris can exceed $700 per day. Park fees and season strongly affect the total, so confirm with your operator.

Is Kenya expensive to visit?

City and coastal travel in Kenya is affordable, but safaris are the main cost because of park fees, vehicles and lodge pricing. Combining a few days of safari with Nairobi and beach time keeps the total manageable.

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Kenya Trip Cost Calculator

Adjust the options below to build a realistic budget for your trip, from a 4-day Nairobi and Mara break to a 2-week safari and beach circuit.

Kenya Trip Cost Estimator

Adjust the sliders to estimate your total trip cost.

Trip duration 7 days

2 days 30 days

Accommodation

Daily food budget

Paid activities & tours

Each activity estimated at $35–$120 (tours, day trips, entry fees).

Include local transport?

$8–$30/day (buses, trains, taxis)

Your Estimated Budget

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Transport (7 days) -

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Estimates only - prices vary by season, location, and booking channel. Excludes flights.

What the numbers mean

All figures are in US dollars per person, approximately, as of 2026. The exchange rate is roughly USD 1 = KES 130 and prices change often, so treat them as planning guidance and confirm with operators.

Accommodation: Nairobi hostel dorms start from approximately $15-20 a night. Safari camps and lodges are priced very differently: shared camping sits near the budget band, while Masai Mara tented camps often exceed $400 per person a night in high season.
Food: A plate of nyama choma and ugali at a local restaurant costs approximately $4-8. Safari lodges usually include full board, so food costs drop to near zero on those nights.
Activities: The Giraffe Centre is approximately $15 and Nairobi National Park approximately $35 plus a vehicle fee. Park fees for the Masai Mara and Amboseli are far higher and vary by season, so budget more for multi-day safaris.
Transport: The Nairobi to Mombasa SGR economy ticket is approximately $5-6. Matatus and ride-hailing within cities cost a few dollars. Car hire with a driver for safaris is a far larger line item than local transport.
Flights: Not included. Budget international flights and any domestic flights to the Mara separately.

Safari cost guide → Full cost breakdown guide →

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