When planning a luxury safari in Africa, choosing the right safari company can make all the difference. Instead of handling every detail yourself, you can trust experienced experts who specialize in crafting unforgettable journeys.
Luxury safari companies offer curated, all-inclusive packages that combine the finest African wildlife, comfort, and service. From the moment you arrive, every part of your trip is carefully designed—from private airport pickups to personalized game drives with expert guides.
These companies partner with the most exclusive safari lodges and camps across Africa, ensuring you get first-class treatment in the heart of the wild. Whether you want a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, they provide customized itineraries, seamless logistics, and insider access to the top parks and private reserves.
In this guide, we’ll show you the 20 of the best luxury safari companies that can turn your dream African adventure into a stress-free, five-star experience.
Contents
- Top Luxury Safari Companies by Country
- Tanzania-Based Safari Companies
- 1. Suricata Safaris
- 2. Lion King Adventures
- 3. Serengeti Wakanda Tours and Safaris
- 4. Savannah Explorers
- 5. Serengeti Smile
- 6. Gamedrive Travel Africa Safari Agency
- 7. Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris
- 8. African Big Cats Safaris
- 9. Soul of Tanzania
- 10. Gosheni Safaris Africa
- Why Choose a Tanzania-Based Luxury Safari Operator?
- Kenya-Based Safari Companies
- South Africa–Based Safari Companies
- Safari Price Range Comparison Table
- How to Choose the Right Safari Operator
Top Luxury Safari Companies by Country
Tanzania-Based Safari Companies
Tanzania remains one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, famous for its iconic Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Crater, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the exotic Zanzibar archipelago. From witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration to enjoying private game drives in luxury camps, the country offers a blend of wild beauty and high-end travel. If you’re looking to see Tanzania in comfort and style, here are the top Tanzania-based safari companies, their price ranges, and what makes each one stand out.
1. Suricata Safaris
Price Range: $190–$600 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom budget to mid-range tours
Suricata Safaris is ideal for travellers looking for a well-rounded safari without a high price tag. Offering daily departures, flexible itineraries, and personalized service, the company strikes a great balance between affordability and experience. Whether you want to explore Tarangire, Lake Manyara, or the Serengeti, Suricata offers excellent value with knowledgeable guides and reliable transport.
2. Lion King Adventures
Price Range: $200–$1,115 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
With offices in Tanzania, Canada, USA, and Switzerland, Lion King Adventures delivers a premium safari experience for travellers who want customization, luxury lodges, and first-class service. Their safaris are crafted for honeymooners, wildlife enthusiasts, and families looking for unforgettable adventures with all the comforts of home and more.
3. Serengeti Wakanda Tours and Safaris
Price Range: $300–$1,500 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Popular among French and European travellers, this operator offers high-end packages with exceptional attention to detail. From luxury tented camps in the heart of Serengeti to hot air balloon rides and cultural experiences, Serengeti Wakanda Tours delivers an upscale and immersive safari.
4. Savannah Explorers
Price Range: $220–$1,000 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Savannah Explorers specializes in cross-country safaris across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, making it perfect for travelers looking to see East Africa in one trip. Known for their expert planning, reliable guides, and comfortable accommodations, they blend convenience with wild adventure.
5. Serengeti Smile
Price Range: $100–$500 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom budget & mid-range
A great choice for travellers who want personal attention without a high-end price, Serengeti Smile offers safaris with a local touch. Their team is praised for being knowledgeable, punctual, and deeply connected to the land making every trip feel genuine and rewarding.
6. Gamedrive Travel Africa Safari Agency
Price Range: $200–$650 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Gamedrive Travel Africa focuses on complete Tanzanian safaris, from the major national parks to cultural villages and conservation areas. With experienced guides, private options, and luxury lodging, they provide a comprehensive and premium safari package for discerning travellers.
7. Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris
Price Range: $50–$480 per person/day
Tour Type: Small & medium group (Budget & mid-range)
Perfect for budget-conscious travelers or groups, Meru Slopes offers a reliable and flexible safari experience. Despite the affordable pricing, their safaris are praised for efficiency, safety, and friendly guides. It’s an excellent choice for students, solo travelers, and families alike.
8. African Big Cats Safaris
Price Range: $200–$1,100 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
With offices in Tanzania, USA, Australia, and Canada, African Big Cats Safaris is a top pick for photography-focused safaris and wildlife enthusiasts. They specialize in exclusive lodges, customized itineraries, and expert-level guides who help you get the perfect shot of Africa’s Big Five.
9. Soul of Tanzania
Price Range: $150–$400 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Soul of Tanzania is known for its elegant tailor-made safaris that prioritize privacy, quality service, and unique itineraries. They’re especially recommended for couples, honeymooners, and travelers seeking personalized journeys with high-end lodging and seamless logistics.
10. Gosheni Safaris Africa
Price Range: $175–$500 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Operating in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Botswana, and South Africa, Gosheni Safaris is a multi-country expert in organizing well-planned safaris with luxury accommodations, private transport, and deep wildlife knowledge. Their blend of professionalism and hospitality makes them a go-to for families and groups seeking comfort across borders.
Why Choose a Tanzania-Based Luxury Safari Operator?
Tanzania’s safari experience is among the most iconic in Africa. From the Great Migration to the untouched landscapes of Ruaha and Selous, the country offers different ecosystems, rich wildlife, and lovely cultures. Booking with a local Tanzanian operator brings benefits like:
Better pricing and local insights
Quick access to the parks
Support for local communities
More authentic experiences
Whether you’re looking for a budget-conscious group safari or a five-star luxury escape, the operators listed here represent the best of Tanzania’s safari offerings. Choose the one that matches your style, budget, and travel goals and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.
Kenya-Based Safari Companies
Kenya is often considered the birthplace of the African safari, and for good reason. From the world-renowned Maasai Mara home to the Great Wildebeest Migration to the striking landscapes of Amboseli, with Mount Kilimanjaro as its backdrop, Kenya offers a unique mix of adventure and comfort. Whether you’re interested in seeing the Big Five, experiencing Maasai culture, or relaxing in a luxury tented camp, Kenya delivers it all.
Below are some of the best Kenya-based safari companies that combine luxury, professionalism, and deep local knowledge to create unforgettable safari journeys.
11. Jocky Tours and Safaris
Price Range: $50–$200 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom budget & mid-range
With a longstanding presence in the Kenyan safari industry, Jocky Tours and Safaris is known for its affordability and reliability. They offer a variety of budget-friendly packages that still include the essential game drives in Maasai Mara, Nakuru, Amboseli, and more. Ideal for first-time travellers or budget-conscious tourists, their experienced drivers and well-organized tours provide great value for money.
12. Aanika Karibu Safaris
Price Range: $80–$280 per person/day
Tour Type: Small & medium group (Mid-range & luxury)
Aanika Karibu Safaris offers intimate group tours across Kenya and Tanzania, focusing on personalized service and custom itineraries. Whether you want to visit the flamingo-filled lakes of Nakuru or cross the border to see the Serengeti, this operator ensures every detail is handled with care. Their tours combine mid-range comfort with options for luxurious upgrades, making them suitable for couples, small families, and adventure groups.
13. Axis Africa Expedition & Safaris
Price Range: $100–$280 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Known for its wildlife-centered itineraries, Axis Africa offers tailor-made safaris that go deep into Kenya’s national parks. Their packages include private game drives, high-end accommodations, and options for cultural immersion. With strong expertise in wildlife behaviour and seasonal patterns, Axis Africa is a great pick for travellers who want to maximise game-viewing opportunities while enjoying a touch of luxury.
14. Sino Africa Safari
Price Range: $150–$300 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
With offices in Kenya, China, and the USA, Sino Africa Safari blends international service standards with local safari knowledge. Their client base includes both Asian and Western travelers, and they specialize in luxury private safaris. From helicopter rides over the Rift Valley to luxury lodge stays, Sino Africa designs itineraries that reflect high taste and comfort.
15. Spirit of Kenya
Price Range: $150–$300 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Spirit of Kenya is one of the top-rated luxury safari companies in the country, known for its transparent pricing, responsive customer service, and exceptional planning. Their safari experts help you build fully personalized tours, with top-tier lodges and seamless transfers. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a photography expedition, Spirit of Kenya offers an elevated experience backed by solid logistics.
16. Super Eagles Travel and Tours
Price Range: $160–$700 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom budget & mid-range
With tours that span Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, Super Eagles Travel and Tours offers affordable multi-country safaris without compromising quality. Their packages are well-suited for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for flexibility and good value. You can expect professional guides, comfortable 4×4 vehicles, and decent accommodation that can be upgraded based on your budget.
17. Bison Safaris
Price Range: $90–$350 per person/day
Tour Type: Budget with fixed itinerary
Bison Safaris is a great entry-level safari company for those who want a straightforward, affordable experience. With fixed itineraries, it’s perfect for travelers who prefer convenience and are okay with joining group tours. While it leans toward the budget end, Bison maintains good standards in safety, customer service, and park coverage. It’s an excellent choice for students or first-time visitors to Kenya.
Why Choose a Kenya-Based Safari Operator?
Kenya offers a safari experience that’s both classic and contemporary. From witnessing lion hunts on the golden plains of the Mara to catching a peek of Mount Kilimanjaro from Amboseli, the country delivers breathtaking scenes and top-tier hospitality.
Working with a Kenya-based operator ensures:
Strong local expertise
Better access to park permits
Efficient logistics
Direct communication and on-ground support
Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time visitor, these Kenya-based companies will help you explore East Africa in comfort, style, and safety. From affordable group tours to luxury custom safaris, there’s an option for every kind of traveller.
See>>> Top 10 Best Safari Destinations in Africa 2025
South Africa–Based Safari Companies
South Africa offers a diverse and luxurious safari experience, perfect for travellers who want to combine wildlife adventures with world-class comfort. From the legendary Kruger National Park to private game reserves like Sabi Sand and Madikwe, South Africa blends modern infrastructure, big game sightings, and luxury accommodations seamlessly.
Below are the top South Africa–based safari companies that deliver premium experiences for both local and international travelers.
18. MoAfrika Tours
Price Range: $80–$596 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
Based in Johannesburg, MoAfrika Tours is known for offering a wide range of safari packages across South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. They combine affordability with flexibility, making them ideal for travellers who want a well-priced safari without sacrificing comfort. Their popular Kruger safaris include transportation from Johannesburg, accommodation, and guided game drives, with options to upgrade to private reserves or luxury lodges.
19. Discover Africa Safaris
Price Range: $500–$3,000 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
One of Africa’s top-tier safari planners, Discover Africa Safaris crafts high-end safari experiences across 12 African countries, including South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia. Known for their luxury portfolio, they offer private tours, scenic flights, and custom itineraries using some of the continent’s finest lodges and camps. If you’re looking for bespoke travel planning and exceptional service, Discover Africa is an elite choice for high-net-worth travellers.
20. Pembury Tours
Price Range: $100–$2,000 per person/day
Tour Type: Custom mid-range & luxury
With over 30 years of experience, Pembury Tours specializes in tailor-made luxury safaris across Southern and Eastern Africa. They work with a network of exclusive safari lodges, private reserves, and scenic coastal retreats, offering detailed trip planning for couples, families, and small groups. Their team of expert travel consultants ensures personalized service and seamless travel logistics, making them a top pick for multi-destination itineraries that combine wildlife, beaches, and culture.
Why Choose a South Africa-Based Safari Operator?
South Africa offers a unique safari experience that blends world-class infrastructure with stunning biodiversity. Unlike many African countries, South Africa also allows for self-drive safaris, malaria-free reserves, and easier access via major cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.
By booking with a local operator, you benefit from:
Direct access to Kruger and private game reserves
Expert knowledge of lodges and best travel seasons
Pre-arranged airport pickups and luxury transport
Custom itineraries combining safaris with wine tours, city stays, or beach holidays
Whether you’re a solo traveller, honeymooning couple, or a family seeking safe and luxurious wildlife adventures, these South Africa–based safari companies provide the planning expertise and premium service you deserve.
See>>> Safari in Africa: 10 Best African Countries
Safari Price Range Comparison Table
| Company | Price Range (USD) | Tour Style | Countries Covered |
|---|---|---|---|
| Suricata Safaris | $190–$600 | Custom budget & mid-range | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Lion King Adventures | $200–$1,115 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Serengeti Wakanda Tours | $300–$1,500 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Savannah Explorers | $220–$1,000 | Custom mid-range & luxury | TZ, Kenya (KE), Uganda (UG) |
| Serengeti Smile | $100–$500 | Custom budget & mid-range | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Gamedrive Travel Africa | $200–$650 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Meru Slopes Tours & Safaris | $50–$480 | Group budget & mid-range | Tanzania (TZ) |
| African Big Cats Safaris | $200–$1,100 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Soul of Tanzania | $150–$400 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Tanzania (TZ) |
| Gosheni Safaris Africa | $175–$500 | Custom mid-range & luxury | TZ, KE, Botswana (BW), ZA, UG |
| Jocky Tours and Safaris | $50–$200 | Custom budget & mid-range | Kenya (KE) |
| Aanika Karibu Safaris | $80–$280 | Group mid-range & luxury | KE, TZ |
| Axis Africa Expedition | $100–$280 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Kenya (KE) |
| Sino Africa Safari | $150–$300 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Kenya (KE) |
| Spirit of Kenya | $150–$300 | Custom mid-range & luxury | Kenya (KE) |
| Super Eagles Travel and Tours | $160–$700 | Custom budget & mid-range | KE, TZ, UG |
| Bison Safaris | $90–$350 | Budget fixed itinerary | Kenya (KE) |
| MoAfrika Tours | $80–$596 | Custom mid-range & luxury | South Africa (ZA), BW, Namibia (NA), ZW |
| Discover Africa Safaris | $500–$3,000 | Custom mid-range & luxury | 12 African countries incl. TZ, KE, BW, ZA |
| Pembury Tours | $100–$2,000 | Custom mid-range & luxury | BW, KE, Mozambique (MZ), Seychelles (SC), UG, ZM, ZW, and more |
How to Choose the Right Safari Operator
Booking a safari is a major decision—it’s not just a trip, it’s an investment in an experience. Here’s how to ensure you choose the best safari company based on your needs:
1. Match Your Budget to the Experience Level
Safaris are available at different price points:
Budget ($50–$250/day): Typically includes group tours, standard lodges or camping, fixed itineraries. Great for first-time travelers.
Mid-range ($250–$600/day): Smaller groups or private tours, better accommodations, flexible schedules.
Luxury ($600–$3,000+/day): Includes private guides, fly-in safaris, premium lodges, and custom itineraries.
Be clear on what you’re willing to spend and what kind of service you expect at that price level.
2. Consider Group Size and Flexibility
Solo or couple travellers may prefer private, custom safaris.
Families or small groups can save by choosing a shared safari with a mid-range operator.
Fixed itinerary group tours are affordable but may lack flexibility.
Choose a tour type that aligns with your travel style and desired level of control over your schedule.
3. Office Location and Local Support
Operators with local offices in countries like Tanzania, Kenya, or South Africa tend to offer:
Better on-ground support
More competitive pricing
Stronger local partnerships with lodges and guides
International operators may provide extra convenience but often come with higher prices and less flexibility.
4. Read Online Reviews and Ask About Guides
Check platforms like TripAdvisor, SafariBookings, and Google Reviews.
Look for comments on guide knowledge, vehicle condition, responsiveness, and trip organization.
Don’t hesitate to email the company and ask questions about guide certifications or experience.
5. Inquire About Park Fees, Inclusions, and Accommodations
Not all safari quotes are the same, some include:
Park entrance fees
Meals
Internal flights or transfers
Lodging
Others may charge separately, making cheaper safaris look deceptively affordable. Clarify:What is included and excluded
The level of accommodation
Whether there are hidden costs
Booking a safari is one of the most exciting decisions a traveller can make, and the choice of operator can make or break the experience. Whether you’re dreaming of tracking lions in the Serengeti, watching elephants against the silhouette of Mount Kilimanjaro, or sipping sundowners in a private South African game reserve, there’s a company on this list to match your goals, budget, and expectations.
From budget group adventures to personalized five-star getaways, the 20 safari companies featured in this guide stand out for their:
Strong reputations and trusted reviews
Range of price points and tour styles
Local knowledge and logistical expertise
Different coverage across East and Southern Africa
The key is to balance what you want to experience with what you’re comfortable spending. If you’re on a budget, companies like Meru Slopes, Jocky Tours, or Bison Safaris offer amazing entry-level experiences. For mid-range comfort, look at Savannah Explorers, MoAfrika, or Soul of Tanzania. And for unmatched luxury, explore options like Discover Africa Safaris, Pembury Tours, or Serengeti Wakanda Tours.
Ready to Start Planning?
Your safari journey starts with the right choice of partner. Use this guide, check the price comparison table, and reach out to 2–3 shortlisted operators to compare offerings. Ask questions, read reviews, and trust your instincts.
With the right operator, your African safari won’t just be a trip, it will be a story worth telling for a lifetime.
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