Dreaming of an African safari but don’t have weeks to spare? A 5-day African safari package might be the perfect solution. In just a few days, you can experience breathtaking wildlife encounters, diverse landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences.
From the famous plains of the Serengeti to the rivers of the Okavango Delta and the iconic Masai Mara, these tours give you the chance to tick off the Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo without breaking your budget.
We’ve rounded up the best 5-day African safari packages in Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Botswana. These trips combine game drives, optional extras like hot-air balloon safaris, and budget- to mid-range accommodations, ensuring you get maximum value.
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Kenya – Amboseli, Naivasha & Masai Mara Safari
When it comes to affordable African safari holidays, Kenya is hard to beat. This package blends three iconic destinations: Amboseli National Park, Lake Naivasha, and the world-renowned Masai Mara.
- Highlights: Amboseli offers majestic views of Mount Kilimanjaro alongside herds of elephants. Lake Naivasha brings a water-based safari experience with boat rides and hippo sightings. The Masai Mara, home to the Great Migration, is one of the best places in Africa to spot lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
- Accommodation: Budget to mid-range lodges and tented camps such as AA Lodge and Enkorok Mara Camp.
- Price: From $1,694–$1,848 per person.
This safari balances variety and value, making it one of the most popular 5-day safaris in Kenya.
Kenya – Lakes (Naivasha, Nakuru) & Masai Mara Safari
For travelers who love scenic beauty and birdwatching, this Kenya safari package is ideal.
- Highlights: Lake Naivasha offers a peaceful boat ride and a guided walk on Crescent Island, where giraffes roam freely. Lake Nakuru is famous for rhino sightings and flamingos. Finally, the Masai Mara guarantees Big Five encounters. An optional hot-air balloon safari over the Mara at sunrise adds an unforgettable touch.
- Accommodation: Comfortable mid-range lodges such as Lake Naivasha Sopa Resort, Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, and Mara Sopa Lodge.
- Price: About $1,848–$2,307 per person.
This is one of the best African safari tours for first-time visitors, combining lakes, wildlife, and adventure.
Tanzania – Serengeti, Tarangire & Ngorongoro Safari (with Balloon Ride)
Tanzania delivers some of the best African safari holidays on the continent, and this 5-day tour covers three legendary parks.
- Highlights: Tarangire National Park is known for giant baobabs and elephant herds. The Serengeti’s endless plains host predators like lions, cheetahs, and leopards. Ngorongoro Crater, often called Africa’s Garden of Eden, is home to dense populations of the Big Five. This package includes a hot-air balloon safari over the Serengeti, making it especially memorable.
- Accommodation: Mid-range lodges and tented camps such as Suricata Boma Lodge and Land of Nature Camp.
- Price: Around $2,860 per person.
For travelers who want iconic destinations and a touch of luxury adventure, this is among the best 5-day African safaris in Tanzania.
South Africa – Kruger Park (Manyeleti) Safari
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly African safari tours, Kruger National Park is a fantastic choice.
- Highlights: This 5-day package includes the Manyeleti Game Reserve and Kruger itself, offering excellent chances to spot the Big Five. Activities include day and night game drives, a guided bushwalk, and even a cultural village visit.
- Accommodation: Rustic but comfortable budget stays at Bongan Safari Lodge.
- Price: About $926 per person.
This is one of the most affordable African safari packages while still offering incredible wildlife experiences.
Botswana – Okavango Delta & Moremi Camping Safari
For travelers who want a raw and immersive adventure, Botswana’s Okavango Delta and Moremi Game Reserve offer a unique African safari experience.
- Highlights: Guests explore the Okavango by mokoro (traditional canoe) and enjoy guided bush walks in pristine wilderness. Moremi adds big predators like lions and leopards. This tour emphasizes authentic, close-to-nature experiences.
- Accommodation: Budget tented camping with all meals and equipment included.
- Price: Around $1,320 per person.
This is one of the best budget African safaris for adventure seekers, offering deep immersion in the wild.
Comparison of 5-Day African Safari Packages
| Destination | Price (USD) | Highlights | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya: Amboseli + Naivasha + Mara | $1,694–1,848 | Big Five, Kilimanjaro views, lake boat trips | Lodges & tented camps |
| Kenya: Naivasha + Nakuru + Mara | $1,848–2,307 | Rhinos, flamingos, balloon ride option | Mid-range lodges |
| Tanzania: Serengeti + Tarangire + Ngorongoro | ~$2,860 | Big Five, crater safari, balloon ride included | Lodges & tented camps |
| South Africa: Kruger (Manyeleti) | ~$926 | Night drives, bushwalks, cultural village visit | Budget lodge |
| Botswana: Okavango + Moremi | ~$1,320 | Mokoro safaris, bush walks, camping | Tented camping |
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Final Thoughts
A 5-day safari is long enough to experience Africa’s magic without stretching your time or budget. Kenya and Tanzania offer the classic African safari holidays with vast plains and iconic wildlife. South Africa provides an excellent budget safari option, while Botswana delivers a wilder, camping-based adventure.
