How METRIKA calculates this
Total = accommodation + transport + food and drinks + activities + park fees + a 10% contingency. Accommodation = rooms (two people a room) × a starting nightly rate for the destination and style × nights × a seasonal factor. Peak months cost more, and the rainy "green" season costs less.
Safari lodges and camps in the Mara, Amboseli, Tsavo and Samburu are usually full board, so METRIKA counts only drinks and snacks for food there. Activities cover game drives, boat trips and excursions. Park fees use the 2026 citizen or non-resident day rate for each park, converted at about KES 129.6 to the US dollar, and are charged for each night in the park.
Transport from Nairobi is a return trip: bus or shuttle at roughly KES 3.6 per kilometre each way (about KES 8 a kilometre for safari shuttles), your own car at KES 227 a litre and 10 km a litre, SGR economy fares plus a local transfer, or an indicative return flight. Enter your own transport cost to override it.
What to know in Kenya
Kenya's prices follow the seasons. The long rains (about March to May) bring the lowest lodge rates, which many camps call the green season. July to October is peak safari season, when the wildebeest migration is in the Maasai Mara, and the Mara's reserve fee for non-residents doubles from July. The coast is busiest and priciest over Christmas and New Year.
Kenyan citizens and East African residents pay much lower park fees than international visitors. Many hotels also offer resident rates, midweek deals and packages, especially around school holidays in April, August and December. Ask for them when you book.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Maasai Mara trip cost for Kenyans?
For two people staying three nights mid-range in August, METRIKA estimates about KES 223,454 in total, including full-board camp, transport, game drives and park fees. A budget trip in the green season costs far less.
What is the cheapest time to go on safari in Kenya?
April and May, during the long rains. Many lodges cut prices, and parks are quieter, though some roads get muddy and a few camps close.
How much is a weekend in Diani?
For two people, two nights mid-range in March by SGR, METRIKA estimates about KES 81,950, including the train, transfer, hotel, food and activities.
Do Kenyans pay less at national parks?
Yes. Kenyan citizens and East African residents pay lower conservation fees than non-residents, often a small fraction of the international rate. Fees change from time to time, so check the official KWS or county rates before you travel.
What does the SGR cost to Mombasa?
Economy is KES 1,500 one way and First Class KES 4,500, according to 2026 published fares. Voi, for Tsavo, is KES 1,050 in economy.
Is this an exact quote?
No. It's a planning estimate built from typical 2026 prices. Use it to compare options and set a budget, then replace each line with real quotes.
Sources
- Kenya Wildlife Service — park entry fees
- EPRA — maximum retail pump prices
- Kenya Railways — Madaraka Express (SGR)
- Magical Kenya — Kenya Tourism Board
Links are for reference only. METRIKA is independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by these organisations.
Rates checked 6 Nov 2026. METRIKA gives estimates, not financial or tax advice.