One of the first decisions when you plan a Kenya safari is whether to book a Kenya private safari or join a group (joining) safari. Both visit the same parks and see the same animals, but the experience, flexibility and price are very different. This guide compares the two side by side, explains what each costs and helps you choose the right style for your trip.
Private vs joining safari: the short answer
- Choose a joining safari if you are travelling solo or as a couple on a budget, you are happy to follow a fixed schedule and you enjoy meeting other travellers.
- Choose a private safari if you are a family, a honeymoon couple, a photographer or a group of friends, or if you want to set your own pace and choose your own lodges.
What is a joining safari?
On a joining (or shared) safari, you travel with other guests in a shared safari vehicle on fixed departure dates and a set itinerary. Most Kenya joining safaris leave Nairobi daily for the Masai Mara and use budget tented camps or simple lodges. The group usually includes travellers from different countries, and the guide plans game drives for the whole vehicle.
Our 3 Days Joining Masai Mara Safari is a good example: daily departures from Nairobi, shared game drives and camp accommodation, from US$450 per person sharing between January and June and US$680 from July to December.
What is a Kenya private safari?
On a private safari, the vehicle and guide are yours alone. You choose the travel dates, the parks, the lodges and the daily rhythm. Want to stay with a lion pride for two hours, leave before sunrise for the best light, or head back to camp early because the children are tired? On a private safari, that is your decision.
Our 3 Days Masai Mara Private Safari starts from US$965 per person, and every itinerary on our site can be run privately for your dates.
Side-by-side comparison
- Price: joining safaris are the cheapest way to see the Mara. Private safaris cost more because you pay for the whole vehicle and guide, but the gap narrows for groups of four to six people sharing one vehicle.
- Dates: joining safaris follow fixed departures. Private safaris start whenever you want.
- Itinerary: joining safaris follow a set route. Private safaris can add Lake Nakuru, Amboseli, Samburu or the coast in any order.
- Game drives: on a joining safari, the group decides together how long to stay at a sighting. On a private safari, you decide.
- Accommodation: joining safaris use set budget camps. Private safaris let you choose anything from mid-range lodges to luxury tented camps.
- Window seat: a private vehicle guarantees everyone a window seat and space for camera gear.
- Social side: joining safaris are a great way for solo travellers to meet people.
How much does a private Kenya safari with a guide and vehicle cost?
As a rough guide, a private Kenya safari with your own vehicle and guide costs from about US$300 to US$500 per person per day at mid-range lodges, and from about US$500 per person per day for luxury camps or fly-in safaris. The price per person drops as more people share the vehicle, so private safaris are excellent value for families and groups.
The biggest fixed cost is the park fee. In the Masai Mara, non-resident adults pay US$100 per day from January to June and US$200 per day from July to December, whichever safari style you choose. Our Masai Mara safari cost guide breaks down every part of the budget.
Which is better for families?
Private, almost always. Children get bored on long game drives, need regular breaks and may not be welcome on some shared vehicles. A private vehicle lets you plan shorter drives, picnic stops and rest time, and many family-friendly lodges offer connecting rooms or family tents. Read our guide to choosing a safari tour operator for a family checklist.
Which is better for photographers?
Private. You control where the vehicle is positioned, how long you wait for the action and whether you go out at first light, when the light and wildlife activity are at their best.
Which is better for solo travellers?
A joining safari is usually the best value and the most sociable option for solo travellers. Single supplements on private safaris can add a lot to the cost.
A middle option: semi-private and small-group safaris
If you are a group of friends or two couples, booking a private vehicle together gives you most of the benefits of a private safari at close to joining-safari prices. We also run fixed group departures, such as our 10 Days Kenya Safari and Beach Holiday Group Departure, which combine a planned itinerary with a small, like-minded group.
Frequently asked questions
Is a joining safari safe?
Yes. Joining safaris use the same licensed vehicles, trained guides and park rules as private safaris. The difference is the shared schedule, not safety.
How many people are in a joining safari vehicle?
Usually between four and seven guests, depending on the vehicle and the season.
Can I upgrade a joining safari to private?
Yes. Ask us to quote the same itinerary as a private safari for your dates and group size.
Do private safaris include park fees?
Most safari packages include park fees, but not all do. Always check this when comparing quotes, because park fees make a big difference to the final price. We list exactly what is included in every quote.
Plan your Kenya safari
Not sure which style suits you? Tell us your dates, group size and budget and we will recommend the best option. Request a free proposal.
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