When traveling to a new destination, figuring out much to budget for activities, food, and transportation can be a little tricky. When I first started exploring Africa, I wasn’t sure how much to budget for different activities, safaris, transportation, accommodation and other costs of travel.
Fast forward a few years, and I’ve explored over ten countries on the African continent! While there’s still plenty I haven’t seen, I’m happy to report that it’s possible to discover this incredible continent on a budget.
Depending on where you live, your flight may be a bit more than other destinations, but you’ll be spending less once you arrive if you plan ahead.
Ready to start your African adventure? Here are some of the best budget destinations in Africa!
Volcanoes National Park
Rwanda
Rwanda is one of the top destinations in Africa for gorilla trekking. People from all over the world visit this tiny country to trek into the lush jungles of Volcanoes National Park.
While gorilla treks are by no means cheap, the cost of living in Rwanda is relatively low, making it an affordable destination. Public transportation won’t cost you more than a couple of dollars, and if you skip the international restaurants, you’ll find the local street food budget-friendly and delicious.
Travel tip to keep in mind: The unit of currency is the Rwandan Franc, but it’s recommended to bring US dollars or euros in cash. You’ll need it to pay for most activities, but you can use the local currency for day-to-day purchases.
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $15 USD per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $10 a day
Local Transportation: $5 (taxis, local buses, subway, etc.)
Average Daily Budget: $27
Pyramids of Giza
Egypt
Egypt is home to one of the most iconic wonders of the world – The Pyramids of Giza. It’s an incredible country that’s perfect for history lovers who want to sail down the Nile and soak up Egypt’s fascinating past.
For budget travelers, Egypt is surprisingly affordable. While you’ll still pay top dollar for the country’s most popular experiences, it’s possible to cut costs on expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation.
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $12 per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $6 a day
Local Transportation: $5 (taxis, local buses, subway, etc.)
Average Daily Budget: $22
Read More: 10 Tips for Your First Trip to Egypt
Kenya
Kenya is one of my favorite safari destinations in Africa! From the plains of the Masaai Mara to the country’s beautiful coastline—there’s so much to see and do!
Nairobi, the capital city, is a great place to base yourself if you want to get a taste of city life in East Africa. Nairobi boasts Insta-worthy cafes, trendy rooftop bars and restaurants serving everything from local Swahili food to gourmet Italian.
There are also cheap flights to coastal destinations like Diani Beach and Watamu. These lesser visited destinations often have excellent deals on snorkeling trips, especially if you’re traveling offseason.
You can also go on a day trip to Hell’s Gate National Park from Nairobi. It only costs $25 for the day, and you can cycle past herds of zebra and antelope!
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $18 per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $20 a day
Local Transportation: $7 for a 3km taxi ride
Average Daily Budget: $45
Read More: Bucket List Experiences in Kenya
Dallol
Ethiopia
Ethiopia is an up and coming African destination. The country is home to some crazy landscapes, unbelievable views, and a rich culture.
Some of the highlights include the Danakil Depression, Erta Ale, and Lalibela and Gonder.
Travel tip: If you’re going to be doing a lot of sightseeing (especially in and out of Addis), you’ll want to hire a reliable taxi driver. Often they will give you their phone number, and you can call them when you need a ride.
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $15 per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $10 a day
Local Transportation: $5 (taxis, local buses, subway, etc.)
Average Daily Budget: $24
Mozambique
Ever since my first trip to Mozambique, I’ve been dying to go back and explore more of the country. Picture-perfect beaches frame the coastline, the local food is mouthwatering, and there’s an endless list of activities to keep you busy.
Some of my favorite activities in Mozambique include snorkeling and kayaking, which are super affordable for budget travelers. If you want to get your PADI Open Water, you’ll find prices at the local dive shops a bit cheaper than the ones in South Africa.
Travel tip: If you’re looking to really save some money, eat at local restaurants, avoid international dishes (which tend to be more expensive) and don’t forget to try the Mozambican beer!
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $15 per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $7 a day
Local Transportation: $2 (taxis, local buses, subway, etc.)
Average Daily Budget: $25
Read More: 20 Photos to Inspire You to Visit Bazaruto Island
South Africa
South Africa
If you’ve been following this blog for a while, then you know that South Africa is my new home. Ever since I moved here, I’ve been exploring the country as much as possible.
One of my favorite things about living in Cape Town is that there are so many FREE activities! From hiking up the city’s iconic Lion’s Head mountain to relaxing on the beaches or sampling food at the markets, it’s an excellent African destination for budget travelers.
Your biggest costs in South Africa will be transportation. Flights, car hire, and long distance buses aren’t as cheap as other destinations around the world.
But on the plus side, food prices are much lower than the US, and there are tons of affordable activities!
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $12 per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $23 a day
Local Transportation: $15 (taxis, local buses, subway, etc.)
Average Daily Budget: $50
Read More: The Ultimate South Africa Travel Guide
Morocco
Morocco is one of the top African destinations (I’ve just announced dates for my TBA Escapes Morocco Tour!), and it’s entirely possible to explore the country on a budget.
Spend your trip exploring the local markets in Marrakech or wander around the blue city of Chefchaouen.
The local Moroccan food and drinks are so delicious and inexpensive, you can find them all around the cities. You can also consider train travel in Morocco to save some money on transportation.
Morocco has a closed currency which means that isn’t readily available anywhere outside of the country. Not to worry though, you can exchange your dollars at the airport or withdraw cash from the ATMs. If you want to splurge on something during your trip, I highly recommend a tented camp in the Sahara!
Average Costs
Dorm Bed: $22 per person per night
Three Cheap Meals: $12 a day
Local Transportation: $5 (taxis, local buses, subway, etc.)
Average Daily Budget: $35
Read More: The Ultimate Morocco Travel Guide
Overall
While the continent of Africa is put on the backburner for many US travelers, it’s not as intimidating to plan as you might think! It’s full of unique cultures, delicious foods, locals, sights unlike any others and, if you don’t mind sacrificing a few comforts, it’s a very affordable place to visit!
Do you have any tips for traveling to Africa on a budget? Let me know in the comments below!
Is the Gyza piramid quite the sight I imagine it to be? I have to admit I was left a bit disappointed with the Stonehenge and I have a tingling sensation this might be similiar. You word would override that surely, though!
I may just pick Kenya based on what you have written, though.
I think I would choose Kenya over Egypt as well especially if it’s your first time in Africa 🙂
All those lists are amazing and accurate as well. I can also suggest going to Madagascar, the big island next to Africa (not the movie :p ). Life there is very cheap and you can easily find accommodation. In terms of nature, it is very rich so If you are interested in ecotourism, for instance, that’s the best place to go.
However, the only inconvenience is the flight, it is a bit expensive especially the internal flight that costs an arm and a leg.
I’m dying to go to Madagascar!!