Cheap Places to Go in Africa That Prove You Don’t Need to Be Rich to Visit

Why Africa Isn’t Just for Luxury Travelers

The first time I looked into traveling Africa, I almost gave up before I started. Everywhere I searched, I saw luxury safari lodges charging $500+ per night, private game drives that cost more than a month’s rent, and package tours designed for high-end tourists. It felt like Africa was only for the rich.

But after traveling through the continent on a budget, I realized something: the idea that Africa is expensive is a myth—if you know where to go. Sure, if you stick to the usual tourist route—Serengeti luxury camps, Cape Town’s high-end hotels, and private island resorts in Seychelles—you’ll spend a fortune. But if you step outside that bubble, you’ll find affordable destinations where you can explore wildlife, beaches, and culture for a fraction of what most people pay.

I’ve stayed in beachfront guesthouses for $15 a night in Zanzibar, eaten full meals for $3 in Ethiopia, and hiked through some of the most stunning landscapes in the world—without spending a single cent on tour fees. Africa isn’t just for luxury travelers; it’s for anyone willing to travel smart, go where locals go, and skip the overpriced tourist traps.

In this guide, I’ll show you the best cheap places to go in Africa, how much you can realistically expect to spend, and how to experience the continent without going broke. Because you don’t need to be rich to explore Africa—you just need to know where to look.

What Makes a Destination Truly Affordable?

Not every so-called “cheap” place in Africa is actually budget-friendly. I’ve seen travel guides claim that Cape Town is affordable—until you realize hotels near the waterfront start at $150 a night and a simple restaurant meal can cost $20 or more.

I’ve also learned the hard way that just because a flight is cheap doesn’t mean the destination is. A $300 flight to Seychelles sounds like a steal—until you see that even budget hotels cost $200+ per night and local food options are almost nonexistent.

So, what actually makes a destination cheap and worth visiting? After traveling through different parts of Africa, I’ve figured out the key factors:

1. Budget Accommodations: Guesthouses, Hostels & Local Lodges

If a destination only offers high-end resorts, it’s not budget-friendly. The best cheap places to go in Africa have:

Guesthouses and family-run lodges – I’ve stayed in clean, comfortable rooms for $10–$30 per night in places like Zanzibar, Uganda, and Mozambique.
Hostels – Cape Town, Marrakech, and Dakar all have hostels for under $15 a night.
Eco-lodges & camping options – Many national parks and coastal areas offer $10–$20 per night camping, making expensive safaris more accessible.

💡 Pro tip: Some of the best deals aren’t online. Ask locals or other travelers for recommendations—I’ve found amazing $10-per-night guesthouses this way that would never show up on Booking.com.

2. Cheap & Filling Local Food

Food is one of the easiest ways to cut costs without sacrificing experience. In some places, sticking to restaurants aimed at tourists means spending $15–$25 per meal, but if you eat where locals do, you can have amazing meals for under $5.

Some of the best food bargains I’ve found:

Ethiopia: A full injera platter (spongy flatbread with stews) for $3–$5.
Senegal: A big plate of thieboudienne (rice and fish) for $2–$4 at local street stalls.
Uganda: A rolex (chapati filled with eggs and veggies) for $1–$2, perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Morocco: Freshly grilled sardines in Essaouira for $1 per serving—straight from the fisherman’s stall.

💡 Pro tip: If a restaurant doesn’t have prices listed on the menu and you’re in a touristy area, ask before ordering. I once got charged $15 for a plate of rice and chicken in a spot that locals paid $4 for.

3. Cheap or Free Things to Do

One of the biggest reasons Africa is a dream for budget travelers? Some of the best experiences—stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and epic hikes—don’t cost a thing.

Some of my favorite free or low-cost activities:

Hiking Table Mountain in Cape Town – $0 (just bring good shoes and water).
Visiting local markets in Dakar, Marrakech, and Addis Ababa – Completely free and a cultural experience in itself.
Exploring Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side – Just $30 entry compared to luxury lodges that charge hundreds per night.
Swimming in Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda – No entrance fee, just crystal-clear water and amazing views.

💡 Pro tip: If an attraction has an entry fee, check if there’s a local price vs. tourist price. Some places charge foreigners double or triple—but if you’re a long-term traveler or have a student ID, you can sometimes get a discount.

4. Cheap & Reliable Transport (Avoiding Overpriced Private Transfers)

The biggest mistake first-time travelers make? Booking private drivers and airport transfers. I learned this in Nairobi, where I almost paid $30 for a private ride to my hotel—until I found out the local matatu (shared minibus) cost just $1.

Here’s how to get around for cheap in different African destinations:

Minibuses & shared taxis – Called matatus (Kenya/Uganda), dala-dalas (Tanzania), and tro-tros (Ghana), these cost $0.50–$3 per ride instead of $20+ for taxis.
Train travel – Ethiopia’s Addis-Djibouti train and South Africa’s Gautrain offer cheap, safe ways to travel between cities.
Budget airlines – Carriers like Fastjet, Jambojet, and Airlink have regional flights for under $100 if booked early.
Ferries & boats – In Zanzibar, you can take a ferry from Dar es Salaam for $35, way cheaper than flying.

💡 Pro tip: In some countries (like Morocco, Egypt, and Kenya), taxis don’t use meters. Always negotiate the fare before getting in, or use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber where available.

The Best Cheap Places to Go in Africa

After traveling across Africa on a budget, I’ve learned that some places drain your wallet the moment you arrive, while others let you experience incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture for next to nothing. The destinations below aren’t just cheap—they’re places where you can stretch your money and still get an unforgettable experience.

1. Zanzibar, Tanzania – A Beach Paradise Without the Price Tag

When people think of tropical getaways, they picture expensive resorts and overpriced cocktails. But Zanzibar proved to me that you can have the white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and island vibes—without the luxury price tag.

Why it’s affordable: Budget guesthouses start at $15–$30 per night, and local food (think fresh seafood and Zanzibar-style biryani) costs as little as $3–$5.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Relax on Nungwi or Kendwa Beach—no entry fees, no overpriced beach clubs, just perfect sand and warm water.
- Take a $10 boat ride to Mnemba Atoll for some of the best snorkeling in East Africa.
- Wander through Stone Town (a UNESCO site) for free—get lost in its historic streets, spice markets, and crumbling palaces.
Best time to visit: March–May or September–November (cheaper accommodations, fewer tourists).

2. Marrakech, Morocco – Budget-Friendly Culture & Markets

Marrakech is one of those cities where you can spend next to nothing and still feel like you’re in the middle of something magical. I spent days exploring its chaotic souks, historic palaces, and buzzing squares—without spending more than a few dollars.

Why it’s affordable: Dorm beds in traditional riads (guesthouses) start at $10 per night, and street food costs as little as $1–$3.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Watch the street performances at Jemaa el-Fnaa square—snake charmers, musicians, and storytellers (just tip a little).
- Visit the Bahia Palace ($5 entry) for incredible Moorish architecture.
- Hike the Atlas Mountains—you can do it solo instead of paying for a tour.
Best time to visit: March–May or September–November (comfortable weather, lower hotel rates).

3. Cape Town, South Africa – A World-Class City on a Budget

Cape Town was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, and surprisingly, it doesn’t have to be expensive. Unlike some African cities where you need pricey tours to see anything, Cape Town’s best experiences are completely free.

Why it’s affordable: Budget hostels start at $12–$20 per night, and you can eat local street food like Gatsby sandwiches for $3–$5.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Hike Table Mountain or Lion’s Head for jaw-dropping views—no entrance fee.
- Visit Boulders Beach ($8 entry) to see the famous penguins.
- Walk through Bo-Kaap—one of the most colorful neighborhoods in Africa.
Best time to visit: April–June or September–November (cheaper flights and accommodation).

4. Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda – A Hidden Gem for Nature Lovers

Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most serene and underrated places I’ve ever visited. It’s surrounded by rolling green hills, tiny islands, and some of the friendliest locals you’ll ever meet.

Why it’s affordable: Eco-lodges and lakeside cabins start at $10–$25 per night.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Rent a canoe for $5 per day and explore the lake at your own pace.
- Visit Batwa villages to learn about one of Africa’s oldest indigenous cultures.
- Hike to viewpoints overlooking the lake—all for free.
Best time to visit: June–August or December–February (dry season for the best views).

5. Dakar, Senegal – Cheap Beaches, Markets & Music

Dakar is a vibrant, music-filled city with beaches, markets, and culture—all on a budget. It’s one of the cheapest capitals in West Africa, and I spent weeks here without burning through cash.

Why it’s affordable: Guesthouses cost $15–$30 per night, and you can eat delicious local meals (like thieboudienne—Senegal’s national dish) for $2–$4.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Visit Île de Gorée ($5 ferry ticket)—a UNESCO site with powerful history.
- Chill at Yoff Beach—a local hangout with no entry fees.
- Listen to live mbalax music at local clubs (many places don’t even charge a cover fee).
Best time to visit: November–April (dry season with festivals and events).

6. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia – A Budget Safari Alternative

I thought visiting Victoria Falls would be expensive, but I was shocked at how affordable it actually was—if you avoid the overpriced hotels. Staying on the Zimbabwe side gives you the best budget options.

Why it’s affordable: Budget lodges and hostels start at $10–$25 per night.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Visit Victoria Falls National Park ($30 entry)—it’s a fraction of the cost of a luxury safari.
- Walk across the Victoria Falls Bridge for a free view of the falls.
- Take a $5 shared taxi to local markets instead of overpaying for touristy souvenirs.
Best time to visit: April–July (full waterfalls, but fewer crowds).

7. Tofo, Mozambique – A Budget Diver’s Paradise

Mozambique isn’t on every traveler’s radar, but if you love beaches and diving, Tofo is one of the best cheap places to go in Africa.

Why it’s affordable: Beach bungalows start at $15–$30 per night, and fresh seafood costs $3–$7 per meal.
What to do for free or cheap:
- Snorkel in crystal-clear waters—if you have your own gear, it’s free.
- Take a local dhow boat ride ($10) for an island-hopping adventure.
- Walk along Tofo Beach—no entry fees, no crowds, just endless coastline.
Best time to visit: May–October (dry season, best diving conditions).

How to Do a Safari Without Going Broke

Before I ever set foot in Africa, I assumed safaris were only for rich travelers. The way they’re marketed—luxury lodges, private game drives, and $1,000-a-night packages—it’s easy to think that seeing Africa’s wildlife is out of reach for budget travelers.

But after traveling across the continent, I learned the truth: you don’t need a luxury lodge to see lions, elephants, and giraffes. If you avoid the overpriced safari circuits and plan wisely, you can experience world-class wildlife for a fraction of the usual price. Here’s how.

1. Avoid the Overpriced Safari Hotspots

Some of Africa’s most famous safari destinations—the Serengeti in Tanzania, Maasai Mara in Kenya, and Kruger National Park in South Africa—are incredible, but they’re also where tour companies charge the highest prices.

If you’re on a budget, look beyond the big-name parks and head to alternative destinations where you get the same experience for a lot less:

Etosha National Park, Namibia – One of Africa’s best self-drive safari parks, with entrance fees of just $6 per person. You can camp inside the park for $15 per night instead of staying in a luxury lodge.
South Luangwa National Park, Zambia – Less crowded than Serengeti but just as stunning. Budget lodges start at $30 per night, and you can book a group safari drive for $25–$40.
Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe’s largest park, home to huge elephant herds. Budget stays start at $20 per night, and the park entrance fee is just $15.
Mole National Park, Ghana – One of the cheapest safari experiences in Africa. Entrance is $10, and you can do a walking safari for $5–$10.

💡 Pro Tip: If you really want to visit a famous park like Serengeti or Kruger but don’t want to pay for a private tour, stay just outside the park in a budget guesthouse and take public transport in.

2. Consider Self-Drive Safaris (It’s Easier Than You Think)

One of the biggest safari rip-offs? Private game drives, where you’re charged $100–$500 per day just to sit in a 4x4 while a guide drives you around.

In countries like Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya, you can rent your own car for $30–$50 per day and do a self-drive safari—giving you the same wildlife experience at a fraction of the cost.

Where self-drive safaris are best:

Kruger National Park, South Africa – Roads are well-maintained, and you can drive yourself for $25 per day instead of paying for an expensive tour.
Etosha National Park, Namibia – Perfect for self-driving, with easy-to-navigate roads and watering holes where animals gather.
Chobe National Park, Botswana – Another great park where you don’t need a guide—just a reliable car and a sense of adventure.

💡 Pro Tip: Rent a car with high ground clearance (not necessarily 4WD) so you can handle rougher roads without needing an expensive safari truck.

3. Book Budget Group Tours Instead of Private Safaris

If self-driving isn’t an option, a group safari tour is the next best thing. Instead of paying for a private tour (which can cost $500+ per day), look for group safaris where costs are shared among multiple travelers.

How to find cheap group safaris:

Book in person, not online. Online tour prices are usually marked up for international tourists. In places like Arusha (Tanzania) or Nairobi (Kenya), you can book a last-minute spot on a group safari for 50% less than online rates.
Join overland truck tours. Companies like Nomad Africa or Oasis Overland offer budget safaris where you split costs with a group.
Check backpacker lodges. Many budget lodges in Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa offer shared safari packages for as little as $50–$100 per day.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re traveling solo, team up with other backpackers to negotiate better group rates on safari tours.

4. Know the Real Costs of a Safari (And Where to Save)

Here’s what a budget safari actually costs in different parts of Africa:

Destination	Park Entry Fee	Accommodation	Game Drive Price
Kruger (South Africa)	$25 per day	$15–$30 per night (camping)	Self-drive ($30 rental)
Etosha (Namibia)	$6 per day	$10–$25 per night	Self-drive ($30–$40 rental)
Mole (Ghana)	$10 per day	$5–$20 per night	$5 walking safari
South Luangwa (Zambia)	$25 per day	$20–$40 per night	$25–$40 per game drive
Serengeti (Tanzania)	$70 per day	$30–$50 per night (outside the park)	Group safari ($100–$150 per day)

💡 Pro Tip: Park fees in Tanzania and Kenya are higher ($50–$70 per day), so it’s best to plan shorter safaris in these countries or visit cheaper parks like Tarangire (Tanzania) or Amboseli (Kenya).

5. Stay in Budget Safari Lodges, Campsites & Hostels

Most people think that staying inside a national park means spending $500+ per night, but there are budget-friendly alternatives if you know where to look:

Public campsites inside parks – Kruger, Etosha, and Chobe have campsites for $10–$25 per night, so you can stay in the park without booking a lodge.
Hostels & backpacker lodges near parks – Many budget hostels near Serengeti, Maasai Mara, and Victoria Falls offer safari tours at lower rates.
Eco-lodges & community-run stays – In places like Namibia, Zambia, and Uganda, community-run lodges charge $20–$40 per night, supporting local conservation efforts.

💡 Pro Tip: If staying inside the park is too expensive, stay just outside and take a cheap shuttle in. Many national parks offer affordable transport options for visitors.

Budget Travel Tips for Africa

Even if you stick to cheap places to go in Africa, costs can creep up fast if you don’t plan wisely. Flights, accommodations, and transportation can drain your budget—unless you know the right tricks. After months of traveling across Africa, here’s what I learned about keeping costs low without sacrificing the experience.

1. Find the Cheapest Flights to Africa

Flights to Africa can be expensive, but if you’re flexible, you can score round-trip tickets for under $500.

Use flight hubs to your advantage. Some African cities have cheaper flights than others because they’re major airline hubs:
- Cheapest airports to fly into:
  - Cairo (Egypt) – One of the cheapest gateways from Europe and the U.S.
  - Johannesburg (South Africa) – Cheap flights from Europe and a great hub for connecting flights.
  - Nairobi (Kenya) – Major East African hub with good deals from Europe and the Middle East.
  - Casablanca (Morocco) – Affordable flights from North America and Europe.
Book separate legs. Instead of flying directly to a remote destination, fly into a major hub and take a budget airline or bus to your final stop. Example: Fly to Johannesburg first, then take a $100 budget flight to Namibia.
Use budget airlines within Africa. Carriers like Fastjet, Jambojet, and Airlink have regional flights for under $100 if booked early.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re coming from Europe, check budget flights from Lisbon, Madrid, or Istanbul—these cities often have the cheapest fares to Africa.

2. Stay in Budget Accommodations (Skip Western-Owned Hotels)

Big hotel chains in Africa charge Western prices. Locally owned guesthouses, hostels, and eco-lodges are not only cheaper, but they also give you a more authentic experience.

Where to find cheap stays:

Hostels & backpacker lodges – Cape Town, Marrakech, and Nairobi have hostels for $10–$20 per night.
Local guesthouses & riads – In Morocco, Ethiopia, and Senegal, you can get a private room for $15–$30 per night.
Eco-lodges & campsites – Many national parks and beaches offer budget-friendly cabins or camping for $5–$25 per night.
University dorms (seasonal stays) – Some universities rent out dorms to travelers in the summer for as little as $10 per night (especially in cities like Cape Town and Accra).

💡 Pro Tip: In some places, Airbnbs are actually more expensive than local guesthouses because they cater to foreign tourists. Always compare both before booking.

3. Eat Cheap Without Relying on Fast Food

In Africa, eating like a local saves you money and gives you the best meals. In some countries, sticking to hotel restaurants means spending $15–$20 per meal—but if you eat where locals eat, you can get amazing food for $3–$8.

Some of the best cheap meals I’ve had in Africa:

Ethiopia: Huge injera platters (flatbread + stews) for $3–$5.
Senegal: Thieboudienne (rice & fish) for $2–$4.
Uganda: Rolex (chapati + eggs + veggies) for $1–$2.
Egypt: Koshari (pasta, lentils, tomato sauce) for $1.50.
Morocco: Street food tagine for $3–$5.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re near a market, buy fresh fruit, bread, and snacks for cheap breakfasts and lunches instead of eating out three times a day.

4. Use Local Transport (Avoid Private Transfers at All Costs)

If you only take taxis and private drivers, your budget will disappear fast. Africa has plenty of cheap, safe public transport options if you know where to look.

Minibuses & shared taxis – Known as matatus (Kenya/Uganda), dala-dalas (Tanzania), and tro-tros (Ghana), these cost $0.50–$3 per ride instead of $20+ for taxis.
Long-distance buses – Companies like Intercape (Southern Africa), Bismillah (East Africa), and CTM (Morocco) offer comfortable rides between cities for $10–$30.
Ride-hailing apps – Uber and Bolt are much cheaper than regular taxis in major cities like Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Cairo.
Trains – Countries like Egypt, South Africa, and Ethiopia have budget-friendly train routes for under $10.

💡 Pro Tip: In many African cities, taxis don’t use meters. Always negotiate the fare before getting in, or stick to ride-hailing apps where available.

5. Take Advantage of Free & Cheap Activities

One of the best things about Africa? Some of the most incredible experiences cost nothing. You don’t have to book expensive tours—many of the best sights are free or have low entry fees.

Some of my favorite free or cheap things to do in Africa:

Hiking Table Mountain in Cape Town – $0 if you walk up yourself.
Exploring Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side – $30 entry instead of paying for expensive boat cruises.
Visiting Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech – The city’s famous square is full of free street performances.
Swimming in Lake Malawi – No fees, just crystal-clear water and perfect beaches.
Walking safaris in Mole National Park, Ghana – See elephants for $5 instead of paying for a full safari.

💡 Pro Tip: If an attraction has separate prices for locals and foreigners, ask if there’s a student, resident, or long-term traveler discount.

Final Thoughts

A lot of people assume Africa is only for luxury travelers—but after traveling across the continent on a budget, I’ve learned that’s just not true. You don’t need a five-star safari lodge or an expensive resort to experience Africa’s beauty.

With the right planning, you can explore Africa’s beaches, wildlife, cities, and culture for a fraction of what most people think. The real question is: where will your African adventure take you.