An African adventure can cost as much as a new car or as little as a stay at your average hotel. Here's what to expect based on how much you have to spend

DO-IT-YOURSELF SAFARIS
($125 to $600 per night)

The Deal
In Namibia, South Africa, and certain parts of Botswana—relatively safe countries with decent paved and gravel roads—it's possible to rent a car and travel to national parks, staying in affordable independent and government-owned lodges and camps. Think Yosemite and Zion with lions.

The Appeal
Just you, the open road, and bragging rights to going it alone. You travel at your own pace, and, depending on where you stay, these trips can be very affordable—as little as $125 per day for a rental car and clean, basic accommodations, including air-conditioning, hot showers, and flush toilets (see sanparks.org).

The Fine Print
You won't have the benefit of an expert guide and tracker to lead you to the best game viewing or to explain what you're seeing (although South Africa's Kruger now offers guided hikes and drives). Park fees will run about $70 per person per day. Crime can be an issue in certain areas. It's best to travel with a four-wheel drive, a good GPS, spare tires, a tent, extra food, and water. This approach is better left to truly intrepid types who need no handholding.

MID-RANGE
($700 to $1,500 per night)

The Deal
A big step above do-it-yourself, these safaris are arranged through an agent or safari outfitter (many of these properties do not even take direct bookings), with most accommodations in lodges or comfortable tents, some outfitted with en suite flush toilets and running water (as opposed to "long drop" loos and bucket showers in separate tents).

The Appeal
Nothing but a sheet of canvas separating you from the crisp night air and the wild things. Comfortable accommodations, staff to attend to your needs, and rates that include all or most meals and game drives.

The Fine Print
Larger tents with running water and better bedding come with a higher price tag—starting at $1,000 per night. You can stay in excellent lodges for about the same price, but bear in mind that the rate won't include extras like drinks or laundry service.

HIGH END
($1,600 and up per night)

The Deal
For the full-on romantic African fantasy (plus a private plunge pool), nothing beats a safari at a luxury lodge or tented camp.

The Appeal
Your every need is attended to: Excellent meals, cocktails, laundry, guides, and sumptuous accommodations are all included in the rate. Many high-end lodges and camps in East and Southern Africa are on their own concessions, which means no crowds and no restrictions on traveling off-road to view game (unlike in national parks, which forbid off-road traffic).

The Fine Print
Luxurious digs and a five-figure price tag don't guarantee great game viewing, so double-check with your agent before booking. If you don't want to share your vehicle with other guests on game drives, it'll cost $250 to $400 per day to have your own.