What’s the Cost of Overlanding in East Africa? Budget Breakdown

Ever wondered what it actually costs to plan a multi-week self-drive adventure across East Africa? Whether you’re dreaming of the Maasai Mara or gorilla trekking in Rwanda, this guide breaks down the real costs of overlanding, so you can budget smart and travel far.

We’ll cover everything from vehicle hire rates and insurance to park fees, border crossings, fuel and optional extras. Let’s dive in.

Vehicle Hire Costs (with Black Leopard 4x4 Hire)

Your biggest up-front cost will be your vehicle. At Black Leopard, rates vary by:

• Vehicle size (e.g. Jimny vs Land Cruiser)

• Season (high vs low)

• Duration of hire

Here’s a quick snapshot of 2024–2025 hire rates (based on longer hires of 16–24 days):

Vehicle	Equipped	Daily Rate (Low Season)	Daily Rate (High Season)
Jimny SWB	Yes	$135	$135
Jimny LWB	Yes	$150	$175
Land Cruiser 76 Series	Yes	$185	$220
Hilux	Yes	$185	$220
Defender 110	Yes	$180	$200

Total for 3-week trip (Land Cruiser 76, equipped):→ 21 days × $185 = $3,885 USD (low season)

Insurance Options

Black Leopard offers two options:

Option A – Refundable Deposit

• $1,000+ deposit (varies by route)

• Returned post-trip (if no damage)

Option B – Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)

• $26.50/day for trips 16+ days

• $250 refundable deposit

• Covers accidental damage (excludes negligence or camping gear)

  
  

Total for 3-week CDW coverage:→ $26.50 × 21 days = $556.50

Fuel Costs

Fuel costs will vary depending on the vehicle, terrain, and country, but here’s a realistic estimate based on a fully equipped Land Cruiser 76 Series with a standard diesel engine:

• Average consumption: ~7 km/L (loaded, mixed terrain)

• Diesel cost across East Africa: ~$1.45/L (regional average)

• Total distance: 2,000–3,000 km

• Fuel needed:

  • 2,000 km → ~286 L

  • 3,000 km → ~429 L

Estimated Fuel Cost:

• Low end (2,000 km): 286 L × $1.45 = ~$415 USD

• High end (3,000 km): 429 L × $1.45 = ~$622 USD

Note: Jimnys and Defenders will use slightly less or more depending on setup and driving style, but this gives a solid benchmark for overland planning.

Park Fees & Activities

• Kenya parks (e.g. Amboseli, Samburu): $60–$100/day

• Tanzania & Uganda parks: $50–$100/day

• Gorilla trekking in Rwanda/Uganda: ~$1,500

• Chimp trekking: ~$150

• Campsite fees: $15–$30/night

Park and activity fees (excluding gorilla trekking) = $900–$1,400 per person

Border Crossings & Visas

• Carnet de Passage: Included with Black Leopard

• Comprehensive insurance: Included

• Visas:

  • Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania: $30-50 each

  • East Africa Tourist Visa (Kenya/Uganda/Rwanda): $100

Total for multi-country trip:→ $100–$200 per person

Food & Extras

• Shop locally for basics: $10–$15/day

• Eat at local restaurants or lodges occasionally: $15–$25/meal

• Optional: Add a Black Leopard chef or itinerary support

DIY cooking for 2 people (21 days):→ $400–$600

What’s Included with Black Leopard

Every hire includes:

• Fully equipped 4x4 (tent, fridge, kitchen, table, chairs)

• A local smartphone with M-Pesa and data

• 24/7 roadside support

• Route planning advice

• Cross-border paperwork

Sample Budget Summary for 2 People (3 Weeks)

Category	Estimated Cost (USD)
Vehicle Hire (L/C 76)	$3,885
CDW Insurance	$556
Fuel	$500
Park Fees & Permits	$1,200
Food & Supplies	$500
Visas & Border Fees	$150
Total (Approx.)	$6791

Want to go cheaper? Choose a Jimny or travel in low season. Want to upgrade? Add lodge stays, catering, or full itinerary planning with Africa Off Track

Final Thoughts

Overlanding through East Africa is an experience like no other and while it isn’t cheap, it delivers unmatched value in freedom, wildlife and once-in-a-lifetime memories.

At Black Leopard 4x4 Hire, we make it simple: no hidden fees, no setup hassles, just a great vehicle and full support from a team that lives and breathes African adventure.