This TikTok trick can help you book a $22,000 African safari for under $3,000!
A safari is a top item on many travelers' bucket lists—and who can blame them? Experiencing wildlife in their natural setting, marveling at Africa's breathtaking landscapes, and taking a break from daily life, even for a week, is a dream vacation. Yet, safaris can come with hefty costs, often reaching thousands for just one night. Luckily, TikTok creator David Shae might have a solution to make that long-awaited safari much more affordable than you imagined.
Zebras and impalas gather around the pool at the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, offering a stunning wildlife view. Courtesy of JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge"Here's how to book a $22,000 all-inclusive African safari using just your Chase, Amex, or Marriott points," Shae explains in a short TikTok video tutorial.
Shae highlights the luxurious all-inclusive JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge in Kenya, where $4,000 per night covers everything from safari tours to gourmet meals — and yes, you can book the whole trip with points.
Shae notes that Chase is currently offering a 70% transfer bonus. For example, transferring 100,000 Chase points will get you 170,000 Marriott points.
Shae advises to first check availability with the safari provider. On the Marriott Masai Mara homepage, select flexible dates for five nights for two people, and ensure you choose the 'pay with Marriott points' option.
"In May, there's a five-night stay available for just under 500,000 points in a lovely deluxe king suite. Plus, you get a fifth night free as a fantastic perk of using Marriott points," he remarked.
A communal space within the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge. Courtesy of JW Marriott Masai Mara LodgeDon't worry if you don't have a Marriott account yet. Shae explains that simply visiting the Marriott Bonvoy website, entering some basic information, and voilà, you have an account number. Next, link your Marriott account to your Chase account by selecting 'Ultimate Rewards,' then 'more,' 'transfer points to partners,' and choose Marriott as the first option. Enter your Bonvoy number, and 290,000 points is the key amount to aim for.
This will net you an extra 203,000 points, bringing your total to the 492,000 needed to book the trip.
"I know it may sound like a lot, but if you were to redeem these points for gift cards, it would only be worth $2,900. You're essentially getting a $22,000 vacation for just $2,900," he stated.
But hold on, he has one final tip.
"If you find yourself short on points, you can purchase Marriott points at $1,250 for 100,000 points, allowing you to enjoy that amazing $22,000 all-inclusive safari in Kenya."
1
2
3
4
5
Evaluation :
5/5