Uber has introduced a new service in Kenya that makes wildlife adventures easier to access. The ride-hailing company has launched Uber Safari, allowing users to book guided trips to Nairobi National Park directly from the Uber app.
How the Service Works
Riders can schedule three-hour day or night safaris. Bookings are available from 2 to 90 days in advance. Safari vehicles are operated by licensed tour companies, and each trip includes a professional guide.
- Day safaris: Ksh.25,000 per car, up to seven people.
- Night safaris: Ksh.40,000 per car, up to five people.
The price covers the car entry fee, driver charges, and a warden for night trips. Visitors will still pay their own individual park entry fees to the Kenya Wildlife Service.
Boosting Tourism and Local Operators
According to Uber East Africa General Manager Imran Manji, the service is designed to expand Kenya’s tourism offering while supporting local businesses.
“Tourism plays a vital role in Kenya’s economy. With Uber Safari, we are unlocking new ways for people to connect with wildlife while creating earning opportunities for operators,” he said.
Uber is running the service in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the Tourism Regulatory Authority, and local fleet operators.
Why Nairobi?
Kenya’s tourism industry accounts for 10.4% of GDP and 5.5% of formal employment. Online travel booking is also growing, thanks to wider trust in digital platforms and mobile money.
Nairobi was chosen as the pilot location because of the city’s unique proximity to a national park. Tourists can enjoy a game drive just minutes away from the capital.
Looking Ahead
This is Uber’s first wildlife tourism product in Kenya. It follows a similar launch in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2023. With Uber Safari, the company hopes to blend digital convenience with authentic safari experiences.
