Uber has rolled out a new feature in Kenya that allows customers to book guided trips to Nairobi National Park directly from the app. The service, known as Uber Safari, gives riders the option to reserve either a three-hour day or night safari up to 90 days in advance.
Safari vehicles used for the rides are operated by licensed tour companies, with each trip including a professional guide and a three-hour wildlife experience. For day trips, the cost is Ksh.25,000 per vehicle carrying up to seven people. Night safaris are priced at Ksh.40,000 per vehicle with a capacity of five passengers. While the package covers the car entry fee, driver charges, and a night warden, visitors are still required to pay their individual park entry fees.
How Will Uber Safari Impact Tourism in Kenya?
Kenya’s tourism industry contributes about 10.4 percent of the country’s GDP and 5.5 percent of formal employment. Uber said this new service is designed to tap into that sector while creating additional revenue opportunities for registered safari operators. “Tourism plays a vital role in Kenya’s economy, and with Uber Safari, we are unlocking new ways for people to connect with wildlife while creating earning opportunities for operators,” Uber East Africa General Manager Imran Manji explained.
The launch comes as Uber marks 10 years in Kenya. The initiative is being rolled out in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Kenya Wildlife Service, the Tourism Regulatory Authority, and local fleet operators. By linking its platform to licensed tour guides and operators, Uber aims to merge the convenience of ride-hailing with the country’s thriving safari culture.
Why Nairobi as the Pilot Location?
Nairobi was selected as the pilot city due to its unique national park located just minutes from the capital. This allows both locals and international visitors to easily access a safari without leaving the city. Uber previously launched a similar safari product in Cape Town, South Africa, in 2024.
With digital travel bookings gaining momentum in Kenya, Uber Safari positions itself at the intersection of technology and tourism, offering a new way for people to experience wildlife adventures.
By Risper Akinyi
