Ride-hailing giant Uber has unveiled a new service in Kenya called “Uber Safari”, giving users the option to book game drives in Nairobi National Park directly through the Uber app. The move marks Uber’s entry into the heart of Kenya’s tourism industry, a sector that generates more than US$4 billion annually.
Uber Safari will allow both domestic and international travellers to experience the beauty of wildlife of the capital city within minutes.
Customers can now pre-book guided three-hour excursions either during the day or at night without going through traditional tour operators.
According to details released, the service is priced at KSh 25,000 for a day safari, accommodating up to seven passengers, while night safaris cost about KSh 40,000.
Bookings can be made in advance via the Uber app, with the company promising convenience, professional guides, and a seamless digital experience.
“Nairobi is the only capital city in the world with a national park right next to it. This makes it the perfect place to launch Uber Safari, giving more people access to Kenya’s unique wildlife experiences,” Uber said in a statement.
The company is eyeing Kenya’s growing tourism and transport market, noting that its platform contributed an estimated Ksh 14.1 billion to the local economy in 2023, with about one-fifth of that linked to tourism.
By tapping into safari tours, Uber hopes to attract business travellers, short-stay visitors, and local tourists who may not have the time for multi-day safaris.
The service has, however, sparked mixed reactions in the travel industry. While some stakeholders welcome the innovation for its accessibility and potential to boost domestic tourism, others caution that safaris are not just about transport.
As conservation, guiding expertise, and wildlife protection remain key considerations, Uber has indicated that it will work closely with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and licensed operators to ensure compliance with park rules and conservation standards.
Kenya’s safari market is a major draw for millions of visitors every year, with Nairobi National Park alone offering sightings of lions, rhinos, buffaloes, giraffes, and hundreds of bird species just 20 minutes from the city center. With Uber Safari, the company hopes to democratize access to these experiences and give tourists a chance to “safari on demand.”
Whether this new service transforms the tourism landscape or faces resistance from established operators, one thing is clear: the safari experience in Nairobi just went digital.
