Uber is about to launch its wildest ride ever.
Starting this October, Uber Safari will transport riders from Cape Town to the South African wilderness for a big five safari just a few hours’ drive from the city.
“Safari is such an iconic travel experience throughout Africa,” said Imran Manji, Head of Uber East and South Africa. “We’re thrilled to offer tourists and locals alike the opportunity to book an affordable, luxurious and seamless wildlife adventure within our app.”
The Uber Safari experience is the latest iteration in Uber’s ‘Go Anywhere’ series, following Uber Bubbles chauffeuring riders between Paris and Champagne this past summer, as well as Uber Boat in Mykonos, Uber Balloon in Cappadocia, and more excursions that transcend the typical rideshare experience.
Typically offered in a destination’s high season, these limited-time travel offerings are designed to help travelers easily book bucket list adventures. Uber users can take advantage of the app’s Reserve feature, and efficiently secure an enviable itinerary with minimal planning required.
“We’re always striving to push the boundaries of what is possible in transportation, from luxury travel to climate-conscious mobility solutions,” Manji added. “Each innovation, including Uber Safari, is designed with the future in mind, making travel more exciting, accessible and sustainable.”
What is Uber Safari?
Designed as a luxury day trip from Cape Town, Uber Safari partners with Aquila Private Game Reserve, about a two hour drive outside of the city, to offer an intimate and unique safari experience on 25,000 acres of protected land.
Up to four passengers can share a booking for the round trip ride and game drive via the Uber App. During the game drive at Aquila, safari-goers will see South Africa’s big five: lions, elephants, buffalos, cheetahs, and rhinos, plus more local wildlife including giraffes, hippos, flamingos, zebras, springboks, birds, and more.
“In partnership with Aquila Private Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s most popular wildlife conservancies, customers can be proud that every booking contributes to conservation efforts that help protect endangered species and ensure the preservation of South Africa’s rich biodiversity,” said Manji.
Uber Safari is a day trip that starts with a pickup from any hotel or accommodation in Cape Town around 9 a.m. Travelers can relax in a BMW during a scenic and well-paved highway ride to Aquila, where everyone is greeted with a welcome toast of South African wine and a hearty lunch (vegan options available).
Following the meal, groups will board safari vehicles for a three hour game drive, during which field guides and game rangers will help spot animals. The covered safari vehicles are designed for all weather, including rain. After the safari, guests will have time to enjoy Aquila’s stunning grounds and swimming pool before an Uber ride back to their hotel.
“We’re excited to partner with Uber to extend our bucket list wildlife experiences to their customers,” said Johan van Schalkwyk, Commercial Officer of Aquila Collection. “Uber Safari allows folks to book and enjoy an unforgettable day at Aquila, where they’ll get to experience the Big 5 in an easy and luxurious way. It’s the perfect combination of modern convenience and natural beauty, all while supporting wildlife conservation efforts that are vital to preserving South Africa’s biodiversity.”
How much does Uber Safari cost?
Uber Safari’s safari day trip comes at a stunningly accessible price point. The $200 booking includes both transfers, the game drive, and lunch, for up to four passengers, meaning you can go on safari for $50 per person. Tips, of course, are always welcome, so hit the ATM before boarding your Uber.
And yes, high demand is expected for Uber Safari trips, which take place during Cape Town’s high season, which is peak summer, November through January. Booking in advance is encouraged.
Already, Uber has a strong presence in the region and will be offering 20% off rides to wine country during the summer season.
“At Uber, our number one priority is to positively impact the communities and economies we serve,” said Maji. “In South Africa, we’re proud to serve more than 80% of the urban population in nearly 30 cities across the country. In so doing, we contribute to the economy in a meaningful way. In 2023 alone, Uber contributed an estimated R17B ($970M USD) to the South African economy, R1B ($58.4M USD) of which went to the tourism industry.”
How do I book Uber Safari?
Uber Safari reservations will become available in the Uber app on Wednesday, October 2. The experience will be bookable 24 hours to 90 days in advance. The Uber Safari icon on the will be visible on the Uber home screen to all riders in South Africa. Excursions run on Fridays and Saturdays until January 25, 2025.
Uber users can change their in-app location to South Africa to book. Cancellation is free if you cancel more than 24 hours before your trip.
From the United States, United Airlines flies nonstop between New York (EWR) to Cape Town (CPT) and Washington D.C. (IAD) to Cape Town. Delta Air Lines also offers a nonstop route between Atlanta (ATL) and Cape Town. All three routes are about 15 hours.
