Uber has introduced a new adventure service in South Africa, allowing riders in Cape Town to book a full-day wildlife safari through its app. The offering, known as Uber Safari, is part of the company’s “Go Anywhere” travel experience series, which aims to provide users with unique, bucket-list trips.
With Uber Safari, tourists can embark on a day-long journey to the Aquila Private Game Reserve, where they will have the opportunity to see South Africa’s famous Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. The experience will run from October 2024 to February 2025, with trips available on Fridays and Saturdays. Priced at $200 (over R3,000), each safari can accommodate up to four guests, and bookings can be made up to 90 days in advance.
The $200 fee covers the full Uber Safari experience, which includes pick-up and drop-off in Cape Town, a 2-3 hour game drive at the reserve, lunch, and a welcome toast. The service offers a seamless travel experience, combining Uber’s technology with the stunning wildlife and conservation efforts of the Aquila Game Reserve.
In case of a driver cancellation, Uber guarantees a full refund. Riders also have the flexibility to cancel confirmed bookings at no charge up to 60 minutes before their scheduled pick-up.
Frans Hiemstra, Uber’s Regional General Manager for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), highlighted the company’s goal to provide unforgettable travel experiences. “With Uber Safari, one of our most adventurous offerings yet, we’re using our Reserve technology to make it easier than ever to unlock an epic South African safari experience,” Hiemstra said.
Johan van Schalkwyk, Chief Commercial Officer of Aquila Collection, expressed excitement about the partnership with Uber. He described the collaboration as “the perfect blend of modern convenience and natural beauty,” emphasising that the initiative also supports wildlife conservation efforts, which are critical to protecting South Africa’s biodiversity.
It’s important to note that Uber Safari is restricted to users 18 years and older. Although Uber introduced teen accounts in South Africa in April 2024—allowing riders aged 13 to 17 to book trips through parent- or guardian-approved accounts—these users will not be able to request Uber Safari.
Uber Safari is the latest example of Uber’s push into experiential travel, following its success in the ride-hailing and food delivery sectors. This new service offers a chance for users to connect with nature while contributing to South Africa’s wildlife preservation efforts.
