Uber is known for its convenience. With its e-hailing services available in over 70 countries around the world, from the moment it entered the international travel industry in 2009, riders have been easily connected with affordable, reliable and convenient transport options with one simple tap of a button. Now, Uber is taking the one-click-ease of booking an Uber ride to the next level with the launch of Uber Safari: a once-in-a-lifetime Big 5 e-hailing adventure right here, in Cape Town, South Africa.
Starting on October 2, 2024, Uber has chosen to partner with Aquila Private Game Reserve and Spa, the city’s top Big 5 safari destination. This limited and exclusive “Uber Safari” day tour forms part of the internationally acclaimed ‘Uber Go Anywhere’ portfolio, aimed at combining the affordability and convenience of the Uber App experience with the world’s best travel destinations and tourism attractions, allowing travellers to simply book (and even pre-book) the world’s top-rated, full day adventures without the worry of finding transport and planning itineraries.
Uber “Go Anywhere” Highlights Cape Town, South Africa
As part of a global initiative to promote convenient travel and connect every-day Uber riders with the BEST experiences in the BEST travel destinations, Uber’s ‘Go Anywhere’ tours are launching in response to the rising demand for Uber’s e-hailing services in tourist hotspots around the world.
The Uber Safari 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 ride-share experience.
Uber’s Safari experience is also the first of its kind across the continent of Africa. Departing from Cape Town, South Africa, Uber Safari is a luxurious, VIP day trip adventure at Aquila Safaris — a private game reserve known for its African service excellence, stunning landscapes, world-class facilities, and Big Five wildlife sightings less than a two hour 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.”
What is Uber Safari?
Following Aquila Safari’s revolutionary Day Trip Safari model, which offers full day and half day safari tours from the city, but require the additional and optional purchase of return transport from the city, Uber Safari is taking it one step further with an exclusive, luxurious and all-inclusive Uber service. It’s VIP experience that starts from the moment you book your ride.
We’re talking high-end cars, top-rated drivers, personalised service, and every attention to detail. beyond reserving your ride and choosing your pick-up and drop-off location, you won’t have to plan anything.
Designed as a luxury day trip for up to four guests, Uber Safari’s partnership with Aquila Private Game Reserve offers an intimate and personalised safari experience that you can book right now. Just open your Uber app, and you’ll see it!
“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.”
More than Just a Safari
In partnership with Aquila Private Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s most popular wildlife conservancies, Uber customers can be proud that every booking contributes towards the reserve’s ongoing conservation efforts that help protect endangered species and ensure the preservation of Cape Town’s rich biodiversity.
“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.”
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.
“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.”
When is Uber Safari Available?
Reservations for the spring and summer safari season will become available in the Uber app on October 2, 2024, and will be bookable 90 days to 24 hours in advance. Uber Safari will only be available on Fridays and Saturdays until February 1, 2025. But it’s fastest fingers first, so we recommend requesting or booking your Uber Safari in advance.
- Pick-up in Cape Town at 09:30 AM in a premium Uber Reserve.
- A 2-3 hour game drive at Aquila Private Game Reserve.
- Lunch, and a welcome toast.
- Drop-off in Cape Town around 18:00 PM.
Availability of Uber Safari trips is expected to be limited. Riders looking to book a tour are encouraged to book in advance using our Reserve technology. Uber Safari will be visible to all riders in South Africa.
“Your Uber Safari Has Arrived”
Cape Town, it’s time to get ready for Uber Safari. Travellers in an around Cape Town will be able to book their Uber Safari experience via the Uber app. It’s as easy and as simple as booking a normal Uber ride — and we’re busy connecting you with the best drivers and the best Uber experience.
For safari-enthusiasts outside of South Africa, you can change your in-app location to Cape Town, South Africa, to book your Safari. Cancellation is free if you cancel more than 24 hours before your trip.
