How Much Cheaper Is Uber Wildlife Safari Than A Nairobi National Park Safari?

Uber, the app-based transportation platform, has entered the safari game in Nairobi. With its new "Uber Safari" service, the app now lets users book a wildlife experience just as easily as they would a regular ride. But how does it stack up against a standard Nairobi National Park tour in terms of cost and convenience?

A Safari Booked Like A Cab

Nairobi is one of the rare capitals in the world with a fully-fledged national park within city limits. Uber spotted an opportunity in this and teamed up with licensed tour operators to offer curated game drives. The rides are available directly on the app, where you can book either a daytime or nighttime safari.

For a 3-hour guided daytime tour, Uber charges KSh 25,000 (about Rs 17,000). The jeep can fit up to seven passengers, which makes it suitable for families or groups. The nighttime safari costs KSh 40,000 (about Rs 27,000) but allows only five passengers. Bookings have to be made in advance - two days for daytime slots and five days for evening adventures.

What's Included In The Nairobi National Park Tour

By contrast, traditional operators at Nairobi National Park offer guided tours that range between Rs 4,700 - 5,400 per person for half or full-day trips. These tours usually last between five and eight hours and include pick-up and drop-off within the city. A professional guide leads the excursion, which many tourists consider a key part of the safari experience.

Photo: Nairobi National Park/Unsplash

Since these packages are per person, a group of seven would pay around Rs 32,900 - 38,000 in total for a longer safari with a guide included. Bookings are relatively flexible and can be arranged just a few days before, without the need to commit weeks in advance.

Crunching The Numbers

At first glance, Uber Safari appears attractive for groups because of its flat rate. For example, seven people splitting a daytime safari at KSh 25,000 would each pay about KSh 3,570 (Rs 2,435). This works out cheaper than most park tours, although the duration is shorter at just three hours.

The nighttime Uber Safari, on the other hand, comes to KSh 8,000 (Rs 5,430) per person if five passengers share it - considerably higher than standard tours that last longer and already include guiding services.

The Final Trade-Offs

Uber Safari's biggest selling point is convenience. You can book from your phone, the ride arrives like any other Uber, and you can head straight into the wild. It also offers a certain novelty factor - few can say they've gone on a safari booked via an app.

But traditional Nairobi National Park tours still provide more value in terms of length. Spending five to eight hours in the park with a trained guide allows for more sightings, deeper knowledge of the ecosystem, and an overall richer experience.

The Final Verdict

For groups looking for a quick and cost-effective way to see lions, rhinos, and giraffes without committing to a full day, Uber Safari's daytime option is surprisingly economical. But for solo travellers or those who want a more immersive experience, the regular tours at Nairobi National Park remain the better deal.