Uber Safari Kenya Struggles as Local Guides Resist, Bookings Dry Up

Uber Technologies' safari service in Kenya is faltering a year after launch, with empty bookings and resistance from local tour guides forcing the company to strip its branding from vehicles. The retreat underscores mounting challenges for Uber's African operations. Bookings via the app repeatedly failed in August, typically peak tourist season, leaving would-be passengers waiting up to 30 minutes only to be told no drivers were available, according to The Wall Street Journal. September attempts also failed. Uber East Africa General Manager Imran Manji attributed the branding removal to safety concerns. Felix Migoya, who chairs the East Africa Tour Guides and Drivers Association, representing some 1,000 Nairobi guides, said the service "died the day they launched it." Three-hour excursions started at about $150 and night rides at $300, versus up to $195 for traditional half-day tours, plus an $80 park entry fee. The setback follows Uber's withdrawal from Nigeria, Uganda, Tanzania and Ivory Coast. It now operates in four African markets: Ghana, Egypt, South Africa and Kenya.