The Tribe

Our Roots

The Urban Safari is rooted in a passion for exploration and the spirit of adventure, and began in 1998 as a series of weekend outings for the local Land Rover Club. Eventually the owners included camping, adventure, and challenge in an expedition-style tour. Whether in San Francisco or Africa, the safari experience is one of discovery, excitement and growth.

What we are

UR-BAN - adj. Characteristic of City Life

SA-FA-RI - n. An Overland Expedition, Especially One for Exploring; A Journey or Trip

Our Herd

Your trek through the jungle will all happen in our specially built, "Urban Jungle" Safari vehicles.

Cindy at Twin Peaks
Her Name is Cindy
Be sure to ask the origin of her name
when you come to San Francisco.
Ukhani and Ukholo
The first truck, Ukhani, is the Zulu word for
"to give thanks", or "to have gratitude"
The rear truck, is named Ukholo, which in Zulu means
"to have faith" or "to believe."

The Tribal Members

Daniel Oppenheim

Daniel has lived in San Francisco for over 30 years and knows the urban jungle like no one else. As a lion cub, Daniel ran his own management consulting firm which focused on team building, personal development, and an appreciation of differences.

For over twenty years, his innate enthusiasm and passion allowed him entry into many of America's Fortune 500 companies and won him clients around the world.

After traveling to South Africa on numerous occasions, Mr. Oppenheim became enamoured with the idea of safari-style travel. He started his sightseeing company with the theme, "Not Just Another City Tour!" The Urban Safari now operates in San Francisco, the Wine Country and New York City.

The father of two and head coach of a Special Olympics Basketball team, Daniel stays busy when not running The Urban Safari.

Sandy LaBelle

After decades in the health care field on the East Coast, Sandy chose to travel West! Capitalizing on her deep love of people, she now devotes herself to serving guests from all across the planet.

Ms. LaBelle's keen communication skills, service and connection to humanity allowed her to transition easily into The Urban Safari. In her role as Queen of Safari Ops, Sandy uses her passion for San Francisco and attention to detail to ensure the corporation grows while retaining its core value of providing concierge-level attention to each and every guest.

The secret to her boundless energy: "This ain't a dress rehearsal!"

Another fun day at The Urban Safari

The Urban Safari Team
l to r: Sandy, Mfalme, Mike, Lance, Katie, Helen, Sona