The word ‘safari’ conjures up scenes of thundering wildebeest kicking up Africa’s golden dust with lions in hot pursuit, hoping to sink their teeth into the slowest members of the herd. Yet many don’t realize that a safari is synonymous with a range of culinary experiences and dining options, which are as much a feast for the eyes as the daily drives and guided walks. Our team of safari specialists have the expanding waistlines and palates to prove our knowledge of Africa’s best culinary highlights. So be our plus one as we explore our top five dining delights while on safari.
High Tea and Victoria Falls Hotel in Zimbabwe
Photo source: The Victoria Falls Hotel, Zimbabwe
Discover the grand dame Victoria Falls Hotel through her fresh scones and cream, cucumber sandwiches, and decadent desserts. With a colonial setting amongst rolling green lawns and the spray of Vic Falls in the distance, it’s easy to see why so many of our guests make a stop at this grand dame en route to a private safari island along the Zambezi. High tea has been served here for decades on Stanley’s Terrace from 15:00 to 17:30, and it’s not uncommon to share these moments with an inquisitive warthog nearby.
Cultiva Restaurant in Nairobi, Kenya
Photo source: Brian Siambi
Farm-to-fork philosophy comes to life in the Karen district of Nairobi, where a vibey pop-up restaurant on an organic farm serves dishes many classify as ‘rustic fine dining.’ The setting here offers honest cooking whereby guests can watch chefs preparing meals using only the freshest local produce. Headed by Ecuadorian and Le Cordon Bleu-trained Ariel Moscardi and Peter Silvester (owner of the Cultiva farm), this dynamic duo have created a restaurant that showcases the very best of ‘farm fresh’ dining.
Singita Sasakwa in the Serengeti, Tanzania
Photos Source: Singita Sasakwa
Sumptuous and utterly decadent, Singita Sasakwa is where you’re served front-row seats to the dramas of the Serengeti, paired with the most impressive wine list in the bush (think along the lines of over 200 wines from various vineyards of the world), and deliciously refined dishes. The style here is ‘classic and sophisticated,’ but without pretense and overcomplicating things. Better yet, the chefs work closely with local farmers, supporting nearby communities and even running a dedicated training programme for aspiring youth through the ‘Singita School of Cooking.’
Photo source: Singita Sasakwa
Restaurant Klein Jan at Tswalu in South Africa
Photo source: Restaurant Klein Jan
As one of South Africa‘s greatest culinary exports, Chef Jan Hendrick van der Westhuizen, brought the spirit of ‘JAN’ – his Michelin-starred restaurant in Nice – back home when he launched Restaurant Klein Jan in 2021. With an emphasis on showcasing local expression, provenance and procurement, Chef Jan spent three years researching the relatively underrepresented culinary traditions and ingredients of the cultures and communities who have called the vast Kalahari home for centuries.
A trip to Tswalu Private Wildlife Reserve and a seven-course dining experience at Restaurant Klein Jan promises an immersive experience incomparable to anywhere else in the world. However, we’re not the only ones. The La Liste Awards 2022 in Paris awarded Restaurant Klein Jan in the international ‘Hidden Gem’ category.
Family-Style Dining in Dry River Beds
Photo source: Saruni Rhino Lodge
Since 2002, our safari specialists have had the opportunity to ‘test’ the different dining setups in dry river beds across Africa – a safari staple. So while the meals lean heavily on the more rustic side of plating, the ambience, the thrill of sharing your space with the wild, and the smokey char of the dishes make this such a memorable experience.
Safari Specialists With a Touch of Foodie At Your Service
Photo source: Old Mondoro
We create bespoke travel experiences which capture the very essence of Africa, which means that the culinary elements of your safari are always considered. We go beyond simply making reservations; we conceptualize a safari that plays to all of your senses. So reach out and share your requirements and hunger for a safari with our team.
