There is no barrier to going on a luxury African safari if you have halal dietary requirements. At Mahlatini, we believe that every traveller should have the opportunity to experience the wonders of Africa without compromise. Our carefully selected luxury safari destinations in Africa go above and beyond to cater to the needs of Muslim travelers, ensuring an unforgettable and inclusive experience. As specialists in luxury African travel, we take pride in our long-standing relationships with top safari lodges across Southern and Eastern Africa, allowing us to create tailor-made experiences that exceed expectations.
How to plan a halal-friendly safari
The most important thing you can do is communicate your halal dietary requirements with your Mahlatini Travel Expert. It is crucial that you are totally open with your Travel Expert about what you cannot eat or how your food should be prepared because many halal foods may not be readily available where you are staying. Our luxury safari destinations are remote and many have to fly in the produce they use. So, the more information you give in advance of your journey, the better we can prepare your property for your requirements. Our Travel Experts will also be able to recommend lodges and camps that offer the best halal-friendly safari experiences.
HALAL-FRIENDLY SAFARI LODGES
There are a number of exclusive lodges that welcome Muslim travellers. Here are a few of our favourite lodges that can serve halal food:
Singita Sweni Lodge, South Africa
Nestled beautifully amongst hundreds of trees at the edge of the Sweni River is Singita Sweni Lodge. Set within a 33,000 acre, private concession in the Kruger National Park, you are likely to spot a great variety of wildlife including elephant, leopard, famously large prides of lion, white rhino, black rhino, buffalo, hippopotamus, cheetah and sable.
Insider tip: "Request that your outdoor day bed be made up on the deck for a sleep-out adventure. Falling asleep under the stars and to the sounds of hippos is a treat."
Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge, South Africa
Found in the oldest game reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park, Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is one of KwaZulu Natal's hidden gems. This lodge possesses plenty of home comforts and charm and also offers incredible game viewing experiences, with 96 000 hectares to explore and the chance to see the Big 5.
Insider tip: "Rhino Ridge is paired beautifully with the beach resorts in KwaZulu Natal and Southern Mozambique."
Angama Mara, Kenya
Bordering the Mara triangle, and with breathtaking views of Africa's Great Rift Valley, Angama Mara is ideally positioned above the ever magnificent, game-rich Masai Mara - famous for its big cat sightings. Guests can experience a hot air balloon ride over the Mara, interact with the local Maasai people and enjoy excellent game viewing on foot or vehicle.
Insider tip: "Feeling romantic? Arrange an intimate picnic for two on the crest of the Out of Africa kopje that is featured on the movies poster."
Singita Faru Faru Lodge, Tanzania
Located in the private Grumeti Reserve in the Serengeti and close to the Grumeti River, Singita Faru Faru Lodge is a destination in itself, a truly luxurious safari. This lodge has charming views over the nearby watering hole and the grassy hills of the reserve. The property is great for getting guests back in touch with nature, with game viewing possible from camp, all the while providing comfortable accommodation to relax in.
Insider tip: "For families with young children, there is the exciting Mini Rangers Course, a customised, fun-filled programme that opens up a whole new world to young explorers."
Halal-friendly beach resorts
We love to combine an action-packed safari with a week spent on a nearby beach to relax and soak up the sun. Here are a few of our favourite beach resorts that are halal-friendly:
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Seychelles
The exclusive Banyan Tree Seychelles Hotel and Spa is situated on the quieter south-west coast of Mahe Island. Nestled in Intendance Bay with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, the hotel provides a rare taste of paradise.
Insider tip: "Get involved in some of the resort's marine conservation activities run by the resident marine biologist, including coral planting and reef cleaning."
Six Senses Zil Pasyon, Seychelles
Embracing nature and its natural surroundings, Zil Pasyon offers real seclusion with just thirty luxuriously appointed pool villas set within the spectacular tropical landscape, complimented by the renowned Six Senses service and hospitality.
Insider tip: "Ask your butler for the sunset on the rocks experience. Relax on bean bags high above the resort while enjoying drinks as the sun sets over surrounding islands."
Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness, Mauritius
Le Jadis Beach Resort & Wellness, is a boutique property on the north west coast of Mauritius and a firm favourite with the staff at Mahlatini, who wholeheartedly recommend it for its superior service, fabulous spa and Ayurvedic Wellness programmes, jaw dropping sunsets from its glorious position in Turtle Bay, as well as some exclusive value-adds.
Insider tip: "Book one of the hotel's Epicurean Delight packages where you'll shop at the market and then cook fabulous local dishes with one of the hotel's chefs."
Baraza Resort and Spa, Zanzibar
Baraza Resort & Spa is a luxurious paradise located on the stunning Bwejuu Beach on the spice island of Zanzibar. This beautiful boutique hotel has the opulent feel of a sultan's palace and the privacy and facilities of a modern oasis.
Insider tip: "Join an under the Palm trees class featuring a Mwalimu (teacher) giving Swahili classes and lessons on the history of Zanzibar. You will also have the chance to try out palm weaving."
Get in touch with one of our Travel Experts who will create you a tailor-made luxury halal safari holiday.