What's on my plate? Food on Safari

Photo courtesy of Bushman's Kloof 

Travellers to safari lodges will soon realise that there is more to experience that merely observing the local wildlife. There is a saying at game lodges "Guests go on game drive, and when they're not on game drive, they are eating". Food is served from the moment you open your eyes until you feel to full to breathe!

Before the trip is booked, agents around the world are asked questions such as:
"Can I drink the water?"
"I'm vegetarian, will there be something for me to eat?"
"Will there be milk available?"
"Can I eat the fruit and vegetables?"
"Are we only going to eat stuff like zebra and crocodiles?"

Once you arrive at the lodge, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the offerings of the on-site chef. Many game lodges exceed their city counterparts in terms of variety and flavour. The lodges are use to catering for discerning travellers who want their memorable experience to continue beyond the back of a game viewer.

Chef's are ready to serve at Kapama River Lodge

Game lodges are "isolated" and there is no store to pop out to if something is missing, running low or unavailable and lodge chefs are a special breed! They are able to plan in advance, order the right amount and as a last resort, get creative! It is highly recommended to warn them advance of any food allergies or special requirements. Chefs will cater to your requirements, but it does help them if you give them a little warning.

These trained professionals will take every care to ensure that the food is safe for their guests to eat. So, sit back and enjoy your meal, knowing that it's safe and tasty. At many game lodges, the water is safe to drink, but many cater for international guests by offering bottled water. Rest assured, you can open the tap and brush your teeth without any concern.

Lamb Chops - familiar for some & a new adventure for others - Idwala Game Lodge

The chefs plan their menus and try to offer guests the option of trying a local delicacy or sticking to something more familiar. Beef, chicken and fish in South Africa is of a high standard and you can taste the quality in each bite. Chat to the chef if you want to try something local but you want a safe option in case you don't like it. You can eat venison (such as kudu, eland, springbok or ostrich) but prepared in a familiar way. Most lodges will add a South African flair to their dishes allowing you to taste local delights!

During a day at a game lodge, you will be tempted to eat more than you have ever eaten before. Relax, enjoy the treats and worry about the weight when you get home.
Before the early morning start, expect a light breakfast - fruit, yoghurt, tea/coffee, juice - just a quick snack before you leave. After all the fresh air and adrenalin of chasing the sighting, your ranger will stop in the bush somewhere and magically whip up some more tea/coffee and possibly have a few treats in store.
Return to the lodge and the smell of a cooked breakfast will be welcoming you back. Now it's time for the full spread - cooked breakfast, pastries, fruit, cheeses, cold meats and much much more. And even if you think you can't have another bite, you will find yourself reaching for another taste!

A bush breakfast at Royal Malewane

So breakfast finishes between 10 and 11 then you head to the pool for a swim or back to your room to recover from the early morning start and before you know it, 13h00 arrives. Yes, it's time for lunch. Not all lodges choose to serve lunch. Many will skip this meal and offer a substantial high tea instead. Lunch is also an optional meal so don't feel obliged to join in.

Before the afternoon game drive, meet again for the safari tradition of high tea. Choose between sweet delights and little savoury nibbles, just enough to keep you full before dinner. Another tradition interrupts the afternoon game drive - the classic sundowner. Your ranger will pick a quiet spot where you can disembark the vehicle, enjoy a drink (Gin and tonic is the famous choice, but other options are also available) and watch the sun dip behind the horizon. Oh yes, there will be a few more snacks available just in case you're peckish.

A sundowner stop at Mashovhela Lodge

The true highlight of your food experience will be the dinners. Some lodges offer a buffet selection, while others opt between a la carte and a set menu, but none of these will disappoint. The very  luxurious lodges will take you to their wine cellar where you can select a wine to accompany your meal. At Sabi Sabi, chat to the sommelier and find a wine that matches your dinner selection.

The wine cellar at Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge

Delightful dishes at Royal Malewane 

Another special experience at any game lodge is the outdoor dining or "bush boma". This under the stars is a must for anyone visiting South Africa. It's how we eat at home! Don't worry - the quality of food remains as high as if it was served straight from the kitchen.

Fireside cooking at Jaci's Tree Lodge

Welcoming you with food at Royal Malewane

And some lodges may treat you to a welcome gift in your room - just another little bite to eat as you arrive!

Join Singita on their Gourmet Safari - combining wildlife and food - what more does a foodie want?