When planning your dream holiday, it’s important to account for the small but often significant details that will shape your trip. If you’re a follower of Islam, for example, you’ll need to find locations and packages that offer you access to halal cuisine or the opportunity to cater for yourself.
This can be even more challenging when embarking on a safari, but there are several destinations in Africa that can cater to your needs. Remember, the history of Islam in South Africa dates back to the 1600s, while Muslims still make up around 2% of the total population to this day.
Below, we’ve listed three of the best halal safari destinations from the Tanzania to the heart of Cape Town, helping to make an informed decision as you plan your dream excursion.
1. North Tanzania
We start with North Tanzania, which is one of the most popular safari destinations in the world and renowned for catering to the dietary needs of Muslims.
The reason for this is simple, as there remains a heavy Muslim population in the north of Tanzania and many of the surrounding islands. An estimated 35% of the Tanzanian population follow Islam, for example, while an incredible 99% of all Zanzibar residents are Muslim.
The north is also home to iconic locations and World Heritage sites like the Seregeti, which is home to some of the most incredible species of wildlife in the world. Not only this, but the renowned Great Wildebeest Migration also moves through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem every years.
At this time, more than one million wildebeest make the death-defying trek across Africa, along with thousands of zebra and antelope.
You can review North Tanzania and Africa Safaris by Africa Odyssey at your leisure, as you look to get the best deal without compromising on your needs or expectations.
2. The One Above in Cape Town
If you’re in the market for a halal friendly safari, it’s important to note that Cape Town is home to a particularly diverse range of options.
Take the One Above, for example, which is a huge private penthouse with stunning, 360-degrees of the city. You can also see Table Mountain and harbour of Robben Island from here, while the available suites and top-of-the range swimming pool combine to create a truly luxurious travel experience.
From a dining perspective, the location is home to a superb kitchen and several extremely talented chefs, who serve up a host of halal dishes across an array of cuisines.
Some rooms are also equipped with excellent kitchen facilities, however, which is ideal if you prefer to cater halal meals for yourself.
3. The House of Waine in Nairobi
Nairobi, which is just a 30-minute flight from North Tanzania, is also home to several halal friendly safari packages and locations.
One of the standout locations here is The House of Waine, which was once a private residence that sits peacefully in the leafy neighbourhood of Karen. Having since been remodelled into a cosy guesthouse, it provides intimate and peaceful accommodation that is ideal for those who spend their day trekking, hiking and encountering the local wildlife.
It’s also close to a number of major wildlife attractions, including the Daphne Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage and popular Giraffe Centre.
Charming and relaxing in equal measure, this accommodation is particularly ideal for couples who want to enjoy a romantic safari experience.
