What would your day be without an extra touch that says, ‘relax, you’re on holiday’? One of the ways we do this is through a little something special whether it is a coffee in the morning, or a gin and tonic at sundowners or the world-loved creamy textures of Amarula that so perfectly compliments the tones of a sunset. You don’t need to worry as there is always someone on hand whether it is your guide or camp manager who will bring you enough of the good drinks. Swivel the ice in your glass, sit back, and enjoy the best of Africa’s safari drinks.
The point is: simply being in the bush is enough, even if you don’t come across a lion or leopard. To have great sightings is a bonus, and as you’ll come to realize, a sundowner on drive can add the final highlight to your day.
What would your choice be? My choice is Amarula on ice, made from the plum-like fruit of the marula tree, a popular choice that has become synonymous with safari lifestyle.
I stand outside our vehicle. The heat of the day has evaporated and a cool breeze runs along my arms. The time of day has come to reflect on what has been, to reminisce about the experiences shared and to simply be. Insect sounds vertebrate through the bush, and as a blanket of darkness descends on another day, frogs begin their nightly chorus. It is time to indulge…
A honeymoon couple enjoy a sunset drink. Here are some fun safari choices.
The Classic:
Gin and Tonic:
This is the ultimate classic safari drink to have at the end of your day while you’re in the bush experiencing the golden hues of a sunset.
Directions: A shot of gin topped with ice and filled with tonic. Add a wedge of lemon.
The Spirit of Africa:
Amarula: ‘One of the world’s most favourite cream liqueurs.’
Amarula: simply delicious
The drink is best enjoyed on game drive. An early morning cup of coffee with a shot of Amarula is a good way to kick start your day. Add in and enjoy the delicious flavours. At night, gather around a fire and have as a nightcap.
Directions: Delicious poured over heaps of ice.
Crafted in Nature:
Local Craft Beers
South Africa has a thriving microbrewery industry that has taken the country by storm with a fantastic range of craft beers. Today the country boasts over 40 different microbreweries. The names of the beer are inspired by endangered or misunderstood wildlife. Some craft beers in southern Africa include: Darling Brew, Brewers & Union, Cape Brewing Company, Everson’s, Devil’s Peak and Citizens Alliance.
The Darling Brew range. Courtesy of Darling Brew
Unwind from a day in the bush by cracking open one of these refreshing beers.
The Celebratory Drink
Champagne
“I only drink Champagne when I’m happy and when I’m sad. Sometimes I drink it when I’m alone. When I have company I consider it obligatory. I trifle with it if I’m not in a hurry and drink it when I am, otherwise I never touch the stuff unless I am thirsty” – Lilly Bollinger
There’s always a reason to celebrate and therefore to drink champagne! Bubbles represent sophistication, glamour, elegance, luxury and happiness…
To be enjoyed on a special occasion
Directions: Best served chilled.
The Refreshment
Rock Shandy with or without a twist
A wonderfully refreshing drink. Amanda Ritchie
A rock shandy is a wonderfully refreshing drink to quench your thirst on a hot day. The low alcohol content of a shandy makes this drink a popular choice for those wanting something a little more on the tame side! Shandy can however be made to your preference. Why not add a shot of Vodka to give it a twist!
What is your favourite Safari drink? Share your favourite in the comments below.
Rich Laburn is filmmaker, photographer and writer who is based at Londolozi Game Reserve in South Africa. Spending his time capturing scenes of the wild and communicating the beauty of the African bushveld, he runs the Londolozi Blog as a way to entertain and engage people wishing to visit these wild lands.
