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Your Perfect Africa’s Top Travellers Tips for Kosher Guests
As dedicated Travel Specialists we often get asked by our Jewish clients, where can they go on safari? And luckily, there are several options! Whether you arere looking to travel locally or over the border, we can help you find the perfect Kosher Friendly destination.
The key with any complex travel plans, is to ensure that you plan your trip well in advance and that you are as detailed as possible with your requirements with your Travel Specialist. Whether you’re looking to celebrate Pesach, Rosh Hashana, Chanukah, or simply have a wonderful Kosher Safari or holiday experience, working closely with your Travel Specialist is essential to a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Seasonality
Safaris are governed by rain and the general rule is that the wet summer is low or green season, while dry winter is high or peak season. During high season, rates tend to go up and many people book in advance to avoid disappointment. When planning your safari or getaway, think about the major Jewish celebrations and holidays to ensure that you get first pick and the best available rates.
Passover and Easter tend to coincide, so you may find that availability is scarce as many schools close over this time and families are able to travel. Game Lodges closer to major cities such as Kruger, Addo Elephant, Etosha, Chobe, and Victoria Falls are saturated with travellers during this time.
Rosh Hashana usually falls within the African spring, and this is when high season transitions into low season, also known as shoulder season. Travelling during this time may be worthwhile depending on the regions you choose such as the winelands and beaches.
Chanukah and Christmas are South Africa’s busiest times and require advance booking. Cities such as Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Hermanus, Balito Bay, Umhlanga Rocks, and Durban are very popular during the holiday season and can sell out well in advance.
Transparency
To ensure an optimal kosher holiday or safari experience, it’s crucial to communicate your dietary requirements and needs clearly and thoroughly to your Travel Specialist. The more information provided in advance, the better equipped they will be to plan your itinerary accordingly. Your Perfect Africa’s Travel Specialists have extensive experience in the industry and a wide network of trusted partners, enabling us to liaise with properties on your behalf to create a memorable and enjoyable getaway.
Other Things to Consider When Planning Your Trip
Major South African grocers such as Spar, Checkers, and Pick n Pay have large kosher sections, especially in predominantly Jewish neighborhoods. Jewish travellers staying in Gauteng can order kosher items and meals from Kosher Where. It is recommended to stock up on kosher options from these grocers for transfers, days out, and self-drive excursions.
Surcharges for kosher meals are common in remote camps and lodges in regions such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Botswana due to the need to fly or deliver supplies to these establishments. Some properties have introduced separate kosher kitchens, and some sole-use villas can accommodate a personal chef and supplies.
Kosher Friendly Lodges within the Greater Kruger National Park
Dulini Moya & Dulini River Lodge are both set within the renowned Sabi Sand Game Reserve, which is known for its abundant sightings of leopards and overall fantastic game viewing. For Kosher guests, Dulini can arrange meals from a top caterer in Johannesburg.
Savanna Lodge boasts a luxurious Savanna Suite which offers a private and separate kosher kitchen. Should you and your family book the entire lodge, the main kitchen can also be made kosher. On request, fully catered kosher meals can be arranged from Johannesburg which include options for snacks on game drives and for the mini bar in the suites.
Singita Castleton, Boulders or Ebony Lodge are renowned for their sophistication and sheer luxury. They can arrange top-notch kosher cuisine to be provided by special caterers. While Singita Lebombo and Sweni Lodge are very refined with excellent service and have the ability to ‘order in’ quality kosher meals.
Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge has kosher platers and cutlery, and all good is cooked in foil. The lodge can also source wine and meals from a trusted kosher deli in Johannesburg.
Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp, part of the Sabi Sabi lodges, is intimate and luxurious, boasting six suites. The staff are able to arrange kosher meals with sufficient notice.
Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is an award-winning establishment, forming part of the infamous MORE Family Collection of lodges and hotels. The Fish Eagle Villa is perfect for kosher guests as the villa comes with a private chef, safari vehicle and guide, as well as a separate kosher kitchen.
Kings Camp offers a timeless take on traditional safari style with ultra-luxurious touches. Charming and romantic, Kings Camp is a must see. For Jewish travellers there is a dedicated Mashgiach under the Beth-din Council of South Africa.
Ngala Tented & Safari Lodge offer fantastic service and can accommodate kosher needs by ordering meals with sufficient notice.
Royal Malewane is fit for a royal, it is in the name! Apart from being extremely luxurious, and being able to experience a number of activities, there is a full kosher kitchen for Jewish guests.
Karula, Buffalo Camp and Southern Camp are all part of the Kapama family and lie in a private game reserve watered by the Klaserie River. Kosher meals can be arranged.
Kosher Friendly Lodges in Madikwe
Etali Safari Lodge features a popular private waterhole that attracts lots of animals. Etali’s staff are expertly trained to prepare delicious meals for Jewish travellers in a separate kosher kitchen.
Kosher Friendly Hotels within Durban, Johannesburg & Cape Town
The Clarendon Bantry Bay is an upscale boutique hotel that offers kosher meals, while the Clarendon Fresnaye is closer to Beit Midrash Morasha and the Chabad Centre. If you book the entire hotel, the kitchen can be made kosher. The Twelve Apostles Hotel is located in the foothills of the Twelve Apostles mountains with views of the Atlantic Ocean. They offer the option to order kosher meals for a surcharge.
The Saxon Hotel, Villas and Spa in Johannesburg can provide kosher meals, with the option to order from outside if needed. The Residence is an upscale boutique hotel in Houghton that offers kosher meals. The Oyster Box, a luxurious hotel located on the beach, can arrange for kosher meals with prior notice.
Has our list of South African Kosher lodges and hotels inspired you? Chat to one of our knowledgeable Travel Specialists for more information how we can make your Kosher holiday dreams come true.