Halal-friendly Safaris in Africa

Halal-friendly tourism might be a niche aspect of Africa’s travel industry, but it’s one that has gained a great deal of traction over the last few years. More and more destinations, as well as the lodges, camps, hotels and resorts that are located within them, are accommodating halal-friendly safaris in Africa and offering services that are in accordance with Islamic beliefs and customs. Avid travellers who require Muslim-friendly holiday options no longer need to skip over East and Southern Africa when pinning down a destination. With that in mind, here is our ultimate guide to Muslim-friendly African safaris:

How to Plan a Muslim-Friendly African Safari

Halal-friendly safaris in Africa require a fair amount of planning to make sure that devout Muslims can travel extensively around the continent while staying halal and in accordance with their faith. Ensure that the planning stages for your Muslim-friendly safari go as smoothly as possible by following these tips:

Communicate Your Needs in Extensive Detail

Like with most things in life, communication is key. Make sure that everyone is aware of all your expectations before booking your safari. This will ensure that you receive everything that you need to enjoy a halal-friendly trip from start to finish. So, be sure to provide your Africa Safari Expert with a checklist of your requirements, such as a prayer mat, availability of halal food, alcohol-free minibar and game drives, private plunge or swimming pools, and even a Muslim tour guide (if available).

Make Sure You Have Everything You Need to Pray

Beyond the availability of a prayer mat, you’ll want to ensure that the accommodations you’ll be staying in have Wi-Fi and internet connection. This will enable you to use Qibla finder apps to accurately determine in which direction Mecca lies from anywhere in the world. However, there might be one or two properties on your itinerary that are too remote to have internet access. In cases such as this, you can ask your guide which way is East to find the right direction to face during prayers.

Factor in Proximity to Masjid

If you’re someone who prefers communal prayers, then it stands to reason that you’ll want to stay in accommodation as close to a masjid as possible. Unfortunately, this won’t be possible when staying in lodges and camps set in national parks, reserves, conservancies, the bush or remote regions. But when in a city such as Cape Town or Dar es Salaam, this is easily arranged, as masjids are found in easily accessible locations all around the metropole.

Other Useful Tips to Keep in Mind

• Set a pre-dawn timer or an alarm clock to hear Adhaan (call to prayer).
• Keep on top of your schedule so that you can plan your prayers for Zohr, Asr and Maghrib accordingly.
• Make sure to return to the lodge with ample time for dinner and the prayers of.
• Most scholars have determined that the shortening of your Farz prayers is allowed when travelling, which can be a great advantage when on a tight schedule.
• When on halal-friendly safaris in Africa, room will always be made for prayer breaks. Drivers are made aware that they must break at lunch and other periods for the prayers of Zuhr, Asr and Maghrib, while prayers of Fajr and Isha can be performed at the hotel, camp or lodge.
• You’ll want to make sure the time on your mobile phone, laptops and smart devices automatically update to the local time. Unless your location services are on, your smartphone won’t change to the local time zone and, as a result, your alarms/adhaans on prayer apps won’t go off at the right prayer times.

Best Destinations for Halal-Friendly Safaris in Africa

Africa is brimming with Muslim-friendly destinations – if you know where to look. Here are the best destinations to have halal-friendly safaris in Africa:

South Africa

South Africa is constantly ranked as one of the world’s top travel destinations for Muslims. From the Muslim-friendly hotels in Cape Town to the halal fine dining in Johannesburg, the Southern African country has a lot to offer for this discerning market segment.

Over the years, Cape Town, and the rest of the country, have worked hard to improve its experiences and amenities to better accommodate Muslim travellers. The history of Islam in South Africa dates back to the late 1600s and today adherents make up about 3% of the population – that’s nearly 60 million people who ascribe to the Islamic faith. A significant number of Muslim residents are living in the travel hotspot of Cape Town – the birthplace of Islam in South Africa.

Today, Cape Town is home to many masjids, spread throughout the city. Muslim travellers are in easy reach of a masjid no matter where they’re staying in the Mother City. Alternatively, most major centres and facilities offer prayer rooms, especially shopping centres. You’ll find some of the best halal restaurants in Cape Town, particularly in and around popular tourist attractions, like the V&A Waterfront and Canal Walk shopping mall.

In addition to notable attractions like Table Mountain and Lion’s Head, the colourful district of Bo-Kaap is a perfect destination for followers of the Islamic faith. Bo-Kaap is a predominantly Muslim community, which is home to halal restaurants, cafes and grocery stores, as well as a host of activities and the country’s oldest masjids. Adding to South Africa’s rich Islamic history is the honouring of the Holy Kramats that are found on Signal Hill, near Bakoven beach, in Bo-Kaap and Simonstown.

Like Cape Town, Johannesburg also has a large and diverse Muslim community. Many halal restaurants and Muslim-friendly hotels can be found dotted around the city. Some of the best halal restaurants in Johannesburg can be found in the Muslim neighbourhood of Fordsburg. The charming district is also home to one of the oldest masjids in the city.

Muslim safari-goers can also take solace in knowing that big game regions like the Kruger National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve offer halal-friendly safaris.

Kenya

Kenya is one of the best destinations to enjoy halal-friendly safaris in Africa. Of the 53.77 million-strong population, 10% identify as Muslim, meaning that Kenya is accustomed to being halal-friendly.

The East African country’s coast is particularly rewarding, as majority of Kenya’s Muslim population reside in areas like Mombasa, Lamu and Malindi. In addition to the powder-fine white sands of the pristine coastline, it is here that you’ll enjoy quaint Islamic cultural influences and find some of the most delectable halal-certified dishes.

Kenya is also home to the vast, sweeping plains of the Masai Mara. There are very few destinations that rival a traditional safari experience in one of the most famous and important conservation and wilderness areas in Africa. The national reserve is world-renowned for its populations of lion, leopard, cheetah and elephants, and, of course, is one of the sites of the Great Wildebeest Migration – an annual event that sees thousands of safari and animal enthusiasts flocking to the continent to witness it in person. And to top it all off, there are great Muslim-friendly luxury accommodations in the Masai Mara.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Kenya’s neighbour, Tanzania is another halal-friendly destination with a large Muslim population. Islam is the second-largest religion in Tanzania, with 34% of the population being Muslim. As a result, halal restaurants, masjids and prayer rooms are easily found outside the many Muslim-friendly hotels, lodges and camps.

When heading off the coast of Tanzania to the idyllic island of Zanzibar, you’ll find that approximately 99% of the region’s inhabitants ascribe to Islam. Muslim travellers will feel right at home, with halal food being served everywhere you go, masjids and prayer facilities within easy reach, and the Arabic engravings found on many doors throughout the island. After enjoying a halal-friendly safari in Tanzania, Zanzibar is the perfect place to kick up your feet and relax.

Mauritius

With a thriving Muslim community that makes up 18% of the national population, Mauritius is one of the world’s most Muslim-friendly islands. Most of the island’s major meat suppliers are owned by Muslims, while the majority of fast-food outlets (think McDonald’s, KFC and Pizza Hut) are certified halal, and almost all hotels serve halal food – particularly any dishes that contain chicken, lamb or beef.

As for the island itself, it’s a pristine paradise. The captivating attractions, tropical climate, warm azure water, and brilliantly white sand beaches are the perfect remedy after a week-long safari in the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater or Arusha National Park.

Seychelles

Days in Seychelles are spent frolicking in the turquoise blue waters, tanning on the warm, white sandy beaches, and hiking through the gorgeous island rainforests. No matter where you’re staying on the collection of stunning islands, you can be sure to enjoy a halal-friendly getaway. The country might be predominantly Christian, but the Seychelles has an ample selection of Muslim-friendly hotels and resorts that ensure all your needs and requirements are met.

Muslim-Friendly Lodges, Camps and Hotels in Africa

Now that you’re better acquainted with the best destinations for halal-friendly safaris in Africa, here are our top picks for lodges, camps and hotels that will ensure all your needs and requirements are met during your stay:

Taj, Cape Town

The Taj’s façade is one of the most interesting in all of Cape Town: several historic buildings in the city centre were merged to create the hotel but their ornate and different exteriors were preserved. Inside, the marble lobbies were also saved, and a modern glass tower was added to give room views of Table Mountain, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. In addition to two very good restaurants, the Taj lies within walking distance of the historic Company’s Gardens and the colourful Bo-Kaap, the original Malay Quarter of South Africa. This is an excellent choice if you want to be close to all of Cape Town’s main attractions, including the V&A Waterfront.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Both beautiful on-site restaurants serve halal-friendly meals and offer cuisines that cater to all kinds of personal preferences.
• The hotel is within walking distance of many of Cape Town’s masjids, enabling you to join communal prayers within a 10-minute walk.
• Female-only spa rooms are available at The Taj for women who are looking to indulge in a massage or spa treatment.

The One&Only, Cape Town

Part of the global One&Only family that includes dazzling resorts in the Bahamas and the Maldives, One&Only Cape Town also has a prime position, with views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. It is within easy walking distance of the V&A Waterfront and is home to Nobu, the premier sushi restaurant in Africa. Its other in-house restaurant has upscale versions of classic South African dishes.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• The One&Only has on-site restaurants that serve halal meat. The kitchen, however, is not halal certified.
• A Quraan and Musallah are available at the reception should you need them.
• There is a Qibla arrow in your room for your convenience.
• The privacy and exclusivity offered by The One&Only make it perfect for Muslim honeymooners.

The One Above, Cape Town

The One Above is the One&Only’s huge private penthouse with 360-degree views of the city, Table Mountain, the harbour and Robben Island. Not only does it have multiple living rooms, en suite bedrooms, swimming pools and a small gym but it also has a top-of-the-line kitchen, if you prefer to cater halal meals for yourself.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• The One&Only has on-site restaurants that serve halal meat. The kitchen, however, is not halal certified.
• A Quraan and Musallah are available at the reception should you need them.
• There is a Qibla arrow in your room for your convenience.
• The privacy and exclusivity offered by The One&Only make it perfect for Muslim honeymooners.
• Private kitchen to prepare your own halal meals.
• Private butler and chef team to assist you in any and all requirements.
• Exclusive use of the two private swimming pools located in the penthouse’s wrap-around entertainment area.

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town

A stalwart of Cape Town, the Belmond Mount Nelson has hosted scores of celebrities and luminaries from across the world since the early 1900s. Although it is still close to the city centre, it lies in a leafy neighbourhood that is a welcome oasis after a day of sightseeing.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Renowned for its exclusive and tailored service; ensuring all your needs and requirements are met.
• Alcohol is removed from your room on request.
• Halal food is served on-site.
• Belmond Mount Nelson is within 500 metres (1,640 feet) of stellar halal restaurants, cafes and grocery stores.

Newmark Properties, Cape Town

The Newmark Collection boasts an incredible selection of luxury hotels in Cape Town. They are perfect for Muslim travellers who want easy access to all that the city has to offer – including the famous Islamic district of Bo-Kaap. Victoria & Alfred Hotel, Queen Victoria Hotel, and Dock House Boutique Hotel occupy an enviable position in the V&A Waterfront. When staying at any of these properties, you can rest assured that comfort, convenience and pure luxury will be prominent experiences of your visit.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• All 3 hotels offer halal cuisine, where halal-certified meat is kept separate from non-halal meat and prepared at different stations.
• Located near the Islamic heart of the city, Bo-Kaap, where halal-friendly restaurants, cafes, stores, Muslim tour guides, and masjids can be found.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the minibar.
• Concierge on hand to share information on the nearest masjids, halal restaurants, prayer directions and prayer mat.

The Silo, Cape Town

Regarded as Cape Town’s most iconic luxury hotel, The Silo is a celebration of art, architecture, style and design. This five-star high-end accommodation towers above the V&A Waterfront and provides spectacular views of the surrounding city – of which Table Mountain plays a significant part.

The hotel itself is a modern masterpiece of architectural design, of which the highlight is the ingenious glass windows inserted into the geometry of the hotel floors. This structure glistens like diamonds, transforming the hotel into a glowing beacon in the Table Bay harbour. Besides its dedication to world-class service, state-of-the-art amenities, and stylish yet comfortable accommodation, The Silo also sits above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCAA). This stunning museum houses Africa’s largest collection of contemporary African art and is a must-see for any lover of architecture and multi-faceted design.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Although the hotel is not strictly halal, The Silo offers halal-friendly service for their Muslim guests.
• Halal meals are prepared with meat from a halal meat supplier.
• For those wanting a stricter halal diet, halal-certified meals are ordered from a halal supplier and reheated in its closed packaging, which the guest will open at the table.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the minibar.
• Located near the Islamic heart of the city, Bo-Kaap, where halal-friendly restaurants, cafes, stores, Muslim tour guides, and masjids can be found.

The Peech Hotel, Johannesburg

Located in Johannesburg’s chicest suburb, Melrose, The Peech Hotel fits in perfectly with its upscale, stylish surroundings. Design, comfort and relaxation are at the essence of each stay at the boutique hotel, with flawless service and lush garden settings being the cherry on top. Convenience is something you won’t be in want of at The Peech Hotel, as its prime location sets you within 10 minutes of the city’s main business and shopping districts, like Sandton, Rosebank and Melrose Arch.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• No alcohol is provided in the rooms, only a complimentary bottle of water.
• Halal-certified meals are outsourced from halal-certified suppliers for Muslim guests.
• A directory of nearby halal restaurants is available.
• Concierge on hand to share information on the nearest masjids, halal restaurants, prayer directions and prayer mat.

Saxon Hotel, Johannesburg

The Saxon Hotel is the perfect respite from the hustle and bustle of vibrant Johannesburg, while still being close enough to all the action that the city has to offer. During your stay, you’ll be treated to five-star service, tranquil settings within 10 acres of lush indigenous gardens, and a luxury experience like no other. After all, there is a reason that this exclusive oasis is regarded as one of the most luxurious hotels in Joburg.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• The Saxon Hotel offers halal meals prepared with meat from a halal-certified supplier.
• On request, no alcohol is provided in the rooms.

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa, Johannesburg

Fairlawns Hotel is nothing short of an urban oasis set among acres of lush, landscaped gardens. Located in Johannesburg’s upscale Sandton district, this charming boutique hotel offers all the warmth and comfort of home, while simultaneously providing all the bells and whistles one expects from a five-star establishment. To top it all off, Fairlawns’s central location sets you within easy access of all Joburg’s most famous hotspots and landmarks.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Halal meals are outsourced from a halal-certified supplier for Muslim guests.
• Alcohol is removed from the room on request.
• Concierge on hand to share information on the nearest masjids, halal restaurants, prayer direction and prayer mat.

Etali Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

With its romantic atmosphere, Etali is a good choice for honeymooners and newlyweds. This exclusive, intimate lodge sets the stage for romance with its luxurious suites, picturesque surroundings, and privacy offerings. In addition to game drives in the wildlife-rich Madikwe Game Reserve, you can also go on nature walks with an experienced guide or enjoy time at the spa.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Each luxury suite has its own heated plunge pool for private dips in the water.
• When requested prior to arrival, Etali caters for Muslim guests by serving halal meals.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Madikwe Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Safari Lodge offers a private luxurious African safari experience one of South Africa’s largest and most exclusive private game reserve. Here, you’ll enjoy the warm embrace of the natural wilderness, as well as modern comforts, delectable cuisine and genuine, heartfelt hospitality – oh, and let’s not forget the thrilling wildlife encounters you’ll have when exploring the 75,000-hectare (750-square kilometre) game reserve.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Meals for Muslim guests are prepared with meat from a halal-certified butcher.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.
• Private plunge pools are available with certain room types for private swims.

Motswari Private Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve

Found on the western side of Madikwe Game Reserve, Motswari is the gateway to a fantastic Big 5, malaria-free safari. The luxury safari lodge promises a personal bush experience, incredible views of the natural surroundings, and a comfortable yet stylish stay that will make it hard to leave.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Halal meat is made readily available to cater to Muslim guests’ dietary requirements. Furthermore, fish and vegetarian dishes are also served at the lodge.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Lukimbi Safari Lodge, Kruger Private Concession

Lukimbi Safari Lodge is a great place to stay if you’re wanting a more exclusive yet authentic safari experience in one of Africa’s most popular national parks. During your stay at Lukimba, you’ll find that it’s easy to imagine that you have this vast protected reserve all to yourself. This is because it’s one of only 7 private concessions in the Kruger, allowing staff to focus all their time and attention on a select number of people, as well as all but guaranteeing that you won’t see another safari vehicle when on game drives.

In addition to great game viewing opportunities and serene, picturesque surroundings, you’ll stay in stylish, beautifully appointed suites that have been designed in a way that optimises the view of either the bush or the nearby Lwakahle River. Each room comes equipped with every creature comfort you would need, from deluxe amenities to the in-room treats and beverages.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Given prior warning, Lukimbi is more than happy to source halal-certified meat for Muslim guests’ meals. Alternatively, vegetarian dishes are available as well.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.
• Spacious, luxury suites are tucked away in the bush for ultimate privacy.

Lion Sands Properties, Kruger National Park

Comprising 4 idyllic luxury lodges, Lion Sands properties occupy an enviable location in the heart of the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve, while simultaneously being rooted in the Kruger National Park. With only the Sable River acting as a border between the game reserve and national parks, guests at Tinga Lodge, Ivory Lodge, Narina Lodge and River Lodge are spoilt with incomparable big game encounters and wildlife experiences during their stay.

The lodges themselves place their pride on being unapologetically exclusive and creating enriching life experiences. All Lion Sands properties promise warm yet unobtrusive African hospitality, as well as a luxurious, comfortable stay in an exceptional, private location.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Muslim guests are assured that halal food served at Lion Sands properties are slaughtered in accordance with the teachings of Islamic Sharia and are free of any substances forbidden by Islam.
• All meat, poultry and seafood for all lodges are obtained from halal-certified butcheries or reputable suppliers.
• Halal certification is available on request at any time to put guests’ minds at ease.
• Alternatively, arrangements can be made to purchase prepacked meals, which will be presented to you with an original, unbroken certification seal.
• Single-use cookware and crockery are provided when serving halal meals.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Thornybush Lodges, Kruger National Park

Beautiful lodges, luxury suites, spectacular wildlife sightings, expert guides, passionate people, and picturesque natural settings are a staple of any Thornybush stay. Comprising a collection of high-end, stylish properties, Thornybush has firmly established itself as a leading safari and big game destination in the world-renowned Greater Kruger National Park. Choose to stay at the upscale, under-canvas Saseka Tented Camp, or maybe the down-to-earth yet luxurious Simbambili Game Lodge. The original property, Thornybush Game Lodge retains its historic charm from its inception in 1961, while offering all the creature comforts and modern luxuries of the 21^st century. Whatever your taste, Thornybush properties has something for everyone.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• When communicated 2 weeks before your arrival, Thornybush properties are delighted to provide halal meals.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Sabi Sabi Properties, Sabi Sands Game Reserve

When visiting the Greater Kruger National Park in search of an authentic safari experience, Sabi Sands Game Reserve is arguably the best place to be. And one of Sabi Sabi’s luxury properties is a great base from which to explore the untamed wilderness of Southern Africa.

Selati Lodge, Bush Lodge, Earth Lodge and Little Bush Camp make up Sabi Sabi’s charming collection of stylish yet comfortable bush accommodation. Each lodge offers a tranquil escape in big game country, with the promise of experiencing all the bells and whistles of an upscale authentic safari getaway. And, as you’re in the Kruger, there’s a high chance you’ll get to spot every member of the Big 5 and some of your other favourite African animals.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Selati Lodge offers small, exclusive and intimate accommodation for ultimate privacy.
• Each suite at Earth Lodge boasts a private plunge pool for your exclusive use.
• The small and intimate Little Busch Camp is perfect to book out in its entirety for an exclusive-use safari accommodation for you and your entire extended family.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.
• With prior communication, all Sabi Sabi lodges are happy to source and serve halal meals for Muslim guests.

Eka Hotel, Nairobi

The contemporary 4-star Eka Hotel makes convenience a priority. Ideally located 5 minutes from the airport and right next to Nairobi National Park, Eka is possibly the perfect overnight stay when on safari in East Africa. Convenience aside, the hotel features stylish, well-appointed rooms, an on-site restaurant, gym, swimming pool and wellness centre to provide the utmost leisure and comfort. And, of course, with a wildlife-rich national park next door, you can squeeze in a game drive during your stay.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Eka Hotel is halal compliant and offers a wide selection of halal meals on their menu.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Angama Mara Safari Lodge, Masai Mara

Angama Mara takes its name from the Swahili word for ‘suspended in mid-air’ – an apt name for a property located high above the floor of Africa’s Great Rift Valley! Arguably Kenya’s premier lodge, Angama Mara’s enviable perch atop the escarpment supplies it with unadulterated views of the Masai Mara. Each of the lodge’s spacious 100 square metres (1,076 square feet) tented suites take full advantage of the breathtaking views with its floor-to-ceiling glass spanning its front. And the cherry on top? The Masai Mara is considered one of the finest game reserves in Africa and offers fantastic year-round game viewing experiences in one of the continent’s most iconic safari destinations.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• When communicated before your arrival, Angama Mara is more than happy to provide halal meals.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Angama Safari Camp, Masai Mara

Angama Safari Camp seamlessly blends the past and present in an exquisite light-footprint, sole-use tented camp. Found deep within the Masai Mara, this unique camp encapsulates the charm and romance of years gone by while providing all the modern comforts and conveniences we’ve come to love. And no golden age-style safari would be complete without extraordinary wildlife experiences – it’s a good thing you’ll be in one of Africa’s premier big game destinations!

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• An exclusive-use camp that is completely yours during your stay.
• When communicated before your arrival, Angama Mara is more than happy to provide halal meals.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Sanctuary Olonana, Masai Mara

When staying at Sanctuary Olonana, you’ll have a front-row seat to nature’s grandest show – the Great Wildebeest Migration. The lodge sits on a private stretch of the Mara River, putting you at arm’s length of all the action. During your time here, you’ll enjoy game drives, cultural visits, bush dinners, non-alcoholic sundowners, scenic flights and hot-air balloon rides over the savanna.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• The lodge is available to be fully booked for exclusive use.
• When booked out fully, you can pray in the lodge’s main area.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.
• When communicated beforehand, Sanctuary Olonana is happy to source and serve halal-friendly meals.
• Geoffrey Kent suite offers private dining, an exclusive-use infinity pool and private vehicle and guide.

Elephant Pepper Camp, Masai Mara

Elephant Pepper Camp perfectly combines rustic simplicity with unmitigated luxury in the heart of the Mara Triangle. This remote, unfenced camp’s attention to detail is evident in everything from its brass fittings and the lovely hammocks dotted around the property to the tea and freshly baked biscuits given to ease guests into an early morning game drive or bush walk.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• When given prior notice, Elephant Pepper Camp is happy to provide halal meals compliant with Islamic dietary requirements.
• Guests are more than welcome to speak to the chef upon arrival about their dietary requirements.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Mahali Mzuri, Masai Mara

A sophisticated lodge owned by billionaire businessman Sir Richard Branson, Mahali Mzuri has all the mod cons, including a powerful telescope on the viewing deck to see the stars after dinner in the mess tent. In addition to all the wonderful amenities on offer, the stylish, luxury tented suites make for the perfect retreat after a day of game drives through the Masai Mara.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Mahali Mazuri is more than equipped to cater halal-friendly meals when given sufficient warning.
• Unoccupied guest tents (subject to availability) can be used to conduct prayers.
• The camp provides prayer mats.
• Guides are instructed to break for prayer times during game drives.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius

The Oberoi is one of Mauritius’s top hotels and is known for its excellent and inventive cuisine. By day, enjoy meals overlooking the Indian Ocean under the palm trees; for a special occasion, reserve a table in the exclusive Gunpowder Room, a historic building that dates back centuries.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Halal food is provided at the resort.
• Alcoholic beverages are removed from the minibar on request.
• Villas come with a private swimming pool.
• Female-only spa facilities are available.
• Plenty of masjids close by, with Masjid Shaan E Muhammed just 10 minutes away.
• Wellness centre and spa offers secluded massages with 100% privacy from outside eyes guaranteed.

LUX* Belle Mare, Mauritius

Enjoy barefoot luxury and the best of island living at LUX* Belle Mare. Vibrant, forward-thinking and upscale, this stylish hotel can be found in the east of Mauritius and offers something for every type of traveller. From its glistening lagoon and sugar-white sand beach to the unrivalled service and exquisitely designed villas, Bella Mare is the perfect place to recoup and unwind after a grand safari experience in Southern or East Africa.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• As Mauritius has a big Muslim population, Belle Mare halal-friendly food on offer.
• Buffets will have halal options.
• Non-halal food is prepared and served separately from halal dishes.
• Unoccupied rooms (subject to availability) can be used to conduct prayers.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room.
• Staff have a thorough knowledge of Muslim-friendly offerings around the island.

Beachcomber Properties, Mauritius

A stay at one of Beachcomber’s luxury properties dotted around Mauritius is the best way to experience the very essence of this island paradise. Victoria Beachcomber, Trou aux Biches Beachcomber, Dinarobin Beachcomber and Paradis Beachcomber make up the collection of luxury resorts that offer all the comforts and conveniences that come with an indulgent island vacation. Not to mention, that there are a few better ways to end your safari in Africa than enjoying barefoot luxury at a Beachcomber resort.

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• All Beachcomber resorts offer halal-friendly meals for Muslim guests on request.
• Alcohol is removed from the room on request.
• Lamb, beef and chicken slaughtered in Mauritius are done so in accordance with Islamic rituals.
• Imported beef and lamb are halal certified.
• All ingredients used when preparing meals for Muslim guests are done according to Islamic requirements.
• Victoria Beachcomber provides separate prayer rooms.
• Trou aux Biches Beachcomber has private pools for exclusive use.
• When staying at a resort located in or near Grand Baie, you can easily travel to a masjid.

Labriz Resort & Spa, Seychelles

As a member of the Hilton Hotel group, you can expect the same exacting standards of accommodation, service and meals found the world over. The highlight of Labriz is certainly its position on the private island of Silhouette, which is home to a tortoise sanctuary where some of these hard-shelled residents are nearing a hundred years old!

What Makes It Muslim-Friendly?

• Labriz serves halal meals, prepared with halal-certified meat.
• On request, alcohol is removed from the room before arrival.

Top Tips from Our Africa Safari Expert

Go2Africa’s Mariam Ngoyi is a seasoned Africa Safari Expert who has years of extensive travel experience across Africa. She also happens to be Muslim. Here’s Mariam’s personal advice on how to always stay halal and have prayers on safari:

• Mariam suggests not travelling during Ramadan, as it’s a time for family and community, where you fast and celebrate together. It’s also physically and mentally exhausting and challenging to travel while fasting.
• Always ensure that your lodge, camp or hotel has access to Wi-Fi so that you can use a qibla app on your phone. If not available, ask your guides where East is and use their directions to work which way to face for prayers.
• Mariam finds it quite easy to work prayers into a typical safari day, especially when it’s a more private and exclusive getaway. This makes it easier to accommodate prayers, as you can change the times of meals and game drives to suit your own schedule.
• Always tell your agent during the booking process that you require halal meals so that they can ensure the lodge has the items in stock.
• It might be tempting, but you should avoid venison – like zebra, crocodile, kudu, springbok, ostrich and so on – because it is unlikely to have been slaughtered according to proper rites.
• You can find halal biltong (a dried meat delicacy found in South Africa) that is made of beef, not venison.
• You can request that your mini bar be cleared of alcoholic beverages.
• Peak safari season is over the African winter, and it can be very cold on game drives, which means everyone will be modestly dressed.
• If you wish to swim, reserve a lodge that has private plunge pools rather than bigger communal pools.
• It’s best to carry your own portable prayer mat as most lodges will not be able to provide one.
• It is possible to reserve a private safari villa with its own kitchen should you wish to prepare food yourself or if you travel with a chef.
• Some of the bigger hotels may have separate spa rooms for men and women but most don’t because space is limited. It is sometimes possible to request a spa treatment in the privacy of your own room.
• Alcoholic beverages are usually offered on the afternoon game drive during a stop for refreshments but there are lots of soft drink options instead. Once again, if you book a private vehicle and guide, then you can request that no alcohol be included at all.

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