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The best cultural food experiences to enjoy while on safari

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One aspect that stands out among the many treasures that can be enjoyed in Africa, is the continent’s culinary heritage. Boasting a tapestry of flavors, spices, and cooking techniques that have been passed down through generations, there is an experience to suit everyone. In this blog, we invite you on a virtual journey to discover some of the best cultural food experiences Africa has to offer and some suggestions of the best restaurants and eateries to experience them at. From savory stews to aromatic spices, prepare your pallet for an adventure!

The Boma on cultural food safari
Dining at the Boma is an unforgettable cultural food experience

The Boma – Dinner & Drum Extravaganza is non-stop fun

Boma I Victoria Falls

From the moment you are ceremoniously clothed in your “chitenge” (sarong), to the traditional dance performances, face painting, a fortune teller, and more, to the famed interactive drumming extravaganza, The Boma – Dinner & Drum Extravaganza is non-stop fun. The four-course feast starts with a shared starter platter. It continues with a braai (barbecue) buffet with game meats and stews, a range of salads and vegetarian meals, and a variety of sweet dessert options. Guests can also choose to add some extra adventure to the experience by having their faces painted with traditional make up- beautiful white dots for women, are often a popular choice, hair braiding, or adding the Boma man tableside cocktail along with curio seller sharing their ways- the ideal memento of a fun night getting into the spirit of Africa at this cultural food experience

Gold Restaurant I Cape Town

Evenings at GOLD are immersive experiences that take you on a 14-dish taste safari while also providing four different performances throughout the dining journey. The restaurant is much more than just an African eatery, showcasing the flavors and stories of Africa in a uniquely interactive way. The first performance features specially made puppets by master puppeteer Yaya Coulibaly and showcase the non-narrative, symbolic performance of the Bamana people from Mali, where puppets and masks are intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds. In the second performance, male warriors and female dancers portray the strength and beauty of one another- and try to win each other’s attention.

The restaurant is much more than just an African eatery, showcasing the flavors and stories of Africa in a uniquely interactive way.

Gold restaurant on cultural food safari
Gold restaurant Cape Town

The third performance focuses on a tribute to the Kiinds and Queens of Africa. And finally, and this is one of many people’s favorites, the staff come and sing and dance to say thank you to the guests. In between all the fanfare, delicious dishes are served, and Gold Restaurant offers a culinary food experience that guests won’t soon forget.

9 Pyramids Lounge I Cairo

Famous for its up-close views of the pyramids, the 9 Pyramids Lounge in Giza is an Instagram heaven for many visitors to this ancient site in Egypt. The setting is spectacular and very popular, serving both traditional Egyptian and continental dishes due to its offering a choice between indoor and outdoor seating, a well-stocked bar, and, of course, sweeping views.

Famous for its up-close views of the pyramids, the 9 Pyramids Lounge in Giza is an Instagram heaven for many visitors to this ancient site in Egypt.

9 Pyramids Lounge Cultural Food Safari
The 9 Pyramids Lounge’s enviable views

The decor is sophisticated and welcoming The menu features a wide range of meals, including rice pudding, falafel, and the ever-popular mixed meat grill. Traditional cocktail options like margaritas and mojitos are available, along with regular soft drinks and a comprehensive local and imported wine list. Reservations are highly recommended, and the scenic views from this location make this one of the top cultural food experiences on our list.

The Rock I Tanzania

Described as an “extraordinary seafood restaurant located on a rock in the middle of the Indian Ocean “, The Rock off the coast of Zanzibar is famous for being a bucket list dining spot.
The southeast coast of “Spice Island”, provides a beautiful setting for this special cultural food experience. The menu is inspired by natural resources, with a strong twist of Zanzibar, and mountains of Italian love.

The Rock restaurant, Zanzibar cultural food experience
The menu is inspired by natural resources, with a strong twist of Zanzibar, and mountains of Italian love.

Expect to enjoy the freshest seafood, with expert sauces and sides, letting the ingredients really come to the fore. Visitors rave about the views, service, and, of course, the food, so The Rock, is one of those rare restaurants- globally beloved and re-visited time after time.

The Elephant Cafe cultural food experience
The Elephant Cafe experience is a three-tiered one that has quickly become one of Victoria Fall’s signature experiences

Elephant Cafe I Livingstone

The Elephant Cafe experience is a three-tiered one that has quickly become one of Victoria Fall’s signature experiences. The fun starts off with a trip on a jet boat ( more sedate transportation options can also be arranged should your clients prefer), followed by a special interaction with the rescued elephants, and then an all-inclusive dining experience. Enjoy a memorable up-close experience with these gentle giants and a hosted educational tour of the herd passing by close to the restaurant. Once the elephants retire or move on to graze further, guests enter The Elephant Café to enjoy the beautiful views over the Zambezi River and start their special dining experience. The meal is bush-gourmet cuisine and features wild edibles and locally sourced fresh and organic ingredients. A cultural food experience blended with a special wildlife encounter and just a dash of adventure

Jiko Restaurant cultural food experience on safari
The haven of Jiko

The restaurant’s decor is a beautiful balance between modernity and tradition, with all the art from local artists.


The Sukuma Ravioli is a cult favorite and is made with sukuma wiki, goat cheese, mushrooms, and sauteed cherry tomatoes. A plethora of hanging greenery makes this venue feel like a haven in the bustling cityscape of Nairobi and with an indulgent selection of mocktails and cocktails, it s a must-visit. A delightful blend of cultural food and considered, captivating decor makes this an unforgettable experience for couples and families alike.

Get in touch with our team of experts to include one of these memorable cultural food experiences for your clients in their next itinerary.