If you love gin and you love safari, you’re in for a treat. Gin safari is the ultimate way to enjoy both of these passions in one unforgettable adventure. In this blog post, I’ll share with you some of the reasons why gin on safari is a classic combination that never gets old.
The history of gin and safari
Gin and safari have a long and intertwined history. Gin was first brought to Africa by the British colonists, who used it as a medicine and a tonic to ward off malaria. They mixed it with quinine, a bitter substance extracted from the bark of the cinchona tree, which was also effective against the disease. The result was the famous gin and tonic, or G&T, which soon became a staple drink for the explorers and adventurers who ventured into the wild.
Safari, which means “journey” in Swahili, is the term used to describe the expeditions to observe and hunt the exotic animals of Africa. Safari was a popular pastime for the wealthy and adventurous, who often brought along their own supplies of gin and tonic to enjoy after a long day of tracking lions, elephants, and rhinos. Gin and tonic was not only a refreshing drink, but also a way to celebrate the thrill of safari and toast to the beauty of nature.
The benefits of gin and safari
Gin and safari are not only historically linked, but also have many benefits for your health and well-being. Gin is a distilled spirit made from juniper berries, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Gin can help lower blood pressure, improve digestion, and boost your mood. Gin also contains botanicals, such as coriander, citrus peel, and angelica root, which add flavor and aroma to the drink. Botanicals can have various effects on your body and mind, such as stimulating, relaxing, or balancing.
Safari is an amazing way to connect with nature and experience the diversity of life on Earth. Safari can help you reduce stress, improve your mental health, and increase your happiness. Safari can also teach you valuable lessons about conservation, respect, and appreciation for the wildlife and the environment. Safari can inspire you to live more sustainably and responsibly, and to support the efforts to protect the endangered species and habitats.
The best ways to enjoy gin and safari
Gin and safari are both wonderful on their own, but together they are even better. There are many ways to enjoy gin and safari, depending on your preferences and budget. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this classic combination:
Join a gin safari tour.
There are many tour operators that offer gin safari packages, where you can visit different distilleries, taste different gins, and learn about the production process. You can also go on game drives, bush walks, or boat cruises to see the wildlife and scenery of Africa. Some tours even include gin-making workshops, where you can create your own custom blend of gin using local botanicals.
Stay at a gin safari lodge.
If you want a more luxurious and exclusive experience, you can stay at a gin safari lodge, where you can enjoy all the comforts and amenities of a five-star hotel while being surrounded by nature. You can relax in your private suite or villa, enjoy gourmet meals and cocktails, and indulge in spa treatments and massages. You can also join guided safaris or explore the area at your own pace.
Create your own gin safari adventure.
If you’re feeling more adventurous and independent, you can create your own gin safari adventure by choosing your own destinations, accommodations, and activities. You can rent a car or hire a driver and guide, and plan your own itinerary based on your interests and budget. You can visit local markets, museums, and cultural sites, as well as national parks, reserves, and conservancies. You can also bring your own supply of gin and tonic, or buy some along the way from local shops or bars.
No matter how you choose to enjoy gin on safari, you’re guaranteed to have an unforgettable time. Gin on safari is a classic combination that never gets old because it combines two of the best things in life: delicious drinks and amazing adventures. So what are you waiting for? Book your gin safari today and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
The best destinations and lodges for a gin on safari adventure
If you love gin and wildlife, then you’re in for a treat. A gin safari is the perfect way to combine your passions and have an unforgettable adventure. In this section, we’ll show you some of the best destinations and lodges for a gin safari, where you can enjoy stunning scenery, amazing animals and delicious drinks.
Sip and spot in South Africa
South Africa is a gin lover’s paradise, with over 200 local craft gins to choose from. It’s also home to some of the most diverse and spectacular wildlife on the planet, from lions and elephants to penguins and whales. You can experience both at the same time on a gin safari, where you’ll stay at a luxury lodge and go on game drives with a gin expert. You’ll learn about the history and culture of gin, taste different varieties and pair them with local snacks. You’ll also get to see the incredible flora and fauna that inspired some of the botanicals used in gin making, such as juniper, coriander and citrus.
One of the best places to go for a gin safari in South Africa is the Kruger National Park, where you can stay at the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. This award-winning lodge offers spacious suites, outdoor showers, private pools and stunning views of the bush. You’ll also have access to a bar stocked with premium gins, a spa, a gym and a library. The lodge organises daily game drives and bush walks with experienced guides, who will help you spot the Big Five and other wildlife. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit a local gin distillery and learn how they make their own unique blends.
Cheers and chill in Botswana
Botswana is another great destination for a gin safari, where you can explore the pristine wilderness of the Okavango Delta. This is one of the largest and most biodiverse wetlands in the world, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, giraffes and more. You can also enjoy some of the finest gins in Africa, made with local ingredients such as baobab, marula and Kalahari truffles.
One of the best lodges for a gin safari in Botswana is the Belmond Eagle Island Lodge, which is located on a private island in the heart of the delta. This lodge offers luxurious tents with four-poster beds, outdoor decks and copper bathtubs. You’ll also have access to a pool, a restaurant, a lounge and a fire pit. The lodge organises daily activities such as mokoro rides, helicopter flights and horseback safaris, where you can admire the stunning scenery and wildlife. You’ll also get to sample different gins and cocktails at the lodge’s gin bar, which has over 20 varieties to choose from.
Toast and trek in Tanzania
Tanzania is another amazing destination for a gin safari, where you can witness the great migration of wildebeest and zebra across the Serengeti plains. This is one of the most spectacular natural events in the world, where millions of animals move in search of food and water. You can also enjoy some of the best gins in East Africa, made with exotic spices such as cardamom, cinnamon and cloves.
One of the best lodges for a gin safari in Tanzania is the Serengeti Bushtops Camp, which is located in a prime spot for viewing the migration. This camp offers spacious tents with king-size beds, en-suite bathrooms and private hot tubs. You’ll also have access to a dining tent, a lounge tent and a library tent. The camp organises daily game drives and bush walks with professional guides, who will help you track the animals and learn about their behaviour. You’ll also get to taste different gins and cocktails at the camp’s gin bar, which has over 30 varieties to choose from.
The most exotic and delicious gin cocktails to try on your trip
If you’re a gin lover, you’ll be thrilled to discover the amazing variety of gin cocktails that await you on your gin safari. Whether you prefer a classic gin and tonic, a refreshing gin fizz, or a spicy gin martini, you’ll find something to suit your taste buds and mood. Here are some of the most exotic and delicious gin cocktails to try on your trip.
Gin Basil Smash
This simple but stunning cocktail is made with fresh basil leaves, lemon juice, sugar syrup, and gin. It’s a perfect summer drink that showcases the herbal and citrus notes of gin. To make it, you’ll need to muddle some basil leaves in a shaker, add the other ingredients, shake well with ice, and strain into a rocks glass. Garnish with more basil leaves and enjoy!
Gin Mare Mediterranean
This cocktail is inspired by the flavours of the Mediterranean, using Gin Mare, a Spanish gin infused with botanicals like rosemary, thyme, basil, and olive. It’s a complex and aromatic drink that pairs well with seafood and tapas. To make it, you’ll need to mix Gin Mare with tonic water, lemon juice, honey, and a dash of orange bitters. Serve in a highball glass with ice and garnish with an olive and a sprig of rosemary.
Gin Gin Mule
This cocktail is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule, replacing vodka with gin. It’s a refreshing and spicy drink that combines ginger beer, lime juice, mint leaves, and gin. It’s a great way to enjoy the spicy and floral notes of gin. To make it, you’ll need to muddle some mint leaves in a copper mug, add the other ingredients, fill with ice, and stir gently. Garnish with more mint leaves and a lime wedge.
The dos and don’ts of drinking gin on safari
If you’re planning a gin safari, you might be wondering how to enjoy your favourite drink without compromising your safety or the wildlife experience. After all, you don’t want to miss out on the amazing sights and sounds of the African bush, but you also don’t want to miss out on the fun and flavor of a good gin and tonic. Here are some tips to help you balance your gin consumption with your safari adventure.
Do: Drink responsibly
The first and most important rule of drinking gin on safari is to drink responsibly. This means knowing your limits, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol if you have any medical conditions or are taking any medication that might interact with it. Drinking too much can impair your judgment, make you sick, or even put you in danger. Remember, you’re not in a bar or a hotel, you’re in the wild, where animals can attack, vehicles can break down, and weather can change quickly. You need to be alert and aware at all times.
Don’t: Drink during game drives
One of the worst times to drink gin on safari is during game drives. This is when you’re most likely to encounter wildlife, and you need to be respectful and attentive. Drinking during game drives can distract you from the animals, annoy your guide and fellow travellers, and even provoke a negative reaction from the wildlife. Imagine how a lion or an elephant would feel if they smelled alcohol on your breath or saw you waving a bottle around. Not only would you ruin the experience for yourself and others, but you could also endanger everyone’s lives.
Do: Drink at sundowners
One of the best times to drink gin on safari is at sundowners. This is when you stop at a scenic spot to watch the sunset and enjoy a drink and a snack. Sundowners are a safari tradition that allow you to relax and reflect on the day’s events, while admiring the beauty of nature. You can sip your gin and tonic while listening to the sounds of the night, feeling the breeze on your skin, and watching the sky change colours. It’s a magical moment that deserves a special drink.
Don’t: Drink too much at night
Another time to be careful with your gin consumption is at night. While it might be tempting to have a few more drinks after dinner or around the campfire, you should remember that you have an early start the next day. You don’t want to wake up with a hangover, feeling tired, dehydrated, or nauseous. You also don’t want to disturb your sleep quality, which can affect your mood and energy levels. Drinking too much at night can also make you more vulnerable to nocturnal animals, such as hyenas, leopards, or snakes, that might wander into your camp or tent.
Do: Try different gins
One of the joys of drinking gin on safari is that you can try different gins from different countries and regions. Gin is a versatile spirit that can be infused with various botanicals, such as juniper berries, coriander seeds, citrus peels, or spices. Each gin has its own unique flavour profile and aroma, which can enhance your drink and your mood. You can also experiment with different mixers, such as tonic water, soda water, or fruit juice, and garnishes, such as lime wedges, cucumber slices, or mint leaves. You might discover a new favourite combination that suits your palate and personality.
Don’t: Forget to enjoy yourself
The last and most important rule of drinking gin on safari is to enjoy yourself. Drinking gin on safari is not just about getting drunk or having fun, it’s about celebrating life and nature. It’s about sharing a moment with your loved ones, making new friends, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It’s about savouring the taste of gin and the taste of adventure. So don’t forget to enjoy yourself, but do it responsibly.
