South African cuisine is celebrated for its rich diversity, influenced by a blend of cultures, climates, and a variety of cooking styles and flavors. The country's culinary identity is marked by its focus on seasonal produce, traditional dishes, and communal dining experiences.
In South Africa, you'll find a variety of staple foods, including maize (corn), potatoes, and rice, often accompanied by flavorful sauces and dishes made from meats, vegetables, and spices. Some favourite South African dishes include:
- Braai: braai involves grilling meat over an open flame. Popular meats include boerewors (sausage), lamb, and chicken.
- Biltong: A popular snack, biltong is cured and dried meat, usually beef or game, seasoned with spices. It’s a staple in many South African households.
- Bobotie: A savory baked dish made from minced meat, often flavored with curry and topped with a custard-like mixture, served with yellow rice and chutney.
- Potjiekos: A traditional stew cooked slowly in a three-legged pot over an open fire, incorporating various meats and vegetables.
- Malva Pudding: A sweet, sticky dessert made from apricot jam, served warm with a creamy sauce, it’s a delightful end to any meal.
Meal Inclusions
The cost of all meals is included in our Classic group tours. You may like to drink beer, soft drinks, fruit juice or bottled water with your meals – please note drinks are not included in your tour price so payment for these is to be made directly to the restaurant staff.
On Go Beyond tours, private tours and group tour independent extensions, meal inclusions are listed in your itinerary.
Breakfast is served in the hotel and usually includes western dishes.
On our group tours, we use a variety of local and hotel restaurants, which provide variety in both the dishes and methods of cooking.
Food allergies/dietary requests
Any food allergies or dietary requests must be specified at the time of booking. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to accommodate any dietary requirements once you have departed your home country.
In South Africa, a diverse culinary landscape reflects its rich cultural heritage, but it’s essential to note that vegetarianism and veganism are not universally understood, especially in rural areas. While many South African dishes can be adapted to avoid meat and dairy, some traditional meals may include animal products, so clear communication about your dietary needs is vital. Patience and understanding can help when navigating menus or asking locals about food preparation.
Gluten-free diets are becoming more recognized in South Africa, but awareness may vary, particularly in smaller towns. Many staple ingredients, such as bread and certain sauces, often contain gluten. If you're on a gluten-free diet, being vigilant and informing your server about your dietary restrictions is essential. In larger cities, restaurants are generally accommodating, but it's helpful to prepare a gluten-free translation card to assist in communicating your needs.
Food allergies are taken seriously in South Africa, but they may not be as commonly understood as in some other countries. Be prepared to clearly explain what you cannot eat, especially if you find yourself dining independently. For those who do not have all meals included, there are numerous online resources available to help you find the right terminology for your allergies, making it a good idea to print out flashcards with relevant phrases in English or Afrikaans to facilitate communication.