Where to Go for the Best African Religious Safari Destinations
There are rewarding religious safari destinations that you can enjoy on your visit. Most of the destinations have religious sites with an amazing history.
There are many sites that you can visit on your African tour that can be included in your itinerary, but we shall look at a few.
Church of St. George, Ethiopia
The town of Lalibela, Ethiopia is known for having extraordinary rock-hewn churches that were created in the 12th and 13th centuries.
These churches are a testament to the supreme level of Ethiopia’s ancient architecture. Of all the Christian sites, the most renowned is St. George, standing approximately 12 meters high and it shouldn’t miss in your itinerary.
This site boasts of a roof in a sign of a cross, three doors, an interior decorated with remarkably done carvings, and also many arch-shaped windows that you will see on your tour, and a wide area for prayer where people gain hope.
Nan Hua Temple, South Africa
This temple is located in the bushveld town of Bronkhorstspruit, South Africa covering 600 acres of land making it the largest Buddhist temple on the African continent. Looking at the temple in South Africa, you may think that you are in ancient Asia.
The Nan Hua Temple is the African headquarters of the Fo Guang Shan, a Chinese Buddhist monastic order. Building the temple site began in 1992 in October and now the temple is open to visitors looking to immerse themselves in its peaceful splendor.
When you visit South Africa to the temple on your tour trip, you will find three large Buddha statues known as the Triple Gem Buddha.
Monastery of Saint Anthony, Egypt
The Monastery of Saint Anthony is the oldest in the world built deep in the Red Sea Mountains and the church dates its origin beginning in the 4th century. The monastery was founded by the followers of Saint Anthony who was the first Christian Monk.
Over the years, the monastery has increased in size, and today, the main parts include the Churches of St. Anthony, the Apostles, the Virgin, and a guesthouse where to stay on your tour.
The monastery offers religious tours to tourists as it is inhabited by over 100 monks who live a life of prayer in the solitude and stillness of the desert and it should be in your itinerary tour.
Nizamiye Mosque, South Africa
It is situated in Johannesburg; South Africa and it is believed to be the biggest mosque complex in southern Africa.
The mosque boasts 21 domes, with the main one framed by four towering minarets, building of mosque has more than 200 stained glass windows and the interior is breathtaking having intricate hand-painted designs.
This complex site in South Africa includes community facilities like a school that takes 800 pupils, a clinic, conference rooms, shops, a bakery, a bookshop, and a restaurant on the western side.
The Great Mosque of Djenné
This mosque is in Mali, and it is among the most astounding buildings in the world. It is taken to be one of the greatest creations of the Sahelian architecture, was built from mud, and this makes it the world’s largest mud-brick building.
The whole town of Djenne is made up of houses built from mud architecture since the beginning of the 14th century. One of West Africa’s most important Muslim centers, the monumental structure has giant walls dotted with sign wooden beams that protrude through the outside.
It is a perfect place of religious that visitors on a religious tour need to visit.
The Baha’i Temple, Uganda
It is situated in the suburbs of Kampala city, the capital of Uganda. The Bahai faith was introduced to Uganda in 1951 and this makes it the earliest Bahai community in eastern Africa.
This temple of worship was completed in 1961 and has become a well-known landmark of the capital. This site is open to all people of all kinds of religions on a religious tour and it shouldn’t be missed in the itinerary of any tourist and there is no need for a bible.
The Great Mosque of Kairouan, Tunisia
The UNESCO World Heritage city of Kairouan is home to one of the most remarkable mosques in the world. This mosque was founded in 670 and it enjoys the recognition of being the oldest Muslim place of worship on the African continent.
The mosque was built by Uqba ibn Nafi as a Friday Mosque for communal prayers on the Muslim holy day. However, the mosque has gone through many transformations over the years and it was rebuilt at least twice in the 8th century.
This site is an architectural wonder that combines a range of influences, including pre-Islam, Eastern Islamic, Umayyad, Byzantine, and Roman. You get all views of the sightings on your tour and the mosque should be in any itinerary of a tourist on the religious tour.
Jummah Masjid Mosque, Mauritius
This country is not only for stunning beaches, lagoons, and reefs. The Jummah Masjid Mosque is one of the most religious buildings in the Indian Ocean which is unmissable in the capital Port Louis.
The site was built in the 1850s combining Indian, Creole, and Islamic architecture and when the Muslim population grew in Port Louis, it was a sign that a larger mosque was needed, and in 1857, land was bought by Muslim merchants leading to the expansion of the Jummah Masjid Mosque. You can tour the masjid with great experiences.
Church of Our Lady Mary of Zion, Ethiopia
This is one of the most famous churches in the world and it is a historical treasure believed to have been constructed in the 4th century during the reign of Ezna, the first Christian King of Ethiopia and you can visit it on your Christian safari.
Our Lady Mary of Zion has the Ark of the Covenant which is gold-covered and contains the Ten Commandments written on two stone tablets.
Although the church claims to possess the Ark, its whereabouts remain a bone of contention among researchers and scholars. However, a tourist can get more of the history of the establishment when he/she comes for a religious tour trip.
Yamoussoukro Basilica, Côte d’Ivoire
This is one of the most significant churches in the world and it is also known as Our Lady of Yamoussoukro Basilica. It is the world’s largest Christian Church, having surpassed St Peter’s in the Vatican upon its completion in 1989.
It was built with marble imported from Italy and boasts 5,000 shades of stained-glass windows from France.
Each seat in the church has its conditioning system, which has made it a national pride and one of the most important Roman Catholic Shrines in Africa and you can visit it when on a Christian safari trip.
Other religious sites that you can visit include;
- Tigray Churches
- Uganda Martyrs Shrine
- Old Kampala National Mosque (Gaddafi Mosque)
- The Temple of Philae
- Catherine’s Monastery in the Sinai
- Nizamiye Mosque
- Ibn Tulun Mosque
- Great Zimbabwe
- George’s Cathedral in Cape Town
- Koutoubia
Let’s Take the Safari Analogy a Little Further
If looking at the life of Jesus and his teachings in the bible, it would seem to me that emotion has very little to do with Christian faith, hope, and love. On a safari tour, what you feel like doing at the time you are challenged is less than what your education will tell you to do.
Just as when facing the Lions on a game drive, the last thing we need to do is the thing we most felt like doing and you have to course on the informed wills.
The Christian Response Is a Matter of the Will
You need to prepare to respond to a given situation with faith, hope, and love though not because you feel like it but because your informed will knows, that is what you must do.
It is a matter of sharing
You need to prepare and share with others what you have, your knowledge of Jesus, the gospel, your time, your resources, and your life regardless of whether you consider people to be deserving or not but simply to build them up and in so doing to build your character in the mold of love and hope.
It Is a Matter of Sacrifices I Will Make For Others
The history of the church is full of people who when faced with a challenge can be prepared to respond sacrificially to a need. The examples of such people are inspiring and have made an awesome contribution to the kingdom’s work.
They include a group of people who save kids and it all by Christians who respond to the call of God to faith, hope, and love. The religious African trip especially the Christian safari is a mix of sometimes dramatic and heroic acts and sometimes practical and domestic ones which is a sign of search criteria.
Now as you go on a religious trip and search and get knowledge for the Big Three (faith, hope, and love) in your Christian walk, you shouldn’t be caught off guard by the surprises of life but just continue to be prayerful in the preparation and always have your bible.
Always be ready to course with faith in God and have hope in his promises and with unconditional love and build up others.
On your southern Africa safari of religion, take a moment of silence and some time to think of one area where God might be challenging you to demonstrate knowledge of Christian faith, hope, and love in your life.
How to Plan a Muslim-Friendly African Safari
Halal-friendly tours need ample time of planning to make sure that sincere Muslims can move around the continent. Always make sure that the planning stages for the Muslim-friendly tour go smoothly.
Below are some of the tips to know;
Communicate Your Needs in Extensive Detail
Make sure that everyone knows all about your expectations before reserving your tour in Africa. This is to make sure that you get everything that you require to experience during your halal-friendly tour from start to finish.
Be sure to offer your safari trip expert a list of requirements that you need like a prayer mat, alcohol-free minibar, the presence of halal food, a private plunge or a swimming pool, and a Muslim tour guide, especially for game drives.
Make Sure You Have Everything You Need To Pray
Apart from the praying stuff, make sure that the accommodation facility that you get has a good WI-FI connection. This can help you find the right direction for Mecca after using the Qibla finder apps.
Also, make sure that your phone does not change to the local time zone as this will help your alarms not to go off at the right prayer times.
Factor In Proximity to the Masjid
If you like communal prayers, then get an accommodation facility that is close to a masjid. However, this may not be necessary while hanging out in lodges and camps established within national parks, conservancies, reserves, remote regions, or the bush.
But when in a city like Cape Town or Dar es Salaam, masjids are found easily.
Best Destinations for Halal-Friendly Safaris in Africa
Within the African continent, the best destinations having halal-friendly tours include;
South Africa
South Africa is graded as one of the top tour destinations for Muslims in the world. This country has a lot to offer like the Muslim-friendly hotels in Cape Town and the halal fine dining areas in Johannesburg. This southern African country ideally has a lot to offer.
Over the past years, Cape Town has improved its amenities and experiences to accommodate and assist Muslim travelers. Many Muslim residents are living in the travel hotspot of Cape Town which is taken to be the origin of Islam in South Africa.
Many masjids are found within Cape Town which means that Muslim travelers have easy access to a masjid whenever they go. The major centers in South Africa have prayer rooms, like shopping centers. There are also halal restaurants in Cape Town.
In addition to outstanding attractions in South Africa like Lion’s Head and the Table Mountain, the colorful district of Bo Kaap is a perfect destination for followers of the Islamic faith. Bo Kaap is a primarily Muslim community that is home to cafes, halal restaurants, and stores that can assist you with whatever you need.
South Africa is rich in Islamic history in the honoring of the Holy Kramats that are found on Signal Hill, besides Bakoven beach, in Bo Kaap and Simonstown.
Muslim safari-goers in South Africa can also take a journey to sight the big game within Kruger National Park in the African bush which is their natural habitat.
Kenya
Kenya offers amazing halal-friendly safaris. This East African country’s coast is rewarding, as the majority of Kenya’s Muslim population resides in areas like Mombasa.
Kenya also boasts of sweeping plains of the Masai Mara home to the big five (Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Rhino, and Buffalo) and also the renowned Great Wildebeest Migration and it is a natural habitat for more wild animals.
The nature of this country is green, and you can explore it on your adventure journey for life memories.
Zanzibar, Tanzania
Tanzania is also a halal-friendly destination with an amazing Muslim population because Islam is the second largest religion in Tanzania. On your journey to Zanzibar on your tour trip, you will find out that most of the region is inhabited by Islam.
While here, Muslim travelers will feel at home as there are many masjids and other prayer facilities with easy reach.
Other countries are Mauritius, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Seychelles.
Muslim-Friendly Lodges, Camps and Hotels in Africa
Since you have known the best destinations for halal-friendly tours. Below we have selected the top lodges, camps, and hotels that will ensure all your needs and requirements on your vacation;
Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town
This hotel in Cape Town has hosted many famous people from around the world since the early 1900s and dates for many years. Even though it is close to the city center, it lies in a leafy neighborhood of Cape Town that is a welcome oasis after sightseeing and it is family friendly.
The Peech Hotel, Johannesburg
The Peech Hotel is situated in the suburbs of Johannesburg, and it is unspoiled with its stylish surroundings. This hotel offers comfort, relaxation, and design, with good service and a lush garden setting on the top, and good for families.
It is set within 10 minutes of the city and the main shopping and business districts, like Melrose Arch, Rosebank, and Sandton.
Etali Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve
Etali Lodge has a romantic atmosphere which is a good choice for honeymooners. It has luxury suites, privacy offerings, and picturesque surroundings.
Also, this lodge offers halal meals and game drives in Madikwe Game Reserve and bush walks with an experienced guide or enjoy time at the spa.
Lukimbi Safari Lodge, Kruger Private Concession
This is one of Africa’s most famous national parks and it is a great destination to stay if you want a more exclusive vacation experience.
During your time at Lukimba, you will find that it is tranquil to fancy that you have this immense reserve all to yourself and it serves halal meals.
You get to enjoy game drives in a vehicle with great game-viewing opportunities and serene, picturesque surroundings. Each room is equipped with comfort from deluxe amenities with treats and beverages.
Thornybush Lodges, Kruger National Park
On your Thornybush stay, expect luxury suites, picturesque natural settings, spectacular wildlife sightings, expert guides, and offers halal meals. This lodge is a big game and leading safari destination within Kruger National Park.
Whatever your taste, this lodge property has something for everyone.
Sabi Sabi Properties, Sabi Sands Game Reserve
When adventuring the Kruger National Park on an authentic vacation experience, Sabi Sands is the best place to be. You get to explore the untouched wilderness of Southern Africa.
Each of the lodges offers a tranquil environment in the big game nation, with the promise of experiencing all the bells and whistles of an upscale thrilling vacation gateway.
Since you are in Kruger National Park, there are higher chances of seeing the Big 5 and other amazing African animals on your journey.
Eka Hotel, Nairobi
Eka Hotel offers a perfect overnight when on a safari in East Africa as it is just 5 minutes from the airport and just next to Nairobi National Park. This hotel has stylish, well-appointed rooms, a restaurant with delicious meals, a swimming pool, a gym, and a wellness spa.
You can embark on a game drive during your stay at the hotel as well as bush walks.
Angama Mara Safari Lodge, Masai Mara
Angama Mara is possibly Kenya’s leading lodge, and it is located high above the Great Rift Valley floor. It offers amazing views of the Masai Mara with tented suites having splendid views with its floor-to-ceiling glass spanning its front.
Masai Mara Reserve is the finest reserve on earth offering all year throughout game viewing experiences in Kenya one of the world’s vacation destinations for families. It has a restaurant offering well-prepared meals that you can enjoy on your vacation.
The Oberoi Beach Resort, Mauritius
This is one of the top hotels in Mauritius and it is well known for its excellent cuisine.
You get to enjoy meals overlooking the Indian Ocean under the palm trees and on a special occasion, you can reserve a table in the exclusive gunpowder room, a historic building that dates back centuries.
There is a swimming pool for relaxation and female-only spas.
Best time for Africa Religious Safari Tours
Religious vacation tours are good all year though the best time in each country would be in the dry season or dry months. During this time the roads are accessible making it possible to reach the religious sites.
However, always mind the time zone of each country as one may be in the dry season and the other in the wet season. The time zone is key when you want to come for religious safari tours.
The dry months are mostly from June to August and from December to early March, also, during this time, photography is amazing as there is clear lighting, and you can embark easily on game drives.
Other Adventures to Enjoy on a Religious Trip
EXPLORING THE VICTORIA FALLS
The Victoria Falls are located on the Zambezi River. The Victoria Falls were named to honor Queen Victoria. The Victoria Falls are the biggest fall on earth featuring 15 viewpoints in Zimbabwe and 4 viewpoints in Zambia.
March is the best time to visit the fall when the water levels are high.
EXPLORING CHOBE NATIONAL PARK
This is a national park in Botswana known for having large herds of Elephants on earth and a high concentration of animals. Chobe National Park is best rewarding during the dry season when Elephants come along the Chobe River.
KAZUNGULA
This is a small settlement in Zimbabwe and the name refers to the border village of Kazungula in Botswana, which features a ferry service along the Zambezi River, to a town in Zambia known as Kazungula. A road links the village to the Victoria Falls.
Any tourist can visit the small settlement village in spring for a greater experience as there are fewer crowds.
HIKE TABLE MOUNTAIN
Table Mountain is an amazing mountain located in Cape Town, South Africa. It gets its name from being flat on top and offers the best views of Cape Town from above. You get all the best views once you embark on the hike the Table Mountain of South Africa and the hike is short as it is only 1.3 miles to the top.
If hiking is not your cup of tea, then you can take a cable car to the top with views of the nearby towns.
EXPLORING THE ROBBEN ISLAND
Robben Island is in South Africa north of Cape Town and stands 30m above sea level. Robben Island has much history as it was formerly used as a prison where many people were isolated and exiled for nearly 400 years.
You can visit Robben Island to enjoy a historical tour and a better experience.
What Makes Africa Perfect for Family Safari Vacations?
When it comes to opting for a vacation for your family, there are many options to choose from. However, when it comes to family vacations to places that take you beyond the ordinary, the choices become limited.
Below are some of the reasons why Africa is perfect for a family vacation;
Africa is unique; a Christian tour vacation to Africa is amazing and different and a journey to this continent is where nature has remained almost unchanged.
A chance for family bonding; there are many vacation options for families but a trip that bonds a family together is amazing as you learn the word of God from the bible.
A vacation that children will remember; a trip to Africa, as a family, is a healthy memory children can cherish forever while learning more about God from the bible.
What Is the Religion of Africa?
Africa is one of the continents with a widespread of several religions. However, the most prominent are Christianity and Islam.
How Much Is A Mission Trip to Africa?
There is no specific cost for a mission trip though it deeply depends on the number of days you will be missioning and other activities that you can combine with the trip.
Expect to pay from $50 and above per day and you can get discounts on some trips. On your mission tour, you also go for a Big Five trip to see the Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Leopard, and Rhino.
What do People do On Mission Trips to Africa?
Below are some of the things you can do on mission tours;
- supporting Children’s homes (orphanages and kids with special needs)
- Visiting and living with poor communities around the various game parks in East Africa
- Helping out street children
- Visiting prisons
- Exploring the remote village community
- Exploring refugee camps
- Constructing places of worship
- Helping construct health centers
- Constructing local schools
- Constructing water sources
- constructing homes for the elderly
What Are the Main Religions In Africa?
The main religions are African traditional religion, Christianity, and Islam.
What Is Africa’s Oldest Religion?
Africa’s oldest religion is the Orisha religion which mutually obligated humans and members of the extraordinary realm of divine and ancestral beings.
What Is the Main Religion of Africa?
The main religions are Islam and Christianity which are now the continent’s major religions, but also traditional religions still play a role on the continent.
What Is the Spirituality of Africa?
African spirituality is a holistic concept that stems from historical, cultural, and religious heritage and includes among others, folktales, beliefs, rituals, and culture.
How Much Does an African Safari Cost Per Person?
An African vacation costs anywhere between $125 and $1,500 per person per night. A budget tour averages $150 per night per person, mid-range $350, and luxury $750 per person. Top-notch safaris cost $1,500 per night per person.
However, you can save when you join a group tour, and get any discounts that may be offered.
Where Is Best for Safari In Africa?
The best tour is within Tanzania and Kenya. These countries in East Africa offer wildlife tours and you get to enjoy game drives and bush walks within Serengeti National Park and Masai Mara and other game parks and reserves.
You get to see the Lion and other big cats during game drives.
Why are African Safaris so Expensive?
African safaris are expensive because of the distance and infrastructure, and remote locations of lodges as they require meticulous logistical planning, staff-to-guest ratios, national park fees and conservation levies, level of luxury, and all-inclusive accommodation rates.
What is the Big Five safari in Africa?
A Big Five trip is that takes you on game drives to see Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, and Rhinoceroses within the African wilderness. You get to see these on game drives.
In summary, African religious trips take you to amazing religious places for a religious adventure. You will visit holy places, spiritual sites, cathedrals, temples, and shrines.
You can easily combine the religious trip with a wildlife tour where you get to see the Big Five (lions, Elephants, Leopards, Buffaloes, and Rhinos) during a game drive when you visit South Africa in Kruger National Park and other parks.

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