In the heart of Zululand is our incredible Babanango Game Reserve, a Big 5 wilderness set among some of Africa’s most resplendent scenery. Beyond the rugged mountains and sweeping valleys that many animals call home, Babanango is also a food-lover’s paradise, with our quality chefs preparing unforgettable meals sourced from the finest local ingredients.
Mouthwatering Meals
Every dish prepared by our Babanango culinary team is done so with care and consideration. Our menus are researched and constantly updated, ensuring that we’re providing our guests with the best fusion of flavours. In line with our strict conservation ethos, we seek to source our ingredients locally wherever possible, with many vegetables grown in the surrounding communities.
Our Favourite Dishes
With great food always on the table, a few of our dishes have stood the test of time! Our food draws inspiration from a wide variety of South African and European influences. Here are some of our fan favourites:
Starters
- Our European-inspired mille-feuille of grilled couscous and aubergine is topped with mozzarella and tomato, and napped with basil pesto and balsamic reduction.
- The pan-grilled halloumi served with bell peppers, confit tomatoes, basil pesto and balsamic reduction, topped with salad leaves.
- For the pasta lovers, our open ravioli of slow-braised oxtail served with mushroom duxelle, tomato passata, and drizzled with jus is a must.
- Those craving seafood should try our crab cakes with crumbed coconut served with tomatillo and jalapeno aioli and a side salad.
- Finally, our pan-seared scallops served with spicy Harissa Bisque and chickpea puree are the perfect way to start any meal.
Main Meals
- After a full day of exploring the reserve, our slow-braised lamb shank served with garlic, herb pomme puree, and seasonal vegetables is a winter favourite.
- For something unique and delectable, our octopus hand is served with potato croquette, peas, brunoise vegetables, and saffron beurre blanche.
- Another wholesome favourite is our pan-seared beef fillet served with creamed spinach, pomme gallettes, and green peppercorn sauce.
- Our exotic dou of quail is unmatched, pan-seared and served with parsnip puree, long-stem broccoli, and Bordelaise jus.
- The pasta Arabiata, which consists of penne pasta tossed with spicy tomato sauces and topped with Parmesan cheese, is a flavourful option.
Desserts
- Diets go out the window on holiday, and our steamed orange pudding served with vanilla ice cream, caramelised orange syrup, and orange segments is the perfect indulgence.
- Warm up those winter nights with a taste of our dark chocolate fondant served with cardamon Chantilly cream and a Tuille biscuit.
- For the ultimate in dessert decadence, our triple chocolate terrine or the mille-feuille of chocolate with fresh berries and Kahlua cream cannot be beaten.
Meet the Chefs
Every lodge at Babanango Game Reserve comes with its own unique character, design, and taste. One thing that all our lodges have in common, though, is that guests will experience luxury, comfort, and great food. All of our chefs are dedicated to the craft and are members of the South African Chefs Association, highlighting our commitment to gourmet excellence.
Matatane Camp: Our family-friendly camp welcomes guests looking for a back-to-basics wilderness experience. Here you will find the warm and welcoming Chef Rita, who never shies away from a big crowd! She’s always ready to prepare wholesome and delicious meals for all our visiting school groups.
Valley Lodge: One of our best-kept secrets is the stylish Valley Lodge overlooking the Nsubeni River Valley. The other best-kept secret? Our incredible Ma Vim, who prepares family-type meals with love and devotion. Her stir-fries are famous and one of her many home-cooked meals that perfectly embody the farmstead-style setting of this inviting lodge.
Zulu Rock Lodge: Guests wanting a meal with a view will get their fill here. Zulu Rock Lodge has commanding views across the reserve from the edge of a mountain cliff. While enjoying the seclusion and comfort, guests are treated to delectable meals prepared by Thembelihle and her team with passion and flair.
Madwaleni River Lodge: If it’s luxury and gourmet meals you’re looking for, this is the perfect space. Set along the banks of the White Umfolozi River, Madwaleni’s travel opulence extends from the bespoke accommodation and heated splash pool to the 5-star cuisine, carefully prepared by our wonderful chefs, Mthoko and Njabula.
Meet Chef Bruce McKay
Our incredible team of chefs and exceptional menus are all overseen by our General Manager of Hospitality, the renowned Chef Bruce McKay. Dedicated to upskilling South African talent, Bruce is also the Chairman of the Academy of Chefs, which is the honour society of the South African Chefs Association, which aims to support, promote and influence education in the culinary profession by passing on the skills, training and expertise from within the fellowship.
Bruce started at Babanango Game Reserve in 2024, bringing with him more than three decades of experience in the hospitality industry. He is an award-winning hotel regional operations general manager, a food and beverage specialist, an executive chef, and a revered food columnist.
Drawing on his experience at top hotel properties, both domestically and internationally, Bruce has created an unmatched menu for Babanango, which is brought to life by a team that works seamlessly together. He is also instrumental in training our young hospitality industry employees, ensuring world-class standards at all our lodges.
A Treat for Wine Lovers
South Africa is renowned for its incredible selection of wines and, at Babanango Game Reserve, we believe in supporting local – especially when it enhances the dining experience. Wine lovers will be treated at Madwaleni River Lodge, which has a wine cellar boasting an impressive collection of 2,000 bottles, including some of the Western Cape’s finest vintages to pair perfectly with your meal.
Book Your Spot Now
From our wholesome breakfast spreads to unforgettable lunches, and dinners under the stars, we will keep you well-fed on your luxury African safari at Babanango Game Reserve. We cater to all dietary requirements and preferences, ensuring you have a fantastic experience from start to finish.
