Kosher Safari from Manchester
Direct from Manchester — Africa is closer than you think for Northern England's Jewish families.
Welcome Manchester Families to Africa
For families in Prestwich, Whitefield, and Broughton Park, the call of the wild is closer than you might imagine. The Kosher Safari has had the pleasure of hosting several families from the vibrant Manchester Jewish community, and we understand your specific travel needs and preferences. We know that planning a safari involves careful consideration, especially when it comes to maintaining a fully glatt kosher lifestyle and observing Shabbat and Yom Tov. That’s precisely what we excel at – bringing the beauty and adventure of Africa to you, without compromise.
Seamless Travel from Manchester Airport (MAN)
Beginning your African adventure from Manchester Airport (MAN) is straightforward, though most routes involve a convenient connection. While direct flights to East or Southern Africa are limited from MAN, excellent connecting options ensure a smooth journey. Many of our guests choose to fly with Turkish Airlines, connecting via Istanbul (IST) to major hubs like Nairobi (NBO) for East African safaris or Johannesburg (JNB) for Southern Africa. Alternatively, Emirates offers superb service, connecting via Dubai (DXB) to the same key safari gateways. These routes are well-established and offer comfortable travel, allowing you to relax into your holiday spirit from the moment you depart.
The London Heathrow Alternative
Should you prefer a wider selection of direct flight options, a short and comfortable two-hour train journey connects Manchester to London, where you can then depart from London Heathrow (LHR). Heathrow offers direct flights to Nairobi and Johannesburg with carriers such as British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Kenya Airways. Some Manchester families find this option appealing for the convenience of a direct long-haul flight, reducing overall travel time and allowing for a broader choice of departure times and airlines. We can assist in coordinating this leg of your journey, ensuring a seamless connection to your African safari.
Optimal Safari Seasons for UK School Holidays
Timing your safari around UK school holidays makes perfect sense for families. We commonly arrange trips during the October half-term, February half-term, Easter breaks, and the extended summer holidays from July to August. We particularly recommend the October half-term; this period falls squarely within the dry season for both East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania) and Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana). This means exceptional wildlife viewing as animals congregate around dwindling water sources, clearer skies, and comfortable temperatures – truly an ideal time for a safari adventure. The summer months of July and August also offer fantastic opportunities, especially for witnessing the serengeti">Great Migration in East Africa.
Your Kosher Comforts, Home and Away
We understand that maintaining a strict glatt kosher diet and observing Shabbat are non-negotiable aspects of your travel. The Kosher Safari is built entirely around these principles. Our mehadrin catering is overseen by a dedicated mashgiach throughout your journey, ensuring every meal meets the highest halachic standards. From gourmet breakfasts to sunset dinners, all food is prepared fresh on-site with top-quality ingredients. For Shabbat and Chagim, we arrange private accommodations with minimal walking to communal areas, provide a full Shabbat experience with candle lighting, davening space, and delicious, pre-prepared Shabbat meals. We also know that a taste of home can be comforting; Manchester boasts excellent kosher shops like JS and Hershel's, so feel free to bring along any familiar snacks or items you might appreciate having during your travels.
Visa Essentials for UK Passport Holders
Navigating visa requirements is straightforward for UK passport holders embarking on a safari with us. For South Africa, British citizens enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. If your journey takes you to Kenya, an eVisa is required and can be easily obtained online prior to your departure. For Tanzania, a visa can typically be acquired on arrival at the airport. We will provide you with all the necessary guidance and support to ensure your visa applications are handled efficiently, leaving you free to anticipate your incredible journey.
Planning Your Budget in GBP
A luxury glatt kosher safari is an investment in an extraordinary experience. While costs vary significantly based on destination, duration, lodge choice, and activities, we can offer approximate budget ranges in GBP to help you plan. For a private, fully catered 7-10 day safari, our journeys typically range from £6,000 to £12,000+ per person, excluding international flights. This range covers everything from comfortable luxury tented camps to opulent lodges, all with our signature mehadrin catering and dedicated service. We pride ourselves on transparent pricing and will work closely with you to design an itinerary that aligns with your desired experience and budget.
Group Journeys from Your Shul or Community
There's something truly special about experiencing an African safari with friends and family from your own community. We have had the privilege of arranging group safaris for several shuls and Jewish organizations, including families from Prestwich who have travelled together. If you are considering organizing a trip for a larger group from your synagogue or community, we are delighted to offer bespoke itineraries and preferential group rates. Traveling as a group enhances the shared experience, creating lasting memories and deeper connections, all while enjoying the peace of mind that every aspect of your kosher and Shabbat needs is meticulously cared for by the Levy family.
