Tina’s twist on the traditional whisky dawa has become a favourite glass of safari booze with both our Mattikoko team and guests. It is a little piece of Kenyan magic in a glass!
Raising a glass to the safari adventure!
There’s something truly special about that moment when the day’s safari winds down and you arrive back at camp. There’s a gentle hush, occasionally interrupted by a distant hyena call, lion roar or elephant. Sitting by the fire with a Whisky Dawa in hand is more than just a drink, it’s a lovely moment to swap stories from the day’s adventures, share the excitement of the animals seen, laugh at the unpredictable moments, and quietly plan for what tomorrow might bring. It’s the perfect ritual to close one day and toast to the promise of the next.
Tina’s Whisky Dawa
Whisky, a touch of honey, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime, sugar and tonic served over ice with fresh mint or rosemary makes it a bright, refreshing, and effortlessly comforting. It’s the perfect companion to swapping stories by the fire or watching the Mara sunset… Watch our video below on how Tina mixes our safari favourite!
Other Dawa-inspired Twists:
Traditionally, the classic dawa is a vodka based drink but the “Dawa” framework – honey + lime + alcohol + ice + stirring can be adapted with pretty much any spirit:
- Gin Dawa: Gin instead of vodka, sometimes with herbal notes from botanicals.
- Rum Dawa: Uses dark or spiced rum for a sweeter, spicier edge.
- Tequila or Mezcal Dawa: Less common, but the smoky or earthy tones work surprisingly well with honey and lime.
- Non-alcoholic Dawa: Honey, lime, sparkling water or ginger ale for a refreshing mocktail.
The question is, a beer or a dawa? Or, both!
Tina’s whisky dawa appeared in Episode 11 of our African Photography Safaris Podcast recorded at Mattikoko Safari Camp in the Lemek Conservancy.
Leave a Reply