What is a Sundowner?
Once the sun has set, it's time to tuck in with a sundowner! But what is a sundowner? If you have spent any time in Cape Town, there is a good chance you have heard the term. In South Africa, a sundowner is typically known as happy hour, but is also the name for the cocktail traditionally enjoyed during this time. It’s an occasion where people get together at sunset to enjoy a refreshing beverage with mesmerizing views of nature.
The sundowner spirit embodies more than just a time of day and a refreshing cocktail. It's a piece of nostalgia, perfectly timed to accompany the slowing of life as the sun sets on the horizon. We will discuss everything you need to know about sundowners, and why they’re incorporated into our company’s name.
The History of the African Sundowner
The origin of the tradition dates back to British colonialism in Africa in the 18th century and was born out of necessity rather than enjoyment. Containing quinine-infused tonic and gin, colonizers drank it to ward off malaria.
As the British Empire expanded into Africa, the popularity of gin and tonic spread with it. First consumed for medicinal purposes, the drink later became associated with informal evening gatherings over a sunset. Thus, giving rise to the social ritual of the Sundowner.
By the end of the 18th century, medical quinine tonics had become a popular drink throughout South Africa. However, it wasn't until much later that these botanical tonics were mixed with gin, lime, sugar, and ice to create the classic cocktail we now call the Sundowner. Today, the tradition of a sundowner remains popular, but it’s merely for enjoyment.
Sundowner — The Ultimate Way To Wind Down Your Day
A sun setting on the African savanna is a breathtaking sight. The sunset paints a vibrant sky over the trees as the seemingly magnified sun slips behind the horizon. The cool air of evening settles in, and the only thing left to do is sit, relax, and reflect on the day’s events. The Sundowner's clean, crisp flavor will help you enjoy that moment.
For centuries, sunset has inspired ritual — the sundowner marks the moment when weary workers pause to reflect on their efforts during the day. For travelers, the perfect safari adventure wouldn't be complete without a sundowner as the sun sets over the African bush. Locals and travelers alike would enjoy this refreshing gin and tonic water as they watch the sun set over distant hills. It has become a welcome afternoon delight and a classic cocktail.
The Sundowner inspires a combination of serenity and restfulness with a pure taste for enjoyment. From its unique citrus-inspired flavor profile to its pleasing aroma, you'll find that a sundowner is sure to deliver calm and comfort more than any other gin and tonic — let alone other drinks. It's the perfect complement to any summer afternoon while sitting in a location that overlooks the surrounding landscape — an experience unlike any other. Its refreshing qualities will help renew you for the new day ahead.
The cocktail only gets better as the night goes on. Enjoy it with your friends or family to bring out everyone's best side.
The Setting of the Sundowner
Traditional sundowners are held in the late afternoon or early evening, often against an unforgettable backdrop of the African sunset. It was usually served with an assortment of drinks and delicious bites, such as dried fruits or nuts.
Today, sundowners are less utilitarian and more luxurious. An all-in-one sundowner package can be set up in the open-air Land Rover, complete with snacks, games, and other luxuries to help stimulate conversation. It's a great transition into the evening, but still inexplicably tied with being out in the wild.
The classic Sundowner drink is gin and tonic, but some choose to order local craft beers or wines. Sundowner setups can vary. Some prefer to have drinks and stand while enjoying their time outside while others enjoy lounging on the ground and watching the glorious sunset.
Regardless, the ideal outdoor sundowner spot has that perfect balance of great drinks and an unspoiled view of the setting sun. The more aesthetically pleasing it is, the more successful your experience will be. No matter where you are, it's ideal for winding down after a long day and appreciating the world around you while letting the stresses of daily life drift away.
Conclusion
So, what is a sundowner? Many people regard sundowners as an excellent opportunity to relax and socialize with friends and family. It's a chance for you to indulge in the traditional culture of South Africa. There are several variations of this basic recipe, and they can be enjoyed in many different locations around the world. The meaning behind this tradition as a moment of calm and relaxation is why we have chosen to incorporate it into our company’s name.
No matter the recipe or the location, watching the sunset from a sundowner concept is an experience you won't soon forget. One that's made even better with a refreshing Sundowner cocktail in your hand. Common destinations that we visit are Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Rwanda, South Africa, and Namibia. You'll love it for sure!
If you want to have a genuine sundowner experience for yourself, get in touch with our team here at Sundowner Safaris today and book an adventure of a lifetime.
