What Drinks Should I Try in East Africa?

East Africa is a region that surprises the senses — a place where every moment carries the scent of the wild, the rhythm of the drums, and the warmth of endless hospitality. While most travelers come for the wildlife safaris, mountain gorilla trekking, or the stunning lakes, one of the region’s hidden treasures lies in its drinks. From locally brewed beers to traditional herbal teas, East Africa has a liquid culture that is as rich and diverse as its landscapes. Whether you’re exploring the plains of the Serengeti, hiking the Rwenzori Mountains, or relaxing by the shores of Lake Victoria, you’ll find that the best way to connect with the local rhythm is often through what’s in your glass.

In this guide, we’ll explore some of the must-try drinks in East Africa — a flavorful journey across Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda that reveals the stories, traditions, and craftsmanship behind each sip.

Uganda – The Heart of Bold Flavors

Uganda, often called the Pearl of Africa, offers an impressive range of local and traditional drinks that are deeply connected to its culture. The country’s fertile soils and favorable climate make it one of Africa’s best agricultural hubs, so it’s no surprise that beverages here are full of freshness and natural taste.

Waragi – The Spirit of Uganda

If you ask any Ugandan what defines their local drink culture, the answer is likely to be Waragi. This traditional gin, distilled from bananas, cassava, or sugarcane, is as Ugandan as the rolling hills of Kabale or the music of Kampala. The name “Waragi” is derived from “War Gin,” a colonial term that came from the gin rations given to African soldiers during World War II. Over time, it became the country’s unofficial national spirit.

You’ll find different varieties — from the commercial Uganda Waragi (the most famous brand, often flavored with coconut or pineapple) to homemade versions distilled in small villages. The locally made ones can be much stronger and are best enjoyed with caution. Waragi is often mixed with soda, tonic, or fresh juice for a refreshing cocktail with a local twist.

Malwa – The Social Drink

Malwa is more than a drink — it’s a cultural experience. Made from fermented millet, this thick, slightly sour beer is traditionally served in a large clay pot and shared among friends using long straws. It’s a communal drink, often enjoyed during celebrations, storytelling sessions, or community meetings. In many Ugandan villages, sitting around a pot of Malwa is a symbol of unity and hospitality.

If you want to experience Ugandan culture in its rawest form, join a local Malwa gathering. It’s a moment where everyone becomes equal, connected by the shared rhythm of conversation and laughter.

Passion Fruit Juice and Local Smoothies

For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, Uganda offers some of the most refreshing fruit juices in Africa. Passion fruit, mango, pineapple, and watermelon juices are freshly blended almost everywhere — from roadside cafes to high-end lodges. Uganda’s tropical climate and fertile volcanic soils produce fruits with intense natural sweetness, and locals often mix them with a hint of lemon or ginger for a delightful kick.

Try “Bushera,” a traditional non-alcoholic millet drink, often served chilled. It’s smooth, lightly sweet, and perfect for cooling off after a day of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Kenya – The Land of Tea, Tusker, and Tradition

Kenya’s drink culture is as lively as its people. From the bustling streets of Nairobi to the tranquil tea farms of Kericho, drinks play a central role in daily life and social gatherings.

Kenyan Chai – A Daily Ritual

If you visit any Kenyan home, the first thing you’ll be offered is a steaming cup of chai. Kenyan tea is world-famous for its bold aroma and flavor, and locals brew it strong with milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom or ginger. This chai is not just a beverage — it’s a symbol of warmth and hospitality. Morning, noon, or night, Kenyans drink tea the way others might drink coffee, and it’s always shared with good company.

If you’re traveling through central Kenya, stop by the lush highlands of Kericho or Nandi Hills to tour a tea plantation. You’ll learn how tea leaves are handpicked, fermented, and packaged before making their way into the cups of millions around the world.

Tusker Lager – Kenya’s Iconic Beer

Tusker is more than just a beer; it’s a national symbol. First brewed in 1922, this crisp and light lager was named after George Hurst, one of Kenya’s early brewers who was tragically killed by an elephant — hence the name “Tusker.” It’s the drink of choice for celebrations, casual hangouts, or relaxing evenings after a safari drive.

Pair a cold Tusker with a sunset view of the Maasai Mara or a grilled tilapia by Lake Naivasha, and you’ll understand why it’s beloved by locals and visitors alike. For those seeking variety, other popular Kenyan beers include White Cap, Pilsner, and Senator.

Dawa – The Magical Cocktail

In Swahili, “Dawa” means “medicine,” and this Kenyan cocktail certainly lives up to its name. A soothing mix of vodka, honey, lime, and crushed ice, Dawa is said to cure almost anything — from a long day’s fatigue to a heavy heart. It’s served in most restaurants and bars, particularly in Nairobi and along the coast. Watching a bartender stir up a Dawa at sunset is almost ritualistic — the slow swirl of honey over ice, the squeeze of fresh lime, the anticipation of that first sweet-tart sip.

Tanzania – The Spirit of the Coast and the Serengeti

Tanzania’s beverage scene reflects its cultural and geographical diversity — from the spice-rich coastlines of Zanzibar to the vast plains of the Serengeti.

Konyagi – The “Spirit of Tanzania”

Often compared to gin, Konyagi is Tanzania’s national spirit. It’s smooth, slightly citrusy, and pairs beautifully with soda or tonic. Locals call it “the spirit of the nation,” and it’s widely available across the country. Whether you’re at a beach bar in Zanzibar or enjoying a safari evening in the Ngorongoro Highlands, Konyagi is the go-to for toasting good times.

Tangawizi – The Fiery Ginger Drink

Tangawizi means “ginger” in Swahili, and this spicy soda is beloved across Tanzania and Kenya. It’s both refreshing and invigorating — a non-alcoholic drink that packs a punch. The local “Stoney Tangawizi” brand is a favorite, known for its intense ginger bite that leaves your palate tingling. It’s the perfect complement to Tanzanian cuisine, especially grilled meats and pilau.

Zanzibar’s Spiced Coffee and Clove Tea

In Zanzibar, the drink culture takes on a fragrant dimension. Known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar’s coffee and tea are infused with cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom — creating warm, aromatic blends that embody the island’s history. Sipping clove tea while watching the dhows glide across Stone Town’s harbor is one of the most enchanting experiences you can have.

Rwanda – The Taste of Simplicity and Refinement

Rwanda’s drink culture is understated but deeply rooted in quality and elegance. The rolling green hills of the “Land of a Thousand Hills” provide the perfect environment for tea and coffee cultivation, both of which are internationally acclaimed.

Rwandan Coffee – Africa’s Hidden Gem

Rwandan coffee has quietly become one of the most sought-after in the world. Grown in volcanic soils at high altitudes, it’s known for its rich aroma, smooth texture, and balanced acidity. Whether you enjoy it as a freshly brewed cup in Kigali’s cozy cafes or as an espresso at your lodge overlooking Volcanoes National Park, Rwandan coffee will likely become one of your favorite souvenirs from the region.

Urwagwa – The Traditional Banana Beer

Like Uganda’s Waragi, banana beer (Urwagwa) is a traditional Rwandan beverage made from fermented bananas and sorghum. It has a slightly sweet and earthy flavor and plays a big role in Rwandan ceremonies, weddings, and festivals. Locals often prepare it by hand, blending ripe bananas and allowing them to ferment naturally. It’s best enjoyed with cultural performances or during community gatherings, offering a window into Rwanda’s ancient traditions.

A Toast to East Africa’s Flavorful Soul

Each drink in East Africa tells a story — of the land, the people, and the moments shared. Whether it’s the communal spirit of Ugandan Malwa, the coastal spice of Zanzibar’s tea, or the warm hospitality in a cup of Kenyan chai, these drinks represent more than taste. They represent connection.

As you journey through East Africa, take time to sip, savor, and learn. Talk to the locals about how they prepare their favorite beverages, visit small tea estates or banana beer brewers, and experience how deeply woven drinks are into the rhythm of life here.

And when you’re ready to experience these flavors in their most authentic settings — from the misty highlands of Rwanda to the golden savannas of Tanzania — travel with Muhiga Safaris. With expert local guides, thoughtfully crafted itineraries, and an understanding of every cultural nuance, Muhiga Safaris ensures that your journey through East Africa isn’t just seen but truly tasted.