I know this is one of the most trivial questions ever, but I suspect I'll really want a cold drink at the end of the day after safari in Tanzania. Should I avoid ice if I am staying in lodges and luxury tents? Don't want to risk a parasite for a cold cocktail, but can I trust the ice is derived from purified water in these places?

Ice, if available, is usually made with bottled water, but you can always ask. I rarely had ice and didn't miss it.

Mostly, the drinks are taken out in an ice box anyway so they are cold when served... you can always let your guide know your preference so he can ensure your preferred drink is in the coolbox not out.

That way you don't need to worry about the ice.

The guide should inquire about your preference and have in cool box as Kevey mentioned.

Once back at camp or lodge, as ShayTay mentions, cubes are made from bottled water.

I've never gone without cubes, but if every uncertain, then don't.

Just ask for extra vodka or gin in your drink...it should kill any germs

"cubes are made from bottled water."

Are you certain about that? I have been in a few camps that just filter the water.

It would depend on the camp and their water source. In Botswana, some camps have their own bore hole and the water might be fine with just filtering it.

In the Serengeti, the water is trucked in, so using bottled water for ice is the preferred method. As I said, if the camp or lodge has ice, ask about the water source.

That's why you ask; if unsure, then don't.

I've had bottled, filtered rain water, for drinking and/or cubes... survived!

Thanks for your thoughts everyone. We will be in serengeti. BTW, cruisinred, my travel doc said "don't even begin to think alcohol kills the bugs" Guess she's heard that argument before...