Beach, Bush & Beyond
Our Top African Honeymoon Experiences
While Africa has some of the typically breathtaking beach honeymoon destinations, there’s also plenty of beauty and adventure to be found in the bush and beyond…
ENJOY PURE BEACH BLISS
The Seychelles archipelago is simply breathtaking, boasting a total of 115 idyllic islands. One of the most sought-after destinations for lovers in the Seychelles is Praslin (Île de Palme), and it’s easy to see why. Here, you can luxuriate under the sun in absolute style. Lose yourselves in the beauty of the renowned beaches (like Anse Lazio, Anse Georgette, or Anse Volbert), each winning accolades for their pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. Don’t miss the opportunity to snorkel off the coast and uncover the vibrant marine life beneath the waves.
Fall in love with the Seychelles
For an even more relaxed pace, Mozambique on the Eastern edge of Africa is the place to go. The Bazaruto Archipelago, located in the southern part of Mozambique, comprises five spectacular islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. It is probably one of the most beautiful locations on the African Coast, and highly recommended to take your honeymoon to new heights. Wind down to the rhythm of island life, relax, dive, swim, eat, drink and maybe even have some spa treatments while you’re at it!
Fall in love with Mozambique
GET A BIT OF BEACH + BUSH
Experience South Africa’s Cape in all its glory with an unforgettable stay! Kickstart your journey in the vibrant heart of Cape Town. Here, you’ll discover a tapestry of postcard-worthy beaches, a cultural richness that’s simply irresistible, adorable penguins, awe-inspiring mountains, and a food and wine scene that the two of you will never forget.
Next, venture to the world-renowned Babylonstoren in the Cape Winelands. Picture-perfect and steeped in history, this historical farm offers a seamless blend of old-world charm and modern luxury.
Then, visit Grootbos Nature Reserve – a luxury eco-reserve tucked between mountains, forest and sea close to the Southern tip of Africa. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Gansbaai, it’s a haven for both wildlife (specifically the Marine Big 5) and romance.
For an extra touch of wildlife, head over to Gondwana Game Reserve, the luxury private reserve with free roaming Big Five game, conveniently also located in the Western Cape.
Want to venture beyond the Cape and into the heart of SA’s game viewing territory? Hop on a flight to Skukuza, then land in the famous Kruger National Park, located in the most north-eastern corner of the country. This iconic reserve has long been a classic honeymoon destination where you and your loved one can experience the Big 5 and a huge variety of other animal species.
End your honeymoon safari at Timamoon, a gorgeous hideaway set high up in the hills and surrounded by forests and close to the Kruger Park and the Blyde River Canyon. It’s the perfect romantic escape for couples!
Fall in love with South Africa
Another perfect bush and beach experience can be found in Tanzania and Zanzibar.
Renowned for its vast savannahs, iconic wildlife, and dramatic annual migration of millions of wildebeest and zebras, Tanzania’s Serengeti offers an unparalleled safari experience. Game drives through the Serengeti’s diverse ecosystems reveal an abundance of wildlife. The most romantic way to soak in the splendour of it all? On a hot air balloon safari!
Tanzania’s Jewel in the Indian Ocean, Zanzibar is a tropical paradise for honeymooners. From the historic charm of Stone Town to the fragrant allure of spice farms, the island beckons with a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Mnemba Island or the Blue Lagoon near Bwejuu for an unforgettable snorkelling or scuba diving experience and many more fun activities for you and your loved one to take part in when not relaxing on Zanzibar’s famous white, sandy beaches and five-star resorts.
Another wonderful way to experience a bit of both worlds is with a combined trip to Zambia and Malawi.
Home to the famous Victoria Falls, the mighty Zambezi River and some of the most legendary safaris in Africa, Zambia is one country you don’t want to miss. As the cherry on top of an already unforgettable honeymoon, Malawi’s iconic geographical diversity and exquisite lakeshore beaches are sure to blow you away.
Set on the white sandy beaches of Malawi’s own love island, Likoma Island, Kaya Mawa Island Lodge offers romantic relaxation in world-class comfort and style.
BREAK AWAY FROM THE BEACH AND INTO THE HEART OF THE BUSH
If you’re dreaming of a honeymoon filled with adventures to enjoy together amidst breathtaking landscapes, Namibia might just be the perfect destination.
Take a self-drive safari at your own pace and reconnect with your partner against the movie-worthy desert backdrop. Explore hand in hand, marvelling at the vibrant hues of the plains, delving into the rich history of the bushmen, and drifting over picturesque landscapes in a hot air balloon before relaxing in world-class exclusivity at Wolwedans Dunes Lodge & Private Camp.
Along with its mesmerising beauty, Namibia offers an adventurous twist to spice up your honeymoon! From the towering red dunes of Sossusvlei to the dramatic landscapes of the Skeleton Coast, adventurers can embark on exhilarating experiences like quad biking through the dunes, sandboarding down steep slopes, or even skydiving over the mesmerising desert scenery.
For couples craving wildlife encounters, Namibia’s Etosha National Park provides unparalleled opportunities for game drives to spot elephants, lions, and rhinos against the backdrop of shimmering salt pans.
Fall in love with Namibia
For an ‘Out of Africa’ bush honeymoon, you could also start your romantic breakaway in Nairobi, the bustling capital of Kenya, rich in culture and activities!
While in Nairobi, be sure to stay at Giraffe Manor, an exclusive boutique hotel that will leave you feeling like Meryl Streep living her best life in Kenya. It’s renowned for its unique experience, thanks to a resident herd of Rothschild’s giraffes. These majestic creatures may visit during morning and evening, peeking into windows for treats before retreating to their forest sanctuary.
Time your trip to witness The Great Migration in the Maasai Mara, also known as the spotted plains. From July to October, millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate from the Tanzanian Serengeti to the Kenyan Masai Mara. Witnessing their crossings at the Mara River is an unforgettable natural spectacle.
Fall in love with Kenya
Another authentic African bush honeymoon can be found in Zimbabwe, which lies between two great rivers – the mighty Zambezi and the languid Limpopo. The country’s largest reserve, Hwange National Park in west Zimbabwe, is home to a myriad wildlife species providing an authentic African safari experience.
Of course, no visit to Zimbabwe would be complete without a mighty Victoria Falls visit. Forming the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia, Victoria Falls presents an awe-inspiring display of natural beauty that earned it the reputation of ‘the greatest curtain of falling water in the world.
A must-see attraction is also Mana Pools National Park in northern Zimbabwe, along the banks of the great Zambezi River.
Be sure to include a stay at the one-of-a-kind Bumi Hills on the remote slopes of one of Zimbabwe’s most awe-inspiring landscapes, overlooking the largest man-made lake in the world – Lake Kariba.
Fall in love with Zimbabwe
Last but certainly not least, visit Uganda for the ultimate wildlife honeymoon! Situated within the African Great Lakes and Nile basin region, the unique country boasts a diverse array of thriving ecosystems, encompassing volcanic mountains, rainforests, and swamps, all brimming with abundant wildlife.
Uganda stands out as one of Africa’s most captivating safari destinations, boasting remote and unspoiled parks that harbour a diverse array of wildlife making it the ideal destination if you are looking for a honeymoon safari. Explore the various national parks scattered throughout the country, where encounters with chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and golden monkeys await!
For an indulgent retreat, venture to the mist-covered hills of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, nestled on the rim of the Rift Valley in southwestern Uganda, where you’ll discover the exceptional Bwindi Lodge. Each distinctive banda offers access to a private terrace overlooking the dramatic Bwindi Forest, along with personalised butler service and complimentary spa treatments at the lodge’s Humula Forest Spa.
Fall in love with Uganda
Ready to start planning your very own African dream honeymoon? Let’s chat!