Image: Hills of Africa
The formula for the ultimate exotic honeymoon may be subjective, but one part of the destination honeymoon equation I think we can all agree on is the outcome: romance. But, if you’re like many honeymooners looking for not only for romance, but also for adventure, culture, and relaxation, you’ll find an African honeymoon safari exceeds your expectations. From the vivid wildlife to the rich culture to the luxury accommodations, the magic of Africa allows you to experience it all on your honeymoon, while once-in-a-lifetime memories bring you closer to your partner than you ever imaged.
Here are a few of my favorite exotic honeymoon destination picks. . .
South Africa
Making a name for itself as one of the most extravagant destinations for a romantic honeymoon, South Africa has been impacting the lives of newlyweds for decades. With accommodation options from highly-adventurous and rustic camps to luxurious and lavish hotels and villas, South Africa has something for every couple.
But one of the region’s most romantic destinations is Lion Sands Private Game Reserve where the infamous Chalkley Treehouse awaits romance-seeking honeymooners. With a panoramic view of remote wilderness and an open-air layout, the Chalkley Treehouse is an observation platform for honeymooners to watch the sunset melt behind the horizon before drifting to sleep in this exclusive bush bedroom.
Tanzania
Filled with the rich authenticity of a true African safari, Tanzania has a reputation for romance. Here, honeymooners can begin their marriage with exploration, participating in hikes through Tanzania’s tropical forests, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris, and canoe safaris. From relaxing bush walks to chimpanzee trekking to sunbathing on the beach to kayaking, Tanzania offers the perfect combination of romance, adventure, and relaxation.
Whether you choose an open-air tent filled with the sounds of the African bush or a five star lodge with every amenity imaginable or an exclusive bandas, or private hut, Hemingway-style romance is seamlessly woven into a Tanzania safari experiences.
Mozambique
After an adventurous safari tour through the sprawling floodplains of Botswana or the Mana Pools of Zimbabwe, it’s time to end your honeymoon with relaxation and balance. And nothing is more soothing than visiting Mozambique’s white coastline and neighboring islands after an action-packed week on safari.
Whether you want to explore coves and crevasses, partake on a dhow cruise to Linga Linga, relax on a swaying hammock strategically staked in the ebbing shore, or feed your desire for exploration as you scuba dive past ancient shipwrecks and lively coral reefs Mozambique has it all.
Sandy Salle is a native of Zimbabwe and was born and raised in Southern Africa. She is the Chief Executive Officer of Hills of Africa, a top provider of customized, luxury safari vacations, and is passionate about using her first-hand knowledge of Africa to create the trip of a lifetime for her clients. Sandy travels home to Africa several times a year and believes that the next best thing to living in Africa is sharing it with others.
