If you’re planning to honeymoon in the African bush, you’ve come to the right place. A true love story has a blend of anticipation, excitement, awe and appreciation of beauty – not much unlike the feelings most people have on their trips to southern Africa.
So, whether you are looking for an adventurous getaway, a spa retreat, or a gastronomical paradise to honeymoon at, these luxurious properties will undoubtedly fit the bill.
1. About Africa Co. – Namibia
The Enchanted Safier, allows you to transcend into the culture of allocentric individualism. Experiencing Namibia’s two deserts, beautiful coastline, communal conservancy land, biggest national park, and renowned private reserves. Embrace experiences bringing you closer to the essence of life and the meaning thereof, a perfect complement to celebrating the start of your love journey.
Imagine an exclusive farmhouse in Bagatelle Kalahari Game Ranch and an untamed Zannier Hotels Sonop in the Namib. Top that with beachfront luxury @ The Sea in Swakopmund, and share secrets with the rocks at Kipwe Camp in Damaraland. Make memories for a lifetime in Etosha at Onguma’s the Fort or under the stars on a luxury cruiser in the biggest national park – you are, for a better sense of a word – royalty.
Finally, end your stay with an escape never before offered, the ultimate exclusive seclusion of being the only guests on 7,000 hectares of uninhabited space. Escape now – to Africa’s best-kept secret with About Africa Co.
7 night Royal Grandeur itineraries start at $4 439pp sharing
2. The River Club Zambia – Zambia
The River Club offers honeymooners the ideal balance between romance, privacy and indulgence. The Luxury River Suites are perfect for honeymooners seeking the additional privacy of a private plunge pool.
Each of the suites at The River Club Zambia offers spacious, open-plan interiors with the ultimate space to unwind and refresh after a day spent exploring Victoria Falls, playing croquet on the lawns, or visiting other nearby attractions. Each gorgeous suite is tastefully decorated with furniture made from Zambezi teak; the rooms also feature a living area and queen-size bed enveloped with a walk-in mosquito net.
Enjoy time to reflect, delicious food, the space to indulge and adventure to be retold with fond memories to the generations to come. Guests staying at The River Club (minimum 2-night stay) receive a complimentary upgrade, if available, and a bottle of sparkling wine.
Honeymoon packages start at $234 pppn sharing (bed and breakfast) including complimentary upgrade, a bottle of bubbles on arrival and a sunset cruise
3. The Palm River Hotel – Zimbabwe
The Palm River Hotel’s Honeymoon Suites are ideally suited to celebrate anniversaries, vow renewals and recent nuptials or to spend time relaxing and reconnecting in idyllic luxury, surrounded by the romance and magic of Africa.
Arguably one of Victoria Falls’ most attractive suite offerings, the hotel’s Honeymoon Suites are perfectly placed just metres from the flowing waters of the Zambezi River and on the edge of the Zambezi National Park. Couples will awaken to the sounds of wildlife and birdlife and experience the unforgettable views of an African sunset over the river – all from the comfort of their Honeymoon Suite.
The sizeable suites at The Palm River Hotel include a large balcony with a romantic daybed and outdoor shower. The bedroom offers a luxurious four-poster king-sized bed, mini-bar, tea and coffee facilities, writing desk and lounging chairs. Adjoined to the bedroom is a grand ensuite bathroom that boasts a luxurious gold bathtub, a dual shower, and double vanities – elegantly decorated with beautiful fixtures and finishes.
Honeymoon rates start at $263 per person per night sharing bed and breakfast
The Zambezi Queen Collection – Namibia
The Zambezi Queen Collection boasts the ultimate romantic getaway with a fleet of three luxurious houseboats on the Chobe River. However, they know that the little things make life special, and the same can be said for one of the most special getaways you’ll ever embark on.
In addition to the 25% discount on one partner’s stay, ZWC honeymoon packages offer a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, a gift, and a romantic turndown. Of course, this special touch is one of many things that will ensure an unforgettable experience. The standard inclusions, such as road and boat transfers, guided game viewing, cultural tours and photographic safaris, will also thrill you and your beloved.
All packages are inclusive of accommodation, meals, drinks, return road and boat transfers, guided water-based game viewing, birding, fishing, photographic safaris and a cultural tour.
Rates start at R7 932pppn sharing or 2, 3 or 4 night itineraries on the Chobe Princess
4. Mbano Manor Hotel – Zimbabwe
Looking for a romantic & secluded destination for your honeymoon? The Mutota Forest Villa at Mbano Manor Hotel is the perfect mix of luxury paired with comfort & elegance. In the heart of Victoria Falls town and nestled in a private corner of the estate, the villa is the ideal destination for honeymooners looking for a memorable getaway in Zimbabwe’s tourism capital.
Relax in your own private plunge pool whilst sipping on delicious cocktails, or enjoy a complimentary couple’s massage on the spacious private veranda. Then, end the day off with a romantic luxury boat cruise down the Zambezi & enjoy an intimate dinner catered by Mbano’s executive chef right at your villa.
Honeymoon packages at Mbano Manor include accommodation, all meals, selected drinks and wines, a private plunge pool, dedicated butler service and a complimentary 30-minute couples massage.
Rates start at $186 per person per night bed and breakfast with honeymoon packages offering 30% off for the bride and anniversary packages offering 20% off for the wife
5. Khwai Expeditions Camp – Botswana
Whether you are on honeymoon and looking for the perfect destination to start your new life with your spouse or just looking to spend a romantic weekend away with your partner, Khwai Expeditions Camp in Botswana is the ideal location. The team will make you feel like you’re the only two people in the world, and you will receive the best personal attention. Spoils on offer include:
- Champagne breakfasts
- Private dining in beautiful picturesque surroundings
- Couple massages
A private jacuzzi experience with bubbles and sparkling wine
Sensory safari experiences with stunning landscapes and gloriously golden sunsets.
Create forever-lasting memories with that chosen special person in your life and share the magical moments, whether having a glass of wine on the private deck of your room or enjoying a sundowner on your game drive, you will leave feeling the joy of romance.
Rates start at $350pppn including accommodation, local drinks, meals, two daily activities, and park fees
6. Shenton Safaris Kaingo Camp – Zambia
Located deep within the South Luangwa National Park, in an area renowned for leopards, Shenton Safaris Kaingo Camp offers just six traditional brick and thatch rooms nestled discretely along the banks of the Luangwa River.
For an added touch of romance, Kaingo’s First House is the ideal choice for couples wanting a little extra luxury and privacy. Situated at the end of the camp, the suite features a master bedroom with an adjoining lounge. The spacious ensuite bathroom boasts a huge indoor rain shower. Guests can also enjoy the additional outdoor shower and bathtub while taking in the sights and sounds of the river. The suite also comes with its own private guide & vehicle, butler service and the option of private dining.
To complement your stay at Kaingo, a night in the Elephant Hide sleepout offers the ultimate wilderness experience. Imagine drifting off to sleep, safely and comfortably tucked away high in the treetops, then waking to bird song, the river sparkling, and the bush coming to life as the sun rises. Complete with a full-size bed, mosquito net and all the amenities needed for an evening under the stars, this is a fabulous experience you will cherish forever.
All-inclusive rates for the First House at Kaingo Camp start from $1 324pppn with private guide, vehicle and dining experiences
7. Desert Whisper – Namib Desert, Namibia
After tying the knot, one wants the perfect private destination to celebrate the relationship and the new chapter awaiting you. Imagine this perfect destination in the middle of the expansive Namib Desert in a contemporary and ultra-luxurious desert retreat.
The Desert Whisper offers honeymoon couples the ultimate romantic hideout with spectacular views of the Naukluft Mountains and the ancient Namib Desert. With exclusive scenic drives, hosts and even chefs preparing delicious meals – one truly feels as if you are Namibian VIPs.
Bathe in the hot Namibian sun while sipping a cocktail and taking a dip in your own private plunge pool. Built as a circular pod, one never misses a glance at the beautiful golden landscape, not even while sleeping peacefully next to your true love.
Package rates start at N$25 100 per person sharing including vehicle hire, 2 nights accommodation at Desert Whisper and 1 night pre accommodation at The Weinberg
8. Namushasha River Villa – Namibia
Imagine spending your first days as a married couple in a private river villa in the middle of the Kwando River in the north of Namibia – an absolute dream experience. The Namushasha River Villa is an ultra-luxurious and intimate retreat for two people. From the boat’s vantage point, experience all of the Kwando and Bwabwata National Park right from the comfort of your lounge chair. The roaring waters and grunting hippos in the background perfectly set the scene.
With a fully equipped kitchen and bar next to a luxurious yet comfy lounge area, one cannot help but feel relaxed and rejuvenated with every passing minute. Experience all Namibia has to offer with Gondwana in an intimate setting with the love of your life and a suitcase full of unforgettable experiences and memories.
Package rates start at N$26 600 per person sharing including return flights from Windhoek to Katima, 2 nights at Namushasha River Villa, 1 night pre accommodation at The Weinberg and airport transfers
9. Nambwa Tented Lodge – Namibia
A stay at Nambwa Tented Lodge is undoubtedly going to be more than you ever envisioned. Located in northern Namibia, in Bwabwata National Park, you’ll find a wonderland of luxurious treetop rooms. Now, imagine you and your new spouse getting a picture as elephants casually meander below your walkway.
In addition to the fantastic game viewing, fishing and birding opportunities, African Monarch Lodges knows how to build excitement and romance into the itinerary. Couples are delighted with a surprise picnic on a secluded island under a canopy of mighty Camelthorn trees. There is always an ecstatic reaction as couples glimpse the picnic blanket adorned with a fresh and colourful organic spread from the lodge kitchen, complete with fresh juice and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Slowly, as the last rays colour the sky, you’ll return to your suite where candlelight, wine, and a relaxing bath await.
Rates start from N$5 970 pps including dinner and breakfast
10. Victoria Falls Safari Club – Zimbabwe
The sunset-facing Victoria Falls Safari Club is built on a plateau overlooking the pristine wilderness of the Zambezi National Park, including a wildlife-rich waterhole. It is the ideal setting to celebrate love. The 20-room Safari Club is Victoria Falls’ premium address. With a focus on luxury and exclusivity and offering personalised butler-style concierge service. It provides exceptional experiences within sight of one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
Its central guest area features a fine-dining restaurant and bar, lounge and viewing deck while also boasting a two-tiered swimming pool with a 15m lap pool and sundeck and offers access to a fitness centre. It is also just a gentle stroll from the brand-new African-tented safari camp style Victoria Falls Safari Spa, which has a stand-alone double treatment room where couples can enjoy treatments in a peaceful indigenous woodland setting.
International rate for 3 nights in Safari Club – including private transfers, meals , drinks at meals, sunset cruise, tour of Victoria Falls and a spa treatment is $1 500 per person
Pictures: Supplied
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