There is no place more romantic than being under an African sky. The air is crisp and clean, often with no signs of civilization. You feel a sense of calm as you wake to the sounds of birds in the early hours of the morning, ready for an exciting day of adventures ahead. And you feel yourself connecting not just to the land, but to the locals, wildlife, traditions, and a simplified way of living. But more than anything, you connect to the people you travel with. If it is a honeymoon you’re planning, then Africa is the perfect destination for you. You might be wondering where to honeymoon in Africa. Well, here is our complete guide!
Where to Honeymoon in Africa
1. The Okavango Delta, Botswana
We’ll start with one of our favorite places to visit, regardless of the reason. But it is no secret Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of the most romantic destinations in all of Africa, thus making it a great choice when deciding where to honeymoon in Africa. This vast wetland is the perfect backdrop to any romance, including being the third date location for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. So, where should you stay? Read here for our full guide on the best luxury lodges in the Okavango Delta of Botswana.
2. Sossusvlei Desert, Namibia
If a dark sky reserve with endless opportunities to view the stars sounds like your idea of a honeymoon, make your way to Namibia. The vastness of this country in Southern Africa is sometimes difficult to comprehend. And if it is isolation you are seeking, you will find yourselves in complete privacy here in Sossusvlei Desert. We’ve listed our favorite lodges for isolation in Namibia here.
3. Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
The Sabi Sands Game Reserve in South Africa is not only one of the most exclusive parts of the country to go on a safari, but also one of the most romantic. The reserve is located adjacent to Kruger National Park, meaning you will have incredible wildlife sightings throughout your stay. Sabi Sands is much more private, as the only vehicles that can traverse this land are those belonging to the lodges within its boundaries. This destination is also an excellent choice for couples who prefer the sensory pleasures of gastronomic meals, lantern-lit sunsets, and complete privacy.
4. The Maasai Mara, Kenya
If you’re dreaming of a quintessential safari to East Africa, then you can’t go wrong with a visit to Kenya’s Maasai Mara. This national park is one of Kenya’s most notable tourist destinations, as it has ample opportunities to view wildlife, vast plains, and epic sunsets. One of our favorite lodges, Angama Mara (pictured), is a great choice for honeymoon couples looking for panoramic views over the Mara. It is one of the only lodges sitting on top of a hill with a birdseye view of the action below. Plus you can enjoy a picnic on the same hill the Out of Africa film was shot.
Read more: These are the best luxury lodges in Kenya
5. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is largely considered the world’s biggest waterfall and sits dramatically on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe. While there are some great lodges on both sides of the border, we would recommend the Victoria Falls River Lodge and Royal Chundu for honeymoon couples looking for a private escape. These lodges are peaceful and calm, with private island villas offering the ultimate in luxury and seclusion.
Read more: These are the 20 best honeymoon lodges in Africa
6. Western Cape, South Africa
One of the reasons we love South Africa is because there is so much to offer as a complement to a safari. This country is a crowd-pleaser, especially if you’re into food, wine, beaches, and day hikes. A visit to the Western Cape can encompass a lot of activities, but our favorites are in and around Cape Town. Once you’ve visited the Mother City, we recommend taking a few days to relax in the nearby Cape Winelands, home to many of South Africa’s award-winning restaurants and vineyards. There are also some great day trips nearby, including a visit to the penguins at boulder’s beach and driving the scenic Chapman’s Peak along the way.
7. The Kalahari Desert, Botswana
While the Okavango Delta offers ample wildlife viewing, the nearby Kalahari Desert offers complete calm. This part of Botswana is more about switching off your devices and tuning in to nature. You can, of course, have incredible wildlife experiences here too, including viewing the local meerkats up close. Then in the late evening, you can fall asleep to the sounds of the desert with uninterrupted views of the skies above.
8. Marrakech, Morocco
If you are more of an active traveler and prefer a sensory overload look no further than Marrakech in Northern Africa. This city is abuzz with life in every direction, especially if you are standing with your feet planted in the medina. After you’ve taken in all the sights, sounds, and smells of this busy and crowded city, make your way back to a resort outside of the city. Here, guests can get a taste of a slower pace. The newly opened Oberoi Hotel (pictured) is a great example of keeping a modest balance. You can enjoy your honeymoon in the privacy of your pool villa after a busy day exploring the souks.
9. The Serengeti, Tanzania
Located next door to Kenya’s Maasai Mara is Tanzania’s equivalent of a classic East African safari; The Serengeti. You might have already heard about the wide-open lands of the Serengeti, which play host to the Great Migration every year. This national park is home to an abundance of wildlife and luxury lodges, making it a great choice for honeymoon couples who wish to be whisked away to the earthy tones of East Africa.
10. Mnemba Island, Zanzibar
If you are looking to add a holiday from your holiday, then Mnemba Island is the ultimate add-on to your honeymoon. This private island off the coast of Zanzibar feels like a dream come true. Focusing on barefoot luxury, andBeyond Mnemba Island will tantalize your senses. The island offers complete seclusion, incredible cuisine, fun day activities, and an entire private island to explore.
11. Benguerra Island, Mozambique
Benguerra Island in Mozambique is the second-largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. This private oasis feels like time itself has stopped, forcing you to relax and unwind without a care in the world. There is ample marine wildlife nearby to discover during the day, followed by a calm sea breeze in the early evenings. Dinners are often served in special locations, making this a great choice for honeymooners who like to be pampered.
12. Seychelles
And of course, what would a list of honeymoon locations in Africa be without Seychelles. This country in East Africa is regarded as the epitome of honeymoon destinations. Lodges and resorts are spread out over a selection of the 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. This gives honeymoon couples ample choice and depending on your budget, there’s something for everyone. If budget is no consideration, don’t miss the chance to check into one of the world’s most exclusive hotels; North Island.
