An ideal destination for any couple wishing to experience 'authentic' Africa
Private camps, romantic river dinners and extraordinary wildlife sightings make Zambia a truly special honeymoon destination.
Zambia is one of our favourite Africa honeymoon destinations because it still feels wonderfully off the beaten track, with quiet national parks, intimate lodges, and experiences that bring you closer to nature in a very personal way. It’s ideal for couples who want time together without the crowds.
A classic start is along the Zambezi, where late-afternoon light turns everything gold. Boat trips here are peaceful and unhurried, drifting past hippos and elephants as you share sundowners – one of the most romantic ways to settle into the rhythm of your trip. This region is all about calm luxury, and lodges like Anabezi and Lolebezi capture it beautifully with river views, spacious suites, and slow mornings on private decks.
For a more immersive moment, Chiawa Camp’s star beds offer something unforgettable – sleeping out under the sky with the river murmuring below feels like a shared secret in the middle of the wild.
Further north in South Luangwa, the birth place of the Walking Safari, the atmosphere shifts. Here you get the chance to get on your feet and experience the wildlife at eye level. The park feels wilder and wonderfully textured, and it’s where Zambia’s guiding really shines. Chinzombo’s villas work perfectly for honeymoons, with private plunge pools, deep baths, and wide river views. Evening drives often end with a quiet drink under the stars before heading back to dinner on your deck.
A visit to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, is a must, but where you stay makes a huge difference. The lodges closest to the falls tend to be larger and less intimate, so we often recommend staying upstream, where the river is calmer. Tongabezi is a firm favourite for its hand-crafted charm and peaceful setting, while tiny Sindabezi offers island seclusion and impossibly romantic sandbank or floating-deck dinners. A helicopter flight over the falls is a lovely extra touch for honeymooners.
After early safari starts, many couples are looking for a bit of relaxation on the beach. Pairing Zambia with Lake Malawi works beautifully; remote, peaceful, and far from heavy tourism. Kaya Mawa’s stone-and-thatch rooms tucked into little coves feel incredibly atmospheric, while Blue Zebra Island Lodge offers a relaxed island escape with warm, clear water perfect for swims and paddleboarding.
What we love about this combination is how exclusive it feels throughout. Days are spent close to nature with some of Africa’s best guides, and evenings are quietly romantic without ever being over the top. It’s privacy, beauty, and authenticity in equal measure – perfect for couples who want something meaningful and memorable rather than mass tourism.
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Zambia & Malawi Luxury Honeymoon
- Vic Falls
- South Luangwa
- Lake Malawi
Are you looking for an extraordinary off the beaten track honeymoon? If so, this trip offers the perfect blend of adventure, romance, and seclusion.
Zambia Honeymoon Trip Ideas
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Tamara
Travel Expert
Romantic places to stay in Zambia
Zambia Honeymoon FAQs
Planning a Zambia honeymoon? Our experts share advice on everything from what to pack, when to go, to tips for families, covering the questions we get asked the most.
Is Zambia good for a honeymoon?
Absolutely. Zambia offers the perfect mix of wilderness adventure and secluded luxury. Romantic bush camps, private dinners under the stars, and thrilling experiences like walking safaris or sunset boat cruises make it an unforgettable choice. The quieter atmosphere compared to more visited safari destinations ensures you feel like you have the wilderness to yourselves, with personalised service that makes every detail feel special.
What are the most romantic lodges in Zambia?
Many lodges cater specifically for couples, offering private chalets with plunge pools, river views, or outdoor baths. Properties in South Luangwa and the Lower Zambezi are especially popular, as they combine wildlife with luxury. Tongabezi near Victoria Falls is renowned for its romantic suites and bespoke experiences, from candlelit river cruises to private island picnics, while bush camps provide a more rustic yet intimate safari feel.
When is the best time for a Zambia honeymoon?
June to October is ideal for honeymoons, with clear skies, warm days, and excellent wildlife viewing. For couples wanting lush green landscapes, November to March offers a more tranquil experience, with fewer travellers and exceptional birdlife, though some lodges close during peak rains. If Victoria Falls is on your list, aim for February to May for the most dramatic water flow, or later in the year for quieter viewpoints.
Can we combine Zambia with a beach honeymoon?
Yes, many couples combine Zambia’s safaris with relaxation by the ocean or a lake. The most popular option is Malawi’s Lake Malawi, where luxury lodges and sandy beaches provide a barefoot, tropical finish. Alternatively, you can add a few days in Mozambique or the Seychelles, accessible by connecting flights. This mix of safari adventure and water-side relaxation is a wonderful way to balance your honeymoon.
What honeymoon activities are available in Zambia?
From walking hand-in-hand through the bush on a guided safari to sipping champagne on a sunset cruise, Zambia offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples often enjoy private dinners under the stars, helicopter flights over Victoria Falls, canoe safaris on the Zambezi, or simply unwinding together at a lodge with panoramic wilderness views. The balance of adrenaline and intimacy makes Zambia uniquely appealing.
Are Zambia honeymoons private and exclusive?
Yes, Zambia’s safari lodges tend to be small and intimate, often with fewer than ten rooms. This creates a sense of privacy that’s ideal for honeymoons. Many camps offer private game drives or romantic extras such as bush breakfasts and sleep-out decks under the stars. Even shared experiences feel personal, thanks to small group sizes and highly attentive service.
Is Zambia suitable for luxury honeymoons?
Very much so. Zambia has some of Africa’s finest safari lodges, blending world-class comfort with natural surroundings. Expect spacious suites, gourmet dining, and beautifully designed properties that don’t compromise on the wilderness feel. Luxury here is about exclusivity, thoughtful details, and remarkable guiding. If you want adventure without sacrificing comfort, Zambia is a perfect choice.
How long should a Zambia honeymoon be?
Most honeymoons last between 8 and 14 nights, allowing time to explore two or three safari areas plus Victoria Falls. A week gives you a good flavour, but longer stays mean a richer experience, with more opportunities to enjoy downtime together between game drives. Many couples choose to finish with three or four nights somewhere by the water, either at Lake Malawi or another beach destination.
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Alistair