So you've finally tied the knot (congratulations by the way!) after months of planning, organising and stressing, and whilst your big day went like a dream, it's now time to relax and reward yourselves for all that hard work. We may be biased, but think you'll agree that there really is no better place for a honeymoon than the incredible continent of Africa.
The great thing about Africa is it's diversity in both landscape and experience. It has everything from remote bushland and tranquil wetlands, to some of the world's biggest sand dunes and beautiful beaches that would make anyone go weak at the knees. Quite simply there's something for everyone. Most combine a safari honeymoon adventure with some relaxation time on the beach, it's the perfect way to begin married life.
Here's why we think you should choose Africa for your honeymoon:
1. Luxury in the wilderness
Just because you're out in the bush wilderness doesn't mean that you have to leave luxury behind. On the contrary, safari lodges and camps are some of the most splendidly indulgent places to stay in the world. I'm talking about achingly romantic treehouses out in the bush, elegant suites with panoramic vistas, and wilderness tents that are more comfortable and better decorated than your own home.
It's not just the stunning surroundings that make your safari honeymoon so special. It's also the staff and excellent service that make the camps and lodges feel like a home from home. Some of our favourites include Governors Camp in the Masai Mara in Kenya, Wild Track Safaris Eco Lodge in Botswana, and the amazing Bush Rover which means you can take your private home with you everywhere you go!
2. Plunge pool paradise
Most lodges have honeymoon suites, which can come with everything from private decks with stunning views to personal butler services and open air showers. But the real icing on the cake (in my opinion anyway) are the plunge pools. What could be better than cooling off in your very own exclusive pool after a thrilling morning out in the bush. You might be gazing out over plains or calderas, or you might even have some wildlife come to call. If you're looking for added romance on your honeymoon, then this is it!
Some of the best lodges with private plunge pools include Madikwe Safari Lodge in South Africa, The Highlands in Tanzania and Chobe Game Lodge in Botswana.
3. Hot air ballooning
What could be more fitting for a honeymoon than silently soaring above plains in a hot air balloon, taking your game viewing to a whole new level. It doesn't get more romantic than this.
Sure, it's an early start, but you'll soon realise it's worth every lost minute of sleep as you gaze down on vast herds of wildebeest whilst the sun slowly rises over the horizon, shooting it's gloriously warm orange rays down on the scene below. Then of course there's a champagne bush breakfast to celebrate love, life and a successful landing.
One of the best places to go hot air ballooning in Africa is the Masai Mara and it is the perfect add on to a Kenyan honeymoon. Read below to see what it's all about...
The adventure begins even before you arrive at your lodge or camp. One of the easiest, and most comfortable ways of reaching your destination is often by air, and there's nothing quite like a scenic flight in a bush plane, gliding high over the incredible landscapes below. You'll see your first wildlife on this journey, whether it's plains game gathering for the great migration, or hippos lounging about in the rivers that wind through the savannah like giant shimmering snakes.
The bush planes aren't always full, and sometimes outside of peak season you might even have them to yourselves. Almost like a charter flight without the expense!
Some lodges also offer scenic flights as an additional excursion, such as at Saruni Samburu and Saruni Rhino in northern Kenya. It's a fantastic luxury addition to a safari honeymoon.
5. Romantic private dining
If you're on a safari honeymoon then dreamy dinners under an African sky are all part of the adventure. Many lodges offer private dining if arranged in advance, whether it's a candlelit feast on your own exclusive veranda overlooking a reserve, or in another particularly romantic and secluded location around the property, from on top of rock escarpments to down in cosy wine cellars.
Other lodges and camps offer exclusive game drives and private lunches out in the bush (that's of course after you've also had your bush breakfast whilst watching the sun rise over the plains). Your guides will find a special and safe spot to set up and you can munch away whilst trying to convince yourself that yes, this is real, and you're not dreaming!
Of course Africa isn't all about safaris. It's also about glittering pearl white sands lined with gently swaying palm trees, stretching for miles along azure oceans. Too many adjectives? Well that's what Africa does to you! The continent's coastlines and surrounding tropical islands are the perfect companion to a safari, and most people choose to enjoy their relaxing beach time at the end of their trip.
Whether you fancy strolling barefoot along the sands, watching the sunset over the endless ocean and sipping cocktails by the pool, or getting some action on the waves with a spot of kite surfing, snorkelling or scuba diving, then there's something here for you.
We love Almanara on Diani Beach in Kenya for it's watersports and laid back vibe, Tsara Komba in Madagascar for it's exceptional service and dreamy location, and Kaya Maya on Lake Malawi for it's tranquility and gorgeous lakeside views.
So the only question that remains is, where can we take you on your honeymoon?
Looking for more honeymoon inspiration? Take a look at our top 10 African honeymoon ideas to get you started or call our friendly team on 01768 603 715 who would be happy to help you arrange your dream safari honeymoon.