Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in Africa
Africa is a continent of intense contrasts and beguiling complexity with a vast and striking geography. Newlyweds who have not yet visited the immensity of Africa can be constantly intrigued, both by its buzzing melting-pot metropolises and the peaceful atmosphere of its endless stretches of white sandy beaches. At the same time, Africa’s allure is so varied that is bound to enchant couples who have already visited. All in all, the wilderness of the African ecosystems is an unsurpassable backdrop for a honeymoon of a lifetime; and here are some of the best picks, brought to you by Africa Uncovered:
Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in Africa
Safari
One African attraction that is hardly ever contested as the number one activity to experience in one’s lifetime is, undoubtedly, a safari. A safari in Tanzania is a unique experience and incomparable with any other safari destination in the world; an experience of a lifetime to be shared with your other half. Tanzania is home to the Serengeti, where every year the great herds cross the Mara River as part of their yearly migration: a histrionic stampede of African Buffaloes that is going to leave a strong footprint in your joint memories of the trip.
A Romantic Beach Stay on Zanzibar
After the intensity of the great migration, and the safari experience as a whole, the island of Zanzibar, located just off the Tanzanian coastline, is the perfect beach retreat for two. Zanzibar features the finest sandy beaches in Africa and arguably the Indian Ocean: a high-end relaxing holiday to indulge in each other’s pleasures.
Victoria Falls
Situated on the Zambezi river between Zambia and Zimbabwe, and named by the British explorer David Livingstone after Queen Victoria; the Victoria falls are one of the world’s undisputed natural wonders. The luxury hotels situated around the falls make for an unforgettable honeymoon in one of the most romantic spots on the planet: wake up in the early African morning with breathtaking views of the mighty Zambezi River, and have a picnic on a secluded island. Hiring a helicopter for two is the way to go for the ultimate love experience!
Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
Located in the landlocked country of Botswana, Linyanti is a unique opportunity to visit some of the best landscapes that you will possibly see in your life, populated – particularly in the winter months- with the largest and most exotic examples of wildlife, including blue wildebeests, antelopes and some of the few remaining large populations of hyenas of the Linyanti.
Africa sunset Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in Africa
An Exotic Retreat in the Seychelles
A honeymoon in Botswana’s Linyanti Wildlife Reserve can be exhausting; combining it with a retreat in the Seychelles in the middle of the Indian Ocean is one of the best ways to finish your honeymoon, in the peaceful atmosphere of one of Earth’s most paradisiac archipelagos.
Mozambique
An underexplored region of Africa, this former Portuguese colony has some of the best beaches in the continent, due to the position of the island of Madagascar, which creates a strait of warmer waters just off the coastline. Mozambique has a tropical climate that guarantees sunshine all year round, ideal for couples looking to escape to sunny destinations.
Cape Town
The beautiful surrounding beaches and award-winning wine farms located at a stone’s throw from this South African City have made it one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. One of the most picturesque cities in the world, Cape Town enjoys long warm summers every year. A number of excellent restaurants and shopping options make it an excellent honeymoon destination for those looking to get a flavour of Africa without compromising a urban high-end atmosphere..
Namibia
An off-the-beaten track destination, ideal for couples in search of a true African experience without overcrowding. This former German colony is divided into five distinct geographical areas, each featuring characteristic flora and fauna: a perfectly varied holiday in one of the most striking landscapes of the continent, including the Kalahari desert, where you will be able to experience the most beautiful of African sunsets.
Kenya
Neighbouring Tanzania to the south, Kenya offers one of the richest cultural experiences to the curious visitor. Mount Kenya, the highest in this territory, gives name to the entire country. An active holiday climb to Mount Kenya can be an ideal honeymoon plan for active couples; needless to say, always seek advice from specialised travel agents with extensive experience in the area.
Africa private concession Top 10 Honeymoon Destinations in Africa
Private Concession Safari for Two
Rather than visiting a National Park which is open to the public, making it very busy at any given time of the year, some tour operators in Africa offer private concession safaris in areas that are reserved for guests of the camps and lodges within the private concessions. This is an excellent choice for those on honeymoons, as privacy is guaranteed: a romantic trip like no other!
Guest post by Patricia Salazar at Africa Uncovered.
Photos courtesy of Stuart Parker © Africa Uncovered. All rights reserved.