The Guidebook to Honeymoon Destinations in Southern & Eastern Africa
Your selection of honeymoon destinations should be nothing short of magical—a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, intimate moments, and unforgettable adventures. In Southern and Eastern Africa, romance takes on a new meaning, whether you’re watching a sunset over the savannah, relaxing on a private island in the Okavango Delta, or dining under the starlit skies of the Serengeti.
Africa offers an extraordinary blend of adventure, tranquillity, and romance. From private safaris in the heart of the wilderness to barefoot luxury on untouched beaches, it’s perfect for couples seeking a honeymoon as unique as their love story.
Here are our top recommendations for an unforgettable romantic escape and various honeymoon destinations to choose from.
Southern Africa
Cape Town
Perched on the slopes of Table Mountain, one of the Seven Wonders of Nature, Cape Town is the perfect honeymoon escape. With breathtaking coastal views, diverse landscapes, and a vibrant atmosphere, the city offers a seamless blend of romance, adventure, and relaxation.
Indulge in world-class cuisine, from fine dining to hidden local gems. Take a scenic helicopter flight along the Atlantic Seaboard for panoramic views, or wander through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, steeped in history and culture. For something truly memorable, visit Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, where you can meet the charming local penguin residents up close.
Cape Town also boasts exclusive, tranquil accommodations, perfect for honeymooners seeking privacy and luxury. What makes this city truly special is that you set the pace—whether you prefer a thrilling, adventure-filled honeymoon, a slower, more relaxed getaway, or a perfect mix of both, Cape Town offers something unforgettable for every honeymoon style.
Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel
Steeped in history and exuding timeless grace, The Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel is a true Cape Town icon. Fondly known as the “Pink Lady” for its signature rosy hue, this landmark hotel has played host to royalty, celebrities, and world leaders for over 125 years. While its grand Edwardian architecture recalls an era of old-world glamour, the hotel’s nine acres of manicured gardens provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city—ideal for a romantic stroll, a classic afternoon tea experience, or simply unwinding beneath the trees by one of its two heated outdoor pools.
From the moment you arrive, the warmth of the staff makes you feel like a cherished guest, ensuring every detail of your stay is effortlessly taken care of. And for the ultimate honeymoon indulgence? Escape to the hotel’s renowned Librisa Spa for a couples’ massage, where you and your partner can fully relax and embrace the magic of your Cape Town retreat.
Enhance Your Cape Town Honeymoon with the Winelands & Safari
For the ultimate honeymoon, extend your Cape Town escape with a dreamy Winelands and safari experience. A short, scenic drive from the city, Franschhoek—South Africa’s food and wine capital—is a haven of romance. With its rich French heritage, charming boutique wineries, and breathtaking vineyard landscapes, it’s the perfect retreat for couples. Picture yourselves clinking glasses of crisp Chardonnay as the sun dips behind the vineyards, indulging in gourmet meals at award-winning restaurants, or strolling hand in hand through lively markets. Private wine tastings, scenic drives, and intimate guesthouses make Franschhoek a luxurious and unforgettable stop on your honeymoon.
After soaking in the Winelands’ elegance, step into a world of untamed beauty with a safari in Greater Kruger. For couples seeking the perfect blend of adventure, seclusion, and indulgence, this iconic wilderness offers an exclusive safari experience like no other. Unlike the busier parts of Kruger National Park, private reserves, which share an unfenced border with the renowned Kruger National Park, provide off-road game drives, moonlit night safaris, and guided bush walks, ensuring up-close encounters with Africa’s most majestic wildlife. Imagine waking up to the distant roar of a lion, then setting off on a dawn game drive, hand in hand, as the golden light spills across the savannah.
Stay in luxury lodges designed for ultimate relaxation, complete with private plunge pools, sunset cocktails, and candlelit dinners under a canopy of stars. A Greater Kruger honeymoon isn’t just a safari—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, where wild beauty meets indulgent luxury, creating memories you and your partner will cherish forever.
Best Time to Visit: From April to October, this period provides favourable weather conditions across all three regions, ensuring you make the most of your trip with predominantly sunny and dry days.
Victoria Falls
Few places on Earth rival the raw beauty and sheer spectacle of Victoria Falls, traditionally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya—The Smoke That Thunders. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, this UNESCO-listed wonder is a breathtaking display of nature’s power and grace. The force of millions of litres of water plunging into the Batoka Gorge creates an unforgettable sensory symphony—the deep, thunderous roar, the cooling mist on your skin, and rainbows dancing in the spray.
As one of Africa’s many honeymoon destinations, Victoria Falls offers the perfect blend of adventure and romance. Take in the panoramic views from a scenic lookout, where the sunset paints the sky over the cascading waters. Drift along the Zambezi River on a private sunset cruise, champagne in hand, as hippos bob in the water and elephants gather along the riverbanks. For a truly intimate experience, indulge in a private candlelit dinner overlooking the wild African landscape, where the distant rumble of the Falls becomes the soundtrack to your evening.
Whether you crave thrilling experiences, like a helicopter flight over the Falls, or prefer moments of quiet serenity, Victoria Falls is one of few honeymoon destinations where nature’s grandeur meets romance at its finest.
Victoria Falls River Lodge
Tucked away on the Zimbabwean banks of the Zambezi River, just a short distance from Victoria Falls, lies the award-winning Victoria Falls River Lodge—a secluded haven where untouched wilderness meets effortless luxury. This exclusive retreat offers honeymooners an intimate escape, where breathtaking river views and five-star comforts set the stage for an unforgettable stay.
Each spacious tented suite boasts panoramic views of the Zambezi, best enjoyed from your private deck, where a plunge pool invites you to soak in the scenery in total serenity. After a day of adventure at the Falls, unwind with a soothing couples’ massage at the Toa Spa, letting the gentle sounds of the river lull you into relaxation.
For the ultimate romantic experience, spend a night in the Starbed Treehouse, a one-of-a-kind escape where you can sleep beneath a blanket of stars, wrapped in the magic of the African night. As the river flows gently below and the distant call of a lion echoes through the wilderness, you and your partner will experience a night unlike any other—a true honeymoon dream come to life.
Best Time to Visit: May to September, just after the summer rains, when the falls are at their most spectacular and full.
Ask us about the Victoria Falls River Lodge Honeymoon Package!
Okavango Delta
For honeymooners looking for a one-of-a-kind escape, the Okavango Delta offers an intimate retreat deep in the heart of Botswana’s untouched wilderness. This remote and pristine paradise provides a sense of seclusion and exclusivity, allowing couples to unwind and reconnect far from the distractions of everyday life.
The Delta’s intricate waterways and diverse landscapes create a remarkable ecosystem, home to abundant wildlife and incredible safari experiences. Whether spotting elephants on a game drive, tracking wildlife on a guided walking safari, or gliding silently through the reeds on a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) excursion, each moment is a shared adventure filled with awe and serenity.
The tranquillity of this destination makes it a perfect place as a honeymoon destination, to slow down and savour the moment. With minimal light pollution, the night sky transforms into a dazzling canopy of stars—best enjoyed from your private deck or even an open-air star bed. Few places in the world offer a more magical way to celebrate the start of forever.
Belmond Eagle Island Lodge
For an exclusive and romantic escape, Eagle Island Lodge offers unparalleled luxury in the heart of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Located on secluded Xaxaba Island, this intimate retreat blends tranquillity, adventure, and breathtaking wilderness.
Each elegantly designed suite features a private plunge pool and a spacious deck with panoramic views of the Delta. As the sun sets, sip champagne as elephants graze nearby or enjoy a candlelit dinner beneath a sky full of stars, serenaded by the gentle sounds of nature.
For those seeking adventure, the lodge offers boat safaris, walking safaris, and scenic helicopter flights, allowing couples to explore the Delta from every angle. For something truly unique, a horseback safari offers the chance to ride alongside giraffes and zebras through the floodplains.
At Eagle Island Lodge, every experience is designed to celebrate love, luxury, and the wild beauty of Botswana, making it a honeymoon like no other.
Ask us about the Belmond Safaris Botswana Honeymoon Package!
Getting The Most Out Of Your Botswana Honeymoon
Enhance your Okavango Delta honeymoon by adding two of Botswana’s most breathtaking and contrasting landscapes: Khwai Private Reserve and the Makgadikgadi Pans.
For an exclusive safari experience, Khwai Private Reserve offers seclusion, incredible wildlife, and intimate luxury lodges, perfect for couples who want both adventure and privacy. Enjoy thrilling day and night game drives, romantic sundowners, and uninterrupted moments in the heart of the wilderness. For a completely different escape, the Makgadikgadi Pans provide an otherworldly landscape of endless white salt flats. Walk hand in hand across the vast expanse, sip sundowners as the sky ignites at sunset, or sleep under a canopy of stars in complete solitude—a truly unforgettable honeymoon experience.
Whether you seek thrilling safaris, romantic seclusion, or surreal landscapes, Botswana promises a honeymoon like no other.
Best Time to Visit: May to October, when the weather is sunnier and drier, making wildlife easier to spot, especially around watering holes. With less vegetation, this is also an excellent time for game viewing.
Eastern Africa
Tanzania
Picture yourself surrounded by golden plains stretching endlessly, where herds of wildebeest thunder across the landscape and lions bask beneath the African sun. Tanzania is more than just a destination for adventure—it’s one of the most unique honeymoon destinations, where romance and the wild intertwine to create an unforgettable honeymoon escape.
For honeymooners, the Northern Circuit offers the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, luxury lodges, and incredible wildlife encounters. Here’s how you and your partner can embark on a once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure together.
Arusha
Your journey begins in Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania’s Northern Circuit. After a long journey, unwind at Arusha Coffee Lodge, a charming retreat nestled within a working coffee plantation. Savour the aroma of freshly brewed Tanzanian coffee, take a guided coffee tour, and soak in the tranquil surroundings—a perfect way to ease into your adventure.
Tarangire National Park
Next, venture to Tarangire National Park for two nights at Lemala Mpingo Ridge, where you’ll wake up to sweeping views of the Tarangire River and spend your days exploring one of Tanzania’s most wildlife-rich reserves. This park is famed for its large elephant herds, baobab-dotted landscapes, and incredible Big Five sightings.
Embark on morning and evening game drives, spotting leopards lounging in trees and herds of elephants moving gracefully through the bush. For a more intimate experience, take a guided bush walk, where you can connect with nature up close. As the sun sets, toast to your love with a sundowner, watching the sky burst into shades of pink and gold. For the ultimate romance, spend a night sleeping on your private suite deck, drifting off beneath a sky filled with stars.
Lake Manyara
Next, retreat to the enchanting forests of Lake Manyara, where you’ll spend one night at the &Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge—a secluded treehouse hideaway designed for honeymooners seeking privacy and romance.
This region is known for its tree-climbing lions, and you’ll have the chance to see them alongside flamingo-filled lakes and lush forests. For a cultural touch, take a scenic cycling tour through Mayoka village, offering insight into local traditions and daily life.
Ngorongoro Crater
Your honeymoon safari continues in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to one of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Depending on your travel dates, you may consider staying at Lemala Osonjoi, a highly anticipated lodge set to open in July 2025. Once open, it will offer unparalleled access to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, the Ngorongoro Crater—a truly special and romantic setting.
Perched on a hillside with sweeping views of the highlands and the crater itself, Lemala Osonjoi will provide a secluded and intimate escape. Its prime location on the quieter eastern side of the crater ensures fewer crowds and exceptional wildlife sightings, especially in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals are most active.
Once operational, the lodge will offer unforgettable experiences, including private lunches on the crater floor, evenings by the fire-lit outdoor viewing deck, and spa treatments designed for couples—creating the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation for your honeymoon.
Serengeti
End your honeymoon in the Serengeti, where you’ll stay at Lemala Kuria Hills, nestled in the Wogakuria Hills of the Northern Serengeti. This lodge offers breathtaking views of rolling grasslands, open woodlands, and tree-lined rivers, providing year-round exceptional game viewing.
Enjoy thrilling game drives, guided by expert rangers, or watch the wildlife from your private deck. Indulge in a starlit bush dinner, and after days of adventure, unwind at the Melengali Spa, where a soothing couples’ treatment provides the perfect way to rejuvenate.
As your safari comes to an end, Tanzania will leave its imprint on your love story—an extraordinary beginning to a lifetime of adventure together.
Best Time To Visit: June to October are ideal, offering dry, sunny weather and excellent opportunities to witness the Great Migration.
Ask about our honeymoon offers to Tanzania!
Zanzibar
Few places capture romance quite like Zanzibar, where powder-soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and swaying palms create a dreamy escape for honeymooners. As one of Africa’s most idyllic honeymoon destinations, this island paradise is perfect for long beach walks, sun-soaked relaxation, and unforgettable moments with your partner.
Known as the “Spice Island,” Zanzibar offers more than just stunning beaches—it’s a destination rich in culture, history, and sensory delights. Wander through Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where labyrinthine alleys, spice-filled markets, and centuries-old architecture transport you to another era. Let the aroma of cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg fill the air as you take in the island’s unique African, Arab, and European influences.
For honeymooners, Zanzibar’s luxury resorts are designed for romance, offering secluded beachfront villas, candlelit dinners under the stars, and indulgent spa treatments for two. Whether you dream of an overwater bungalow with endless ocean views or a private villa with direct beach access, you’ll find the perfect hideaway to celebrate your love in absolute serenity.
One of Zanzibar’s greatest appeals is its seamless connection to Tanzania’s legendary safari destinations. After the thrill of a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari, tracking the Big Five and witnessing the Great Migration, retreat to Zanzibar’s tranquil shores. Here, your honeymoon slows to the rhythm of the ocean, where golden sunsets, gentle sea breezes, and barefoot luxury mark the start of forever.
Zanzibar White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
For honeymooners seeking secluded luxury on Zanzibar’s breathtaking east coast, this award-winning Relais & Châteaux retreat on Paje Beach offers an unparalleled romantic escape. Renowned for its exceptional service and exclusivity, this intimate resort is the perfect place to celebrate your love.
Each elegantly designed villa is a private sanctuary, with options featuring a personal plunge pool, a rooftop terrace for starlit evenings, and direct beach access for barefoot morning strolls. Indulge in oceanfront dining, sip cocktails at the rooftop lounge, and unwind with a one-hour couples’ massage.
For those craving adventure, the resort’s watersports centre offers kite surfing, snorkeling, and world-class diving in Zanzibar’s crystal-clear waters.
Your honeymoon begins with a warm island welcome—a bottle of fine wine, a locally crafted gift, and a floral arrangement awaiting you in your villa. With its blend of romance, luxury, and adventure, this exclusive retreat is the ultimate honeymoon haven in Zanzibar.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is January to February and June to October, when it’s drier and sunnier. March to May and November tend to be hotter and wetter.
Kenya
Kenya offers a truly romantic setting, where breathtaking sunsets, star-filled skies, and the sounds of the African bush create an unforgettable atmosphere. With its blend of natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, and thrilling adventures, it is the perfect destination for couples. From the iconic savannahs of the Maasai Mara to the pristine beaches of the Indian Ocean, Kenya’s landscapes are nothing short of spectacular. Renowned for its incredible wildlife, the country offers unparalleled safari experiences, ensuring every moment is magical.
Here’s how we recommend you experience a once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon safari together in Kenya:
Nairobi
Your adventure begins in Nairobi, Kenya’s vibrant capital, where traditional culture meets modern luxury. Spend two nights here and explore Nairobi National Park, located just outside the city.
Immerse yourself in Kenya’s rich history and conservation efforts by visiting the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, one of Africa’s most renowned elephant orphanages,and or the Karen Blixen Museum, dedicated to the author of Out of Africa. In the evenings, enjoy diverse dining, bustling markets, and lively nightlife, making Nairobi a compelling gateway to the wild.
Laikipia Conservancy
Continue your honeymoon with a stay in the Laikipia Conservancy, where you’ll spend three nights at Lewa Wildlife Conservancy—a 65,000-acre sanctuary known for its exceptional conservation efforts. This exclusive safari destination is home to endangered black rhinos, Grevy’s zebras, lions, elephants, and wild dogs, making it one of the most rewarding game-viewing locations in Africa.
Nestled against the backdrop of Mount Kenya, you and your partner can explore through game drives, walking safaris, and rhino tracking, all led by expert guides. Take a canopy walk in the Ngare Ndare Forest, cool off in the natural pools, or enjoy a scenic picnic surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
For an unforgettable safari stay, we highly recommend Elewana Safari Camp. After an exhilarating day, unwind at the lodge’s lush gardens, where sunbeds by the pool and a bar service provide the perfect relaxation. Indulge in a spa treatment or a romantic sunset cocktail overlooking the plains.
Diani Beach
After an exhilarating safari, slow down and savour the tranquillity of Diani beach, where you’ll spend five nights in pure bliss. With pristine white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees, Diani offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.
While Diani is a popular beach destination, it still offers hidden, intimate spots for peaceful strolls and secluded moments. Enjoy a sunset cruise on a traditional dhow, a private beachfront dinner, or explore the vibrant coral reefs through snorkelling and diving.
For a luxurious and sustainable honeymoon retreat, we recommend Nomad Beach Resort. This eco-conscious sanctuary sits directly on Diani’s prime beachfront, surrounded by six acres of indigenous coastal forest, creating a tranquil and private setting. The resort’s Swahili-inspired luxury suites offer a perfect blend of modern comfort and cultural charm.
Explore beyond the resort with excursions to nearby islands, full-moon dinners, or a couples’ spa treatment. Nomad Beach Resort prioritises sustainability, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, much of which comes from their own organic farm and sustainable fishing partnerships.
Best Time to Visit: For safaris, the best time to go is June to October and January to March, as it is drier and sunnier. For those visiting Diani Beach, the best time to go is November to March.
Uganda
Known as the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is a land of lush rainforests, mist-covered mountains, and untamed beauty, where romance meets adventure. As one of Africa’s most captivating honeymoon destinations, it offers both thrilling wildlife encounters and secluded escapes for couples seeking intimate and unforgettable moments.
Begin your journey with a thrilling gorilla trek, where you’ll stand face-to-face with majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—an experience that will stay with you forever. Then, swap adventure for tranquillity—unwind in a luxurious lodge overlooking rolling hills or relax on the shores of a picturesque lakeside retreat, soaking in the breathtaking surroundings.
For those craving a romantic island escape, Kalangala Island on Lake Victoria is a hidden paradise of pristine beaches, swaying palms, and tropical forests. Walk hand in hand along the serene shoreline, embark on a scenic hike through lush landscapes, or set sail on a private boat trip, exploring the untouched beauty of the surrounding islands. Immerse yourselves in local culture by visiting fishing villages, where warm hospitality and vibrant traditions bring the island to life.
Whether you crave adventure or absolute relaxation, Uganda’s untamed beauty and hidden escapes ensure that your honeymoon will be as unforgettable as your love story.
Best Time to Visit: June to August and December to February are ideal, with drier conditions. April to May and November are also possible but tend to be hotter and wetter.
Lemala Wildwaters
Set on a secluded private island within the southern part of the mighty River Nile, Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is a one-of-a-kind luxury retreat, where untamed beauty meets effortless romance—perfect for an unforgettable honeymoon. Accessible only by boat, this award-winning escape offers an unparalleled sense of seclusion, adventure, and tranquillity.
Each spacious and beautifully appointed suite features a private balcony with panoramic river views, while an open-air claw-foot bathtub overlooking the rushing rapids invites you to soak under the stars, wrapped in pure tranquillity. Impeccable hospitality, locally inspired cuisine, and a dedicated private butler ensure that every moment is as indulgent as it is intimate.
Whether you spend your days drifting off to the rhythmic sounds of the Nile, exploring the island’s lush tropical surroundings, or sharing an intimate candlelit dinner beneath a sky full of stars, every moment at Lemala Wildwaters Lodge is designed to blend adventure and romance in perfect harmony.
Eliane, one of our African Travel Experts, shares her experience:
“This is the ultimate honeymoon escape. From the romantic rose petal turndown to the outdoor bathtub with breathtaking river views, every detail is designed for romance. What makes it truly special is how seamlessly intimacy and adventure come together. Guests can dive into exhilarating experiences like white-water rafting, then return to pure luxury, unwinding in their private outdoor bath or with a romantic candlelit dinner under the stars. And the pool? Absolutely breathtaking—one of the most Instagrammed spots in the world!”
Rwanda
For couples seeking a honeymoon beyond the ordinary, Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda offers a world class mix of adventure, intimacy, and natural beauty. While it may not be the first place that comes to mind, its once-in-a-lifetime experiences are making it a top choice for adventurous honeymooners.
Picture yourselves trekking through misty bamboo forests, the crisp mountain air filling your lungs, until you come face-to-face with a family of endangered mountain gorillas. Locking eyes with these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a moment of pure awe and connection, one that you and your partner will cherish forever.
Beyond gorilla trekking, explore breathtaking crater lakes, lush volcanic slopes, and the park’s rich biodiversity, where golden monkeys and rare bird species add to the enchantment of your journey.
Known as the Land of a Thousand Hills, Rwanda’s rolling landscapes, emerald-green valleys, and mist-covered peaks create a setting as romantic as it is awe-inspiring. Whether admiring the golden glow of sunrise over the mountains or sharing quiet moments by a crater lake, Rwanda offers a sense of peace, intimacy, and natural wonder unlike anywhere else.
Virunga Lodge
Perched on a scenic ridge overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes and the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Bulera, Virunga Lodge offers seclusion, breathtaking views, and intimate luxury—perfect for honeymooners. Whether sharing a breathtaking sunrise from your private terrace or toasting to love as the sun sets over misty mountains, this lodge provides a truly unforgettable setting for romance.
Each elegantly designed banda blends seamlessly with the surroundings, featuring a private terrace with sweeping views, a cosy fireplace for romantic evenings, and modern comforts. For added indulgence, the deluxe bandas offer spacious open living areas, ensuring even more room to relax and soak in the extraordinary scenery.
Savor locally inspired gourmet meals in the lodge’s elegant dining area, or enjoy a private candlelit dinner under the starlit African sky, surrounded by the soft sounds of nature.
At Virunga Lodge, every moment is designed to celebrate love, adventure, and Rwanda’s raw beauty, making it a perfect honeymoon retreat.
Best Time to Visit: June to September and December to February offer the best conditions. March to May and November are also possible, though these months tend to be wetter.
Your dream honeymoon starts here! Whether you envision sunset safaris in the Serengeti, a candlelit dinner on the shores of Zanzibar, or sleeping under the stars in the Okavango Delta, there are various honeymoon destinations to suit your desires, and we are here to make it happen.
Ask us about our exclusive honeymoon offers, and contact one of our African Travel Experts today to start planning the ultimate romantic escape!