Key Insights for Planning a Safari Honeymoon, as Recommended by a Travel Expert

For newlyweds seeking a blend of adventure and romance on their honeymoon, Africa is the ultimate destination. Trust me: I’ve lived and worked there as a camp manager and safari guide, celebrated my own honeymoon in Africa, and for the past 21 years, I’ve been assisting couples in planning their honeymoon safaris and anniversary adventures.

An African honeymoon is inherently adventurous. Travelers can closely encounter lions, elephants, and other wildlife on game drives and walking safaris. Couples on safari can also visit traditional communities like the Maasai or Batwa to learn about their lifestyles, or explore vibrant cities like Nairobi and Cape Town. Looking to elevate the thrill? Consider a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti or a bungee jump from the Victoria Falls bridge.

However, that doesn’t mean romance needs to take a back seat. At select safari camps, newlyweds can indulge in couples’ massages, enjoy romantic outdoor baths, and savor private candlelit dinners in the bush. Upon returning at night, they might discover a special turn-down service featuring champagne and chocolates, perfect for snuggling under a cozy duvet in their tent, beneath the starry African sky, while listening to the sounds of hyenas and lions. In the morning, the melodic calls of birds signal the dawn of a new day.

If unwinding at the beach sounds appealing, there are plenty of ‘bush and beach’ options for post-safari relaxation, ranging from locally owned beach hotels to luxurious resorts like the Four Seasons. Destinations such as Zanzibar, the Seychelles, and Mozambique feature stunning white-sand beaches, inviting turquoise waters, and a variety of activities—everything from lounging by the pool to swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.

To make sure your honeymoon safari exceeds your expectations, keep these tips in mind.

Location, Location, Location

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda) is ideal for: witnessing vast herds of wildlife; trekking to see gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates; immersing in traditional cultures; and enjoying stunning beaches. Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Malawi, and Mozambique) excels in: intimate wildlife encounters; private reserves; and non-safari activities like golfing, wine tasting, and luxurious train journeys.

Be Strategic About When You Visit

The winter months (June to October) are typically the best for game viewing in most safari parks, offering cooler, sunny, and dry conditions. In East Africa, December to March can also provide excellent wildlife sightings, while November, April, and May are rainier months (consider skipping these unless you prefer lower prices and smaller crowds). In southern Africa, November to May is known as the 'green' or shoulder season, characterized by warmer weather and occasional rain. However, Cape Town enjoys warm weather and is a highly sought-after destination from December to March. 

Take Your Time

Many couples believe their trip to Africa will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience and aim to “see it all” in just two weeks. However, that initial visit often sparks a desire to return. We suggest choosing one or two countries or regions and traveling at a leisurely pace, allowing you to savor each moment without feeling hurried. The continent is vast, and traveling between destinations can be lengthy and challenging.

The Right Camp Matters

Whether you prefer opulent five-star accommodations or a simpler camping experience, Africa offers a diverse selection of hotels, tented camps, and lodges perfect for honeymooners. Picture yourself sleeping in Elewana Loisaba's star beds, where four-poster beds are nestled beneath the open sky or a thatched roof. Alternatively, after marveling at the stunning Victoria Falls, couples can unwind at the Victoria Falls River Lodge's Island Treehouse Suites, situated on a private island with plunge pools and hippos just below. For water enthusiasts, a night in The Manta Resort’s underwater room, just off Pemba Island, Tanzania, is unforgettable. The options are endless.

Don’t Forget — It’s Time to Celebrate

For couples looking to add a unique touch to their honeymoon safari, there are plenty of creative options. For instance, in Kenya, you might join a Maasai wedding ceremony, complete with a warrior escort (spears in hand), an officiating chief or elder, and a traditional goat roast celebration. Would you prefer a couples’ bubble bath with a view of the savannah, a private wine tasting, a cooking class, or even feeding giraffes at your breakfast table? The possibilities are limitless.

By keeping these tips and suggestions in mind, you’re bound to have a thrilling and romantic honeymoon safari. Even better, let an expert handle the details—we can help you plan your perfect getaway.

Kent Redding is part of Dinogo's A-List of travel advisors, specializing in crafting custom journeys throughout eastern and southern Africa for Africa Adventure Consultants. Reach out to him at 303-778-1089 or via email at [email protected].