When my husband and I were planning our honeymoon, we really didn’t know where we wanted to go. We had a map of the world in front of us and we kept looking at it and saying – the Caribbean could be nice, or Bali would be fantastic or Zanzibar could be interesting or Mauritius is romantic….. and so it went on.
With the whole world to choose from, and wanting this honeymoon to be extra special and filled with memories that would last a lifetime, it made the decision so much more difficult. We eventually decided to go with what was special for us. South Africa! And then to add in what we really wanted, which was to relax and be spoilt!
So, after a few nights at Monkey Valley Lodge in Kommetjie, Cape Town (which is where we got married), we ended up with a fantastic safari in the Kruger National Park, staying at Tinga Private Game Reserve for 3 nights and then at Shumbalala for 3 nights…. It was out of this world! The perfect way to start married life together!
After agonizing over where to go for my honeymoon, I thought there must be lots of people like me, so I thought I would list a few of my absolute favourite and most romantic places - just in case they help anyone else with one of their biggest decision!
1. South African Safari
I am not biased or anything, but I think that this is one of the most romantic ways to start life together. Surrounded by the beautiful African bushveld, you are up close with nature and the wonder of the world around you. There is something so special about those early mornings on the landrover cuddling up under the blankets, watching the Wild African game all around, waiting for the sun to slowly rise over the horizon and splash the savannah in a million colours, the lavish bush breakfasts, the afternoon siestas, the wind in your hair as you drive along bumpy bush roads in search of the Big Five, sundowners in a truly picturesque spot, the romantic candle-lit dinners and then the sheer exhaustion at the end of the day from simply indulging and enjoying the outdoors. There are many top private game reserves to choose from that all offer a true taste of heaven!
2. Zambia
If you, like me, don’t like being predictable and prefer a more unusual honeymoon destination then Zambia is a great option! It has some of Africa’s wildest - and most beautiful and remote - national parks, plus it has the jaw-dropping natural wonder of the world Victoria Falls! If the swirling mists and thundering avalanche of water fail to get your pulse racing, then there is a long list of adventure and wildlife activities with luxurious riverside lodges adding a romantic candlelit touch to your perfect Zambia honeymoon. Combine this with the more tranquil side of life at the Lower Zambezi National Park which offers some serious game viewing from vehicle, boat, canoe and by foot. One of my favourite places in Zambia is the Islands Of Siankaba Lodge. This small classic lodge is set upstream of the Victoria Falls on the Zambian side (between Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park), built on two densely-forested sand islands. There are 7 secluded chalets in the tree canopies, linked by footbridges, offering private balconies over the river. The uniquely positioned "Honeymoon" Suite has stunning views of the morning sun rising over the Zambezi River, giving a secluded and romantic experience and incorporates a private dining area overlooking the river. Each day you too can wake up and see “Scenes so lovely, they must have been gazed on by angels in their flight” Dr David Livingstone.
3. Mauritius
This might be a “tried and tested” honeymoon destination, but it is still an incredibly romantic option. This old colonial spice and sugar island delivers the most perfect honeymoons time and time again. Imagine a tropical island honeymoon where you can lay back under a palm-frond beach umbrella on an endless stretch of sandy beach and have your cocktail refilled by lifting little more than a finger. Beautiful and stylish five star hotels combined with outstanding service and pure white sandy beaches washed by turquoise ocean – this is a destination which is perfect throughout the year! The Mauritians are famous for their warm, friendly smiles and "no problem” attitude, so you can be sure that you will be pampered by the staff at your romantic accommodation. Nothing is too much trouble, from bringing you cocktails on the beach to organising private, candlelit dinners on the edge of the ocean. From running you a lavish bubble bath decorated with rose petals to providing top-notch spa treatments inspired by the melting pot of exotic cultures that have shaped the Island of Mauritius - Indian, Chinese, French and African. Although it is a beach destination with great watersports such as snorkelling, waterskiing, windsurfing, there is still plenty do on the Island including a sundowner catamaran cruise, great bargaining opportunities in the Port Louis markets and fascinating Hindu temples to explore in the small villages in the centre of the island or just wander around the ever-popular Pamplemousses Gardens Mauritius is home to some of the world''s most famous hotels such as The Oberoi, Le Touessrok and Constance Le Prince Maurice to name couple. This stunning island is studded with properties offering honeymoon discounts – some even let the bride stay free (The Residence for example). If you wanted to try something different, you could combine your perfect Mauritius Honeymoon with a few nights on a fantastic South African safari.
4. Mozambique Islands
Mozambique is one of Africa’s undiscovered jewels! It is a melting pot of cultures and exotic influences, from early North African and Arab traders to Portuguese colonists who have all left their mark. A splendid array of flora and fauna is interspersed with traditional villages and flanked by an amazing coral fringed coastline of translucent tropical waters. The whole idea of a Honeymoon in Mozambique can be summed up into one glorious thought - sunny skies, white beaches and exotic marine life. This is the idyllic place to relax and enjoy yourself. Spend your days lazing on the white sandy beaches, or snorkelling through the fantastic coral reefs or enjoy the water sports available, then indulge in romantic evenings watching the sunset before dining on Mozambique’s speciality – Prawns! One of my favourite places in the Mozambique archipelago is Marlin Lodge, situated on Benguerua Island, the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago. This unspoilt area offers some of the finest scuba diving sites and some of the best deep-sea fishing in the world. The lodge has 17 individual chalets connected by elevated walkways, their own verandah and a wooden walkway leading down to the beach directly in front of each chalet. Balmy evenings, endless seafood and personal attention all add to this special holiday making it a once in a lifetime honeymoon. However, if you need a bit more excitement in your life then try combing Pemba with the Quirimbas archipelago. Learn the laid back way of the Mozambique people by exploring the marketplace in Pemba, where you can stimulate your senses with an array of spices, delicious seafood and cashew nuts. Spend a night or two here before hopping over to the Quirimbas, another amazing place to explore the fantastic coastal reefs of Mozambique.
5. Zanzibar
For a magical honeymoon that combines romance and luxury as well as an exciting location with a history going back centuries, Zanzibar has it all. This stunning island archipelago is situated in the tranquil Indian Ocean, off the Tanzanian coast. The famed natural beauty of Zanzibar is complimented by the hypnotic appeal of the old quarter, Stone Town. Old stone buildings line the cobbled streets, there is an air of mystery and exotic energy that run down the winding roads, through the old alleyways, finally spilling out onto the long open beaches. Known as “The Spice Islands”, there is an aroma of pizzazz that covers the whole island. Warm and humid all year round it is important to find the best time to visit Zanzibar to avoid the rainy months around April. Spend your Zanzibar honeymoon days lying on the beach, scuba dive or snorkel in colourful turquoise waters and then set out on any number of exciting activities. Dhow cruises, swimming with dolphins, cultural visits to ancient sultan palaces and walks through spice forests. Don’t forget the magically romantic candlelit dinners and the exotically tempting food to dine on! A honeymoon in Zanzibar will sate every sense and seduce even the most sensible of romantics. This is a beautiful island, but it is its exotic style rather than its picture perfect style that will appeal.
I have listed my favourite places that I think would make perfect honeymoon destinations. I would love to know, where is your ideal
honeymoon destination?
If you want any more ideas, or just to chat, then contact African Sands