Love is in the air – and nowhere more so than Africa. Once the preserve of adventurers and explorers, Africa is now celebrated for its outstanding natural beauty and stunning destinations. It all adds up to the perfect recipe for romance, so here is our list of the top 10 African honeymoons destinations:
1. Serengeti, Tanzania
There are no limits to love, and seemingly no end to the vast plains of northern Tanzania. Thrill to the thundering hooves of the migration, picnic beneath a spreading acacia tree and fall asleep in your luxury safari tent while Maasai warriors stand guard. Glide gently over the magnificent landscapes in a hot air balloon before gently descending for a champagne breakfast.
2. North Island, Seychelles
Spacious, luxuriously appointed villas, expansive beaches of powdery white sand and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean provide the ideal honeymoon setting. Privacy and exclusivity are the watchwords here – you will feel as though you have your own private island. Each day is designed according to your whims, and the staff have an uncanny ability to anticipate your every need.
3. Victoria Falls, Zambia
The Victoria Falls Hotel is one of Africa’s grand old hotels and retains an authentic atmosphere of yesteryear. Be lulled to sleep by the hypnotic roar of water pouring over Victoria Falls, and wake to breakfast served in a lush garden within view of the clouds of spray that hang over the gorge. You can even enjoy the thrill of jumping off the edge of the Falls with your significant other in a tandem gorge swing.
4. Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech is a delight for all the senses, and one of the most fascinating places on earth to lose yourself in the moment. Each day promises to delight and intrigue, from the dawn call to prayer to a rooftop sunset cocktail. Explore the Djemaa el-Fna open-air market and the Dyers’ Souk, then take time out in the green cacti garden of the Jardin Majorelle. Marrakech will linger long in your memories.
5. Segera Retreat, Kenya
Picture yourself as Redford and Streep with an “Out Of Africa” experience at this Kenyan ranch-style lodge. Segera’s emphasis on holistic wellbeing is expressed in the delicious organic food, spa and yoga experiences. Helicopter excursions reach otherworldly mountain landscapes while back on terra firma, pay homage to the most romantic African film ever by visiting G-AAMY, the yellow biplane from the movie’s memorable flying sequences.
6. Cape Winelands, South Africa
Dramatic mountains frame the fertile valleys of the Cape Winelands. Undulating landscapes and a perfect climate lie behind the area’s long history of world-class winemaking, and today you can enjoy mouthwatering meals washed down with some of the finest wines you will ever taste. And if you are still torn between, say, Napa or South Africa, remember which winelands have Cape Town on their doorstep!
7. Zanzibar, Tanzania
Honeymoon on this legendary Spice Island to explore the vibrant and mysterious streets of the capital Stone Town. Fragrant markets and carved wooden doors invite investigation. Set sail on a traditional dhow and trail your fingers in the ocean with the trade winds at your back. Long swathes of beach complete the dazzling scene. Not to mention, Zanzibar was also the birthplace of legendary Queen frontman Freddie Mercury, who wrote: “A Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”
8. Sossusvlei, Namibia
Home to the world’s tallest sand dunes, the Namib desert glows with changing shadows and colors as each day begins and ends. Marvel at the special magic of dawn and dusk as the dunes awaken and slumber with the rising or setting sun. Be mesmerized by the sinuous shapes of the dunes, or take a tumble together and roll down a sandy slope – your inner child will love you for it!
9. Ibo Island, Mozambique
Stay in a restored Swahili mansion with clouds of pink bougainvillea at the windows, sail to a sandbank for a champagne cocktail, and dive coral reefs with abundant marine life. Ibo Island, in the Quirimbas Archipelago, is a magical honeymoon destination with majestic ruins, dazzling white beaches, and encounters with ancient cultures – the perfect way to start your life together.
10. Mumbo Island, Lake Malawi
This is a very different kind of island, but just as romantic. A jumble of smooth gray boulders crowned with trees and a tiny lodge, Mumbo Island is surrounded not by saltwater but by the clear fresh waters of Lake Malawi. Head out onto the lake in a kayak made for two, or grab snorkels and fins and dive in to look for cheerfully colored cichlid fish, before retiring in a hammock to siesta.