A honeymoon is a vacation taken by newlyweds immediately after their wedding, to celebrate their marriage. Today, honeymoons are often celebrated in destinations considered exotic or romantic.
Where To Honeymoon In South Africa
Below are best Honeymoon destinations that prove South Africa truly is for lovers:
Beach
Thonga Beach Lodge, Mabibi, KwaZulu-Natal
Set in a pristine dune forest along KZN’s Maputaland coast, this luxurious lodge with a touch of rustic charm offers the perfect blend of bush and beach.
If you’re a particularly eco-conscious couple, this spot is sure to get your heart beating double time – the thatched bush suites were constructed to ensure minimal impact on the environment and the lodge plays an important role in the conservation of endangered leatherback turtles that nest on the nearby beaches.
Umngazi River Resort, Wild Coast Eastern Cape
With its off-the-beaten track location, stunning views, award-winning spa, unspoilt beaches and luxurious accommodation, it’s no surprise that Umngazi has made a name for itself as one of South Africa’s premier honeymoon destinations.
Newlyweds can choose between staying in one of their three single-storey honeymoon bungalows or in the spacious double storey honeymoon suite.
Arniston Hotel, Western Cape
Situated in a secluded corner of the coastal Overberg, the charming white-washed village of Arniston is nothing short of a romantic dream come true. The hotel is stylish and unassuming with a prime location, offering spectacular views over the bay.
There are a variety of rooms to choose from, but honeymooners deserve to spoil themselves to the spacious VIP Suite with its mezzanine-level bedroom and en-suite bathroom and FOUR balconies.
Forest Bird Lodge, Magoebaskloof, Limpopo
Whisk your loved one away to a wonder world of tall indigenous trees, bubbling streams, waterfalls and birdsong at Forest Bird Lodge.
The property offers a choice of two accommodation types – the Log Cabin or the Log Cottage. Both timber structures are located in the middle of the forest and have two bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms.
More info: Forest Bird Lodge website
A South Africa Honeymoon Guide for Adventure and Wildlife
A South Africa honeymoon is a dream for adventure-seeking couples. Honeymooners will enjoy its unique boutique hotels and resorts, while wildlife enthusiasts can boast about seeing lions and cheetahs up close during a game drive.
For culture and fine dining, Cape Town and the V&A Waterfront have plenty of posh and trendy restaurants, where newlyweds will be able to sample African wine and delicious fare.
South Africa is one of the world’s most gorgeous and comprehensive honeymoon destinations. But, it’s going to take a while to get there.
The flight from New York to Johannesburg is 15 hours non-stop. People traveling from San Francisco or Houston are looking at a 22 to 30-hour trek with at least one layover. When the world safely reopens, a South African getaway is a memorable adventure.
The Best Times of Year to Go on a South Africa Honeymoon for Good Weather
South Africa is a pleasant destination across all four seasons, but it’s also a large country with regional climates.
The best time to visit will depend on what tops your honeymoon itinerary. If spotting big game on a safari honeymoon is important to you, opt for May through September as it’s cooler, drier and less rainy.
Things to Do During a South Africa Honeymoon
A South Africa honeymoon will give you a chance to explore everything from history to the beach and safari. Each stop along your honeymoon itinerary will be brimming with unique charm.
Some properties offer unique travel and honeymoon packages, so check with your concierge or agent for the best itinerary.
Take a Safari in Kruger National Park
There is no separation between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve, an African safari destination with wild natural beauty and modern luxury.
Animals can roam freely between the two, upping your chances of spotting lions and rhinos, regardless of where the 4×4 and tour guide will take you.
Explore Johannesburg
South Africa’s largest city is a must-stop for couples who appreciate history and value activism. Nelson Mandela once called Johannesburg home, and guests can visit his former residence.
Now known as The Nelson Mandela National Museum, it offers a look at his life and impact on the fight against Apartheid. Other top spots to visit include The Apartheid Museum and Hector Pieterson Museum.
Visit Cape Town
There’s no shortage of things to do in Cape Town, the famous resort city on South Africa’s southwest coast. It sits beneath the 3,558-foot, flat-peaked Table Mountain. The town offers both Atlantic and Indian Ocean beaches. FYI: The Atlantic ones are cold year-round.
Raise a Glass in the Western Cape Winelands
The finest African wines are grown and produced in Western Cape Winelands. It’s home to favorite regions like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
Stellenbosch is larger and has a college-town feel at times, whereas Franschhoek is walkable and exudes a small-village charm.
Take in the Sights in the Eastern Cape
Eastern Cape is a hidden gem with fewer tourists than its Western counterpart. It’s full of fun activities, though.
Ride the waves at Jeffrey’s Bay or visit Addo Elephant National Park. You can get to Eastern Cape from Western Cape by taking the road trip of a lifetime along The Garden Route.
Best Hotels and Resorts in South Africa for a Honeymoon
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa is in the well-off Cape Town suburb of Camp’s Bay. The five-star boutique hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and remains a short distance from Table Mountain and V&A Waterfront.
Beach-loving couples will also love how close it is to the top waterfronts in Camp’s Bay. The hotel itself features 70 country-chic rooms, a spa and swimming pools.
Plettenberg Hotel
An elegant spot located on the Garden Route, Plettenberg Hotel is ideal for honeymooners who want to explore the golden-sand beaches of the Indian Ocean and retreat to five-star accommodations.
The cuisine at the SeaFood is top-notch, as are the 35 tastefully decorated rooms, many of which have waterfront vistas.
Teniqua Treetops
Live your childhood dreams by staying in a rustic-chic, eco-friendly treehouse at the base of the Outeniqua Mountains in Sedgefield. Of course, Teniqua Treetops’ treehouses aren’t exactly the same as your childhood hangout.
They feature some luxe adult twists, like living and dining areas and running water. The lush forest surroundings feel like something out of a whimsical dream.
Tintswalo Safari Lodge
Tintswalo Safari Lodge is more of an experience than a hotel. The spot shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park and remains on the breathtaking Manyeleti Private Game Reserve.
Guests can see wildlife from the safari lodge itself while taking in the rustic wooden interior and period-style furniture.
Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch
Johannesburg Marriott Hotel is perfect for couples looking to enjoy digs with modern luxury and easy access to the bustling South African city.
Rooms include comfy beds and large flat-screen TVs. The hotel is within walking distance of local boutiques, shops and spots to dine al fresco.
Is South Africa good for honeymoon?
South Africa is well known for its rich wildlife reserve, most amazing cities, enchanting natural beauty, most romantic beaches and world-class luxury hotels making it one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world.
How do you plan a honeymoon in South Africa?
Ultimate South Africa Itinerary For 2 Weeks Overview
Day 1: Fly to Johannesburg.
Days 2-3: Johannesburg.
Days 4-8: Safari at Timbavati Game Reserve.
Days 9-13: Cape Town, Winelands, and other day trips.
Day 14: Head home.
How long should your honeymoon be?
The average honeymoon lasts between 7 to 10 days. While some newlyweds may decide to extend their honeymoon to two weeks and beyond, others might decide to skip their honeymoon celebration altogether. It all depends on the couple’s vacation time, budget, and destination.