How to plan the perfect safari honeymoon

Credit: Serena Mivumo River Lodge

Tanzania

The well-known Northern Circuit, which includes the famous Serengeti, is well worth visiting, but the Southern Circuit is not publicised so much, and as a result, feels a little more exclusive. Nyerere National Park is a World Heritage Site and the largest game reserve in Africa. It is four times the size of the Serengeti and a perfect place to spot lions, hippos, critically endangered black rhinos, and wild dogs and is home to the largest concentration of elephants in the world.

Pick of Where to Stay: Serena Mivumo River Lodge Described as “true tranquility in the wild,” this small lodge is based in the heart of the Nyerere National Park in a stunning location on the banks of the Rufiji River with views over Stiegler’s Gorge. The lodge offers activities to suit everyone, including game drives, bird watching, soaking in hot springs, or simply relaxing and enjoying a meal in the bush.

Best time to visit:  June – October

Credit: Mantis Founders Lodge

South Africa

A country with so much to offer. The safari scene gives you a choice between national parks, like Kruger, where you can see the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and buffaloes) as well as cheetahs, giraffes, wild dogs and hundreds of bird species. Alternatively, there are lots of private reserves that provide exclusive guided safaris.

Pick of Where to Stay: Founders Lodge. Perfectly situated in the malaria-free East Cape, the lodge stands in its own private game reserve and is also adjacent to the famous Shamwari Private Game Reserve. It offers comfortable, luxury accommodation and even has a private honeymoon pod raised up high with stunning views over the valley. During your stay you will be treated to a wide range of activities that will give you some extraordinary experiences and many memorable wildlife encounters.

Best time to visit: May – August

Credit: Munchje Safari Lodge

Botswana

The water-based safaris in the Okavango Delta provide exclusivity and high-quality accommodation without compromising on the wildlife or landscape. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the reed-lined waterways on a mokoro, which is a traditional canoe. It is possible to combine the Okavango Delta with a stay in Chobe National Park so you get a good mix of water- and land-based safaris.

Pick of where to stay: Jao Camp. Jao is situated on a remote island in the heart of the Okavango Delta, surrounded by riverine forests and floodplains, and is a haven for wildlife. Built into tall trees, this quintessential Delta camp has been created using recycled and natural materials. Its facilities include a library, spa, gym, and a well-stocked wine cellar! Activities include boating and mokoro rides, seasonal catch-and-release fishing, game drives, full-day excursions and sleep-outs in the Star Bed. 

Munchje Safari Lodge: Independently owned and run, this friendly lodge offers 12 thatched private cottages. It is 45 minutes from Kasane airport and just two hours from Victoria Falls. Situated high on an escarpment on the western side of Chobe National Park, the lodge has wonderful views over the Chobe River and the seasonal floodplains. 

There are five permanent guides who are experts on animals and birds. Their safari activities are carefully arranged to coincide with the best times to see the wildlife, and these include game drives, boat trips, and canoe trips. 

Best time to visit: June - October

Credit: Puku Ridge - @M.van_.Oosten

Zambia

Zambia is known for its walking safaris, and South Luangwa is particularly famous for them. They can be anything from a gentle morning stroll to spending several days hiking between camps. Zambia’s national parks are protected and only allow visitors in for private use, which means they aren’t overrun with busloads of visitors.

Pick of where to stay: Puku Ridge. Newly renovated, this South Luangwa safari lodge blends style and comfort seamlessly with nature. Puku Ridge is wilderness, refined – from the elegant architectural lines to the thoughtfully outfitted game-viewing vehicles and the perfectly positioned photographic hide in front of the camp’s private watering hole.

Located well inside the incredible South Luangwa National Park, the lodge has an outlook onto a private floodplain and watering hole that attracts a wide variety of animals. It even hasitss own perfectly positioned hide right in front of it. 

Guests staying at Puku Ridge can explore the valley on foot and will encounter some special and rare African animals, including wild dogs. This camp effortlessly combines the wild experience with luxury – a Zambian safari that ticks all the boxes!

Best time to visit: June - November

Credit: @NRay91

Rwanda

Trekking to try and spot mountain gorillas. Not your typical or most relaxing safari, it definitely isn’t for the faint-hearted, but it gives you the unique opportunity to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat. A true once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Pick of where to stay: One&Only Gorillas Nest. Surrounded by swaying eucalyptus trees, this hotel is situated on the edge of Volcanoes National Park. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 340 mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and 300 bird species. The hotel organises gorilla treks led by their expert guides and headed up by the famous Francois Bigirimana, who has worked with gorillas since 1982. At the end of a busy day, you will be treated to delicious dishes made from fresh, seasonal produce, much of which is grown on site. 

Accommodation is in a collection of lodges and suites, all with views of the volcano. Amenities include fabulous nature trails, a spa, a fitness centre and the Nest Bar, the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail at the end of the day.

Best time to visit: June to September

Credit: Victoria Falls - @Jurgen_Bierlein

Add-on Suggestions

For a few days by a beach before or after your safari experience, Mauritius or Zanzibar are two good options. They are easy to get to and great places to unwind and relax.

Pick of Where to Stay:

Mauritius: The LUX* Grand Gaube. This luxury retro-chic tropical resort is on the North coast of the island on Grande Gaude, tucked away on a peninsula bordering two beautiful coves. It is known for its focus on wellness and culinary gems, which include a Peruvian restaurant, an over-water Turkish restaurant, and a Rum Treehouse!

Zanzibar: Zuri Zanzibar Hotel & Resort. This lovely hotel is situated on a stunning pristine beach on the northwestern shores of Unguja, which is just 50 km from the international airport at Stone Town. It's perfect for couples wanting a bit of an adventure off the beaten track. There is a good mix of accommodation that is hidden in a lovely tropical garden just a short stroll away from the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean.

Whether you want to slow down and relax or be active and explore the island, experience the culture, and sample the exotic cuisine, there are lots of activities on offer to cater to everyone.

Other ideas for an add-on include hiking up Mount Kilimanjaro – perfect for those who enjoy being active – or spending time at the spectacular Victoria Falls. 

There are so many options to explore! For more ideas and to discuss your plans, contact travel specialist Sarah Doe at The Honeymoon Fixer, either via email at sarah@thehoneymoonfixer.com or telephone 07830 142 903.