Romantic Safari: Top 12 Irresistible Getaways

Whether you’re commemorating an anniversary or going on your honeymoon, Africa has several alluring options, including romantic safari camps in the bush, beach villas and even a vineyard in the Cape Winelands. Here are the dreamiest romantic getaways in Africa, curated by the safari experts here at AAC.

1) La Residence – Cape Winelands

2) Amalinda Lodge – Matobo Hills NP

3) Savanna Lodge – Sabi Sands

Another superb honeymoon safari lodge in the Sabi Sands is Savanna Lodge. Tantalizingly, it offers one partner a 50% discount on their stay and Big 5 game viewing. For newlyweds seeking a safari lodge with a more “Classic Africa” aesthetic, the tented suites here are a stellar choice!

But don’t just take it from us – our honeymooners and clients celebrating their anniversary have been raving about this lodge! For example, Dave & Drew Brophy had this to say about honeymooning at Savanna Lodge:

“Our stay at Savanna Lodge was definitely our most enjoyable part of the trip.  Neil (our driver) was fantastic.  Between him and the other guests we were paired with, we had an absolute blast!  The staff and all the special touches (dinners, baths, dessert wine, etc.) were all very much appreciated and made each night so incredibly special!  We’ve talked up the safari and Savanna lodge specifically to all of our friends and family!  We want to go back!”

4) Singita Sabora Tented Camp – Serengeti

5) Mara Nyika – Maasai Mara

Across the Kenyan border is another superb anniversary destination: Mara Nyika, the newest luxury camp in the Maasai Mara vicinity. After a day of watching a river-crossing in the reserve or viewing the resident wildlife within the exclusive Naboisho Conservancy, couples return to a stylish, exclusive camp nestled under umbrella thorn trees. And with only 5 tents, the staff at this intimate camp will surely keep the two of you pampered!

6) Mashatu Euphorbia – Mashatu Game Reserve

For our active adventurers, Mashatu Euphorbia is a must for your romantic safari! After days spent game viewing walking, visiting a photographic hide, biking or even horseback riding, couples can then enjoy their own spacious villa.

7) Bisate Lodge – Volcanoes N.P.

A view of Bisoke Volcano from Bisate Lodge

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s most special wildlife experiences. What better way to celebrate you and your partner’s special occasion than by staying at Bisate Lodge. The 9 thatched suites luxuriously exhibit Rwanda’s cultural fabric through architecture (the suites are shaped like Rwandan baskets) and the use of furniture and decor with geometric designs. In between treks, couples can enjoy the lodge’s superb cuisine and massages. And with new dayroom facilities, guests can go straight from their final gorilla trek to Kigali airport back home.

8) Tswalu The Motse – Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Couples that value an exclusive and unique safari experience should consider Tswalu The Motse in South Africa’s Tswalu Kalahari Reserve. To give you an idea of this reserve’s exclusivity, only 28 guests, split between two lodges, are allowed at a time in a 275,000 acre reserve. The orange Kalahari sands and fiery sunsets also make for very romantic sundowners!

AAC has had several clients celebrating anniversaries who’ve stayed at The Motse. Here’s what Peter and Mary Ellen Cvek had to say about their time there:

“Tswalu was stupendous. Our guide, Kali, and tracker, Jonas, were incredible. We were the only vehicle in the section of the reserve with the two male lions and the two prides. Our guides single-handedly tracked two lions. Although it took a few hours, it was well worth seeing them in action. We saw numerous cheetah, rhino and habituated meerkats, as well as the pangolin and aardvark. The high point of our time there was spending time with the pack of African wild dogs and their 12 young pups. In addition to the family fun, we finally managed to follow the dogs on a very successful hunt. All we can say is thanks again for an amazing safari and a memorable 25th wedding anniversary.”

9) Kwara Camp – Okavango Delta

A romantic safari to the Okavango Delta is a great idea, and by staying at Kwara Camp, a reasonably priced idea as well! Couples are treated to big, airy canvas tents built on elevated wooden platforms. Another bonus: the minimum age for guests is 18 years. Even more good news: thanks to special AAC pricing, couples save more than 25% for a 3-night stay during the Green Season (mid-November to March)!

10) Villa Santorini – Mozambique

Last but not least, AAC’s choice for a romantic beach stay: Villa Santorini, located in Vilanculos, Mozambique. This multi-tiered property features only 5 suites, surrounded by vegetation and along its own stretch of private beach. Dining is done either on the oceanfront deck overlooking the Indian Ocean or in a secluded courtyard. If sun-bathing is not the only activity you’re interested in, couples can also kayak, snorkel and scuba dive, paddle board, go deep sea fishing, horseback riding, and receive rejuvenating spa treatments. With scheduled flights between Kruger and Vilanculos, a safari-beach combo is very feasible. And for our honeymooners, be sure to take note of the 25% discount!