Romantic Safari: Top 15 Getaways

Whether you’re going on your honeymoon or commemorating an anniversary, Africa has some enticing options for a romantic safari. From intimate safari camps in the bush, to decadent beach villas and even a vineyard in the Cape Winelands, here are the dreamiest getaways in Africa, curated by the safari experts here at AAC.

1) Babylonstoren (Fynbos Cottages) – Cape Winelands

Escape to the quiet as you immerse yourself in the true beauty of the natural plant habitat of the Western Cape with a stay at Babylonstoren (Fynbos Cottages).  Nestled in a private, peaceful corner of the estate, the luxurious Cape Dutch style open-plan cottages adjoin vineyards and orchards and are designed for relaxation and intimacy, offering breathtaking views of the fynbos and mountains. Couples can enjoy leisurely walks through the extensive gardens, indulgent spa treatments, and dinners featuring fresh, farm-to-table ingredients.

Have a look at this other lodge in the Cape Winelands Delaire Graff or consider pairing your stay with a safari on a private game reserve in the Kruger in our 8-Day Honeymoon Romance Package to South Africa.

“We had an amazing trip of a lifetime and cannot thank you enough for preparing the perfect itinerary for us! Babylonstoren was absolutely sublime!” Ann and Randy Lee.

2) Amalinda Lodge – Matobo Hills NP

Every relationship is unique, so why not celebrate yours at the undeniably unique Amalinda Lodge. Built among granite kopjes within Zimbabwe’s Matobo Hills National Park, each of the 9 rock and thatch suites conform to the natural formations of the rocks. Therefore, each suite configuration is unique. Each suite is also individually decorated  with hand-crafted furniture and romantically draped beds. Consider adding a visit here to one of our many Southern Africa itineraries.

Our client Patricia Little had this to say about her visit to Amalinda back in August:

“On to Amalinda — the highlight of my trip. I want to go back! You gave me such good advice about staying here and staying longer. I loved every bit of it. My guide Brightwell and I had a blast, climbing over the hills, seeing rhino on a walk (OMG!), spending quiet times with the ancestors as we explored the San rock paintings, visiting villagers and having an impromptu lesson in thatch cutting from some highly-amused women. Phil, Sharon and the team were super responsive. I am all ready to go back in January and already planning my next trip!”

Check out Amalinda Collection Star Bed from Khulu Bush Camp/Sable Valley near Hwange!

3) Savanna Lodge – Sabi Sands

If we had to choose one honeymoon safari lodge in the Sabi Sands, it would be Savanna Lodge. Tantalizingly, it offers one partner a 50% discount on their stay and Big 5 game viewing. The lodge has an undeniable “Classic Africa” aesthetic. With a recent refurbishment, each of the 9 tented suites have a plunge pool and Victorian bathtub. Our 8 Day Romance Package combines this lodge with a visit to Cape Town and the nearby Cape Winelands. 

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 their honeymoon:

“Our stay at Savanna Lodge was definitely our most enjoyable part of the trip.  Neil (our guide) 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!”

Check out Savana Lodge’s New Sister Camp – Dulini Tumelo!

4) Singita Sabora Tented Camp – Serengeti

Simply put, Singita Sabora Tented Camp is the pinnacle of contemporary luxury. The nine lavish tented suites have a light aesthetic and enough amenities to satisfy anyone. These include air-conditioning, a private meditation deck, indoor and outdoor shower, bathtub, an outdoor sala with daybeds, a private fitness area and dining space. In additon, a spa and tennis courts are available.

Located in the ultra-exclusive Grumeti Reserve bordering the Serengeti, this area is not only a great place to see the Great Migration, but has superb year-round game viewing. Besides game drives and guided walks, guests can also arrange hot-air balloon rides, offering views as unforgettable as the occasion you’re celebrating! To learn more about the Grumeti, read our latest Stay Longer, Stay Remoter post. Allow us to customize your safari adventure to include this spectacular camp.

“I had the opportunity to stay at Singita Sabora Tented Camp in Tanzania’s Grumeti Reserve. On the less than hour transfer from the airstrip to Sabora we drove past a buffalo kill with two lions on it. Later we came back to the kill and there were 4 lionesses and six cubs on the kill. There are approximately 200 lion on the Grumeti Reserve, making cheetah and leopard sightings more challenging. Lots of banded mongoose to keep you entertained! The Singita Sabora Tented camp is absolutely gorgeous. I was met by Fabio and Barb, the couple that is managing the camp. Beforehand they managed Greystoke for 5 years. The 10 tents are air-conditioned and heated, and some of the most luxurious that I have ever seen – they have thought of everything! Mark Nolting”

Check out Singita Sabora’s New Sister Camp – Singita Milele!

5) Kuria Hills – Serengeti

Surrounded by large granite boulders and kopjes, Kuria Hills, located in the Wogakuria Hills of the Northern Serengeti is the perfect choice for a romantic getaway.  Each of the 15 spacious tented suites, complete with private decks and plunge pools, are ideally placed amongst the giant boulders to offer breathtaking panoramic views in a secluded setting. In between game activities, of which the lodge is within the main corridor of the wildebeest migration, couples can enjoy candlelit dinners under the stars and rejuvenating spa treatments. Kuria Hills is the ultimate blend of romance, tranquillity, and adventure, making it an unforgettable destination.

Have a look at these other Lemala properties – Mpingo Ridge Lodge in Tarangire and Osonjoi Lodge in the Ngorongoro Conservation area.

“The Lemala guides, Barnabas, Mary, and Jumanne, were just as good and engaging, they even managed to find a cheetah for Caroline on our last day.  The staff at Kuria Hills was wonderful, the birthday party they threw for Caroline is one none of us will ever forget…”

Sandra Woodell Cooley

6) Mara Nyika – Maasai Mara

Across the Kenyan border is another superb anniversary destination: Mara Nyika, one of the newest luxury camps in the Maasai Mara. 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! Worth noting: honeymooners and couples celebrating a 40 or older wedding anniversary receive 25% off accommodation costs. Speaking of exclusive, this romantic camp is featured in our 8-Day Kenya Exclusive Locations Safari.

To hear a client’s perspective, Robin Fleck and her husband had this to say about their romantic safari to Mara Nyika in May:

“What a first-class operation! The ambiance at Mara Nyika creates such a special, authentic safari experience. No detail is overlooked. From the leather stools utilized for bush breakfasts and sundowners, to the exotic, luxurious furnishings in the “tents”, to the bath-tubs with a view, we were in awe of our surroundings. The staff could not be more welcoming and kind. The dining experience includes beautifully-presented, delicious cuisine in gorgeous settings that change, meal by meal, evening by evening. If your idea of paradise, like mine, includes lots of lanterns flickering in the dark, as you sip sparkling wine at a candle-lit table set with beautiful china and silver (being waited on as if you were royalty), and listening to lions calling in the black distance, this camp is the place for you!”

Check out Mara Nyika’s New Sister Camp – Mara Toto Tree Camp!

7) 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 and stylish villa. Adventure safaris don’t need to be rustic, as the indoor-outdoor showers, bathtub, expansive deck and private plunge pool can attest! It just so happens that our 10-Day Active Wildlife Safari of Southern Africa combines the exciting activities available at Mashatu with the wildlife-rich MalaMala Game Reserve.

Two of our more adventurous clients, David and Carolyn Levin, had this to say about their safari in the Mashatu Game Reserve:

“David and I cannot thank you enough for our perfect Africa trip! We especially loved Mashatu, which felt very special to us. Daniel, our guide, was just wonderful – great driving, tracking, explaining, keeping us warm and comfortable, and busy, etc. The variety of animals we saw was astounding. We did spend time in the elephant hide, which we both loved. Mashatu will always have a special place in my heart, you know?”

Check out Mashatu Euphorbia’s New Sister Camp – Kolokolo Safari Home!

8) Bisate Lodge – Volcanoes NP

Gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is one of Africa’s most special wildlife experiences. Therefore, 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.

Miles Nolting visited Bisate Lodge while on safari in Rwanda – in his opinion, it’s one of the most spectacular lodges he’s ever been to! The great thing about gorilla trekking in Rwanda is that it combines very seamlessly with safaris in other countries, and especially in East Africa. So while you take a look at our 4 Day Gorilla Trekking Extension in Rwanda, start dreaming about the rest of your romantic safari itinerary!

9) Tswalu The Motse – Tswalu Kalahari Reserve

Couples that value an exclusive and unique safari experience should consider the luxurious Tswalu The Motse. To give you an idea of the Tswalu Kalahari Reserve’s exclusivity, only 28 guests are allowed at a time in this 275,000 acre reserve. The orange Kalahari sands and fiery sunsets also make for very romantic sundowners! An added romantic element: honeymooners that stay 4 nights get 50% off their last night. In addition, they get some complimentary perks, including a sleepout in the “Malori Starbed”, private wine tasting, massages, champagne and a private in-suite dinner. Our 12-Day “Diamond Skies’ Safari to South Africa is perfect to take advantage of this great offer!

To get a sense of the safari experience here, take a look at safari consultant Elena Theodosiou’s trip. Or you can read an excerpt of the glowing review David & Katrina McIntyre gave us:

“This is our third trip to Africa. But after 5 nights at Tswalu The Motse, this is the first time we’ve felt compelled to write a letter such as this. Our guide OB was incredible, but it was the subtle things and just sheer thoughtfulness that set him apart. The Kleinjan restaurant was a combination of theater, fine food and wine, and incredible service. It was like nothing we’ve seen in our travels. The entire staff not only excels in their profession, but brings an unending happiness and energy to everything they say and do. There was deep thoughtfulness in everything we saw, touched and experienced. We take home with us a tiny glass vial of red Kalahari sand that was thoughtfully gifted to us by the Tswalu team.”

Check out Tswalu The Motse’s New Sister Camp – Loapi Tented Camp!

10) Kwando 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)! Take a look at your potential savings with our 10-Day Botswana Kwando Wing Safari.

Though Kwara offers day and night game drives, the focus is water activities, like mokoros (dugout canoes) or motor boating. Imagine watching an elephant comes down to the river to drink right in front of you!

“It was an amazing trip! Botswana was fantastic. It was the best game viewing we have had. So many cats! Saw a leopard take down a baby impala. Quite a sight. Lots of lions and cheetahs, as well as elephants, giraffes, hippos etc. The accommodations were wonderful. When we got to Kwara and saw our “tent”, it was amazing. Everyone we talked to there were amazed with the tents. Some said it was like Four Seasons in the middle of nowhere. The staff was so friendly and helpful. And, the guides were great at finding the game and explaining it all to us… I don’t think the entire trip could have been any better than it was. And, I’m not surprised. Every safari you have arranged for us has been wonderful. Thanks so much for a trip of a lifetime. Barry and Candy Spector”

Check out Kwando Kwara’s New Sister Camp – 4 Rivers!

11) Santorini – Mozambique

An idyllic paradise escape, Santorini Mozambique is located along a pristine coastline north of the small coastal village of Vilanculos.  Offering five spacious suites, couples can relax and take in the breathtaking ocean views from their private patios, the ideal place to watch the sunset after a day of ultimate relaxation.  Couples can take advantage of the honeymoon special, a 50% discount on accommodation for one partner, and experience this romantic destination.

Have a look at these other beach lodges in the area: &Beyond’s Lodge at Benguerra Island & Azura Benguerra.

“Rounding out the trip at Santorini was absolutely lovely. It’s so peaceful and the staff really take care of you there. It was the perfect relaxing end to the trip of a lifetime.”

Renee & Tommy Daly

12) Laba Fanjove – Zanzibar

The private island of Fanjove is the smallest of six islands in the Songo Songo Archipelago.  With white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise water you will be hard pressed to find a more relaxing environment in which to celebrate a honeymoon or special anniversary.  With 18 villas discreetly located among the palms and natural vegetation on the island, each is ocean-facing and simply decorated with natural, local materials.

This incredible island is beautifully combined with its two sister camps Laba Jongomero and Laba Siwandu Camp in our 12-Day Tanzania Southern Safari and Island Beach Getaway.

“Pack your bags, it is totally worth it.  A MILLION TIMES better than & Beyond Mnemba Island, far more private, better service and for half the price!  You can go dolphin and whale watching.  We saw both when we were there last year.  Paddle boarding is fun and the snorkeling you can do just by swimming offshore… The food is excellent and the Tanzanian chef has been trained by a chef from Paris…The bandas are spacious, all seafront and the beach is white, white, white and one area of the island is hardly tidal.” 

Anita Warrener

13) Crater’s Edge Camp – Ngorongoro

The perfect blend of safari and relaxation, Craters Edge Camp, situated on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater, offers sweeping views of the surroundings and is an obvious choice for a romantic getaway.  Each of the 15 stand-alone suites are ultra luxurious, with giant canopied beds, spacious lounge and enormous free-standing tub in which to relax and unwind after a day spent adventuring on the crater floor.  Couples can enjoy a private dinner under the stars, a truly romantic and intimate dining experience.

Take a look at our 9-Day Wilds of Tanzania Private Tented Safari for camps to combine for your romantic getaway.

“Arriving at Crater’s Edge we were thrilled with the lodge and the beautiful view from our room. Peter, the manager on duty, and all the staff were there to greet us and make us feel welcome…They made us a celebratory anniversary cake and everyone came out to sing. We shared the cake with them all and had a grand time.”

Christine Cooley

14) Puku Ridge – South Luangwa NP

A safari to South Luangwa is undoubtedly wild, and with a stay a Puku Ridge, undoubtedly romantic as well! Completely rebuilt, this intimate camp has luxury amenities in abundance. These include indoor-outdoor showers, a large bathtub, private plunge pool, air-conditioning, and a “sleep-out tower”. Couples can choose to relax there in between game drives, or enjoy a night under the stars.

Puku Ridge is well located for couples to explore the park. The camp offers activities like day and night game drives, guided walking safaris (a South Luangwa trademark), and a photographic hide. If you desire to go canoeing or boating, then combining your safari with a visit to Chiawa Camp in Lower Zambezi is highly recommended. Stay 7 nights combined at these two camps and you’ll get 2 nights for free! You’ll get just that with our 10-Day Classic Safari to Zambia.

“Truly a trip of a lifetime!! I know they all say that, but having visited 137 countries, this comes from the heart. It was our last hurrah, and the memories will remain with us forever. The Africa Adventure Company made everything possible, and the recommendations of Puku, Old Mondoro and Chiawa were perfect. There were so many highlights and memorable moments. This trip would not have been possible without your company. The reception and surprises we got at each camp to celebrate our anniversary was a little gift from heaven. Thank you again for this outstanding trip.
Jud Koehler-Newell and Michael Newell”

Check out Puku Ridge’s New Sister Camp – Star Drift & Star Bed at Chiawa!

15) Victoria Falls River Lodge’s Malachite Suites – Zambezi NP

Victoria Falls River Lodge Malachite Suites, located within the Zambezi National Park, offers a tranquil escape for couples.  The eight luxury tents are spacious and feature a private deck and plunge pool.  For extra indulgence guests can relax in their private outdoor bathtub whilst taking in the panoramic views of the Zambezi River.  This is a perfect luxury retreat for couples seeking the ultimate African experience.

Its sister accommodation – Victoria Falls River Lodge’s Island Treehouse Suites is a stunning alternative.

“Arriving by boat on the Zambezi River to the private dock is a fun experience.  The spacious rooms have beautiful décor and a treat to have river views from your private deck.” Alison Nolting.