The Perfect Length of a Luxury Safari Honeymoon in Africa

As oranges, reds, and pinks spread across the sky, you turn to your partner and toast to another spectacular day in Africa. Days spent going on game drives to see magnificent game like elephants and lions, walking safaris across the wilderness to reconnect with nature, and simply relaxing side by side at a luxury lodge is what a luxury safari honeymoon in Africa can look like. If you’re thinking about starting your married life with a safari in Africa, here are some points to consider, including the perfect length of a luxury honeymoon in Africa.

When’s the Best Time to Go on Safari? 

There is no “perfect” time for a safari. When you should go on your African safari honeymoon depends on the type of experience you want to have. The dry winter season, which can stretch from about May to October (depending on the country you’re going to), is perfect for big game viewing. Vegetation is less dense and there is minimal rain. This forces animals to gather around the few remaining watering holes, making them easier to spot.

If you dream about a honeymoon in East Africa to go on a Great Migration safari, the height of the action is usually during the months of July and August. At this time of the year, the massive herds of wildebeest begin crossing rivers to enter Kenya. River crossings are dramatic events – imagine millions of wildebeest jumping and swimming across a river, frantically trying to dodge the jaws of waiting crocodiles.

However, if you’re looking for a more secluded experience for your honeymoon safari, consider travelling during the shoulder seasons (just before or just after the high/dry seasons). During the green season (the wet summer months) the landscapes across popular safari destinations become lush thanks to the rain, creating a whole different experience for travellers. Parks and reserves are less busy, and many migratory bird species make appearances.

The beginning of the year is an incredibly special time to go on safari in Tanzania. This is when the herds of wildebeest give birth to their young (between January and March); you may get to see calves take their first wobbly steps. Predators, such as lions, can also be seen close to the herds, waiting for their opportunity to strike.

Where to Go for a Honeymoon Safari? 

Once you have decided on Africa as your honeymoon destination, the next step would be to select the best country for your trip.

In southern Africa, you have the choice between South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Travelling to East Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Uganda are all great options. All of these destinations have something truly unique to offer travelling couples.

South Africa is a stunning Big Five safari destination, with private game reserves like Sabi Sabi offering luxurious and exclusive experiences as well as prime animal sightings, including of elusive leopards. Namibia is well-known for desert safaris. This experience takes you to otherworldly landscapes that are simply awe-inspiring and home to spectacular desert-adapted wildlife.

Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of the best safari destinations you could ask for. Gliding down waterways with your partner on a mokoro safari is an experience neither of you will forget. The elephant herds in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe, are a delight to behold, and staying along the Zambezi River in Zambia is a serene, relaxing experience. A trip to either Zimbabwe or Zambia needs to include an excursion to the iconic Victoria Falls!

An amazing add-on while in East Africa would be gorilla trekking in either Uganda or Rwanda. These creatures are magical and it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness them up close.

Spending some time relaxing on a beach or in an island paradise is an excellent addition to a safari. For example, after a Big Five safari in South Africa, you could head to Cape Town for a city and beach escape. Or, after exploring Tanzania’s Serengeti, you can spend a few relaxing days in Zanzibar, one of the best honeymoon destinations in the world.

How Long Should a Honeymoon Safari Be? 

Depending on how many countries you would like to include in your honeymoon itinerary, your trip can be anything from a week to 15 days. For a honeymoon safari that includes multiple lodges and/or destinations, about three to four nights would be enough time at each spot. This would give you plenty of time to see the wildlife on your bucket list and enjoy the lodge’s amenities.

Tip: Choose a safari lodge with a pool or, better yet, private plunge pools. Imagine coming back from a game drive and slipping into your suite’s private plunge pool, watching the wilderness with your partner.

Ultimately, the length of your safari honeymoon depends on you and your partner’s interests. You may want to spend three days on a safari and then five at a beach resort. When you chat to one of our safari planners, your honeymoon can be tailored to what you have in mind. This will help you and your partner experience the trip of a lifetime!

When travelling to Africa, there is no perfect length, as there is so much to experience and see. It’s not recommended to travel for less than a week and try to split your time between only two destinations. Travelling for a week or more allows you to add multiple destinations to your itinerary. You and your partner will also have the space to truly enjoy each camp.