I'm still a honeymooner since I just got married. I went on a safari, which I will write about soon. Our honeymoon will last two years. In 2018, we plan to return to the USA. So when Maxwell Donovan proposed to write an article about taking a luxury safari honeymoon, I was interested in what he had to say.
Guest post by Maxwell Donovan...
A safari is one of those experiences that everyone should have at least once in their lives.
The usual first choice is South Africa as it is easily accessible and home to a huge variety of wildlife, including the big five. There are also an abundance of vineyards (Constantia, Stellenbosch, etc) as the South African wine becomes more and more popular.
A luxury safari could be the perfect honeymoon for any bride and groom looking for adventure. You can even turn it into a multi-center holiday and enjoy time on the beach after your safari. To get your honeymoon off to the right start, follow these tips:
When should you explore an African safari?
The winter season in South Africa runs from May to September and this is the best time to go. The leaves are dying back making it easier to see the wildlife and the risk of malaria is actually lower. More importantly the climate is a little cooler and the safaris are often cheaper as most visitors come in the main summer.
Best places to go
The Kruger National Park is one of the best places to go in Africa as it has the highest concentration of animals and, therefore, the most chance of spotting all the types of animal in the park. If you are on honeymoon and would like a little extra luxury, it is possible to rent a lodge in one of the private game reserves. Places like Thornybush, Sabi Sand and Manyeleti are all located within the Greater Kruger Park; you can also indulge in an expert guide to provide you with an intimate experience of the park.
Accommodation
You may be in the bush but you do not need to camp! There are an abundance of beautiful small hotels spread around the African territory you can check out for a honeymoon. If you really wish to push your budget you can choose from the Royal Malewane, Singita Boulders or the Singita Lebombo. All of these hotels have between eight and fifteen suites and are frequented by the likes of Elton John, Bono and even Justin Bieber. It will be the perfect setting for a romantic night under the stars while experiencing the wildlife up close.
Each of these hotels has their own fstyle:
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The Royal Malewane has a colonial style, every room has a large fireplace and the beds are canopied.
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Singita Lebombo and Boulders are both modern style, contemporary furnishings.
All of the hotels have their own spa and gyms but the most striking feature is that you are in a relatively small building, in the middle of the bush. You will be closer to the wildlife than you might have thought possible!
All three of these luxurious lodges are around the $1,300 US per night, if this is a little out of your price range the Tintswalo Lodge is a steal at $630 US per night. It is almost as luxurious as the more expensive ones and still features the feeling of being lost in the African bush. It is also incredibly romantic as there are fireside sundowners and Boma dinners regularly.
All Inclusive
The exclusive luxury lodges are rented on an all inclusive basis. You will be treated to sumptuous food, plenty of drink, including the premium liquor and two safaris per day; both of which are in a luxurious land rover with an expert guide and tracker. The food is always excellent and can range from traditional African meals to European cuisine, each meal is perfectly paired with a South African wine and you can enjoy it sat outside in the middle of the bush! There is little that will beat this in the way of romance!
It is advisable to pack lots of layers before you go as the temperature can be cool in the mornings and hot later in the day. No matter where you stay, it will be an unforgettable experience. Adventurous honeymoons are in trend this season. Are you ready for a memorable experience? Africa packs lots of amazing travel spots. Apart from the wild side of Africa, make sure to make time for its best country: South Africa. The capital Cape Town is worthy of your attention. Explore its main attractions and have the time of your life in your honeymoon.
This guest post was by Maxwell Donovan and YellowZebraSafaris.com.