There is no place quite like Africa’s bush. The allure of a game drive as the last light of the day settles over the savannah. The thrill of tracking a lion on a game drive and the romance of sundowners in the middle of nowhere. Whether you choose Botswana, South Africa or East Africa, the bush will thrill you and enchant you. Here are a few of our favourite romantic safaris that are perfect for your honeymoon…
Singita Boulders Lodge, Singita Reserve
Within the Sabi Sand lies Singita’s private reserve, where Singita Boulders Lodge perches atop boulders on the Sand River. Stay in a picturesque river suite or a bush suite that overlooks a popular watering hole. The glass walls of this romantic oasis make you feel as if you’re one with the untamed wilderness.
Ulusaba Cliff Lodge Suite, Sabi Sand
There’s luxury and then there’s Ulusaba Cliff Lodge. Fly into your uber-romantic safari via a private airstrip and re-ignite the magic in one of two exclusive suites, each featuring a fireplace to heat things up on a cold night plus your own private pool, mini spa and gym. Surprise your partner with a lover’s picnic in a secluded spot at Constitution Rock where champagne and spectacular views await. Prepare to be star struck by a private meal for two under the stars at the bush observatory or light a candle together as a symbol of your love before enjoying a couples’ full body massage. Take the party back to your suite with a special turndown service, including an array of bath oils, for a cosy evening indoors with a bath made for two.
Treehouses at Lion Sands
There are very few romantic stays beneath the stars which can compare to a sleep out in a Lion Sands treehouse. Relax into nothing but you, the night sky and the wild African bush below after an evening spent enjoying a sunset picnic and watching wildlife at dusk. Safely constructed far above the ground, away from the animals, with your ranger always available on call radio; up here you will feel like there’s no-one else in the world as you fall asleep to the sounds of the wild below. All you’ll need is your overnight bag while the rest of your luggage will remain in your suite. You’ll be collected in the morning post sunrise for a hearty breakfast.
Garonga Private Bush Bath
Longing to spice things up on your safari? Hello Star Bath and Sleep Out Deck in Garonga Camp. Think alfresco bathing beneath the starry night sky in complete privacy with champagne in hand. Post bath, a private dinner set for two awaits on a viewing deck complete with a four-poster bed where you can spend the night alone in the bush. Savour a night of dinner, bath and ‘sleep’…not necessarily in that order.
Star Baths at Sanctuary Baines Camp, Botswana
The remote, eco-friendly oasis of Sanctuary Baines Camp nestles in a grove of trees and is surrounded by papyrus beds. Six suites on raised platforms overlook the Boro River in a private concession. With this level of seclusion, you’ll have minimal contact with other people. Opt for alfresco bathing and have your bed moved onto the private deck for a night of romance under the stars. By day, float through the waterways on a mokoro (dugout canoe) or take a cruise in a motorised boat.
Sayari Lodge, Northern Serengeti, Tanzania
Picnic in the wild and shack up in one of the most remote and exclusive tented camps in East Africa. Close to the border of the Serengeti National Park, Sayari is open from June to March. You’ll enjoy bush walks and game drives and while away the time on your private patio, champagne in hand.
Like what you see? At Portfolio Journeys we know how to plan the ultimate trip to Africa and we’re also quite partial to a good romance. Get in touch and let us give your special something with that special someone a storybook ending.
Photo Credits:
*lionsands.com
*garonga.com
*sanctuaryretreats.com
*AndBeyond.com