Romance is entrenched in the very nature of a safari holiday in Africa. Harking back to a bygone era, the pristine wilderness, exotic wildlife and vast African skies cannot help but put love in the air. Whether you choose to stay under canvas in an authentic tented camp or prefer the added luxury of a stylish lodge, most safari properties have been designed with couples in mind and aim to enhance the natural sense of romance in the bush. In addition to your accommodation, there are many experiences available in Africa which add an extra special touch to your safari.
Here are our Top 5 Romantic Safari Experiences
1. Sleep Out Under the Stars
Several safari camps offer the option of sleeping out under the African night sky – either on the deck of your room, or on specially constructed sleep-out decks slightly set away from the camp. There is nothing more romantic than looking up at the starry sky through your mosquito net with lanterns shimmering all around you, and falling asleep to the sounds of the African bush. Our favourite three places to enjoy a sleep-out experience are: Kruger National Park (South Africa), Okavango Delta (Botswana), and Sossusvlei (Namibia). For the more adventurous travellers, you can go fly camping in the bush for a night while staying in the Selous Game Reserve (Tanzania).
2. Hot air Balloon Safari
For a special treat, why not spend the morning drifting over the beautiful wilderness below in a hot air balloon and enjoying a champagne bush breakfast on landing. For views over the expansive grassy plains and wildlife of East Africa, you can do this activity in the Masai Mara (Kenya) or the Serengeti (Tanzania). For views over the magnificent sand dunes and desert, you can do a hot air balloon ride in Sossusvlei (Namibia).
3. Sunset River Cruise
Witness the famous African sunset in its full glory from a boat cruising down one of Africa’s many rivers. A sunset river cruise not only offers the best vantage point for sunset, but also amazing photographic opportunities of wildlife coming to drink in the evening light. As you watch the sun disappear on the horizon, you will be enjoying your drinks of choice and delicious snacks – the perfect end to another magical day in the bush! Our favourite places to enjoy a sunset river cruise are: Chobe National Park (Botswana), Lower Zambezi National Park (Zambia), and Selous Game Reserve (Tanzania).
4. Private Bush Dinner
For the ultimate romantic dining experience, a private and secluded clearing is prepared for an elegant dinner in the middle of the African bush. As the sun swiftly sinks, the setting is illuminated by a magnificent log fire. The table setting is as sophisticated and elegant as found in the finest restaurants with wild flower arrangements that grace starched white table linen. Candles flicker in the darkness, throwing golden lights on the table cloth as smiling waiters serve a delicious dinner. After dinner retire to the warmth of the campfire where brandies and liqueurs are served as you absorb the peace and beauty of an African night. Our favourite places to enjoy a private bush dinner are: Masai Mara (Kenya), Samburu(Kenya), and Serengeti (Tanzania).
5. Bush Spa Treatments
Take the couples massage experience to an entirely new level with the backdrop of the African wilderness and the sounds of the bush all around you. Most safari camps and lodges offer a selection of spa treatments aimed at relaxing your body, mind and soul. The products used are inspired by the wisdom of Africa's traditional healers and celebrate Africa's vibrant heritage, communities and plant life. Following your spa treatment, you can continue your game viewing in style while you soak in a heavenly herbal Jacuzzi or simply relax on the spa deck overlooking the bush. Our favourite places to enjoy a bush spa treatment are: South Luangwa (Zambia), Kruger National Park (South Africa), and Chobe National Park (Botswana).
For more information on these activities or to book your own romantic safari holiday, please contact our Africa experts or call us on 1-300-AFRICA! Bench Africa has over 47 years of experience booking Africa honeymoons and romantic getaways for Australian couples. Our passionate team will work closely with you to create your dream itinerary to fit your wish list and budget.
