Love and adventure honeymoons aren’t all sweetness and roses.

The Old English term ‘hony moone’ was a reference to the sweetness of honey, and the fleeting time it would last. The honeymoon was therefore used to warn newlyweds about the waning nature of love.

And the original idea of a couple traveling after their nuptials was certainly not all that private. A practice that started in the 19th century, this British bridal tour involved the happy couple going to meet with everyone who could not attend the ceremony!

At Rothschild Safaris, we tend to be less traditional when it comes to our African honeymoons.

A South African honeymoon safari is all about keeping love interesting and enduring… and most definitely very exclusive – we highly recommend sharing your honeymoon only with excellent staff and all the wild creatures of Africa.

  1.    Lekkerwater

Lekkerwater Beach Lodge

De Hoop Nature Reserve lies only a touch over three hours by car from Cape Town. In this ecologically-significant marine protected area, the Lekkerwater Beach Lodge hugs 3.7 miles (6km) of pristine, private beach.

It has been famous since it was chosen as a retreat by ex-President FW de Klerk. Today, the ‘place of good water’ is home to a seven-bedroom resort that faces fearlessly onto the ocean.

Where life is ‘lekker’ (delicious) Southern right whales and dolphins can be spotted from the shore- July to November-, rockpools, wild beaches, and walks through the fynbos are waiting to be explored… and the determined can see a rare vulture breeding colony.

Just beyond the dunes, a date with Cape zebra, bontebok, eland, and elusive Cape leopard can be added to your African honeymoon itinerary.

This is an extraordinary space where love can breathe and flow against a backdrop of blue and white, wood, bamboo, wicker, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The atmosphere is easygoing, the food is glorious, and the wine exquisite.

A beach-chic retreat at its very best and most romantic, you can combine Lekkerwater with the bush and indulge in a safari and beach honeymoon. 


  1. Ellerman House

The first house was built in Bantry Bay in 1906, taking full advantage of the incredible vistas that continue to amaze over a century later.

Cape Town is an inspired choice for a honeymoon. There is something exciting happening around Table Mountain every day… but no one will complain if you find you simply can’t bear to leave the beautiful bedrooms, breathtakingly curated art and impeccable service of Ellerman House.

This is a stage set for grand pianos, a library and wood fireplaces, delicious food round the clock, and afternoon wine tastings in one of South Africa’s best cellars.

Everywhere the salty ocean air reminds you what lies beneath, and every morning begins with the promise of new adventures.

A microcosm of South African luxury and refinement, Ellerman House is a timeless beauty with old-fashioned hospitality and an elegant approach to experiencing South Africa’s mother city.

What an excellent backdrop for treasured luxury honeymoon memories.


  1.    Cape View Clifton

Cantilevered high above the crescent of Clifton, the Cape View overlooks the Twelve Apostles and the seven easygoing and elegant suites open to uninterrupted views of the iconic Clifton and Camps Bay coastline.

Inside, subtle colonial touches and modern art provide clues to the puzzle that is South African history. The fingers of the infamous south-easterly wind do not reach the Cape View, but it does offer everything you might need to hide away from the world and lose yourself in a partner. It also has easy access to every exciting moment Cape Town has to offer.

The experience is exclusive and a very romantic South African getaway, crammed full of cozy spaces, lacking in in-room telephones and featuring honesty bars.

A member of staff is available 24/7 to see to your every need, but the Cape View is particularly suitable for honeymooners who prefer to be left to their own devices.


  1.    Birkenhead House

In the picturesque seaside town of Hermanus, Birkenhead House sets the standard for luxury in the lap of geographic beauty, endless beaches, and undulating mountains.

Outside, the cliffs provide the perfect promenade for watching whales breach meters from the shore and spotting surfers carving shapes through the waves. Adventure aplenty awaits.

Inside, the design is quirky opulence, the wine is flowing, and all African safari honeymoon moods are catered for.

Take long strolls on the beach, indulge in massages, sunsets, and fresh seafood. Birkenhead House is a fabulous base for adventures.


  1.    Londolozi Tree Camp

Copy Of Copy Of Untitled (8)When you love the wild, this sanctuary of elegance and simplicity set within a nest of Leadwood trees is the answer to all African safari honeymoon dreams. From lazy afternoons spent on the deck, champagne in hand, with elephants wandering past to the full effect of African romance by candlelight at night, the Tree Camp is a showcase of African excellence.

The first game reserve to be awarded Relais & Châteaux status, Londolozi’s commitment to fine cuisine, luxurious accommodation, and exceptional service and guiding is apparent everywhere under the glorious Leadwood and Jackalberry trees surrounding the camp.

There are six private rooms, all elevated and overlooking the Sand River. Game drives, guided nature walks, and daily yoga add to the excitement of every day.

 

 

 


  1.    Cheetah Plains

With neighbors including the Kruger National Park and MalaMala, this private concession guarantees both exceptional game viewing and exclusivity.

There are only three designer bush homes, but each comes with its own private staff (including a chef, massage therapist, hostess, and guides), two lounges, outdoor boma, wine cellar, and heated swimming pool.

The contemporary ethnic design is ultra-chic, the art and food are extraordinary, and luxury safari guests are truly pampered at every opportunity.

Listen to our podcast with Cheetah Plains’ manager here:


And finally:

An Extraordinary Experience

When you choose to spend your adventure honeymoon in the Sabi Sands (the home of both Londolozi and Cheetah Plains), you might want to surprise your other half with an epic helicopter flight over the northern Drakensberg’s Blyde River Canyon.

See the well-known geographical landmarks of the Drakensberg as you get a close-up view of the Three Rondawels and the Blydepoort Dam. Fly over the Berlin and Lisbon Falls as you head to a secluded picnic spot next to the Pinnacle to enjoy a delectable lunch with breathtaking views.

After lunch, there are more wonders to come as your helicopter takes you past God’s Window, Wonder View, Panorama Falls, and the town of Graskop before returning you to your lodge.


We wish you a life filled with enduring love, happiness… and safaris.