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Honeymooning in South Africa


Alison Hargreaves
Alison Hargreaves Updated:
4th of July 2022

South Africa, the region covering the southern tip of the African continent, reaches over 1,200,000 km2. To the north of the country, South Africa is bordered by Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, where as to the East it neighbours Mozambique and Swaziland. South Africa is two hours ahaed of Greenwich mean time. It is a multi ethnic nation with a eleven official languages, bringing with it a diverse spectrum of cultures to the area.  With 21 National Parks, 8 World Heritage Sites and 3500 kilometers of pristine coastline, there will be something for every couple to do and discover.

South Africa is famous for its glorious sunshine, but fortunately the temperatures do not reach uncomfortably high levels due to its increased height above sea level and proximity to the surrounding coastline. The average summer temperature is 25C and the average winter temperature is 10C. It is a relatively dry country, with an average rainfall of 464mm (compared to the world average of 800mm). The Western Cape receives the majority of its rainfall during the winter season, but the rest of the country experiences summer rainfall. The best time to travel in terms of weather depends on the type of honeymoon you want. If you are an action packed couple, Autumn and Spring are the best times to travel, especially if you want to venture into the mountains to hike. However if relaxing on the beach is your vision of the perfect honeymoon, mid summer is best. But keep in mind, the beaches of Kwazulu-Natal are warm and sunny even in the winter.

Africa offers an amazing choice of honeymoons, from escorted safari tours in the Kruger National Park, to relaxing on the tropical islands of the Zanzibar Archipelago. With awe-inspring landscapes, abundant cultural experiences and a chance to see big game in their natural environment, Africa has something for everyone.

Honeymooning on The Cape

Amongst the most visited areas of South Africa, the Cape has much to offer, from the excitement of Cape Town to the beauty of the Winelands and the Garden Route.  The Cape is one of the most diverse and scenic areas of South Africa, and is perfect for exploration.

Cape Town is known as the "Mother City" and is the heartbeat of South Africa.  With the awe-inspiring Table Mountain providing the most stunning of backdrops, it is truly a stunning city.  By-gone days of South Africa's colonial history are evident  in the architecture against today's more modern seafood restaurants and local craft shops.  Robben Island, the place where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years, provides a poignant and historical day-trip.

The Winelands region allows you to sample sumptuous wines and exquisite food and is just 45 minutes away from Cape Town. This is a lovely region to combine with a city stay, or close enough to visit in a day if your time is limited.

The Garden Route is a breath-taking vista of flora and fauna as well as the chance to view the history of South Africa's colonial towns. Along this route you may catch sight of the magnificent Southern Right whales between the months of June and November. These once over-hunted whales were virtually on the point of extinction, but are now a protected species.

Kruger National Park

The word "safari" means "to journey" in Swahili, and a honeymoon in the Kruger National Park is certainly that.  Drives generally last about three hours, normally very early in the morning, which is the best time to catch sight of the most mesmirising animals on earth.  You are accompanied by an experienced ranger in an open-topped landrover who will give you plenty of opportunity to see the game.  It is best to pack lightweight casual clothing and avoid very bright or white colours which can frighten the animals.  Don't forget to pack plenty of high-factor suntan lotion, a sun hat and sunglasses.  These are essential to protect you against the harsh South African sun.  You will also need a light jacket or a sweater for those chilly early mornings, and a sturdy pair or trainers or walking boots.  Remember also to pack binoculars, your camera and insect-repellent.

The best time to go on safari is between April to October, when the animals depend more on waterholes, and offer a better opportunity of tracking them. The rainy season generally last between November to March, and this can make smaller animals difficult to spot, as the grass grows lush and tall.

Most of the hotels in Kruger are thatched lodges, often set high in the trees, to afford a fantastic viewing platform. If life under canvas is more your thing, then there is also the option to spend your honeymoon in a tent, offering you romance and luxury, and a chance to enjoy a truly unique honeymoon experience.

Sun City Resort

The Sun City Resort offers round-the-clock entertainment for all the family.  With sporting facilities, 25 restaurants, spectacular theatre shows, cinemas, bars, nightclubs, live music, a casino and games arcades, there is definitely no opportunity to be bored here!

There is also plenty of entertainment to keep your children amused if you are honeymooning with kids.  Kamp Kwena offers a daily supervised programme of events and provides a range of water-sports.  All members of the family will enjoy the excitement of the Valley of the Waves - one of the largest water theme parks in the world, offering endless rides, slides, waves, tubes and the Lazy River.  There's also a fully supervised creche and babysitting service to allow parents some quality time to themselves.

Sun City's location also offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a safari excursion where the big five (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard) can be seen.  Why not try something completely different and go on a balloon safari, which offers you the chance to experience the animals from the air.

Sun City has a fully equipped health club with tennis courts, bowls, squash courts, horse riding, mountain biking, archery, clay pigeon shooting, quad biking and ten-pin bowling.  There are also two 18 hole championship golf courses which have played host to the world's golfing greats.

The Winelands

The Winelands of South Africa reach from the west coast, to the North Cape and to the Edge of Karoo. The Mediterranean climate and winter rainfall experienced in the area has led to the development of fertile valleys surrounded by dramatic mountainous landscapes. Over time the rich soils and excellent climate has culminated is world famous reds, whites, Sherrie and ports which can be found in all corners of the globe!

Discover the winelands of South Africa!

Well known regions include Somerset West, Paarl, Stellenbosh and Franschhoek. Stellenbosch is a  particular popular area, found at the heart of the wine country, it is South Africa's second oldest town and well worth a visit. Famous for its Cape Dutch architecture and oak line streets this historical town is an ideal point to start your exploration of the area.There are so many tours to choose from, you could practically drink yourself around South Africa!

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Alison Hargreaves

About the author


Alison Hargreaves

Alison is the founder of Guides for Brides and Beyond Weddings. She has extensive knowledge of the most popular wedding and honeymoon destinations in the UK and overseas as well as researching, visiting and experiencing many unique locations for couples looking for something really different, from iconic cruise ships and train journeys to remote eco safari lodges.

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