Breathtaking sunsets. Secluded beaches. Twinkling stars in the night sky, elephants affectionately wrapping their trunks together, and alluring wonders of nature. What could be more romantic than the enticing beauty of Africa?
From candlelit dinners on the turquoise shores of Seychelles and private hot air balloon rides over the enchanting Serengeti to intimate boat rides along the tranquil waterways of the Okavango Delta – Africa’s beauty is sure to sweep you off your feet.
Here are the 5 most romantic retreats in Africa for a dreamy escape:
Seychelles
A romantic coastal gem just off the Indian Ocean coast of East Africa – the Seychelles archipelago consists of 115 gorgeous islands surrounded by warm, comforting turquoise waters. The islands have soft white sand, lush green palm trees, golden beach sunsets, and world-class luxuries.
Each island boasts its own unique attractions from secluded beaches, bustling cities, nature reserves, and wildlife to local markets, natural wonders, and a slew of opulent resorts and hotels. While Seychelles is mostly warm and sunny year-round, the island does experience short bouts of rain and winds from December to March. April and November mark some of the hottest months, while May to October offer the perfect blend of hot and breezy – a popular period for holidaymakers.
Romantic Activities:
Candlelight picnics on the beach, sunset walks, underwater adventures, intimate boat cruises, dolphin watching, meeting giant tortoises, private hikes, soothing couple’s massages, fine dining, visiting private islands, biking along the coast, unwinding in private splash pools, jacuzzi, and sauna at luxury resorts.
Romantic Retreats to Explore:
Anantara Maia Seychelles Villas
Secluded private pool villas, luxury spa with open-air pavilions, award-winning wine list, a dedicated villa host, a beachside sunset bar, and gourmet dining.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles
Beachside accommodations, hilltop spa, floating breakfast in the pool, yoga retreats, walking trail, and water sports pavilion.
Mango House Seychelles
Perched along the oceanfront, spacious rooms, lush forest treks, sparkling pools, wellness spa, creole cuisine, and poolside bites.
The Serengeti, Tanzania
Vast golden plains, endless horizons, wide acacia trees, diverse wildlife, and sunsets spewing with hues of orange and pink skies – the Serengeti in northern Tanzania is a natural wonder of epic proportions.
This extensive ecosystem is world famous for hosting some of nature’s greatest spectacles, including the Great Migration, in which millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles journey through the land in search of fresh water and greener pastures while avoiding hungry predators. The best time to visit the Serengeti is during the dry season (June to October) when most animals are out and about.
Romantic Activities:
Sunset game drives, intimate hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti, romantic dinners in the tranquil bush, private sundowners, couple massages with scenic views, sleeping under the stars, dimly lit bonfires, champagne breakfast, and outdoor splash pools surrounded by ravishing beauty.
Romantic Retreats to Explore:
Lamai Serengeti
Luxury bush camp-style accommodation, located in the heart of the Great Migration, spectacular bush walks, and endless views of the Serengeti Plains from the dining, lounge, pool, and bar areas.
Sanctuary Kichakani Serengeti Camp
Luxury traveling tent accommodation that moves with the Great Migration, personal tent attendant, panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness, private chef, and laundry service.
andBeyond Klein’s Camp
Luxury cottages, private butlers, alfresco dining, bush walks, birdwatching, safari game drives, in-room massage, sparkling lodge pool, and complimentary binoculars.
The Okavango Delta, Botswana
Tranquil waterways flow through the lush greenery, as shades of orange and red fill the sky. Two elephants stand tall in the middle of the river, entwining their trunks in a gentle embrace as hippos glide across the river side by side.
The Okavango Delta’s calm surroundings, fresh air, picturesque landscapes, and beautiful symphonies of birdsong offer the perfect ambiance, setting the stage for a blissful romantic getaway. The dry winter months (May to October) boast cool sunny days with no rain and the best wildlife viewing.
Romantic Activities:
Intimate mokoro (traditional canoe) safaris through the vast waterways, awe-inspiring water-based game viewing, picnics by the river, floating through lily-covered lagoons, sunset cruises, and stargazing the twinkling night sky.
Romantic Retreats to Explore:
Jao Camp
Safari suites and villas surrounded by trees and birdsong, rustic library, locally grown produce, with the addition of private plunge pools, butlers, chefs, guides, and vehicles.
Sandibe Okavango Safari Lodge
Luxurious African-style suites with views of the Delta, private plunge pools, private massage sala, gym, complimentary binoculars, and an interactive kitchen service where you can join in with the chef.
Sanctuary Baines’ Camp
Elegant suites with river and lagoon views, a private veranda, and a swimming pool with open-air lounges. Beds can be wheeled to the private balcony for a night under the stars.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Imagine gliding slowly through the skies, in an intimate helicopter ride, watching the calm waters of the Zambezi River flowing gently until it reaches the edge of a rocky precipice. The waters cascade meters into the abyss as a dreamy mist rises into the sunlight revealing a collection of vivid rainbows shimmering across the sky.
On the other hand, swim in the cool waters of Devil’s Pool which lies right at the edge of the precipice where the water plunges into the depths below. The views are majestic with thundering sounds and splashing water droplets – a romantic bucket list experience for any adrenaline-loving couple.
March to July marks a full-flowing waterfall, while September to December is the low-water season where adrenaline activities such as Devil’s Pool and white-water rafting are perfect.
Romantic Activities:
White water rafting below the falls, bungee jumping from Vic Falls Bridge, sunset boat cruise, helicopter ride over the falls, swimming at the edge of the waterfall at Devil’s Pool, picnic at Livingstone Island, canoeing along the Zambezi River, safari tours and ziplining across the canyon.
Romantic Retreats to Explore:
The Royal Livingstone by Anantara
Victorian-era themed suites or contemporary rooms with either garden or river views. Butler service, free unlimited access to Victoria Falls, massage experiences beside the Zambezi River, wildlife roaming the grounds, river safaris, and helicopter waterfall excursions.
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Sophisticated Edwardian décor with stunning views of the gorges and bridge. Serene lily ponds, arched loggias, broad verandas, an Edwardian-style pool, beauty spa, hair salon, and fine dining.
Mbano Manor Hotel Victoria Falls
Secluded suites (and one villa) with a foresty setting. Intimate dining, chic décor, private courtyard, open-plan lounge area, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
The Cape Winelands, South Africa
Bright sunny skies, mountainous backdrops littered with leafy green vineyards, valleys, rolling hills, and timeless Dutch architecture – Cape Town’s Winelands region is known for its award-winning wine farms, fresh produce, cheese, greenery, gorgeous views, and sedentary activities.
Summer (December to February) is the ideal season to experience everything the Winelands offers with sunny days, ripening grapes, lush flora, beguiling sunsets, scented smells, and abundant fresh ingredients. Early autumn (March) and late Spring (October to November) are also suitable times to visit the Cape Winelands.
Romantic Activities:
Vintage wine tastings under ancient oak trees, horse riding in the valley, private hot air balloon rides over the leafy region, ziplining in the verdant mountains/treetops, gourmet picnics in the serene vineyards, alfresco dining, candlelight cheese & chocolate wine pairings, olive oil tastings, sundowners, and intimate wine tram tours of the land.
Romantic Retreats to Explore:
La Residence
Vineyard suites featuring private terraces, gardens, and open-plan areas. Sophisticated dining, chef’s table experiences, masterclasses, wine tasting, afternoon tea, spa treatment room, and cycling.
Babylonstoren
Opulent stays, farm-to-fork lunches, garden spa, guided garden tours, farm walks, guided fishing, rowing at the dam, cellar tour, mountain drive, harvesting fresh crops, bread baking, wine tasting, and exploring the farm by bicycle.
The Hazendal Hotel
Situated at Hazendal Wine Estate with elegant accommodations, golfing, padel court, spa, fitness center, private pool, fine dining, cigar lounge, sophisticated bar, and a screening room.
