10 Amazing Romantic Getaways
10 Amazing Romantic Getaways
Our resident experts at AAC tracked the most romantic properties in the African bush (it’s a tough job, but someone has to do it), and created this lovers list of the 10 dreamiest destinations in Africa.
Elephant Star Beds – Abu Camp, Botswana
The stars form the canopy over your bed and the rumbling snores of elephants are your lullaby when you overnight on this unique platform overlooking the boma where elephant slumber. Don’t worry about creature comforts out amongst the creatures, there’s a plush double bed and even an open shower with the same incredible views, says AAC senior consultant Kyle Witten. Don’t worry, the elephants won’t spy on you.
Located on a private concession on the Zambezi Gorge. Twelve luxury suites feature private viewing deck and plunge pool, air-conditioning, mini-bar and en suite bath with indoor/outdoor showers. Two complimentary transfers to Victoria Falls town are included daily. The main lounge area invites you to enjoy the views of Victoria Falls’ spray and the gorges which separate Zimbabwe and Zambia. Meals are served in the open-air dining room.
High above a game reserve where some of the most memorable scenes from “Out of Africa” were filmed, is the newest and most dramatic safari lodge in Kenya, Angama Mara. The camps name is Swahili for ‘suspended in mid air,” and couples will feel like they’re literally walking on air at this intimate tented camp with luxury comforts such as deep soaking tubs with views over the Great Rift Valley, on one of the most scenic locations on the entire continent. A short ride away from this serene perch is Governor’s Balloon Safaris, a flight of a lifetime that soars high above the Mara, then comes back to earth with a champagne picnic for two. This is Mark Nolting’s most recent honeymoon choice.
Located in a remote corner of Botswana’s Moremi Reserve, Mombo is world famous for combining 5-star luxury accommodations with epic “big cat” sightings. The camp is being completely rebuilt with eight decadent suites, private plunge pools and thatched salas, offering the most romantic place in Botswana. Arguably the best game viewing in Africa, explore the region with morning and afternoon game drives. Large prides of lions and majestic leopards complete the iconic safari experience.
Lion Sands Kingston Tree House, Sabi Sand, South Africa
Think tree houses are just for kids? AAC’s Kollin Buchholz and Cinthia Liza say this tree top aerie at Lion Sands’ will easily change your mind. There are few more romantic ways to sleep out under the great African skies than in an elegant canopy bed up in the tree branches, a gourmet picnic full of delicacies tucked way for you to nibble as you the evening skies unfurl—Just the stars, you, and your loved one.
We can’t name all the famous couples who’ve honeymooned here (cough cough— Prince William and Kate; George Clooney and Amal – cough cough), but let’s just say that this lush island might just be the most romantic, private, and sexy spot in the world with miles of pristine sand, unique sea life, and service that makes every couple feel like visiting royalty. Each of the 11 very secluded villas have interrupted vistas over the azure Indian Ocean and the silky sand. Meals can be served in your private dining room or a table for two can be set anywhere on the island–each one a decadent, and decidedly romantic, surprise. Alison Nolting, senior consultant, honeymooned in the Seychelles (does that make her famous too)!
Serengeti Explorer Shared Camp, Tanzania
A seasonal camp where unspoiled Africa exists; where the special privilege of absorbing the, majestic grandeur of the African landscapes and its wildlife is still possible. From the moment you are met by your host/guide he will make you feel that you are on a real wildlife experience. The philosophy is to help you experience the bush in addition to viewing wildlife in one of Africa’s top wildlife reserves. The seasonal mobile camp may move about three to four times a year.
Mozambique’s finest eco-boutique retreat is located on Benguerra Island. Azura was built entirely by hand in partnership with the local community and has just 16 luxury villas, providing you privacy and pampering.. Each beachfront villa has a private bathroom with an indoor/outdoor shower, pool, air-conditioning, private sun deck, mini-bar and butler service.
Dining at Azura is a feast for the senses. You have several options such as the main restaurant with magnificent views or a picnic in a secluded spot and the most romantic choice, a candlelight dinner on the beach. The chef’s signature dishes combine the finest of Mozambique’s natural produce and seafood with International flair.
A family owned luxury resort that provides personal service and a range of beautifully appointed facilities reflecting the warmth and character of the local architecture. The Palms is located along a pristine white beach on the east coast of the island and consists of 6 luxurious villas. Each of the elegant villas features a bedroom, living room, en suite bathroom, Jacuzzi and private terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean. There is a pool, dining room, evening bar and pool bar and massage facilities.
Six chalets are nestled into the forest overlooking the beach.. The rooms are spacious with enormous windows and sliding doors at the front leading to a terrace with plenty of sun loungers, a shower and a hammock. The food at the lodge is superb – freshly caught fish and shellfish including crab, lobster and oysters are often served, along with a delicious selection of salads and excellent, freshly baked bread. Breakfasts are a treat with warm, fresh pastries and a large selection of fresh fruit.
