This year seems to be hotting up already with lots of lovely enquiries flowing in. Once we had the news that many countries within Africa were beginning to lift their covid restrictions, the flood gate seemed to open, giving people more encouragement to go ahead and plan a stunning trip away to countries and experiences they have been longing to do. Now more than ever is the chance to grab the bull by the horns and get on the case with planning that trip of a lifetime.

There have been some more popular requests for honeymoons. Considering the past two years has put a hold to most things, no more so than couples wishing to tie the knot. Of course, following this, the honeymoon comes quickly after the wedding usually, so the last two years have definitely put a stop to a lot of people’s celebratory plans. The top trips we have found of interest for honeymoons are these combinations: South Africa & Mozambique, South Africa & Mauritius, Kenya & Zanzibar and Northern Tanzania and Zanzibar.

We will start with the two South Africa options. These are usually a combination of Cape Town, Winelands, Safari, then followed with either Mozambique or Mauritius. Here are our top places to stay in Cape Town and the Winelands. Camissa House is a wonderful boutique hotel, tucked within the shade of the mighty Table Mountain and a stones throw away from lots of wonderful restaurants. It is the perfect accommodation for those seeking a small amount of luxury for not huge amount, as you will most likely only be sleeping here! Secondly Ellerman House, located right on the coast of Cape Town, just north of the stunning Camps Bay. Again, it is the perfect location to simply step out of the doors and explore the wonders of Cape Town. Larger in size and space to Camissa House, Ellerman House has some sensational viewing of the Ocean.

(Camissa House)

Next step is the Winelands. To cut costs, this can easily be done by booking a private day tour whilst staying within Cape Town, but there is nothing quite like immersing yourself in the sights, sounds and smells of this stunning location. Babylonstoren is one of our top stays, with delicious wine (of course!) and the chance to literally pick your own food for lunch. Take a tour around the vegetable and herb gardens with one of Babylonstorens chefs who can assit you with seasonal flavours and good combinations – they will of course recommend a good wine to wash it all down with too! Grande Roche is another stunning stay and one of the most celebrated international hotels, famous for its exquisite location and its luxurious cosmopolitan accommodation and award-winning cuisine.

(one of the farm cottages at Babylonstoren)

(sunset at Grande Roche)

Following this, its safari time! If you have the budget, we recommend squeezing in a couple of days in Madikwe, followed by Timbavati or Sabi Sands. Our top place to stay in Madikwe has to be Jamala Madikwe, with its own watering hole, it is the true home of the ‘sofa-safari’ you could spend hours whiling away the hours just watching what wildlife comes down to quench its thirst. The food and service at Jamala Madikwe is second to none, we really can’t fault it. Molori is of course a real treat but finding availability at this wonderfully decadent property can always prove a little tricky because of its popularity – however, if you can stay there, we have never experienced breakfast, lunch or supper so good anywhere!

(Bedroom views at Jamala Madikwe)

(Pool views at Molori)

Head on down to the Sabi Sands or Timbavati where we would advise staying at Chitwa Chitwa. This stunning lodge in the Northern Sabi Sands oozes space and has a quirky style throughout, with large pieces of art and sculptures, it is almost like a gallery in itself. The rooms are lovely and private, very spacious, all with their own private plunge pools and views of the nearby dam. If youre looking for pure luxury, then look no further than any of the Singita properties. One of our favourites with its authentic bush design, is Singita Boulders and even by saying the name Singita, you can expect the best of the best when staying here.

(stunning interiors at Chitwa Chitwa)

(Dreamy views from Singita Boulders)

Next time we will go in to more detail about the places you can enjoy your beach element of your honeymoon in Mozambique or Mauritius, incredibly easy destinations to get to from South Africa and really tick the luxury beach part of relaxation on your trip.