For South African couples or foreigners choosing SA as their honeymoon destination, check out these ultimate post-nuptial holiday tips and advice.
South Africa, a land of diverse landscapes and cultural richness, stands as an enchanting canvas for couples seeking an unforgettable honeymoon, a post-wedding experience widely accepted for marital bliss. No other country offers such a wide variety of attractions, wildlife, and luxury accommodations at affordable prices.
From the sun-kissed beaches along the Garden Route to the majestic wildlife of Kruger National Park, there’s something to make every heart skip a beat.
This definitive guide unveils the myriad possibilities for an idyllic honeymoon experience in South Africa. JanaTribe readers will learn best about where to go in South Africa, the best time to go, the best honeymoon all-inclusive packages, honeymoon special offers, and safari and beach honeymoon destinations.
Is South Africa good for a honeymoon?
After the undoubtedly tedious processes of wedding planning and marriage traditions and rituals, couples move out to serene surroundings to embark on their journey into marital bliss.
The first step in planning a honeymoon is choosing the perfect destination. A South African honeymoon is the perfect escape for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure lovers. In our previous article, we shared 20 unique honeymoon places in South Africa. Reading this will give you different options to choose from for your post-wedding holiday.
The iconic Cape Town, with its Table Mountain backdrop and vibrant city life, sets the stage for urban romance. Kruger National Park beckons honeymooners with thrilling safaris and the opportunity to witness the Big Five (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, buffalo, and zebras) as well as cheetahs and hippos in their natural habitats.
The picturesque Garden Route, with its coastal charm, and the Drakensberg Mountains, offering serene landscapes, provide diverse options for a romantic retreat. The diverse landscape includes coastlines, mountains, grasslands, and the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. The Winelands are a prime location for an authentic African wine-tasting experience.
South Africa is beautiful, but it’s a long way from home. Expect to dedicate about two days to travel to the country (getting there and back). Couples with less time to lose will want to consider other honeymoon destinations. It’s also a country made for exploration. Honeymooners who want to sit back and relax might have more fun at an all-inclusive resort in another destination.
Is South Africa a safe honeymoon destination?
There is no such thing as the safest place in the world. At least several recorded crimes go on, but probably not much is captured and shared on the internet, hence the thought of these nations being considered safe.
For South Africa, many areas are safe, but the US government warns that crime and civil unrest are common in the country. Travelers and even locals are therefore urged to exercise caution, be vigilant of their surroundings, and set boundaries. Ensure you’re always with someone you trust.
Is Cape Town safe? Yes, if you are smart and keep your wits about you. Although there are a lot of people who have felt unsafe in Cape Town, it is right to note that it is in Africa, and you need to exercise caution as a traveler. Cape Town sees more petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching.
For travelers or foreigners, it is recommended you take Uber or book private transport from the airport to your hotel or Airbnb. Avoid visiting townships unless it’s with a reliable tour operator, and always lock your car, put things in a safe in your hotel room, and leave your flashy jewelry at home. It’s also best to avoid deserted beaches and roadways at night.
Is Johannesburg safe? No. Johannesburg has extremely high rates of crime. Though many safaris will fly through Johannesburg, you are going to want to spend the bulk of your time in Cape Town over Johannesburg. And avoid flying through Joburg if you can. If you do have a layover there, be extremely vigilant if you are flying through Johannesburg. and I do not recommend staying overnight here.
The Best Time to Honeymoon in South Africa
“What’s the best time to have your honeymoon in South Africa?” is one of the best questions for any prospective honeymooners with such a destination in mind. This is because it is right to know the weather and even the atmospheric conditions of the place before one thinks of going on such trips.
The good news is that South Africa is a pleasant destination across all four seasons, but it’s also a large country with regional climates; hence, some months have more upside than others, depending on what you are looking for.
The best time to visit will depend on what tops your honeymoon itinerary. If spotting a big game on a safari honeymoon is important to you, opt for May through September as it’s cooler, drier, and less rainy.
Keep in mind that colder months may offer more special offers, and the hot months of December to February are more crowded in Kruger Park, and the animals are tougher to spot due to dense vegetation from the rains and hot temperatures, making them less active during the day.
The best time to view games in Kruger Park is from late July to the end of October, as the temperatures are cooler, meaning more activity, and the park is coming out of the dry season, which means the vegetation is less dense.
Newlyweds most looking forward to exploring Cape Town will want to book their trips for the summer months (November to February in South Africa), where they’ll take in glorious sunsets.
The Best South African Honeymoon Destinations
1. The Kruger Park
The most popular destination in South Africa for international visitors is Kruger National Park in the northeast of the country.
The Kruger is Africa’s leading wildlife safari destination, where you can see the Big Five animals, more than 140 large mammal species, and over 500 bird species in one safari destination.
The Kruger boasts a wide variety of exceptional luxury safari lodges on an all-inclusive basis, perfect for your dream African safari honeymoon vacation.
2. Cape Town
Consistently voted the #1 City in the world to visit, Cape Town is a favorite destination and recommended starting point for honeymooners in South Africa.
Here you’ll experience the best blend of South African culture and enjoy a wide range of activities, including swimming with penguins at Boulders Beach, touring the scenic coastlines of the Southern Peninsula, enjoying 360-degree views from the top of Table Mountain over the southern point of Africa, and so much more.
With a wide variety of excellent four- and five-star hotels, Cape Town offers affordable luxury and excellent value for money.
3. Franschhoek
Franschhoek is located a 40-minute drive outside of Cape Town and is a picture-perfect town nestled at the foot of the Cape Fold mountains.
Franschhoek is the food and wine capital of Africa, steeped in French winemaking tradition with a Dutch influence to blend.
This most romantic of towns boasts award-winning wineries and several world-top 50-rated restaurants sprinkled through the lovely boutique hotels in the area.
A 2-night stay is recommended and makes for the perfect romantic getaway on the Cape Town leg of your honeymoon.
4. Hermanus
Roughly an hour’s drive outside of Cape Town lies the rustic, seaside town of Hermanus, one of the best places in the world for whale watching between June and November.
Hermanus is a coastal village encompassing a fishermen’s village, an old harbor, and a beautiful stretch of superb wine estates on the Hemel & Aarde route just outside the city.
All these and more in this scenic setting make this an ideal 2-night getaway on your South African honeymoon.
5. Garden Route
The Garden Route is a stretch of coastline along the Western Cape’s south-eastern coastline, boasting one of the most scenic drives on earth.
The name originates from the ecologically diverse vegetation encountered here, with numerous estuaries and lakes sprinkled along the route, as well as many small towns and quaint villages.
The Garden Route has the second mildest climate in the world, and attractions include whale watching, the Tsitsikamma Forest, and mountains. The Garden Route is part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
The Best Hotels, Lodges, and Resorts in South Africa for a Honeymoon
South Africa has a huge variety of very good hotels and lodges for you to consider when planning your South African honeymoon. Here are a few of our favorites.
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa is in the well-off Cape Town suburb of Camp’s Bay. The five-star boutique hotel overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and remains a short distance from Table Mountain and the V&A Waterfront. Beach-loving couples will also love how close it is to the top waterfronts in Camp’s Bay. The hotel itself features 70 country-chic rooms, a spa, and swimming pools.
Plettenberg Hotel
An elegant spot located on the Garden Route, the Plettenberg Hotel is ideal for honeymooners who want to explore the golden-sand beaches of the Indian Ocean and retreat to five-star accommodations. The cuisine at SeaFood is top-notch, as are the 35 tastefully decorated rooms, many of which have waterfront vistas.
Teniqua Treetops
Live your childhood dreams by staying in a rustic-chic, eco-friendly treehouse at the base of the Outeniqua Mountains in Sedgefield. Of course, Teniqua Treetops‘ treehouses aren’t the same as your childhood hangouts. They feature some luxe adult twists, like living and dining areas and running water. The lush forest surroundings feel like something out of a whimsical dream.
Tintswalo Safari Lodge
Tintswalo Safari Lodge is more of an experience than a hotel. The spot shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park and remains on the breathtaking Manyeleti Private Game Reserve. Guests can see wildlife from the safari lodge itself while taking in the rustic wooden interior and period-style furniture.
Mount Nelson
Mount Nelson, a Belmond Hotel, is an upscale but unpretentious spot in Cape Town. It’s near local attractions like Table Mountain and the white-sand beaches of Clifton. When couples aren’t exploring the town, they’ll bask in plush and posh accommodations, including plunge pools and airy rooms, which embody the ease of a Cape Town getaway.
Franschhoek Boutique Hotel
Foodies and oenophiles love calling Franschhoek Boutique Hotel home when exploring the culinary and wine-tasting destination. The 12 stylish suites boast a modern boudoir ambiance and include amenities like wine coolers and freestanding baths. The friendly staff loves sharing top spots to sip and savor local wine and food with guests.
Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch
Johannesburg Marriott Hotel is perfect for couples looking to enjoy digs with modern luxury and easy access to the bustling South African city. Rooms include comfy beds and large flat-screen TVs. The hotel is within walking distance of local boutiques, shops, and spots to dine al fresco.
Things to Do During a South African Honeymoon
A South African honeymoon will give you a chance to explore everything from history to the beach and safari. Each stop along your honeymoon itinerary will be brimming with unique charm. Some properties offer unique travel and honeymoon packages, so check with your concierge or agent for the best itinerary.
Take a Safari in Kruger National Park
Newlyweds itching to spot all of the Big Five will want to put Kruger National Park on their honeymoon itineraries. Couples can head out on private safari tours or budget-friendly group options—both are experiences you’ll talk about for years to come.
There is no separation between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve, an African safari destination with wild natural beauty and modern luxury. Animals can roam freely between the two, increasing your chances of spotting lions and rhinos, regardless of where the 4×4 and tour guide will take you.
Explore Johannesburg
South Africa’s largest city is a must-stop for couples who appreciate history and value activism. Nelson Mandela once called Johannesburg home, and guests can visit his former residence. Now known as The Nelson Mandela National Museum, it offers a look at his life and impact on the fight against Apartheid. Other top spots to visit include The Apartheid Museum and the Hector Pieterson Museum.
Visit Cape Town
There’s no shortage of things to do in Cape Town, the famous resort city on South Africa’s southwest coast. It sits beneath the 3,558-foot, flat-peaked Table Mountain. The town offers both Atlantic and Indian Ocean beaches. FYI: The Atlantic ones are cold year-round. Though the water is chilly at Clifton Beaches, the white sand and crystal-clear waters are serene. Boulders Beach is famous for its warm Indian Ocean waters and penguin sightings. The V&A Waterfront has chic restaurants and shopping. Honeymooners can continue the history lesson they started in Johannesburg by taking a day trip to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was once imprisoned.
Raise a Glass in the Western Cape Winelands
The finest African wines are grown and produced in the Western Cape Winelands. It’s home to favorite regions like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Stellenbosch is larger and has a college-town feel at times, whereas Franschhoek is walkable and exudes a small-village charm. When you’re not wine tasting, peruse the streets for local bistros.
Take in the Sights in the Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape is a hidden gem with fewer tourists than its Western counterpart. It’s full of fun activities, though. Ride the waves at Jeffrey’s Bay or visit Addo Elephant National Park. You can get to the Eastern Cape from the Western Cape by taking the road trip of a lifetime along The Garden Route. Situated along a 124-mile stretch along the coastline, honeymooners can take in lush forests and dramatic seaside cliffs during the ride.
Shark Cage Diving in Cape Town
The cold waters of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans in Cape Town are home to one of the biggest shark populations on earth, making it a perfect destination to get your adrenaline rising on your honeymoon with a shark cage diving experience.
Half-day or full-day trips leave daily, weather permitting, with pickups and drop-offs from your hotel.
Haute Cabriere in Franschhoek
The farm on which Haute Cabriere is situated dates back to 1694 and is best known for its exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines.
At Haute Cabriere, you can enjoy unique wine tastings in the underground cellar or the luxuriously appointed tasting area.
Whale Watching in Hermanus
Ocean lovers agree that Hermanus has some of the world’s best whale watching, if not the world’s best! While you can see the whales from the shore, the best way is with a boat trip departing early in the morning. You will not appreciate the size and speed of these mammals until you are up close; it’s a lifetime memory, and another reason South African honeymoons are the best choice for your couple’s getaway.
South African Honeymoon Packages
A lot of these honeymoon destinations are places of attraction, hotels, and nature-serene locations of South Africa’s premier resorts and travel agencies that serve several purposes, but the authorities there have special packages for couples on their honeymoon.
These curated packages often include a combination of accommodation, dining experiences, and exclusive activities, providing couples with a seamless and romantic journey through the country.
Cape to Kruger
The Cape to Kruger honeymoon package features 3 nights in Cape Town and 4 nights in Kruger Park on an all-inclusive basis.
- Table Mountain
- Southern Peninsula
- Boulders Beach
- Wine Estates
- 2 Daily Game Drives
- Private Reserve
- All Meals & Drinks
- Big Five Safaris
According to Africa Safari Home, a 7-night package from the Cape to Kruger starts at $5,697 PPS.
Southern Jewels
The luxurious Southern Jewels honeymoon includes Cape Town for 3 nights, Franschhoek for 2 nights, and the 5-Star Narina Lodge for 4 nights in Kruger Park.
- Table Mountain
- Southern Peninsula
- Cape Winelands
- Boutique Hotels
- Private Game Reserve
- 2 Private Safaris Daily
- Big Five Safari
- All-Inclusive 5 Star
The same source also suggests that a 9-night stay at the Southern Jewels honeymoon destination has packages starting at $6,997 PPS.
Best of South Africa
Discover the gems of South Africa with 3 nights in Cape Town, 2 nights in Franschhoek, 2 nights in Hermanus, and 5 nights in Kruger Park.
- Southern Peninsula
- Private Day Tours
- Cape Winelands
- Birkenhead House
Also, the estimation of the cost of a honeymoon package for 12 nights starts at $9,997 PPS.
Honeymoon Duration in South Africa
How long is a honeymoon in South Africa? You can plan a perfect South African honeymoon itinerary in about 10 days. But we’d recommend staying for 2 weeks, if you can afford it, to see as much as possible in this beautiful vacation destination.
Cost of Honeymoon in South Africa
How much does a honeymoon cost in South Africa? The cost of a South African honeymoon depends on exactly how big you want to go.
But if you’ve come all this way for your honeymoon in South Africa, we’d recommend a safari, wine tasting, and checking out several parts of the country.
To experience South Africa fully in 2 weeks, you’ll likely spend $7,500–$15,000, per thehoneymoonedit.
What to Pack for a South African Honeymoon
You’ll likely be spending a decent amount of time outdoors during your trip to South Africa. Sunblock and insect repellent will help you withstand the elements. Comfortable closed-toed shoes will keep feet safe and dry during adventures, and lightweight clothes in neutral tones will prevent you from getting too hot. Bring binoculars to get a better view of the wildlife. Evenings can get cool, so pack a fleece. Trendy, seasonal outfits will serve you well during wine tastings and upscale dinners.
You’ll also want to speak with your doctor before traveling about necessary shots and precautionary measures. Though malaria is rare, it does exist in South Africa. A healthcare professional may recommend bringing anti-malarial drugs.
