A honeymoon in South Africa is truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you're captivated by its pristine beaches or thrilled by wildlife encounters on exciting safaris, this vibrant country offers something special for every couple. Beyond its breathtaking landscapes, South Africa also caters to those with a spirit of adventure. For an unforgettable honeymoon, our recommendation is simple: mix and match your experiences as you explore this stunning destination.
Romantic places for honeymoon in South Africa
South Africa’s rich history makes it a melting pot of sights, sounds and tastes.
If you are choosing South Africa for your honeymoon, here’s a glimpse into the best locations and experiences across the region.
Cape Town
Cape Town is always a highlight in conversations about beautiful cities — and it absolutely deserves a top spot on your bucket list for a South Africa honeymoon. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, the city’s landscape is nothing short of breathtaking.
As South Africa’s legislative capital and a bustling metropolis, Cape Town perfectly balances natural beauty with urban charm. Take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for panoramic views, or spend a leisurely afternoon at Camps Bay Beach, where white sands meet crystal-clear waters.
The city’s vibrant food scene caters to every taste and budget, from cosy spots to high-end dining experiences. For unforgettable meals, we recommend 95 Keerom Street for Italian-inspired dishes, The Roundhouse for a historic yet elegant setting, and The Test Kitchen for innovative fine dining.
The Cape Winelands
South Africa is known for its delectable wines. For those visiting South Africa on honeymoon, Cape Winelands in Western Cape Province is something you cannot miss as a newlywed couple. The beautiful Stellenbosch Wine Route passes through here.
The destination offers more than wine-tasting: tours to cheetah reserves, strawberry picking, and birdwatching. Nearby, Constantia is the birthplace of South African wine, and Franschhoek’s restaurants make it the “gourmet capital” of the country.
Kruger National Park
When you honeymoon in South Africa, there’s no better way to witness the grandeur of its wildlife than in its national parks. Kruger National Park is a must-visit — a vast game reserve spanning two provinces in South Africa. It’s the perfect place to witness the iconic Big Five on safari: lion, rhino, elephant, leopard, and buffalo. But the wildlife experience doesn’t stop there — you'll also spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes, cheetahs, hippopotamuses, spotted hyenas, and many other fascinating species.
The best time to visit is during winter, when the dry season makes it easier to spot animals. For accommodation, Kruger offers a range of options—from luxury lodges and safari tents to self-catering rest camps—catering to both comfort seekers and adventure enthusiasts. Spas and candlelit dining are among the local experiences that honeymooners often choose.
Garden Route
Discover one of South Africa’s best-kept secrets, the Garden Route, on a trip down the N2. This highway stretches between East London on the Indian Ocean and the Western Cape Province, nearly on the opposite coastline.
The Garden Route on South Africa’s southern coast is among the most romantic destinations for a honeymoon in South Africa. A road trip here offers more than just stunning views — it’s a blend of diverse experiences. This perfect balance of natural beauty and contemporary charm makes the journey as memorable as the destination.
Take a romantic stroll through quaint towns like Plettenberg Bay, relax at the lagoon in Knysna, and spot whales near Birkenhead House as you sail out on boat tours.
The Drakensberg Mountains
A South Africa honeymoon is incomplete without a peaceful stay at the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal. This region boasts the country's highest altitude, and its name, "Drakensberg," directly translates to "Dragon Mountains." As you leave behind city life in nearby Durban, you travel through tranquil grassland valleys past crystal-clear rivers. In uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, nature trails lead you to caves with rock art (“Bushman San”) left behind by early humans thousands of years ago.
Conclusion
South Africa lies on the absolute southern end of the enormous African continent. A honeymoon in South Africa takes you through the raw beauty of nature in unique ecosystems. It is also a traveller’s delight when you want to know a place through its people, their cultures, and what they have built. This region has witnessed a very interesting historical trajectory from prehistoric to modern colonial and now the digital age.
The places listed above are just a handful of numerous unmissable experiences. The Robben Island, Pilanesberg National Park, Namaqualand, Shakaland, Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga, Soweto, Johannesburg, Pretoria — there is just so much to see.
From fishing to safaris, wine farm walks, and sunsets on the beach, whatever you choose, make sure you are protected financially with travel insurance. A holiday must never be ruined by worries about how to handle emergencies, and the right insurance policy always proves useful in such situations.
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