There's no better way to celebrate the beginning of your married life than taking an unforgettable trip to the “Mother Continent.” A South Africa honeymoon is ideal if you’re interested in an African safari, white sandy beaches, incredible landscapes, and nightlife.
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Is South Africa a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
South Africa is one of the best places to go for your honeymoon.
This African country is the perfect recipe for romance, endowed with numerous attractions, diverse terrains, a rich culture, and gorgeous beaches. South Africa’s spectacular landscapes create a wild and rugged aura to die for.
South Africa’s food scene is another reason to consider this destination. You’ll have a surreal experience as you relish the country’s cuisines in exquisite restaurants and local hotels.
What Activities Can You Do on a South African Honeymoon?
There’s a vast array of activities to add to your South African honeymoon itinerary, including the following:
- Go on an African safari. Catch wildlife in their natural habitat during morning and evening game drives. Then, get treated to bush luxury in an exotic safari lodge and spa on a private reserve, such as Sabi Sands Game Reserve.
Explore the renowned Kruger National Park for the indispensable opportunity of seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and African buffalo). - Explore South Africa’s major cities. Immerse yourself in the unique vibes of South Africa’s largest cities, including Cape Town and Johannesburg. Here, you can stroll past historical sites and monuments, catch up with the cities’ nightlife, and chase the sunset while enjoying sumptuous meals in posh restaurants.
- Succumb to the lure of charming wineries. A vineyard tour in the Western Cape is one of the most romantic honeymoon activities. You can taste the finest wines and raise your glasses to new beginnings.
Aside from wine tasting, the district municipality offers fun-filled activities for newlyweds, including horseback riding, visiting art galleries, exploring game reserves, and enjoying spa treatments. - Visit the coastline in Eastern Cape. Watch the captivating African penguins at Boulders beach or unwind on the white sand and crystal-clear waters.
- Take in the outdoors. There’s a lot in store for outdoor enthusiasts in South Africa. Get an adrenaline rush by participating in exhilarating outdoor activities such as canyoning (“kloofing”), hiking, bungee jumping, and sightseeing from tree canopies.
- Bike ride to the Cape of Good Hope. Enjoy a breathtaking experience at one of Soth Africa’s most beautiful holiday spots. The Cape of Good Hope is where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic. The rocky woodland on the southern tip of South Africa has sweeping views of the vast coastline and wildlife, especially when you climb up to the lighthouse.
5 Best Cities to Stay In South Africa
1. Cape Town
Home to one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Table Mountain, Cape Town is arguably the best city to stay in South Africa. Adventure enthusiasts will have the time of their life hiking the jaw-dropping Table Mountain. Alternatively, you can take a cable train ride to the summit and enjoy the picturesque views of the coastline.
Cape Town’s vibrant nightlife attracts backpackers and other tourists, thanks to its excellent bars and fun restaurants. Sun bums will love a day trip to see penguins at Boulder’s beach or the sun and sand at Clifton beach.
History lovers will be amazed by the rich African history after visiting the South African National Gallery. Newlyweds can unwind by strolling the city’s neighborhoods, including the V&A Waterfront and the colorful Bo Kaap district.
Where to stay: Green Point, Victoria, and Alfred Waterfront
Suggested duration: 3 – 5 days
2. Johannesburg
Johannesburg (Jo’burg) is South Africa’s largest city and home to famous historical sites and monuments. The Soweto Walking Tour offers tourists a rare chance to visit the homes of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
You can also go shopping in Multiflora Flower Market or stroll and picnic at Zoo Lake. In addition, Jo’burg offers a breathtaking safari experience for couples interested in African wilderness in the neighboring Kruger National Park.
Where to stay: The Central Business District (CBD), Bryanston, Randburg, and Rosebank.
Suggested duration: 2 to 4 days
3. Cape Winelands
Cape Winelands is the most romantic destination in South Africa. Here, you and your partner can enjoy the tastiest African wines. Tour the picturesque Stellenbosch (the second oldest town in South Africa) and admire the beauty of Cape Dutch architecture.
Or, head over to Franschhoek and sample its lovely cafes, restaurants, and boutique hotels.
Where to stay: towns of Paarl, Worcester, Franschhoek, Wellington, and Stellenbosch
Suggested duration: 3 to 4 days
4. Durban
A coastal city in Eastern South Africa, Durban takes pride in its massive seafront promenade. It’s the perfect honeymoon destination for beach-loving couples, thanks to its gorgeous golden sand beaches.
Nature enthusiasts will also appreciate visiting the pleasant Botanical Gardens or the Umgeni River Bird Park, a tropical bird center with colorful exotic birds.
Where to stay: Golden Mile, Durban North
Suggested duration: 3 days
5. Drakensberg
Three hours northwest of Durban lies the Drakensberg, a picturesque mountain range in Eastern Cape. The Drakensberg is the best place for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking. Hiking enthusiasts will love the trails in Garden Castle State Forest, Giant’s Castle, and the Royal Natal National Park.
On a sightseeing day trip, you can enjoy the panoramic views of the waterfalls, Blyde River Canyon, and God’s Window. Then, get a rewarding spa-like treatment by swimming in natural mineral water pools.
Where to stay: Underberg or Howick
Suggested duration: 3 to 4 days
What Is the Best Time to Visit South Africa?
The best months to visit South Africa are May through August since it is cool and dry.
South Africa is a year-round destination that enjoys pleasant weather most of the time. It’s in the southern hemisphere. So, its weather seasons are typically the opposite of the US.
However, South Africa’s weather varies across different regions. So, it helps to know the weather in specific destinations when planning your South African honeymoon.
What Types of Accommodations Are Available in South Africa?
Whether you are looking for luxury, comfort, or relaxation, you’ll find the perfect facility. South Africa offers different accommodation types, including hotels, resorts, safari lodges, and Airbnbs.
Budget hotels, guesthouses, and backpacker lodges (hostels) are also available for couples who want modesty. Other inexpensive facilities include caravan parks and camping sites.
How Much Does it Cost to Honeymoon in South Africa?
A South African honeymoon can cost $6,575 to $12,475. On average, it costs a couple $9,525 to honeymoon in South Africa without flights. Going for an African safari honeymoon may sound expensive, but it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. A few factors that will affect the price of your trip include the following:
- Month and day of travel
- Travel plans
- Duration
- Food and accommodation
- Excursions and activities
How to Plan a Budget Honeymoon in South Africa
- Book early. Traveling costs are higher when you book flights and accommodation closer to your scheduled travel date. Most tour companies do not allow negotiation; however, you can get discount deals if you book earlier (8 to 12 months in advance).
- Book an indirect flight instead of a direct one. Direct flights tend to be more costly than indirect ones. But this also depends on your preferred airline and the time of travel.
- Book budget hotels. Forego luxury and book affordable hotels if you’re on a tight budget. You can also limit your honeymoon duration to pay less.
- Visit during off-peak months. Flights and accommodation rates are usually lower during off-peak seasons. The rainy season usually hits between November and February, meaning there are fewer visitors during this time.
- Eat local: Cut food costs by sampling South Africa’s local cuisine. Dine at local restaurants instead of dining in top-notch hotels.
What Is the Best Way to Travel to South Africa?
Flying to South Africa is the best way to get to this romantic getaway.
Currently, there is only one direct flight option from the USA to South Africa’s largest airport, Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. The flight originates in Atlanta, Georgia, and takes fifteen hours. Direct flights cost you more than indirect ones. Indirect flights with stopover destinations in the Middle East or European countries can save hundreds.
Depending on your destination, you can connect to other cities, such as Cape Town, from Johannesburg.
Traveling Within South Africa
Different transport options are available after arriving at your destination. You can grab a cab, take public transport, or rent a car. Uber is more affordable than renting a car and safer than public transport, which is the cheapest option.
Is South Africa Safe to Visit?
Although South Africa has a high crime rate, most tourist destinations have a heavy police presence. However, you must be vigilant when visiting major cities, especially Johannesburg. Here are general safety precautions to take during your South African honeymoon:
- Keep your valuables secure, and be vigilant in or around the airports.
- Have a reliable tour guide when visiting different areas.
- Be cautious of suspicious people, avoid showcasing your valuables, and take a reliable means of transport while touring cities’ CBDs.
- Hike in groups and stick to the designated hiking trails.
- Avoid isolated areas, including deserted beaches and remote towns.
- Protect your confidential information, including your ATM pin and credit card details.
What to Pack For a South Africa Honeymoon
You’ll spend plenty of time outdoors since a South African vacation is adventure-based. Here’s what to include in your luggage:
- Identification documents
- A power adapter for electronics
- Binoculars
- Seasonal clothing, including jackets, pants, warm socks for cooler months, and light clothes with neutral colors for warmer months
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellant
- Anti-malarial medications
- US dollars in cash
8 Local Foods to Try While Honeymooning in South Africa
- Biltong & droewors: dried coriander-spiced sausages, similar to beef jerky
- Boerewors: beef sausage that is commonly grilled
- Chakalaka & pap: curried stew with vegetables, served with African cornmeal
- Vetkoek: fried bread filled with savory or sweet ingredients
- Braai or Shisa nyama: African barbecued meat
- Potjiekos: slow-cooked meat and vegetable stew
- Durban bunny chow: curry served inside a hollowed-out loaf of bread
- Bobotie: baked ground beef and dried fruit pie topped with a creamy egg mixture
Do You Need a Visa to Visit South Africa?
You must apply for a visa to visit South Africa as an international tourist. Once approved, your visa is valid for up to 90 days. You must apply for the visa one month before your intended travel date since immigration doesn’t offer visas at entry ports.
South African visas are not free for tourists from most foreign countries, including the US. You must confirm the visa fees before planning your visit, as the amount is updated annually.
Final Thoughts
South Africa is a dreamy honeymoon destination. And it can be a once-in-a-lifetime vacation if you put everything in place. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- ATMs are scarce in some areas, so you must carry cash.
- The local language is Afrikaans, but most people speak English.
- 1 USD translates to 18.25 South African Rand (currently).
- Using a travel agency might make planning easier – but it might be more costly.