The honeymoon is a time for newlyweds to enjoy each other’s company in privacy. While the wedding itself may be referred to as the ‘party’, the honeymoon is the ‘after party’ and is for many equally as important as the main event. When it comes to the perfect honeymoon vacation, a lot of details must be put into consideration. Where? How long? What kind of activities will the happy couple engage in outside of the bedroom? The experience should be memorable, romantic and filled with exciting events in a serene cozy setting. While many options come to mind, few can match the elegance and unique adventures that Tanzania has to offer with its amazing safari parks and pristine beaches. Here are the top destinations to consider for your honeymoon in Tanzania:
Serengeti National Park
Any honeymoon in Tanzania should include a visit to the famous Serengeti National Park. It is regarded as the oldest national park in Tanzania, and the flagship of the country’s tourism industry. The park is famous for the annual Great Migration which sees more than 1.5 million wildebeest and zebras trekking up to 1,000km across the dry terrain in search of water and greener grazing ground. The enormous stretch of rolling savannahs dotted with beautiful lakes is known across the globe for its abundance of wildlife. Considering the varieties of wildlife on the open plains of the region, the Serengeti is the perfect adventure for honeymooners who want to blend their romance with unforgettable adventures in the wild.
Best Features Of The Serengeti National Park For Honeymooners:
The list of endless possibilities the Serengeti offers honeymooners is unrivaled. The stunning views of the uncharted Serengeti territory along with the many fascinating animals offer honeymooners a romantic adventure and many cherished memories that will stand the test of time. The Serengeti National Park offers an array of wild splendor for newlyweds, including;
Game Drives
The game drive fills you and your spouse in with a close-up experience with the wonders of the wild. This is one sure moment honeymooners get intimate emotionally just by sharing this view of the Serengeti, seeing how the animals live in their natural habitat. Sights of the wild are guaranteed to give you goosebumps and also show just how beautiful our world looks.
Experience ‘The Great Migration’
This is undoubtedly one of the epic moments of a lifetime that honeymooners can share together. The Great Migration is often regarded as ‘the world cup’ of wildlife and is the highlight of a honeymoon in Tanzania. You can experience the Great Migration at any time during the year but especially between June and October is popular due to the so-called river crossing where you get the rare opportunity of witnessing millions of wildebeest together with thousands of zebras and antelopes crossing the big Mara river with crocodiles and lions waiting for a chance. Another great time to visit is during the first quarter of the year where you can witness thousands of young wildebeest being born. Perfect for a romantic experience in the wild.
Exclusive Bush breakfast
A romantic bush breakfast can be orchestrated for honeymooners in the Serengeti wild. On waking up with your spouse, an amazing table with fine linen, fresh African bloom, and a scenic view is organized to ensure honeymooners kick start their daily routine with a touch of ‘wild class’. The chef prepares tasty dishes with a choice of eggs, bacon, bread, sausages, jam, marmalade, milk, assorted juices, and various pastries to delight the taste buds of the couple. A bottle of champagne accompanies the breakfast as a gift to the newlyweds.
Lunch picnic
Lunch picnics are usually arranged during the game drives in the Serengeti. Since couples mostly don’t get a chance to have lunch at the lodge, they carry their lunch with them and get to stop at some strategic spots to have a nice romantic picnic in the wild. This allows couples to have a different feel outside the lodge as they share this moment together.
Hot Air Ballooning
A ‘birds-eye’ view of the Serengeti plains is an enchanting experience honeymooners at the Serengeti will definitely want to cross off their bucket list. A hot air balloon ride allows couples to get a different view of the wild enjoying the fresh breeze on your skin. A hot air balloon safari is an experience of a lifetime. It is usually done in the early morning so couples can watch the magical sunrise over the Serengeti plains.
Photoshoot in the Wild
Honeymooners do not only get to enjoy the serene scenic views of the vast Serengeti plains but also get the chance to carry along with them a souvenir as a reminder of their experience which will not only live their memory but replicated through amazing pictures of their time in Africa. While some couples arrange for backdrops for the shoot, others prefer to have a raw view of the wild which will need little or no editing.
Private Romantic Dinners
Private romantic dinners in the Serengeti differs from the type that couples are accustomed to in the western setting. Here, it is an infusion of the breathtaking wilderness and bright beautiful stars overhead with a sumptuous meal that the couple will relish. A high-end selection of dinnerware and cutlery are made available with a banquet team to ensure a high-end and exclusive experience. Couples also get to make their choice of food from the array of dishes available, including vegan menus. Drink options include champagne, cocktails and a selection of alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages.
Accommodation Options:
Accommodations are an important part of a honeymoon, and a honeymoon in Tanzania is no different. Here are some of the most intimate accommodation options that we recommend to newlyweds. While facilities vary, they offer top-notch amenities like WIFI, bar/lounge, spa, gym, and even swimming pools.
Located in the heart of the savannah, these exquisite luxury camps provides honeymooners with the thrill of an authentic safari experience with amazing views of the mountains and rolling grasslands around. This centrally located facility boasts three camps across the Serengeti, each showcasing the unique and wondrous nature of the park. The tented rooms are cozy and the amenities are designed to provide you and your spouse with an unparalleled African experience while maintaining the sense of style and luxury yet still giving you a feel of staying in the middle of the wild with animals roaming freely around the camp.
Deep within Africa’s finest game reserve, the safari lodge welcomes you to a sanctuary of Four Season comfort. It is one of the best-valued lodges in the Serengeti National Park thanks to its strategic location which allows couples to get up close and intimate with lions, leopards, elephants – yet always feel safe and pampered – Perfect for a honeymoon in Tanzania. Couples also get the chance to experience thrilling Serengeti game drives and a rare opportunity to connect with the local people and their fascinating culture.
Situated conveniently in the south-central part of the park, Asanja Africa camp comprises seven private luxury tents and one tented family villa. Each luxury private tent represents a special Maasai ceremony with a story to tell. All tents have an en-suite bathroom with flush toilets and hot showers, as well as spacious private verandahs overlooking the scenic views of the Serengeti. The location is a prime base to spot the Great Migration. The camp is exclusive and provides exemplary service to match international standards.
This lodge is artfully constructed around a rocky outcrop from glass and wood elements, perfectly blending into its surroundings. The Seronera wildlife lodge provides a unique opportunity for couples to have a close encounter with the ‘Big five’ and is only a few minutes away from the hot air balloon station which offers a thrilling bird’s eye view of the vast Serengeti plains.
Ngorongoro Conservation Center
Ngorongoro is named after a large volcanic caldera which happens to be in the Ngorongoro crater within the area. Located 180km from Arusha, the Ngorongoro conservation area is protected and also regarded as a world heritage site. The Ngorongoro conservation is renowned for its exotic wildlife — approximately 25,000 large animals living in the crater some of which include the African Buffalo, hippopotamus, blue wildebeest, Zebras, crocodiles, lions – the Ngorongoro conservation area also has a healthy population of birdlife.
Features Of Ngorongoro Safari For Honeymooners:
On arrival at the Ngorongoro conservation center, you and your spouse will be blown away by the breathtaking landscape, the variety of wildlife, and the geological marvels of the crater. Coming here for your honeymoon means entering a whole new world of possibilities where you both get to experience nature at its peak. Some of the recommended activities at the Ngorongoro include
5 Days Glamping
Couples interested in this adventure of a lifetime embark on a five-day drive around the vast Ngorongoro crater. Every engagement routine has been planned ahead for the purpose of giving honeymooners the best experience ever. Every second of the five-day drive is filled with adventure as you unravel the amazing wildlife of Ngorongoro. Couples can also opt for private sightseeing tours and take several pictures against the stunning backdrop.
Lunch Picnics and Romantic Dinners
Like the Serengeti, honeymooners are treated to sumptuous lunch and dinner dates at the Ngorongoro Conservation Center. Think candlelit dinners and the rest of the evening cozying with your partner around the fireplace with a glass of wine. You are then awakened at sunrise by the merry singsongs of birds.
Accommodation Options:
Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge
This lodge features a total of 20 spacious cabins all designed for the comfort of its guest. This lodge occupies about 50 acres of virgin Tanzanian bush in the Ngorongoro volcanic landscape. The lodge has a swimming pool for relaxation and the rain spa after a full day game drive.
This lodge is built out of raw materials such as wood and the designs are specifically tailored to fit the needs of couples as they enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the wonderful natural environment from the windows. Ngorongoro wildlife lodge provides a spectacular view of the Crater 7500 feet above sea level.
This is an exotic colonial lodge situated on the scenic hill with spectacular views of the Oldeani mountains. The property occupies 40 acres of pristine lush green gardens and local vegetation with over 130 species of birds. The lodge is elevated with round the clock views that extend all the way to lake eyes and Lake Manyara. This extraordinary view offers honeymooners an opportunity to see the wonders of the Oldeani mountains firsthand.
Honeymoon In Zanzibar
One of the unique features of a honeymoon in Tanzania is that you can combine an amazing wildlife safari with a relaxing stay at some of the best beaches in the world. Zanzibar is a perfect honeymoon destination for newlyweds. It is famous for its culture, unique history, and scenic seaside, an enchanting destination for your honeymoon in Tanzania. Zanzibar is a fantastic option for a beach break so if you are considering a visit to Zanzibar, you have a lot of beach options all of which promise to be an out of this world experience.
Best Features Of Zanzibar For Honeymooners
Newlyweds are welcome to enjoy amazing beach experiences that Zanzibar has in store for them. The list of beach and water activities that you and your spouse can look forward to includes
- Snorkeling excursion to Mnemba island
- Scuba diving
- Jet ski tours and parasailing flights in Kendwa
- Flyboarding sessions
- Kite surfing discovery lessons and wakeboarding in Paje
- Stand up paddle sessions
- Kayaking
- Bungee jumping
These activities offer lots of adrenaline-pumping adventures and more intimate bonding moments with your partner. Any one of them is an experience of a lifetime and ushers in an exciting start to your happily ever after. If you’d rather chill or unwind, the turquoise waters stretching for miles and overlapping fine sandy shores delivers a calm soothing ambiance that pretty much redefines what it means to relax by the beach. Other amazing experiences in Zanzibar perfect for a honeymoon include:
- Spice tour
- Jozani forest to see the endangered Red Colobus Monkeys
- Dolphin watching
- Walking tour of Stone Town
Romantic Dinner Options
The Rock Restaurant is known to be one of the best restaurants on the island. With its unique location in the south-east part of the island out on a rock in the ocean. You need to take a small boat to reach the restaurant. They offer an international menu that caters to all tastes including vegetarians. And the setting is amazing sitting right next to the ocean.
This restaurant located at the romantic Boutique Hotel – The Z Hotel – offers a romantic setting with a fantastic view of the ocean with a wide variety of local and international dishes. For a special occasion like your honeymoon, they promise to set up a special area just for you. Either before or after your dinner, you can also enjoy their rooftop bar with an even better view of the ocean and surrounding beach.
Accommodation Options
Zanzibar offers a wide range of amazing and romantic accommodation options. From more tranquil and quiet places in the southern part of the island to the more busy part with more restaurant options and activities in the North. Here are some of our favorite romantic hotels that make for a perfect honeymoon in Tanzania.
Pongwe beach hotel is a serene and tranquil place where couples can escape the hustle and bustle of modern-day life in Zanzibar. It is modestly wired with four sea view suites, 13 traditional beach villas, as well as three garden rooms with an intimate, personal atmosphere. Set within a secluded bay on the east coast of Zanzibar, Pongwe Beach is a true paradise retreat for honeymooners.
The Mizingani building is a unique historical building that was constructed for newly married Royal couples for their honeymoon in 1865. The Mizingani seafront hotel is located on the Forodhani waterfront next to the sultan palace museum and ferry terminal. The hotel shares the same location as some main tourist attractions like the palace museum, the house of wonders, an old fort and the famous Forodhani food market.
Doubletree By Hilton Resort Zanzibar
Doubletree Resort makes you both feel special on arrival with freshly baked doubletree chocolate chip cookies. You get to relax in the spacious guest room with a private balcony and ocean panorama. The resort boasts traditional Zanzibar style accommodation with Makuti palm leaf roofs and offers spectacular sea view and direct beach access.
Tulia Zanzibar Unique Beach Resort
The exotic Tulia Resort features more than 400 different flowers and plants from all around Zanzibar and it is a real sanctuary for birds, baby bush monkeys, butterflies, and other island animals. The Tulia Zanzibar resort offers 16 elegant bungalows by the white sandy beaches. Each bungalow and path has been built with stones and traditional natural materials for a cozy, yet rustic feel for you and your spouse.
Lake Manyara National Park
Regarded as one of the smallest safari parks in Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park offers private moments, magnificent animals, and cool waters and perfect for a honeymoon safari in Tanzania. If you’d like to spend just a day basking in nature and touring with wildlife in a beautiful serene environment, then this is the perfect location for you lovebirds.
Honeymoon On Lake Manyara:
For honeymooners who seek to explore the wildlife of Lake Manyara, this tour can be accomplished in 24hrs spotting hippopotamus in the north and south of the lake, with hundreds of bird species especially waders, and migratory flamingos. Honeymooners also get to enjoy activities such as mountain biking, fly camping, horse riding, walks in the private wilderness, and game drives in the park.
Accommodation Options:
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge
This lodge provides accommodation with free WiFi and access to a garden with an outdoor swimming pool. The private bathroom with showers is fully equipped with the state of the art facilities. The lodge offers a buffet or American breakfast and the restaurant serves American and African cuisine.
Manyara wildlife safari lodge offers a blend of romance and a bit of adventure as an icing. The Lodge offers honeymooners bush dinners and late-night safari drive for visitors upon request and is happy to accommodate meal preferences, special occasions, and events.
Ruaha National Park
The name of the park was adopted from the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern margin and is the focus for game viewing. It is Tanzania’s second-biggest park and can be accessed by car and flight. There are two airstrips – Msembe airstrip at Msembe (park headquarters) and Jongomeru airstrip near Jongomeru range post. The Ruaha National Park boasts more than 571 species of birds, many migratory birds also visit the park. Other animals in the park include; Lion, African leopard, east African cheetah, spotted hyena, giraffe, hippopotamus, African Buffalo, and Sable Antelope.
Honeymoon At Ruaha National Park:
The park is an off beaten track destination often described as ideal for old safari hands. However, we believe this park is for everyone who has an interest in true wilderness and big game viewing. Ruaha is one of the highest concentrations of predators anywhere in Africa and a wonderful wild character that is rare to find so if you and your partner are big on game viewing or want it to be a highlight of your honeymoon, then this is an ideal place to visit. And given that it is a bit off the beaten just means you won’t see as many tourists around, giving you a more pristine honeymoon experience in Tanzania.
Accommodation Options:
Accommodation in Ruaha National Park mainly consists of several luxury self-contained cottages that are very comfortable and private, each with its own balcony with a beautiful view. Other amenities include hot showers, solar-powered 24 hours electricity, and WiFi at the lodges.
Located on top of a hill overlooking the vast Savannah plains where you can sometimes spot giraffes, elephants, baboons, and kudus not far away, Ruaha hilltop lodge offers exceptional services at prices that don’t necessarily break the bank. The dining room, bar, and reception are all under one roof, with a strategically placed gallery for you and your spouse to enjoy the spectacular African sunrise and sunset.
This luxurious tented camp is situated at Mabata Makali near Madogoro rangers Post at the border of Ruaha National park. It boasts spectacular views of the surrounding lush greenery as well as a swimming pool, bonfire area, and spacious bandas – perfect for a couple looking to enjoy the amazing Tanzanian jungle in relative privacy.
Start Planning Your Honeymoon in Tanzania Today!
The wildlife, beaches, and adventures that you can combine on a honeymoon in Tanzania, makes it a leading honeymoon destination for newlyweds from all over the world. So if you’re still looking for where to go for your honeymoon after your big day, consider a once in a lifetime experience on your honeymoon in Tanzania. It will not only create a unique bond between you and your spouse but also give you both a memory to cherish for the rest of your married life.
Contact us today to learn more.
Check out some of the safari tours we recommend for a honeymoon in Tanzania below:
