Romantic Trips in Africa and the Middle East

There are safari’s, high-end hotels, remote lodges, exotic palaces, colourful markets, deserts, jungles and wildlife. But who you travel with will have a greater affect on your trip than where you are actually going. So for couples, honeymooners, celebrators, here are some pretty romantic travel ideas in Africa and the Middle East.

Imagine sleeping under the Kalahari sky at Tswalu in your private, semi-open room in a luxurious king-size bed on a raised deck in the middle of an African game reserve. You will be surrounded by the calls of nocturnal animals, with nothing between you and the brilliant stars of the Kalahari night sky (but raised high up enough so only Giraffes can bite you).

Here’s our webpage on this beautiful Kalahari lodge experience. Other unforgettable sleep-out options can be done at Lion Sands River Lodge, or Kapama Karula Lodge.

Rock the Kasbah Tamadot – Richard Branson’s Moroccan retreat
Stay in a magnificent Berber tent complete with a king‐size bed, large bathtubs for soaking while you gaze over the mountains, a terrace with private plunge pool, sun loungers and outdoor dining. For couples, organize a traditional blessing and Berber feast for you to celebrate your honeymoon or wedding anniversary. For more trip information, checkout our 5 day stay of distinction package to the Kasbah Tamadot.

Travel through Africa by train, capturing the romance and atmosphere of a bygone era
Known as the most luxurious train in the world, it could also be called the most romantic. All travellers beware: you will fall in love with Africa! A perfect inclusion in a Southern Africa itinerary from Pretoria to Cape Town, Victoria Falls or Durban, if the romance of the journey is what it’s all about, then consider the 14-day Cape Town to Dar-es-Salaam trip.

Hot Air Balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey
Enjoy a spectacular sunrise while drifting in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia, Turkey with its surreal, bizarre landscapes for breathtaking views over fairy chimneys, pigeon houses hewn into unique rock formations, impressive valleys, distinctive rock formations, and rippled ravines. While Cappadocia is worth a trip to Turkey by itself, most travellers combine it with Istanbul. Alternatively, we include it in our Turkey Odyssey tour, and our 11 day Splendours of Turkey.

Stay in the Honeymoon House at Tongabezi, Zambia
Overlooking the Zambezi River, this is the highest level of indulgence with privacy in mind. While there, arrange for a secluded candlelit dinner beneath the stars overlooking the Zambezi River, and while you’re at it, why not have a private lunch on Livingstone Island.
Here’s our travel ideas in Zambia.

Walk like an Egyptian and Sail the Nile in Cleopatra style
Imagine a leisurely sail down the Nile River in a “Dahabiya”, a boutique five star luxury sailboat. With a maximum of 16 guests, this is a unique and exclusive experience akin to being on your own private yacht, sailing between Luxor and Aswan. This type of cruising fuses sail power and the small ship experience with the more modern conveniences and space of a larger ship. Please see our website for the Luxor to Aswan on a Dahabiya cruise for more info.

Experience endless summer in the Indian Ocean at idyllic Desroches, Seychelles
Say the word ‘Seychelles’ and it immediately conveys images of luxury and romance. This exclusive honeymoon destination allows couples the freedom and privacy to shape their own bespoke Seychelles honeymoon experience. Special offers for honeymooners include 40% off the bride’s accommodation (or groom’s!), complimentary couples spa treatment, a special sunset ‘event’, indulgent dining experiences and a romantic turndown. For travel ideas, here’s a link to our Desroches Stay of Distinction package.