Trip Report- Honeymoon Safari, South Africa
Embarking on a honeymoon is the beginning of a lifelong adventure together, and what better way to kickstart this journey than with a safari in South Africa? Our experience was nothing short of magical, dotted with stays at some of the most luxurious lodges and experiences that will be etched in our memories forever. Let me take you through our enchanting escapade.
The Houghton Hotel: A Johannesburg Gem
Our adventure began at The Houghton Hotel in Johannesburg. It served as a comfortable stopover before we delved into the wild. The room we stayed in was impressively spacious and provided a comfortable respite after 20 hours of flying. However, it didn't quite meet our expectations for the start of a luxury honeymoon. The service was hit-or-miss, and we likely would not have enjoyed staying there for more than one night. For those planning a similar trip, consider staying at the Four Seasons Rosecliff for a more refined experience.
Given the pace of our trip, we did not have time to explore Johannesburg but hope to do so in the future.
Majestic Makanyi Safari Lodge: A Haven in the Wilderness
After a short stop in Johannesburg, we embarked on a thrilling journey to the Makanyi Safari Lodge, nestled within the untamed beauty of Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. After a short flight & long drive, we were grateful for the refreshments that awaited us. From our first minutes on the property, we knew that we were in for a treat! The mix of boutique charm and wild luxury created an ambiance that was perfect for this Honeymoon adventure.
Mornings at Makanyi
Culinary Indulgences Awaited Us
We learned quickly that one of the main activities on Safari is… eating. From breakfast to dinner, we were spoiled for choice with a wide assortment of gourmet dishes that were as aesthetically pleasing as they were deliciously satisfying. The fresh baked muffins & pastries were particularly tough to pass up, which made waking up at 5:30 am every morning a bit more tolerable. What we loved about Makanyi is they were able to balance refined dining with practical menus so that we never felt over-fed, just perfectly content.
Personalized Touches that Spoke Volumes
Something that set Makanyi Safari Lodge apart was not just its impeccable service, but also the level of personalization that went into making our stay truly special. Thoughtful touches like:
Handwritten welcome notes
A private candlelit dinner under the stars
Personalized turndown service & a rose-filled bath in the evening
These gestures added a layer of warmth to our experience that made it extra special.
Our Amazing Game Drive Guides
What truly etched this place in our hearts were none other than our dedicated safari guides. We were lucky to have the GM of the lodge as our personal guide and it was immediately clear why he was running the place! His infectious passion for wildlife and the wilderness around us transformed every game drive into an history lesson we won’t soon forget.
Tracking Leopards in the Timbavati Game Reserve
What we enjoyed most:
Spotting the elusive Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffalos – up close & personal in their natural habitat.
We were always kept laughing and engaged, even during the quiet moments of our drives.
Hand-made sunset cocktails amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Hearing their extensive knowledge about the diverse flora and fauna we encountered, these guides taught us more than we could have ever expected. The followups details around the bonfire each night were particularly appreciated.
The Makanyi Safari Lodge was indeed a haven in the wilderness that provided us with cherished memories to last a lifetime. We would go back in a heartbeat & recommend it to anyone thinking about a South African safari.
&Beyond Tengile River Lodge: Elegance Redefined
As we continued our journey, the final destination on our itinerary was the opulent &Beyond Tengile River Lodge nestled in the heart of Sabi Sands. Here, elegance is not just an attribute but a lifestyle, and to call it understated would be doing it a disservice.
Our Living Quarters: A Blend of Luxury & Wilderness
Our suite was more than just a room—it was a palatial sanctuary. It effortlessly blended modern luxury with the raw beauty of the African wilderness, providing us with stay we’ve never experienced before.
Private Pool: Our favorite feature was the private pool, offering us an exclusive spot to beat the head & an extra vantage point to observe the breathtaking scenery around us.
Outdoor Living Area: Our suite also boasted a giant outdoor living area that opened up to our surroundings while maintaining a level of privacy and comfort. Reading or enjoying a meal from this spot while the monkeys played around us was certainly a highlight!
Amenities Galore: Our room had everything you could possibly need for your stay. From various wine and spirits, to fresh made coffee and snacks, it was all there. What impressed us even more was how they personalized our experience. After noticing my usual Tequila order, they made sure to stock my favorite bottle in the room by our second day. Not to mention, they had a wide selection of games and informational materials about the local attractions and wildlife.
We had ample space to relax and unwind, whether it was lounging by our pool or enjoying an alfresco meal in our spacious outdoor area. The design made us feel like we were part of nature without compromising on comfort or privacy.
Unmistakable Elegance
The charm of &Beyond Tengile River Lodge lay not only in its grandeur but also in its attention to detail. From bespoke furniture to meticulously curated artifacts, each element added to the overall aura of refinement and elegance.
Sabi Sands offered unique game-viewing experiences that were unparalleled. We were privileged enough to see multiple Leopards with fresh kills hiding up in a tree, a sight that was both thrilling and humbling. Additionally, we came across packs of Wild Dogs which are very rare in the Kruger Park area. This encounter served as a stark reminder of nature's unpredictability and diversity, further enhancing our safari experience
That said, while the guides here were exceptionally knowledgeable, they lacked the warmth we encountered at Makanyi which made all the difference to us as newlyweds seeking personal connections and stories. The lodge's ambiance felt formal & too perfect; while some may appreciate the meticulous attention to detail, it seemed to overshadow the raw adventure we craved.
The dining was exquisite — a gastronomic journey through local flavors and gourmet creations that sometimes left us a bit overwhelmed. The lodge's culinary team showcased their expertise in every dish, ensuring that each meal was a delightful surprise. We relished the opportunity to savor traditional South African cuisine while also indulging in international flavors. I would say that it would have been nice for a few more basic options, as the “fine-dining” can get a bit old after a few days.
Activities To Enrich Your Experience
Staying at these lodges isn't just about indulgence; it's also about embracing the spirit of Africa through various activities:
Game Drives: Witness South Africa’s wildlife up close with morning and evening drives.
Bush Walks: Experience the savannah on foot and learn about smaller creatures and plants.
Spa Treatments: Enjoy relaxing treatments with views of the wilderness.
Stargazing: The clear African skies are perfect for romantic stargazing nights.
Cultural Visits: Learn about local communities and traditions.
Photography Workshops: Capture stunning wildlife shots with expert guidance.
Each activity adds depth to your safari experience, immersing you in the beauty and culture of South Africa.
Conclusion
Our honeymoon safari across South Africa was an intricate tapestry of experiences — from moments of supreme luxury to encounters with majestic wildlife. While each lodge had its unique charm (and minor drawbacks), they collectively contributed to a journey that will resonate with us forever. South Africa welcomed us with open arms and left us with hearts yearning to return. If you're considering a honeymoon or romantic getaway filled with adventure and luxury, look no further than these remarkable sanctuaries in the wild.
In conclusion, both lodges offered unique experiences that complemented each other beautifully. Makanyi captured our hearts with its personalized service and intimate setting, while Tengile River Lodge wowed us with its exceptional game drives and exquisite accommodations. Ultimately, it was the combination of these experiences that made our honeymoon truly unforgettable.
