Alejandra’s South African Honeymoon

Jabulani / Courtesy of Jabulani

May 2025

South Africa offers an unparalleled wildlife experience and some of the best weather on the continent in May. Most rains have abated, and dry season has begun. The country also offers a wide range of options beyond safari, with scenic wine regions, remote beaches, and cosmopolitan cities.

I suggest starting your trip with four nights on safari and ending it near Cape Town or the beach. I’ve compiled rough pricing below and can create a finished proposal once we know which options you like best. Keep in mind that safari prices include food and activities, and some beach resorts also include them.

Part 1: Safari

The Greater Kruger National Park area has some of the best wildlife in Africa, so I mostly focus on booking private reserves around there. One exception is that if you want to travel in April, the safari on the Eastern Cape is better. Here are some of my favorite options in your price range:

Simbavati River Lodge

This is a stylish camp in one of the best locations for the price. Tents are smaller than some, but it’s a great all-around experience. $5,290 total for four nights in May 2025

Simbavati River Lodge Simbavati River Lodge

Jabulani

This camp is in a similar region to Simbavati. While the location isn’t as remote, the camp supports a unique elephant rehabilitation program that allows interaction with the gentle giants over cocktails. They also have a well-regarded dining program. $6,825 total for four nights in May 2025

Kwandwe

This is the private reserve I mentioned that is best for April. It’s one of the largest in the Eastern Cape, and they have done so much rewilding that it’s almost comparable to Kruger. The rhino population is one of the largest in Africa, and the camp is more luxurious than the other options I’ve listed. $7,020 total for four nights in April 2025 with the 25% off honeymoon offer.

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge / Courtesy of Kwandwe luxury South Africa safari Rhino conservation at Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge / Courtesy of Kwandwe luxury South Africa safari

Part 2: Beaches

After spending days in the bush waking up early, it’s nice to just relax on the beach to end your honeymoon. Alternatively, the Cape Winelands are a good option if you like wine and hiking more than beaches. Here are a few of my favorite beach options:

Cape Town & Western Cape

Cape Town is nice and warm this time of year, and it has great restaurants and beaches. There is a range of hotels here, and you can get a nice place starting at around $250/nt. Last Word Long Beach is the most beachy option in the area and is around $420/nt.

Beach break in front of Last Word Long Beach / Courtesy of Last Word Hotels

There are also nice resorts like Lekkerwater Beach Lodge further down the coast that cost around $1000/nt.

Sunset from room at Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, luxury South Africa beach safari / Courtesy of Natural Selection Travel Exterior view of Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, luxury South Africa beach safari / Courtesy of Natural Selection Travel

Kwa’Zulu Natal

The KwaZulu Natal coast is wild and remote. It’s less explored, and quality resorts are more affordable than in Mozambique. I really like the luxurious Thonga Beach Lodge, which costs around $960/night.

The “Wild Coast” of Kwa’Zulu is a unique option, where you will find coastal zebras and waterfalls flowing into the sea. Gwe Gwe Beach Lodge is a new option that starts at $650 per night, though you will pay a little more to get there because it’s so remote.

Zebra at Gwe Gwe Beach Lodge
Zebra at Gwe Gwe Beach Lodge / Courtesy of Natural Selection Travel

Mauritius

If you want a more tropical-feeling beach, Mauritius is your best option, and the weather is nice in May. LUX Le Morne is my favorite resort. It starts at about $450 per night, but it’s not inclusive of food.