Luxury South Africa Itinerary

A Honeymoon in South Africa: Whales, Wine and Wildlife

South Africa provides the perfect combination of adventure and romance through safari experiences, picturesque landscapes, and wine-tasting. It’s a honeymooner’s paradise that seamlessly integrates nature, culture, and luxury.

Embark on a romantic honeymoon adventure in South Africa, starting with a venture along the picturesque Garden Route to the Coot Club, a serene retreat nestled amidst lush forests and sparkling lakes. Spend your days immersed in the beauty of nature, enjoying birdwatching expeditions, tranquil canoe rides, and leisurely strolls through verdant landscapes.

Next, continue your journey to La Clé des Montagnes in the captivating Cape Winelands. Here, immerse yourself in the region’s renowned vineyards, where sprawling estates await exploration, offering an opportunity to sample exquisite wines crafted with precision and passion. Delight your palate with gourmet cuisine perfectly paired with local vintages and take leisurely strolls through the charming streets of Franschhoek, where quaint boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafes beckon, inviting you to discover the hidden gems of this enchanting village.

Conclude your journey with a safari experience at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge, where luxury meets the untamed wilderness of the Eastern Cape. Set out on thrilling game drives through vast savannahs, where you can spot majestic lions, elephants, and more in their natural habitat. After exhilarating days of exploration, retreat to your lodge to unwind and toast to your love under the starlit African sky.

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KEY FACTS
PEAK TIME

September - February

PRICE

From £4,400 $5,800 pp excl. flights

IDEAL LENGTH

12 days

FLIGHT TIME

11 hours 40 mins from London
14 hours 45 mins From NYC

CURRENCY

South African Rand

LANGUAGE

Zulu, Afrikaans, English

Where you'll go

Stanford

Winelands (Franschhoek)

Kwandwe Private Reserve

When to go

  • J
  • F
  • M
  • A
  • M
  • J
  • J
  • A
  • S
  • O
  • N
  • D
Best time to visit
Good time to visit
Average time to visit

LOCAL LOWDOWN

The name “Franschhoek” translates to “French Corner” in Dutch, reflecting its origins as a settlement established by French Huguenot refugees in the late 17th century.

The Itinerary Highlights

Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Coot Club’s Lagoon

Embark on a serene kayak excursion on the lagoon at Coot Club, with the majestic Maanschynkop mountains as your backdrop. Glide quietly alongside crested coots and yellow-billed ducks for a tranquil water adventure. For the adventurous, stand-up paddleboards are also available, offering a thrilling way to explore the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

Whale Watching

From the dunes of Walker Bay Beach, witness the majestic giants of the sea during the seasonal migration (July – September). Marvel at their graceful movements as they breach and play in the waves. It’s a breathtaking spectacle that adds to the natural beauty and allure of Coot Club’s coastal location.

Wine Tasting in Franschhoek

Indulge in an exquisite wine tasting experience at La Clé in Franschhoek. Sample a selection of premium wines while soaking in the picturesque vineyard views. Expert guides lead you through the tasting, sharing insights into the region’s winemaking heritage. Savor each sip of the finest wines, complemented by delicious gourmet bites.

Private Picnic at La Clé

Immerse yourself in the serenity of La Clé des Montagnes with a private picnic. Nestled beneath ancient trees, a lush blanket beckons, adorned with artisanal treats: crusty breads, aged cheeses, and succulent fruits. Sip on local wines, each sip a tribute to the surrounding beauty.

Game Drives in the Heart of Kwandwe Private Reserve

Embark on an exhilarating game drive at Kwandwe Ecca Lodge. Climb aboard an open safari vehicle and venture into the heart of the Eastern Cape bushveld. Guided by expert rangers, spot majestic wildlife such as lions, elephants, and rhinos in their natural habitat. Learn about the intricate ecosystems and conservation efforts while immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the African wilderness.

Visit The Mgcamabele Community Centre

Experience the heartwarming joy of visiting the creche and pre-school at Kwandwe. Meet the vibrant children of the reserve and gain insight into their community development initiatives. Witness firsthand the positive impact on local families and immerse yourself in the spirit of empowerment and education.

The Itinerary Highlights

Accommodation

Where to stay

Nothing but the best. On this suggested South Africa itinerary these are our handpicked, tried-and-tested choices.

Coot Club, Stanford

Tucked away in South Africa's heart, Coot Club presents a haven for nature aficionados and bird watchers alike. Its idyllic setting within pristine wetlands invites exploration of the country's natural splendor.

Accommodations seamlessly blend traditional stone cottages and contemporary boathouses, each offering picturesque views of the lagoon and Maanschynkop mountains. Dining at Coot Club is a culinary delight, featuring casual a la carte lunches and cozy fireside dinners in winter. The highlight of Coot Club lies in its rich avian diversity, providing unparalleled birdwatching opportunities amidst the wetlands. Beyond birdwatching, you can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and environmental education initiatives, all contributing to the preservation of this unique ecosystem.

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La Clé, Franschhoek

Nestled within vibrant gardens, La Clé Lodge offers tranquility with Petite, Garden, and Courtyard Rooms featuring modern elegance intertwined with traditional Cape Dutch allure.

Indulge in hearty home-style meals, from private picnics to gourmet dinners, and relish scrumptious breakfast options. Embrace relaxation with tennis, cycling, or leisurely garden strolls. Wander vineyard trails, and enjoy world-class wine tastings amidst the stunning surroundings. For a touch of adventure embark on helicopter excursions or cool off in shaded dams, play Boules and Croquet, and absorb the beauty of the South African winelands.

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Kwandwe Ecca Lodge

Kwandwe Ecca Lodge stands as an oasis of luxury amidst the untamed beauty of South Africa's Eastern Cape wilderness. This intimate safari lodge offers a harmonious blend of contemporary elegance and authentic safari ambiance.

Each of its suites is a haven of comfort, adorned with vibrant African-inspired décor, private decks, and panoramic views of the surrounding bushveld where South Africa's iconic wildlife awaits. Back at the lodge, culinary delights tantalise the taste buds with a fusion of local flavours served against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery. Beyond wildlife adventures, you can relax by the infinity pool, enjoy spa treatments, and as evening descends gather around the fire pit under the star-strewn sky.

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