Original Story Published by: Leah Feiger for The Culture Trip
Although Indonesia, Iceland and Portugal have dominated recent lists of honeymoon destinations, East Africa has a lot to offer the discerning couple. The region is certainly not without options: romantic safari lodges in Kenya, beachside getaways in Tanzania, gorilla trekking in Rwanda, and a whole bevy of other locations make for perfect honeymoon trips. Check out our pick of the 12 best locations for your honeymoon in East Africa.
Serengeti and Ngorogoro Crater in Tanzania
Located in Northern Tanzania, the Serengeti and Ngorogoro Crater both offer some of the best wildlife viewing in the world. A safari through the national parks might reveal a lion hunt, the wildebeest migration or a sighting of the elusive white rhinoceros. Candlelit dinners, sunrise hot-air balloon rides, and walking safaris with park rangers are all available through most accommodations.
Lamu Island in Kenya
Lamu, an island on Kenya’s Swahili coast, shines with old-school charm, Arabic-influenced architecture, and idyllic beaches. Expansive resorts and luxurious town houses dot the coast, and honeymooners can spend their days exploring the town by foot, relaxing on the beach, and eating the freshest of seafood.
Musanze in Rwanda
Home to the country’s famous endangered mountain gorillas, Rwanda’s Musanze district is full of lush bamboo forests, luxury lodges, and volcanic views. Visitors to the region sign up for gorilla trekking months in advance, as permits are expensive and often hard to come by, but it is so worth it for the chance to watch gorillas in their natural habitat. For accommodation, book a stay at the ultra-exclusive and eco friendly Bisate Lodge, enjoying their romantic villas and panoramic views. For a more budget-friendly destination, check out Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda for gorilla trekking.
Jinja in Uganda
For adventurous types, look no further than Jinja, Uganda’s premier Nile River destination. Couples can go white-water rafting, kayaking, hiking, and bungee jumping, in addition to enjoying a lively party scene. Though Jinja possesses a bit of a backpacker vibe, honeymooners will find solace on the scenic river, taking in some of the region’s most spectacular sunsets over the Nile.
