There’s no denying the allure of a romantic getaway overseas, but it would be foolish to overlook the bounty of amorous destinations in South Africa, especially if you’re short of time and/or money!
Whether you have a taste for luxurious beach resorts, charming wine estates, or breathtaking safaris, South Africa has something to suit every couple's desires. Here are some of our top destinations, and the romantic experiences they offer, for 2024:
Cape Town, the Mother City, offers the perfect blend of luxury and romance. Begin your romantic getaway by taking a cable car up to the top of Table Mountain, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
Afterward, stroll hand in hand along the picturesque V&A Waterfront, where you can indulge in shopping, dining, and entertainment, and where you can enjoy a romantic sunset cruise along the picturesque coastline. Indulge in a romantic dinner at one of the city's world-class restaurants. For an unforgettable experience, take a scenic helicopter ride along the coastline, and witness the beauty of Cape Town from above. For a real spoil, stay at the Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa from R4,428 per person sharing.
For an enchanting experience, take a leisurely stroll through the historic Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Or how about a sunset horseback ride along the pristine beaches of Noordhoek?
A bit further out of town, you can visit the picturesque town of Hermanus, and embark on a whale-watching boat trip, where you can witness these magnificent creatures up close. Or go up the West Coast to the charming town of Paternoster, known for its whitewashed fishermen's cottages and fresh seafood. Alternatively, head inland to the Cederberg Wilderness Area, where you can stay in a luxury cave suite and enjoy a romantic picnic amidst the rugged beauty of the mountains.
The Garden Route is a stretch of coastline that spans from Mossel Bay to Storms River in the Western Cape province of South Africa. This scenic route is known for its lush forests, sparkling lagoons, and charming coastal towns.
A good base is George, where you can stay at the 5-star Fancourt Hotel in George from R4,514 per person sharing. Begin your romantic adventure by visiting the Knysna Heads, a pair of dramatic sandstone cliffs that guard the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon. Take a leisurely cruise along the lagoon, and enjoy a romantic picnic on one of the secluded beaches.
Explore the nearby Tsitsikamma National Park, where you can hike through ancient forests and marvel at the dramatic coastline. If you’re the outdoorsy type, take a leisurely hike along the famed Otter Trail, and discover hidden waterfalls and secluded coves. After a day of exploration, unwind in one of the region's luxury lodges, where you can enjoy a romantic candlelit dinner under the starry African sky.
End your journey with a visit to the charming town of Plettenberg Bay, known for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts. While there, take a romantic horseback ride along the beach.
The Eastern Cape is a province in South Africa that is known for its pristine beaches and rugged coastline. If you and your partner are beach lovers, a romantic getaway in the Eastern Cape is a must.
Visit the iconic beaches of Port Elizabeth, and take a romantic stroll along the promenade. Explore the untouched beauty of the Wild Coast, where you can relax on secluded beaches and swim in crystal-clear waters.
For a memorable experience, visit the Addo Elephant National Park, and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. End your journey with a visit to the charming town of Grahamstown, and immerse yourself in its rich history and culture.
If you and your partner are wine enthusiasts, a romantic getaway in the Cape Winelands is a must. Located just outside of Cape Town, the Winelands are home to some of the best vineyards in the country.
Start your journey in Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, and explore its historic streets lined with Cape Dutch architecture. Visit the different wine estates, and indulge in wine tastings and cellar tours. Take a leisurely bike ride through the vineyards, stopping at cellar doors to sample some of South Africa's finest wines. For a unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, and witness the beauty of the Winelands from above. End your day with a romantic dinner overlooking the vineyards, and savour the flavours of South African cuisine.
Continue your wine adventure in Franschhoek, a quaint village nestled in a valley surrounded by mountains. Indulge in a romantic picnic at one of the many wine estates, where you can savour gourmet delights and sip on world-class wines. For the ultimate relaxation, book a couple's spa treatment at one of the town’s many luxury wellness retreats, where you can unwind and rejuvenate amidst breathtaking scenery.
Imagine waking up to the sound of lions roaring in the distance and sipping your morning coffee on your private deck, overlooking a watering hole where elephants gather to drink. That’s what you can expect from a visit to the iconic Kruger National Park!
This world-renowned game reserve is home to the Big Five and offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Africa's majestic wildlife. Embark on thrilling game drives with experienced guides, who will take you on a journey through the park's diverse landscapes, from open plains to dense bushveld.
While Kruger is the best-known Big 5 game reserve in South Africa – and the most accessible in terms of cost, it certainly isn’t the only one. From MalaMala to Sabi Sand, Timbavati to Shamwari, Phinda to Madikwe, and many more, couples looking for a wild romantic escape are spoilt for choice!
If you and your partner are serious about a secluded and adventurous getaway, the Drakensberg Mountains are the perfect destination. This majestic mountain range offers breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil valleys.
Begin your journey by hiking to the top of the Amphitheatre, a towering cliff face that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the Royal Natal National Park, where you can discover hidden caves and swim in crystal-clear rock pools. End your day by cuddling up next to a crackling fire in a mountain lodge, as you can do at the Little Switzerland Resort, where you can stay for two nights from just R1,144 per person sharing.
End your trip with a sojourn to Durban, where you can stay at the renowned five-star Oyster Box hotel in Umhlanga from R6,121 per person sharing.
Sure Travel has incredible romantic packages for destinations across South Africa, or our expert consultants will customize a romantic escape according to your and your partner’s exact preferences and budget. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agent today to get great deals, and expert advice on how to make a romantic holiday unforgettable.
