Twin Centre Honeymoons

We are constantly finding that honeymooners are asking for a honeymoon combining two or more components in it, for example, they might wish to have an action packed safari as well as a romantic tropical island beach holiday in one. These holidays, which are termed ‘Twin Centre Holidays, are steadily growing in popularity.

This is somewhat understandable; if the newly-wed couple see their honeymoon as a once in a lifetime holiday to Africa then of course theyll want to pack in as many attractions as possible. These attractions may fall across a few regions or across the boundaries of two or three countries. An example of this would be guests who wanted to see Cape Town in South Africa, Victoria Falls in Zambia and experience a safari in Botswana.

South Africa is the country we would say the majority of our clients would include in a twin centre holiday. South Africa itself is an extremely popular honeymoon destination, largely because of its unbelievable weather and dazzling scenery but also because it offers some of the most luxurious hotels and game lodges in the world. Unlike other destinations in the world that provide simply one attraction, South Africa is an entirely diverse country offering a range of experiences, a Big 5 luxury safari normally being the highlight. A favourable exchange rate means not only is the safari one of the most reasonably priced in Africa but when you are out in South Africa you can truly spoil yourselves on romantic meals, shopping sprees, adventure activities and spa treatments.

South Africa can be combined with any number of countries however the most popular for honeymooners are island beach locations such as Mozambique, Seychelles and Mauritius.

Mauritius is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful paradise islands in the world and for this reason is very popular for weddings and honeymoons. This picturesque island is renowned for its elegant hotels, the hospitality of the locals, and of course its amazing spas. Complementing this are some of the world's most stunning lagoons and glistening golden beaches. Many hotels and resorts are tailored to meet the needs of honeymooners; offering discounts and special honeymoon extras.

Mozambique borders South Africa and it provides a very different beach experience from the likes of Mauritius or the Seychelles. Here intimate rustic luxury is the order of the day, with lodges small but cosy. It offers honeymooners a Robinson Crusoe style experience, quite opposed to the larger resorts of the other two islands. The beaches along this coastline are arguably the most untouched along the African coastline, providing a dream location for divers or couples simply looking to get away from it all.

In many ways the Seychelles represent the absolutely ideal honeymoon destination, quite simply because it is one of the most romantic places on earth. The pure white sand beaches, stunning vistas, exotic greenery, turquoise blue seas and spectacular sunsets all create the backdrop for an unforgettable romantic experience. This combined with tasteful and exotic island-retreats, offering the ultimate in stylish luxury, make the Seychelles the perfect honeymoon choice. Many of the hotels have special offers for honeymooners including complimentary champagne in your room, discounted rates, spa treatments, candle lit dinners and sunset cruises.

But if you are after an East African Safari as well then the Seychelles or Mauritius can be combined with Kenya.

Kenya is arguably the best known of holiday destinations in Africa. For years honeymooners have been drawn to its archetypal imagery; of hot air balloons above the Maasai Mara, the proud Masai warriors or herds of elephants standing proud and wise in front of snow capped Mount Kilimanjaro. It is the land which inspired Karen Blixen's 'Out of Africa', a place of vast plains and abundant wildlife. With every champagne toast at sunset and every action packed game drive, a honeymoon in Kenya is sure to provide lasting memories.

If you find Mauritius or the Seychelles a little too far afield to combine with your Kenyan safari you can always enjoy your beach break on the Tanzanian islands of Zanzibar or Pemba or the exquisite Kenyan coast beaches instead. A very popular trip is combining a beach stay in Zanzibar with a safari in Tanzania.

A safari here ticks all the boxes for a traditional safari experience; with its sweeping plains and huge herds of animals. Tanzania offers such a wide diversity of scenery from the unique volcanic crater at Ngorongoro Crater to the vast Serengeti to the flamingo filled Lake Manyara. Coupled with this memorable safari, what can be more romantic than a stay on Zanzibar with its warm tropical waters and white palm-lined beaches?

There are an abundance of combinations to consider when planning a honeymoon to Africa, including some as fun as adding a gorilla tracking experience in Uganda or Rwanda to a safari and beach combination.

Africa beautifully lends itself to providing a diversity of experiences in one trip. Here, at Mahlatini, we can aid and advise you on the logistics and merits of various combinations. Whatever you decide to do, the abundance of experiences will certainly provide lasting memories.