Africa truly has the full package of travel destinations and experiences – the wild bush with its unique array of fauna and flora; stretching coastlines flanking the continent with both warm and cold seas to choose from; deserts and lush forests; mountains and landscapes that range from arid dust to rich and fertile greens; vineyards, and tea and coffee plantations and explosions of exotic fruit orchards. Not to mention activities that are infused with romance and experiences that are assured of creating lasting memories, such as hot-air ballooning over herds of wildebeest in Tanzania or Kenya; island adventures in Zanzibar; immersing yourself in the wildlife migrations; or exploring spice routes or ancient craters.

Visitors don’t always think about including a romantic ‘pause’ in their itinerary when coming to Africa, but there are incredible destinations that offer the perfect romantic interlude in an action-packed African journey. Here are some ideas on how to include a spot of romance in an African adventure.

The Kruger-Zim-Moz bucket list

Group these three romantic destinations into your itinerary in a 12-day journey. Meander through South Africa’s Kruger National Park, seeing the famous Big Five, and immersing yourself in the scented African bush. A visit to Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve merges a bush experience with luxury, in the unfenced south-western boundary of the Kruger National Park. Stop for a few nights at one of the continent’s leading safari destinations, such as Singita, Sabi Sabi, Londolozi and MalaMala. Then travel to Zimbabwe’s Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve, before escaping to Azura Boutique Hotel on Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago. Swim, snorkel, eat, sleep and relax to the slow rhythm of island life.

Photographic safari escape

Photographs are the essential capture of memories on a romantic getaway – especially if you jet off on an unexpected romantic interlude. Thanda Safari offers complimentary iPhone photography sessions to guests who visit the heart of Zululand in KwaZulu Natal. A 30- to 90-minute introduction to the basic rules of wildlife photography and the art of motion photography, by Christian Sperka, resident wildlife photographer and field guide, helps guests develop their wildlife photography skills while providing specific advice on advanced functionality and apps so that those with just a smartphone can improve their images too. A ‘professional’ snap of your significant other against the backdrop of an African sunset complete with a rhino or elephant will become a cherished memory forever.

Three-million-year-old crater escape

There is something awe-inspiring about standing in a three-million-year-old crater. The Ngorongoro Crater in northern Tanzania is the largest intact caldera in the world, and is shelter to one of the most beautiful wildlife havens on earth. Add a romantic gourmet feast with your loved one to your itinerary, right inside this astounding crater. Make your way to a private picnic spot on the crater floor where an army of butlers attends you as you indulge in a mouth-watering feast served against the backdrop of groups of grazing zebra, wildebeest and flocks of bright pink flamingos.

Image courtesy of &Beyond.

Gorillas and tea in Rwanda

Further afield is the beautiful Bisate Lodge, which sits on the edge of a volcanic crater overlooking the majestic Bisoke volcano in northwest Rwanda.

This luxury lodge is next to Volcanoes National Park, famous for its gorilla trekking and considered one of the most intimate experiences a couple can share, with one of the most mysterious and breath-taking creatures on earth. Spend a few nights in the fascinating villas that resemble birds’ nests. The design was inspired by the King’s palace in Butare, with contemporary Rwandan decor of cowhides, baskets, recycled wine bottles, and colourful hand-embroidered pillow cases.

Daily menu changes offer the freshest ingredients from Rwanda, including local fish and herbs. Your clients can then take a romantic exploration of the golden monkey hikes, visit the twin lakes, and spoil their taste-buds with coffee or tea tastings.

Image courtesy of Wilderness Safaris/Crookes & Jackson