Essential South Africa
+ Mozambique Beaches

It's a special occasion...

and you've dreamed of spending your honeymoon somewhere truly memorable. You're probably well-traveled, having sampled Europe, Hawaii or other interesting locales. But now something farther away and more exotic beckons, offering a once in a lifetime experience as well as an opportunity to relax after the excitement of the wedding. This is what you'll find in both South Africa and the nearby beaches of Mozambique, and with the right properties, a luxurious experience at a good value.

After a long flight, you finally arrive in the beautiful South African city of Cape Town. A focal point of culture, scenery and cosmopolitan chic, you are excited by the sense of possibility in this world class city. While many couples opt to stay in the busy Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, your home in Cape Town is the tranquilly situated yet conveniently located Four Rosmead Boutique Guesthouse. A 15-minute walk to evening hot spot Kloof Street, and a 10-minute taxi to the waterfront, Four Rosmead, on the slopes of Table Mountain, offers a charming base from which to explore the city, or simply have a drink while relaxing by the pool. Your room offers fluffy beds and sparkling bathrooms, perfect as you sleep in after a long day of travel to Africa.

As your energy returns, take an afternoon to see the waterfront, and have lunch al fresco at one of the many outdoor restaurants. Afterwards stroll around the waterfront, checking out the shops, outdoor entertainment venues and possibly the aquarium. At some point, if the skies are clear, by all means head to Table Mountain - the famous cable car whisks you upwards in just two minutes, where you'll be rewarded with fabulous views of the city below, and the Twelve Apostles Mountains to the south. Also be sure to check out "what's on" in Cape Town - with many theaters and other performance venues, you'll have plenty to enjoy once the sun sets.

After your taste of Cape Town...

you'll sample another iconic destination which is only 45 minutes away - the Cape Winelands. Comprised of quaint towns and hectares of vineyards, it's a short drive but a totally different experience from the city. The focus here is on food, wine and remembering the many pleasures of life, at a pace much slower than at home. You'll have a rental car delivered to you in Cape Town, and after an easy drive, the city is left behind, and you've arrived at another lovely guesthouse, Le Petite Ferme.

Located near the wine-centric town of Franschhoek, Le Petite Ferme has only 5 guestrooms, ensuring warm hospitality and attention to detail. They also have a terrific gourmet restaurant, open only for lunch and offering a combination of inspired cuisine and spectacular valley views. While in Franschhoek a visit to some of the many vineyards for tastings and tours is definitely in order. Unlike much of California's Napa Valley these vineyards are smaller and less commercial, often resulting in a more personalized experience. At every turn you'll have access to some of Africa's best restaurants and most celebrated chefs, who choose to locate their award winning restaurants here for the wine, fresh produce and beautiful setting.

So far you've been absolutely amazed...

this is not what you expected from Africa! The next leg of your honeymoon journey also promises amazement, but this part is definitely more like what you envisioned. It's time to go on safari! Returning to Cape Town's airport, you'll now fly east to Mpumalanga Province. Upon arrival in Nelspruit, you will be collected for a short road transfer to the Jock Safari Lodge, located on a private concession within the famous Kruger National Park. Your first impression of Jock is one of luxury - you'll have one of twelve thatched suites, and once you see the giant soaking tub and your private plunge pool, you'll realize that you'll be able to indulge while still having a fantastic safari experience!

It's a good thing you've incorporated some leisure time...

to this point since your morning game drives start bright and early at 5:30 am. Not that you mind - the sheer excitement you'll feel knowing you'll share daybreak with untold numbers of rare and exotic animals is enough to get you out of bed willingly. Rhinos so close you can look them in the eye, breeding herds of elephant in search of food, graceful giraffe, impala dashing across the landscape... the list of incredible creatures goes on and on. Expect within a few game drives to see the Big 5, although don't be disappointed if one species proves elusive as there is so much else to enjoy while at Jock.

After the morning drive and a hearty breakfast, it's time to relax. Take a cooling dip in your private plunge pool, fall asleep in an oversized chair, or bask in your giant bathtub. Be sure to rejuvenate because at 4:30 pm you are off for another adventure into the bush to see how the wildlife spends its afternoons. At the end of each fulfilling day, relax over a delicious dinner and reminisce about your sightings.

After three days on safari...

you'll be sad to go - the lodge and your game drives have been phenomenal. But it's now time for some final relaxation, after all, you don't want to return home needing a vacation to recover from your vacation! So, onto the beaches of Mozambique! You'll fly from Nelspruit right to the coastal town of Vilanculos, where you will catch a helicopter for the short ride to Benguerra Island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, home to miles of white sand beaches and bright blue water.

This part of your honeymoon is all about the sea, sun and sky. Your home here will be the Azura Retreat, a luxurious hideaway that provides just the right mix of pampering and amenities. While here you can surprise your new spouse at the spa with a "Diamonds are Forever" scrub treatment that uses genuine African diamond dust to exfoliate your skin, revealing an outer glow to match your inner newlywed glow. Anglers can enjoy excellent fishing, while snorkelers and divers can discover the abundant marine life in nearby reefs. And if you have the urge to explore, you can visit the interior of the island and its small village to learn about its people, flora and fauna. Make sure to set aside an evening for a sunset cruise on a traditional Dhow sailboat as you toast to a wonderful last stop on your honeymoon.

It's been a fun, fascinating and above all fulfilling two weeks spent in southern Africa, and now you return to Johannesburg for your international flight home. What a perfect beginning to your marriage - you'll be energized to continue discovering the world and each other over the next years, and will no doubt swear that some day you'll come back to Africa.

Who will enjoy this trip:

Couples who want the highlights of South Africa combined with some time on the beach. Those who value fine accommodations but don't require the pinnacle of luxury.

Who should avoid this trip:

Those desiring 5-star accommodations across the board. Those who do not want to self-drive, and those who are uncomfortable taking multiple flights (some on small planes).