If you want an adventurous, off-the-beaten tourist circuit and definitely unforgettable honeymoon destination, head to South Africa's 5 star Etali Safari Lodge.
Located in the Madikwe Game Reserve, in the North Western Province of South Africa, this luxury lodge only has 8 luxury suites. Being so isolated from civilisation can seem a bit scary but the Etali Safari Lodge actually offers the best in modern convenience and luxury.
Each suite is equipped with indoor and outdoor showers, air-con, fireplaces, a complimentary minibar and a private deck with heated whirlpool (from which elephants occasionally drink). So you won't be camping during your honeymoon! Choose the suite nearest the watering hole for the best view of the wildlife.
When it comes to sustaining yourself, the lodge's restaurant offers African cuisine with Asian influences. All the food is fresh, healthy and delicious and uses lots of fresh seasonal and organically grown vegetables, fruit and herbs. It's also possible to dine out in the bush or in a traditional Tswana tribal kraal.
Guests can enjoy drinks wherever they please. All soft drinks, house wines and beers are included in the room price so you can get as merry as you like with your new husband or wife!
Pampering
The Etali Safari Lodge also has a Wellness centre so young lovers can indulge in pampering, relaxing and rejuvenating their bodies and souls after the stresses of the wedding. Explore their open thatched gym, their aroma filled steam room or their pool overlooking the savannah.
Want some ultimate T.L.C.?
Try one of their treatments: traditional African massages, vitality body wraps like the ‘Warthog Hour' wrap (where you wallow in the mud for an hour) or maybe try the more sensual ‘Delightful Chocolate Experience'.
Activities
If you're bored with being pampered and sipping cocktails all day, then newlyweds can try a number of awe-inspiring activities:
• Bush Walks: A guided early morning trip through the bush and savannah will leave you full of wonder and admiration for nature. Your guide will reveal medicinal properties of plants and trees and will show you the incredible ‘Castles of Clay', huge termite mounds.
• Star Gazing: Many of us forget about the stars. Mainly because they are hard to see in built up, busy cities. But hear in the bush, the stars shine bright. Use the powerful telescope to take a closer look. By the end you will both have stars in your eyes!
• Private Game drives: These safari tours can be arranged for the day and will aim to find the Big 5: Lion, Leopard, Black Rhino, Elephant and Cape Buffalo.