Bush and Beach

So you have had your fix of wildlife, adrenaline and culture. Congratulations on completing Honeymoon part 1! If you need a recap, check out the guide to planning the land and safari stages here. 

But now you would like to experience some relaxing toes in the sand time, sipping cocktails and reflecting on your adventures so far. How to successfully combine 'bush and beach' is a skill in itself. Thankfully with Knighton Reeve, you are in the very best of hands. Which combination will suit you needs a proper conversation but as a general rule the following beach destinations work best in combination:

Seychelles 

True unspoilt luxury. White sands and turquoise waters. Those still feeling the urge to explore can island hop between magical islands. Seychelles can combine with Kenya or South Africa, but flight times mean you will usually need at least one night on the main island of Mahe before moving onto any outlying islands. Another overnight stop in Nairobi or Johannesburg is also not uncommon post-safari. The reward for those willing to put in the travel is an exclusive escape like few others. High-class resorts and service to match, Seychelles is a by-word for paradise.

The driest months are April to October and, although cooler, temperatures still average mid 20’s plus. Winds can pick up in July and August, though the sheltered nature of many coves means we know where is best to stay. These are really popular months to travel so we recommend to book well ahead. Temperatures (and rainfall) get higher over the summer months of December to February, though rainfall tends to be short and heavy, not sticking around for long, so Seychelles can be visited at any time.

Mauritius

A dream for honeymooners. Hotels are usually falling over themselves to see your wedding certificate and offer discounts and deals. And with a wide choice of property and style to choose from, there truly is something for everyone. Mauritius is never too lively, but those wanting to experience the local shops and restaurants of Grand Baie or the markets of Port Louis are better based in the northern part of the island, whilst the southern resorts offer seclusion and privacy. Large enough to explore, but small enough to do so easily, Mauritius offers the perfect blend of activities, water sports and beach luxury. Easy connections from South Africa mean the Rainbow Nation, Botswana and the Victoria Falls area all make great combinations. A regular flight from Nairobi also means Kenya and Mauritius can be done with careful planning.

Typically a few degrees cooler than Seychelles due to location, Mauritius’ weather patterns are similar. Driest months are over the UK summer, and although trade winds can make it feel cooler on the east coast now, these areas are perfect for activities such as windsurfing. The north and west of the island are well protected from the breezes at any time. The risk of cyclones bringing extreme weather in January and February mean we’d recommend avoiding this time of year in general.

Zanzibar

Beautiful and exotic, the Spice Island mixes romance and culture just a short flight from Tanzania’s mainland coast. The heritage of Stone Town can be explored either on a day trip, or as part of a few days break before heading out to one of the main beaches. Zanzibar can be visited at most times of the year, although we would caution against the typical East African rainy months of April and May, then again around November. Beaches in Zanzibar are beautiful and picture-perfect, though do beware this is a very tidal island and so waters are typically shallow, and can retreat a long way and then reduce beach room at high tide. We recommend you talk to us about whether you are a sea swimmer, a pool baby, looking for snorkelling or just great views, as you need an expert touch to pick the right area.

Easy to combine with safari in either Kenya or Tanzania thanks to plentiful connections, Zanzibar is a beautiful honeymoon destination. Connections can also be made with South Africa. Perhaps not quite as polished as the Seychelles or Mauritius, this is more rustic, laidback luxury. With a great choice of boutique properties and warm hospitality assured, it is the African beach at its best.

Kenyan Coast

Often overlooked in favour of its more illustrious neighbours, there are some world-class gems on the Kenyan coast that can make a 5-star trip easier and more affordable than you might think. Diani Beach (south of Mombasa) is world-famous for its soft, white sands, and there are plenty of high-end properties for the discerning couple to choose from. Further north, the sleepy town of Watamu allows those wishing to eat out the chance to experience cute local restaurants. The Watamu National Marine Park offers some of the best snorkelling and diving to be found. And right along this whole coastline is the opportunity to sail, kitesurf, SUP or just enjoy a dhow cruise. The perfect blend for those who like a bit of activity with their beach time.

Super easy connections from anywhere in Kenya, often with direct options straight from the Masai Mara itself, meaning you can be on a game drive in the morning, and sipping a cocktail on the sand at sunset. Ideal for those who want to maximise their time. With weather patterns consistent across Kenya, you are unlikely to be on the beach much during the wetter months of April/May or November, but the temperatures are consistently good year-round. The waters are warm and calm from December to February for snorkelling, whilst June to September brings the breezes for watersports enthusiasts.

Mozambique

Barefoot escapism. Coastlines dotted with coral, and an abundance of charm. Yet devoid of crowds, so far off the radar of many couples we consider it something of a gem. Think white-washed stone walls and a relaxed pace of life that feels so far removed from the everyday. Exactly what a honeymoon should be – a detox for the soul. The cooler, dry months from April to October bring an average daily max temperature still in the mid ’20s, and you may catch sight of migrating humpback whales from July onwards. From November to March the temperature increases but so does the rainfall, even on the coast, although you may be rewarded with the joys of witnessing turtles nesting on the sands.
Mozambique’s beaches and islands are accessed internationally via Johannesburg, meaning combination honeymoons with South Africa and Botswana work very well. And with some flight options direct from the Kruger to the coast, with some creative planning we can often even have you from safari to beach in the same day.

Madagascar

Africa's biodiversity hotspot on the worlds 4th largest island. Famous for lemurs and vanilla, this unique destination is also now home to 2 luxury beach properties in the very north, the likes of which are unmatched elsewhere on the island. We won’t lie, it’s not the easiest add on to a safari, but with a weekly service connecting to Johannesburg it is possible (with expert planning!) to come up with a honeymoon combination that is pretty unique. 

Temperatures are stable year-round, though expect to see some rain at any time – it is called rainforest for a reason! The wetter, more humid months are typically December to March, though most heavy rain occurs overnight. Driest periods occur June to October, and temperatures are still very pleasant. The most popular months to travel are typically April/May and November, when the middling temperatures and relative lack of humidity create a perfect remote hideaway like no other.

Maldives

Another honeymoon favourite, although many couples are often surprised to find these tiny islands do not combine with Africa as well as they thought they might. Closer to India than Africa, there are no direct connections making this a more unusual add on to safari. However, where there’s a will, or in this case a connection via the Emirates, there’s a way! Nairobi to Dubai and onto the Maldives means Kenya is the choice for a safari stop in this combo. You will lose a night travelling, but where better to recover than the pure white shores of an island paradise?

The dry season runs from December to April, so perfect for those winter weddings. Yet the stable year-round temperatures make it an attractive destination at any time. The rainfall that occurs from May to November tends to be in short, heavy bursts, and offers are more likely to be found as result.

Contact us

Inspired? We hope so. Overwhelmed? Quite possibly. It’s a lot to take in, and a lot to get right. That’s why it makes sense to entrust responsibility for one of the biggest purchases you will make to the experts. You don’t want to be starting married life with unexpected arguments about why your expectations have not been met. 

At Knighton Reeve we will be there to guide you every step on the way, ensuring your life together starts on the best footing possible on African soil. Give us a call on 01904 866 033. We look forward to hearing from you.

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