Welcome to the wild land of Zambia, where African safari thrills meet five-star luxury in a natural wonderland. Here, you and your partner can indulge in stunning hideaways, secluded private dinners in the wilderness, and nights spent sleeping under the stars.
Whether you want to be right on the edge of the rushing Zambezi or hidden away in the bush, here are five accommodation options that promise to make your Zambia safari honeymoon unforgettable.
1. Sindabezi Island Lodge: The Castaway Fantasy
If you’ve ever fantasized about being on a desert island – but with gourmet dining and high-thread-count sheets – Sindabezi is your answer.
Rated by Fodor’s Travel Guide as one of the top 10 eco-lodges in Africa, this is an exclusive camp located on a private isle in the Zambezi River.
The lodge consists of just five open-sided thatched cottages. “Open-sided” means exactly that: you’re separated from the river and the wilderness only by canvas and netting. You can lie in bed and watch the sunrise over the floodplains or listen to the hippos chuckling in the water below. It is pristine, quiet, and utterly romantic.
Why it’s perfect for couples: It’s a short boat ride from its sister property, Tongabezi, but feels a world away. You can enjoy a private sampan dinner on the river, attended by your own waiter, floating under the moonlight.
2. The Royal Livingstone Hotel: Old World Glamour
For couples who prefer their adventure with a heavy dose of elegance, the Royal Livingstone Hotel is the grand dame of Zambian hospitality. Located incredibly close to Victoria Falls (which affords brilliant views), the hotel exudes a classic charm.
Imagine stepping out onto a manicured lawn and seeing a dazzle of zebras grazing peacefully right in front of you. That is a standard morning here. The hotel features a grand foyer, bars stocked with award-winning cognacs, and a pool deck overlooking the Zambezi River just before it plunges over the edge of the Falls.
Why it’s perfect for couples: This is the place to spoil yourselves. While it offers the plushiest accommodation in Africa’s adventure capital, it also serves as a luxury basecamp for thrill-seekers. You can spend the morning white-water rafting or swimming in Devil’s Pool and be back in time for a high tea or a couple’s massage in a gazebo overlooking the river.
3. The River Club: Historical Charm with a View
Perched high on the banks of the Zambezi, The River Club offers a different perspective. Looking upstream and towards the mist of Victoria Falls, this lodge feels like stepping into a bygone era of romance.
The architecture here is distinct, featuring an Edwardian house that serves as the main lodge. However, the real magic unfolds in the suites. They are spacious and open-plan, and they feature screen doors that open entirely to an outdoor deck. The decor is rich and warm, utilizing teak wood furniture that grounds the space in history.
Why it’s perfect for couples: Privacy is paramount here. Each suite comes with its own private plunge pool and a small garden, ensuring you never have to leave your room if you don’t want to. It is the perfect spot for sundowners – the safari tradition of sunset drinks – enjoyed in total seclusion.
4. Chiawa Camp: The Family-Owned Gem
Moving away from Victoria Falls and into the stunning Lower Zambezi National Park, Chiawa Camp offers a safari experience that is both polished and deeply personal. As a family-owned and operated camp, the hospitality here is warm and intuitive.
The Lower Zambezi is famous for its massive elephant herds and calm waters. Chiawa embraces this with luxury tents that boast spectacular views over the river. The wildlife here is prolific; lions, leopards, and hippos are your neighbors.
Why it’s perfect for couples: The activities here are diverse and allow for great bonding experiences. You can go on game drives, sure, but the real highlight is the canoeing. Paddling silently down the Zambezi with your partner, gliding past elephants drinking at the water’s edge, is a shared memory that will last a lifetime. Afterward, you can enjoy one of the best walking safaris in the world, guided by experts who know every track and bird call.
5. Chinzombo Lodge: Wild Luxury Redefined
If your style is more “Architectural Digest” than “Classic Safari,” Chinzombo Lodge in the South Luangwa Valley is the ultimate destination. This is where modern design meets raw wilderness.
Chinzombo is situated on 60 hectares of private, pristine Luangwa River frontage. The camp is set back within the shade of ancient Msikizi trees on a wildlife-rich ridge. The villas here are marvels of design – canvas, wood, and steel structures that feel light and airy, yet incredibly luxurious.
Why it’s perfect for couples: Each villa has its own private pool and a massive cooled sleeping area. It offers direct access to one of the most game-rich areas of the national park, but you might find it difficult to leave the lodge. It is a place of style, exclusivity, and wild luxury that feels tailor-made for a honeymoon.
Planning Your Romantic Zambian Adventure
Zambia is not a one-size-fits-all destination. You might want to combine a few days at Victoria Falls (Royal Livingstone) with a deep bush experience (Chinzombo). The logistics of hopping between these remote camps require careful planning.
To get the most out of your budget and time, look into the various safaris in Zambia curated by travel experts. They can help you mix and match these lodges to create a well-rounded travel experience that balances adrenaline, relaxation, and romance.
Whether you are watching the sunset turn the Zambezi River to liquid gold or holding hands while watching a lion pride on the hunt, Zambia offers a backdrop for romance that is as wild and beautiful as love itself.
