Looking for the perfect romantic getaway or for a great way to celebrate a special occasion with your partner? Nothing spells “romance” like a night under the stars in one of these exclusive properties. Bostwana, South Africa, Namibia or Zimbabwe? The choice is yours:
Lion Sands, Sabi Sands | South Africa: Lion Sands boasts 3 threehouses who are described by many as the ultimate bush bedrooms: Chalkley Tree House, Kingston Tree House and Tinyeleti Tree house. Clients are taken to their treehouses at sunset to enjoy a mouth-watering picnic dinner and spend the hours of sunset fully appreciating the vastness of the African bush. All Lion Sands tree houses are securely constructed above the ground, where animals will remain at a safe and comfortable distance. A dedicated ranger will provide a full orientation session when he drops the clients off before sunset, and will remain on call via the radio left behind, until it is time to leave the following morning after a good cup of coffee.
Little Kulala, Sossusvlei | Namibia: A welcome oasis situated along the dry Auab riverbed in the Kulala Wilderness Reserve, Little Kulala celebrates the splendour and solitude of the Namib Desert. Excursions to Sossusvlei, nature drives, walks and eco-sensitive quad biking are included in your stay and allow you to explore this fascinating landscape. If possible, opt for a balloon safari in this area as it offers an awe-inspiring experience. Inspired by Dead Vlei, the design of the 11 climate-controlled thatched units, each with a private plunge pool, merges seamlessly into the timeless desert setting. Each unit has a bed on the deck for romantic star gazing.
Samara private reserve, Great Karoo | South Africa: Samara offers a starbed on a raised platform by the Milk River, where you and your partner can spend a blissful night under the Karoo sky. Relax into the comfort of a bespoke four poster bed, under an elegantly draped mosquito net. Watch the sun dip behind Vulture Mountain and tuck in to a picnic dinner. The deck’s ideal placement above the river allows for you to witness the happenings below as kudus, monkeys and eland come to drink. Recline with the one you love as the Milky Way twinkles overhead.
Little Makalolo, Hwange |Zimbabwe: Little Makalolo lies in the heart of one of the best game viewing areas in Hwange National Park. Overlooking a vibrant waterhole, it offers privacy for guests who enjoy small camps and a sense of remoteness. The camp’s six traditional-style tents are spacious and en-suite, with indoor and outdoor showers. The camp’s starbed is just a 20-minute drive away from camp, situated on a raised platform overlooking Madison Pan. It offers a truly secluded, up-close-and-personal wilderness experience and the opportunity of sleeping under the stars. The Star Bed is set up complete with a comfortable bed roll and mosquito netting, sitting area, and basic ablution facilities. A highly-qualified guide will be on standby to ensure guests’ safety at all times and in case they need any assistance during the night.
Tswalu, Kalahari |South Africa– Imagine sleeping in a luxury king-size bed on a raised deck in the middle of a game reserve, surrounded by the calls of nocturnal animals, with nothing between you and the brilliant stars of the Kalahari night sky. From the vivid red sand of the dunes to the brilliant blue of the sky, the Malori reveals Tswalu’s secrets as it opens your eyes and your heart to the mystique of the Kalahari. The Malori (meaning ‘dreamer’ in Tswana), offers a unique safari sleepout experience: on arrival, the guide sets up drinks and snacks for the guests to enjoy the spectacular views over sundowners. A relaxed dinner is served, then guests are left to enjoy a night cap and the Kalahari at their own pace, under the stars.
Kagga Kamma, Cederberg| South Africa: The Kagga Kamma reserve allows you and your partner to fully immerse yourselves in the wonders and sounds of the wilderness; the call of the jackal, the chatter of the birds and the sound of wind through the rock formations. The glittering Milky Way is your ceiling and of course the spectacular African sunset and sunrise. Aside from the adventure of being outside in the middle of a Nature Reserve at night, you are by no means roughing it – with a proper queen-size bed, cozy bedding, a natural rock pool and a “star bath”. Your suite also allows you to enjoy a refreshing and indulgent outdoor shower in the fresh air with a panoramic view under the stars or sun, which all add up to an unforgettable experience. After a day filled with exhilarating activities, you can also cool off in the natural rock pool, while enjoying a glass of sparkling wine, appreciating the natural wonders around you.
Jaci’s safari lodge, Madikwe | South Africa: Bushveld romance personified, Jaci’s starbed suites are furnished with bursts of colour and custom-made finishes, with rooftop extensions that afford guests the unique opportunity of sleeping under the African stars. The suites are the epitome of “glamping” with their outdoor showers, luxury lounge areas and private viewing decks with river vistas. Splashes of vibrant colours and custom-made finishes bring added charm to the spaces, with the unique rooftop extensions giving guests the special opportunity to sleep under the African stars – truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
