Wake up surrounded by birdsong in a forest canopy, fall asleep under a blanket of stars in a cave, or spend the night in a tented hideaway tucked deep in the wilderness. Across South Africa, these one-of-a-kind stays offer couples something beyond the usual getaway—immersive escapes where nature takes centre stage and comfort meets creativity. From sandstone shelters to treetop retreats and luxury glampsites, each spot is made for memory-making moments, just the two of you.
Treehouses for two
Picture/Midlands Meander
Sycamore Avenue Treehouses – Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal
Handcrafted with whimsy, these treehouses offer fireplaces, spa baths and mountain views. Each has its own quirky theme, like “Pegasus”.
Ideal for: Couples who love creative, cosy spaces.
Website: sycamoreavenue.com
Vindoux Tree House Guest Farm & Spa – Tulbagh, Western Cape
Set among vineyards and orchards, these adult-only treehouses come with private decks and views of the Saronsberg Mountains. Spa treatments and breakfast-in-bed options are available.
Ideal for: Pampered countryside escapes.
Website: vindoux.co.za
Cave retreats
Picture/Wanderlust Movement
Antbear Eco Lodge Cave Suite – Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal
A luxury cave built into the hillside with a glass-fronted view of the valley. It also has features like a rock-in jacuzzi spa bath in the bedroom and an adjoining lounge with an open fireplace.
Highlight: Stargaze from your private hammock or soak in the bath with a view.
Ideal for: Nature-loving romantics.
Website: antbear.com
Kagga Kamma Nature Reserve Cave Suites – Cederberg, Western Cape
Stone-clad suites built into the rock face offer a blend of ancient design and modern comfort. Go for the open-air room if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ideal for: Couples wanting to sleep under the stars in dramatic terrain.
Website: kaggakamma.co.za
ALSO READ: 5 wild places for animal lovers to visit in Cape Town
Tented romance
Picture/Pat Busch
AfriCamps at Pat Busch – Robertson, Western Cape
Set in a private reserve, these boutique glamping tents have exclusive units with large wooden decks & outdoor braais to soak up the mountain views. Each tent includes a kitchen, fireplace, and en-suite bathroom.
Ideal for: Comfort-focused couples looking for nature without sacrificing luxury.
Website: africamps.com
Also book via: LekkeSlaap
Manyane Resort Safari Tents – Pilanesberg National Park, North West
Picture/Pilanesburg National Park
Located just inside the eastern entrance of Pilanesberg National Park, Manyane Resort offers permanent safari tents in a peaceful bush setting. The tents are equipped with beds, linen, tea/coffee stations and access to shared ablution facilities. The resort also features a restaurant, two outdoor pools, guided game drives, and even a mini-golf course.
Ideal for: Couples looking for a budget-friendly, semi-catered safari experience in a Big Five reserve.
Website: manyaneresort.co.za
Remote romance
Picture/Rocksure
Tutwa Desert Lodge – Green Kalahari, Northern Cape
While not a tent or cave, the lodge offers a remote, safari-style stay in the desert with earthy luxury touches, private patios, and al fresco dining.
Ideal for: Couples seeking solitude, open skies, and starlit luxury.
Website: tutwalodge.com
Also book via: Booking.com, SA-Venues
Travel tips for unique stays
- Pack: Binoculars, fairy lights, a mini speaker, marshmallows, and a warm throw blanket.
- Best time to go: Autumn for crisp air and clear sunsets. Winter for fireplaces and cuddle weather.
- Romance hack: Many stays offer packages with massages, bubbly, or private picnics—just ask when booking.
- Heads-up: Some of these places have limited cell reception or are completely off-grid—perfect for switching off.
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