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When you think ‘honeymoon’ you typically picture overwater villas, lounging on the beach and all-inclusive luxury. The Maldives, the Seychelles and the Caribbean being obvious choices.
And whilst that sounds lovely, it isn’t the only way to celebrate getting married.
I always knew I wanted a once in a lifetime honeymoon. One that promised adventure. Stories to tell for years to come. Preferably with some wildlife, culture, incredible food and bucket-list experiences. And of course, some well-deserved luxury. A trip that I could only justify affording once.
Many people think adventure means camping and backpacking. But the more unique honeymoon destinations are quite the opposite. Most are home to some of the most spectacular hotels I’ve ever stayed in. But they’re places that offer more memories than from around the pool.
If you’re looking for unusual honeymoon destinations that combine adventure, culture, wildlife and a touch of luxury, these are the places I’d recommend most.
Table of Contents
Where to go on honeymoon for adventure in 2027 and beyond
Tanzania
Best for: the ultimate safari honeymoon
My favourite moment: Spotting a herd of 30+ elephants approaching the watering hole at the Four Seasons Serengeti from the privacy of our balcony, cuddled up in our robes.
Despite my husband’s love of the sea, I knew I wanted our honeymoon to be something adventurous. And as two huge animal lovers, safari felt like a natural fit.
After months of research, we settled on Tanzania and spent 12 unforgettable days travelling from the foothills of Kilimanjaro into the heart of the Serengeti. It wasn’t just my dream honeymoon destination – it was a bucket list trip I’d dreamed of for as long as I could remember.
I’ve been fortunate enough to go on safari in both Kenya and Botswana, two incredible destinations in their own right, but Tanzania completely stole my heart. The scale of it is difficult to describe until you’re there. Vast golden plains stretch endlessly towards the horizon, interrupted only by wandering elephants, acacia trees and the occasional safari vehicle disappearing into the distance.
Over the course of our trip we saw an extraordinary amount of wildlife. We watched lions stalking their prey through the grass, spotted cheetahs munching on a fresh kill, and even came across a newborn impala wobbling around as he tried to take his first steps.
Then there was the Great Migration. I had dreamt about witnessing this natural spectacle since childhood, but nothing prepares you for seeing thousands upon thousands of wildebeest tackle the dangers of a river crossing. It was one of several moments during the trip that left me in tears.
One of the other main reasons we choose Tanzania is to stay at the Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (read my review here). This beyond luxurious hotel was my dream property and it definitely didn’t disappoint. When I now think of my happy place, it’s lying on a sunlounger looking out over the savannah, spotting zebras and giraffes, willing them to come closer.
The hotel also has its own watering hole and it’s here that we made our most special memory yet. We’d spent days enjoying game drives and relaxing between activities, accepting that wildlife sightings at the lodge are never guaranteed. Then on our final full day, a large herd of elephants appeared in the distance, trumpeting their way towards the water. We stood on our balcony watching them splash, drink and play, both of us in tears as little calves emerged in the front.
Many honeymooners combine Tanzania with a few days in Zanzibar, which offers white-sand beaches, luxury resorts and excellent diving. We originally planned to do exactly that. But once we started building our itinerary, we found ourselves wanting more safari time instead. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Tanzania strikes that rare balance between adventure and luxury. One day you’re tracking lions across the Serengeti, the next you’re drinking sundowners overlooking the plains from a luxury lodge. If you’re looking for a honeymoon that feels truly once-in-a-lifetime, it’s hard to beat.
Where to stay:
- Kaliwa Lodge, Moshi – Where we spent our last night in Tanzania. The individual lodges offer beautiful views towards Mount Kilimanjaro and make a peaceful place to recover after a long flight.
- Mount Meru Game Lodge & Sanctuary, Arusha – A relaxed lodge surrounded by gardens and wildlife. We stayed here before heading on safari and loved the slower pace after travelling.
- andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge – One of Africa’s most iconic luxury safari lodges, perched dramatically on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater.
- Nyikani Migration Camp – One of my favourite stays of the trip. This luxury tented camp follows the Great Migration through the Serengeti, combining incredible wildlife access with all the comforts you’d want on a honeymoon.
- Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti – Our honeymoon splurge and the best hotel I’ve ever (and will ever) stayed in. From the infinity pool overlooking a watering hole to the exceptional food and game drives, it was worth every penny.
Peru
Best for: bucket-list adventures together
My favourite moment: Canoeing across Lake Sandoval in the Amazon whilst watching a family of rare giant river otters feeding nearby.
If your dream honeymoon involves sharing unforgettable experiences rather than simply sitting beside a pool, Peru deserves a place at the top of your list.
I spent three weeks travelling through Peru and genuinely fell in love with the country. Every few days felt like an entirely different trip. One moment I was exploring the cobbled streets of Cusco, the next I was wandering the Amazon rainforest, before eventually making my way to Machu Picchu.
For honeymooners, the obvious draw is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Hiking the Inca Trail and reaching Machu Picchu together will stay with you forever. But what surprised me most was how much I loved the places in between.
Cusco quickly became one of my favourite cities in South America. The beautiful plazas, excellent food scene and surrounding Sacred Valley make it somewhere worth lingering rather than rushing through. Discover what to do in Cusco during your trip.
The Amazon was equally special. During my stay at Sotupa Eco Lodge, I spent hours sitting alone on my balcony overlooking the Tambopata River. It was one of the most peaceful moments I’ve ever experienced whilst travelling. I would open my book with every intention of reading a chapter and instead find myself staring out across the rainforest, completely mesmerised.
Whether you choose a luxury train journey through the Andes, to sandboard in Huacachina, a rainforest lodge, or a more adventurous route around the country, Peru offers a honeymoon unlike anywhere else.
It’s perfect for couples who want to tick off a genuine bucket-list destination together whilst still enjoying incredible hotels, food and unforgettable experiences along the way.
Where to stay
- Andean Wings Boutique Hotel, Cusco – A beautiful boutique hotel in the heart of Cusco and a great base for exploring the city and Sacred Valley.
- Belmond Sanctuary Lodge – The closest hotel to Machu Picchu itself, ideal if visiting the citadel is the main focus of your trip.
- Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel – A luxurious retreat set amongst cloud forest gardens beneath Machu Picchu.
- Sotupa Eco Lodge – Where I stayed in the Amazon. The river-facing terraces and included rainforest activities make it a fantastic honeymoon option.
- Palacio del Inka – One of Cusco’s most luxurious hotels, blending colonial history with modern comfort.
Costa Rica
Best for: luxury escapes to the jungle
My favourite moment: Feeling like I could fly as I zip lined through the rainforest canopy.
Costa Rica is proof that you don’t have to choose between adventure and luxury. Few destinations make it so easy to spend the morning ziplining through the rainforest and the afternoon drinking cocktails beside an infinity pool.
The country is famous for its biodiversity, and rightly so. During my trip I saw monkeys swinging through the trees, colourful birds darting through the jungle canopy and wildlife around almost every corner.
One of my favourite experiences was ziplining through the rainforest canopy high above the forest floor. Whilst it sounds adventurous, most of the routes are surprisingly accessible and don’t require any previous experience, making it a fantastic honeymoon activity for couples looking to step outside their comfort zone without doing anything too extreme. There’s plenty of other luxury activities to do in Costa Rica too, from exploring the country’s famous coffee plantations to cruising the river in search of wildlife.
Costa Rica is also wonderfully easy to travel around. You can combine volcanoes, beaches, cloud forests and luxury resorts within a relatively short trip, making it ideal for couples who want variety without constantly packing and unpacking.
Where to stay
- Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica – One of the country’s most luxurious resorts, with beautiful beaches, fantastic service and plenty of wildlife nearby (read my review here).
- Nayara Springs – Frequently ranked among the best hotels in Central America, with private plunge pools and rainforest views.
- Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa – Famous for its natural hot springs beneath the Arenal Volcano.
- Origins Lodge – An intimate eco-luxury retreat with incredible views and beautifully designed villas.
- Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo – Stylish, contemporary and perfect for combining beach time with adventure.
Japan
Best for: foodies, culture lovers and Disney fans
My favourite moment: Spending an entire day only eating Mickey-shaped snacks at Tokyo Disneyland.
If you’re looking for a honeymoon that feels completely different to anywhere else in the world, Japan is hard to beat. I’ve only visited Tokyo so far, but it remains one of the most fascinating cities I’ve ever experienced. Every street feels like a discovery. Tiny restaurants tucked into side alleys sit alongside futuristic skyscrapers and centuries-old temples.
For food lovers, Japan is heaven. Some of my favourite travel memories involve eating, and Tokyo delivered on every level. From exceptional ramen and sushi to themed cafés and tiny neighbourhood restaurants, every meal felt like part of the experience (don’t miss the Ninja restaurant – the food and setting was one of the best!).
Then there are the cultural experiences. Traditional tea ceremonies, historic temples, peaceful gardens and ryokan stays all offer a completely different side to the bright lights of the city.
And if you’re a Disney fan like me, Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea deserve a place on your honeymoon itinerary. I spent two days eating Disney themed snacks, going on rides and watching shows. It remains one of the best Disney parks I’ve ever visited – and I’ve almost done them all! Get my complete guide to Tokyo Disneyland including why you can’t miss DisneySea.
Most couples combine Tokyo with Kyoto, Osaka, Hakone or Mount Fuji, creating a honeymoon that’s as relaxing or fast-paced as you want it to be.
Where to stay
- Aman Tokyo – One of the most luxurious hotels in the city, with minimalist Japanese design and incredible skyline views.
- Hoshinoya Tokyo – A modern take on a traditional ryokan, complete with hot spring baths.
- Park Hyatt Tokyo – An iconic luxury hotel famous for its appearance in Lost in Translation.
- Four Seasons Kyoto – A stunning luxury hotel centred around an 800-year-old garden.
- Gora Kadan, Hakone – One of Japan’s most famous ryokans and perfect for couples wanting hot springs and mountain scenery.
South Africa
Best for: couples who want city, wine and safari in one trip
My favourite moment: Busing around the mountains to various vineyards and sipping wine to a Cape Town sunset.
If you’re struggling to choose between a city break, wine tasting holiday or safari honeymoon, South Africa allows you to do all three in one trip.
Cape Town remains one of my favourite cities in the world. Few places combine mountains, beaches, vineyards and incredible food quite so effortlessly. One morning you can be taking the cable car up Table Mountain, the next driving along Chapman’s Peak or sipping wine in Stellenbosch. Discover more in my guide to the top things to do in Cape Town.
One of my favourite memories from South Africa was spending an afternoon wine tasting beneath the mountains. The scenery alone is enough to justify the trip, but combine it with world-class restaurants and some of the best value luxury accommodation you’ll find anywhere and it’s easy to see why so many couples choose South Africa for their honeymoon.
If you have more time, combine Cape Town with a safari in Kruger National Park or the private reserves of Sabi Sands. It gives you the best of both worlds – sophisticated city life and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
South Africa is one of the easiest destinations on this list to tailor to your interests. Whether you’re foodies, wildlife lovers, beach enthusiasts or wine drinkers, there’s something here for every type of couple.
Where to stay
- Ellerman House – One of Cape Town’s most luxurious boutique hotels, with spectacular ocean views.
- Cape Grace – A classic luxury stay on the V&A Waterfront.
- Babylonstoren – A beautiful wine estate with gardens, restaurants and luxury accommodation.
- La Residence – An exceptionally romantic hotel in Franschhoek surrounded by vineyards.
- Londolozi Private Game Reserve – One of South Africa’s most celebrated safari lodges.
Brazil
Best for: couples who want beaches, wildlife and big adventures
My favourite moment: Seeing a jaguar emerge from the riverbank before casually swimming across the water to his mother hiding in the bushes.
Brazil is one of those rare honeymoon spots that can be almost anything you want it to be. In the space of two weeks, I went from sipping caipirinhas in Rio de Janeiro to wildlife spotting in the Pantanal, wandering the graffitied streets of São Paulo and standing in awe of Iguazu Falls.
That’s what makes Brazil such a brilliant honeymoon destination. You don’t have to choose between culture, food, beaches or adventure – you can have all four in one trip.
Whilst Rio’s famous beaches are spectacular, my standout experience was heading deep into the Pantanal. The world’s largest tropical wetland is surprisingly difficult to reach, but that’s exactly what keeps it feeling so wild and untouched. We spent our days searching for wildlife by boat, spotting giant river otters, capybara, caiman and countless bird species.
Then came the jaguars. I thought we’d be lucky to spot one. But after trying to spot a mum and her cub through the dense bushes, we were lucky enough to see five big cats swimming or pounding across the banks throughout two days on the river.
For honeymooners who want something adventurous and slightly off the beaten path, the Pantanal is hard to beat. Pair it with a few days in Rio and a visit to Iguazu Falls and you’ve got one of the most memorable honeymoons imaginable.
Where to stay
- Belmond Hotel das Cataratas – The only hotel located inside Iguazu National Park, giving guests exclusive early access to the falls before the crowds arrive.
- Jaguar Ecological Reserve – Where I stayed in the Pantanal. Excellent value, beautiful accommodation, delicious home-cooked food and some of the best wildlife viewing I’ve ever experienced.
- Copacabana Palace, Rio de Janeiro – A glamorous beachfront classic overlooking Rio’s most famous beach.
- Fasano Rio de Janeiro – One of the city’s most luxurious hotels, with a spectacular rooftop pool.
- Rosewood São Paulo – A celebrity stay favourite offering a boutique oasis steps from the city’s best shopping street.
Banff, Canada
Best for: mountain lovers and outdoor adventurers
My favourite moment: Seeing the crystal blue waters of Lake Louise for the first time against the snow topped mountains.
If your idea of romance involves mountain views rather than beach loungers, Canada might just steal your heart. I’ve travelled to a lot of places over the years, but few have left such a lasting impression. Even now, years later, I still think about Banff regularly.
The scenery feels almost unreal. Turquoise lakes, dramatic peaks, glaciers, waterfalls and endless forests combine to create one of the most spectacular landscapes I’ve ever seen.
Lake Louise was the place that completely won me over. Standing on the shoreline looking out across the water towards the Victoria Glacier genuinely left me speechless. It remains one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited.
In summer you can hike, canoe, ride horseback and explore the surrounding national parks, spotting grizzly bears from the gondolas. In winter, Banff transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding and cosy evenings beside a fire.
Where to stay
- Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – The iconic hotel overlooking Lake Louise itself.
- Fairmont Banff Springs – Known as the Castle in the Rockies and one of Canada’s most famous luxury hotels.
- Buffalo Mountain Lodge – A romantic mountain retreat with a cosy lodge atmosphere.
- Rimrock Resort Hotel – Luxury accommodation with spectacular mountain views.
- Moose Hotel & Suites – A stylish and slightly more affordable option with rooftop hot pools.
Austria
Best for: active couples who love lakes, mountains and spa hotels
My favourite moment: Wild swimming in Lake Zell am See surrounded by mountains on a warm summer afternoon.
Austria is one of Europe’s most underrated honeymoon destinations. It offers many of the same dramatic landscapes as Switzerland, but often with fewer crowds and slightly friendlier prices. Whether you’re travelling in summer or winter, it’s a destination that feels designed for couples who enjoy being outdoors.
I spent two weeks travelling across Austria by train and quickly fell in love with the country. Every stop felt different, from the elegant streets of Vienna to the alpine scenery of Innsbruck and Bad Hofgastein.
For honeymooners, Zell am See stands out in particular. In summer you can swim in the lake, hike mountain trails, cycle through the countryside and take scenic gondola rides. In winter, the same landscape transforms into a skier and snowboarder’s paradise.
The combination of outdoor activities, luxury spa hotels and spectacular scenery makes Austria a fantastic alternative to more traditional honeymoon destinations.
Where to stay
- Superior Hotel Tirolerhof, Zell am See – Where I stayed. Fantastic spa facilities, a lovely piano bar and an excellent location close to the lake.
- Schloss Prielau Hotel & Restaurant – A romantic lakeside castle hotel near Zell am See.
- Das Goldberg – One of Austria’s most luxurious spa hotels with incredible mountain views.
- Interalpen-Hotel Tyrol – A five-star alpine retreat near Innsbruck.
- Hotel Sacher Vienna – One of Austria’s most iconic luxury hotels.
Paris, France
Best for: foodies, romantics and slow travel lovers
My favourite moment: Sitting outside a café with a pastry and a glass of wine, watching Paris go about its day.
Paris might not be an unusual honeymoon destination on paper, but I think the best French honeymoons start there rather than stay there.
I’ve visited Paris multiple times, including for my hen do, and there’s a reason people keep coming back. The city has a way of making even ordinary moments feel romantic. A flaky pastry from a neighbourhood bakery. A bottle of wine shared beside the Seine. Wandering beautiful streets with nowhere in particular to be.
But instead of spending your entire honeymoon in Paris, I’d use it as the starting point for a wider French adventure.
You could board the legendary Belmond Venice Simplon-Orient-Express from Paris and continue through Europe in one of the world’s most luxurious trains. Or hire a car and road trip through Champagne, Burgundy or Provence, stopping at vineyards, boutique hotels and countryside restaurants along the way.
Another option is combining a few nights in Paris with the Loire Valley, where you’ll find fairytale châteaux, Michelin-starred dining and some of France’s most romantic hotels.
The result feels far more personal than a traditional beach honeymoon and offers the perfect balance of luxury, culture and incredible food.
Where to stay
- The Hoxton Paris – One of my favourite Paris hotels. Reliable service, boutique style and a fantastic location (read my review here).
- Le Bristol Paris – One of the city’s grandest luxury hotels.
- Shangri-La Paris – Famous for its Eiffel Tower views.
- Hotel des Grands Boulevards – A chic boutique hotel perfect for couples at a more affordable rate.
- Relais Christine – A romantic boutique property tucked away in Saint-Germain.
Cornwall, England
Best for: a minimoon or UK-based honeymoon
My favourite moment: Sharing a seafood tasting menu overlooking the Cornish coast just days after our wedding.
Cornwall will always hold a special place in my heart. Not only have I visited more times than I can count, but it’s also where we chose to get married and stayed for our minimoon at Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate.
Whilst Cornwall is known for its beaches, there’s so much more to it than sand and sea. You can spend your days exploring fishing villages, hiking coastal paths, visiting gardens, taking boat trips or simply eating your way around the county. I especially loved my road trip around Southern Cornwall including the Minack Theatre, Land’s End and St Ives.
The food scene alone is worth the journey. Cornwall is packed with delicious restaurants, from relaxed seafood shacks to destination dining experiences. The Shore in Penzance remains one of my favourite ever meals, whilst the food at Carbis Bay was truly exceptional.
Where to stay
- Carbis Bay Hotel & Estate – Where we spent our minimoon. Beautiful coastal views, excellent facilities and a wonderfully romantic setting.
- The Scarlet Hotel – An adults-only spa hotel overlooking the coastline famous for its hot tubs.
- The Pig at Harlyn Bay – One of Cornwall’s most popular luxury hotels set within a 15th-century country manor.
- St Moritz Hotel – Stylish accommodation near Polzeath.
- Harbour Hotel St Ives – A fantastic option overlooking Porthminster Beach.
Other unusual honeymoon destinations
Patagonia
Best for: once-in-a-lifetime adventure honeymoons
Patagonia sits firmly at the top of my own travel wish list and for good reason. Spanning southern Chile and Argentina, it’s home to some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Think glaciers, jagged mountain peaks, turquoise lakes and hiking trails that seem to disappear into the wilderness.
Patagonia isn’t the type of honeymoon where you’ll spend every day beside a pool. Instead, it’s about sharing extraordinary experiences together and returning home with stories you’ll still be telling years later.
It’s perfect for couples who love nature, photography and the feeling of being completely immersed in a landscape.
Where to stay
- Explora Patagonia – One of the region’s most famous luxury adventure lodges.
- Awasi Patagonia – Exclusive private villas with personal guides and vehicles.
- Tierra Patagonia – A stunning design hotel overlooking Torres del Paine.
- EOLO Patagonia Spirit – Luxury estancia accommodation in Argentine Patagonia.
- The Singular Patagonia – A unique property blending history and luxury.
Vietnam
Best for: food lovers and culture seekers
Vietnam offers one of the best combinations of value, culture and adventure you’ll find anywhere in the world. You can spend your honeymoon exploring lantern-lit streets in Hoi An, cruising through Ha Long Bay, relaxing on tropical beaches or eating your way through Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
What makes Vietnam particularly appealing is how far your budget stretches. Luxury hotels that would cost a fortune elsewhere can feel surprisingly affordable, making it possible to enjoy a more indulgent honeymoon without breaking the bank.
The food alone is reason enough to visit. Fresh, vibrant and packed with flavour, every meal feels like an experience in itself. For couples looking for somewhere exciting, culturally rich and a little different from the usual honeymoon hotspots, Vietnam is hard to beat (and top on my list for our next big adventure).
Where to stay
- Six Senses Ninh Van Bay – One of Vietnam’s most famous luxury resorts.
- Four Seasons The Nam Hai, Hoi An – A spectacular beachfront resort near Hoi An.
- Azerai La Residence Hue – Elegant colonial-style luxury in central Vietnam.
- Capella Hanoi – A beautiful boutique hotel in the capital.
- Anantara Hoi An Resort – A romantic riverside option close to the historic centre.
Looking for more unique honeymoon inspiration?
Choosing where to go on honeymoon is one of the hardest parts of wedding planning. There are so many incredible destinations out there, and the best choice ultimately comes down to what kind of experience you want to share together.
If you’re still weighing up your options, take a look at my guide to the best new destinations to visit, where I share some of the most exciting up-and-coming places I’ve travelled to in recent years, from wildlife-rich wetlands in Brazil to historic cities in Uzbekistan.
Or, if jaw-dropping scenery is top of your honeymoon wish list, browse my round-up of the most wonderful views across the world, featuring some of the most unforgettable landscapes I’ve experienced during my travels.
