Let Romance Blossom In The Bush

The African bush might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of romantic world hotspots, however deep in the wilderness of southern Tanzania, the bountiful wildlife seems to disagree! From the diminutive dik dik, which stays with the same partner for life to the male zebra, who will lose his whole herd for his favourite mate, many of Africa’s creatures show plenty of flamboyant, flirty behaviour during the mating season – which generally begins in December.

Wilderness of Southern Tanzania
Wilderness of Southern Tanzania

Chivalry is evident throughout the Selous Game Reserve, with the camp of Siwandu offering an idyllic environment for a wealth of Africa’s loved-up creatures. Situated within an open palm forest on the shores of Lake Nzerakera, it supports a myriad of bird life and the largest crocodile and hippo population in Africa.

Wilderness of Southern Tanzania
Wilderness of Southern Tanzania

Located in the vast Ruaha National Park, Siwandu’s sister camp Jongomero, is also one of Africa’s great birding paradises, with over 530 species of bird recorded to date, due to its remote location and the diversity of trees. The best time to see birds on safari is in January and February, when the terrain is lush and green and the trees are filled with the mating calls of birds in plume.

Couples can observe these blossoming relationships from their private verandah, or while on a walking safari or game drive. What’s more, as both Siwandu and Jongomero are unfenced, guests can sometimes encounter wildlife up close and personal – from a giant elephant to the cutest creature in the bush, the dik dik – whose big, Bambi eyes are enough to melt even the hardest of hearts – no wonder it’s so lucky in love!

For ‘lovebirds’ wanting to experience the wild romance of Africa, Rainbow Tours rainbowtours.co.uk  is offering a 10-night trip to Tanzania from £3,870 per person. Valid for selected departures from December 2012 until March 2013, the price includes three nights on safari at Jongomero, three nights at Siwandu, plus a further four nights at Ras Kutani on a full-board basis.

Also included are flights from Heathrow with British Airways, internal transfers, game viewing drives in open sided 4×4 vehicles, walking safaris and boat safaris at Siwandu, as well as concession and park entrance fees, taxes and surcharges.