Romantic Wedding Venues in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

KwaZulu-Natal offers a breathtaking backdrop for a truly romantic wedding. From the dramatic Drakensberg mountains to the sun-kissed Dolphin Coast, the province is filled with enchanting venues. Imagine exchanging vows in lush subtropical gardens, elegant country estates, or overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean. This region blends natural beauty with sophisticated charm, providing countless idyllic settings for your special day.
Whether you dream of an intimate ceremony in the Midlands Meander or a grand coastal celebration, KwaZulu-Natal's romantic wedding venues cater to every style. Discover hidden gems offering exclusive use, world-class catering, and stunning photo opportunities. The province’s unique blend of Zulu culture and diverse landscapes ensures your wedding will be an unforgettable and deeply personal experience for you and your guests.
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Jakkalswater Guest Farm

Nababeep, South Africa, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Jakkalswater also has a beautiful chapel , where your dream wedding can be held! It is located in the hang of the giant granite mountains and has a breathtaking view across the Namaqua valley.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Leopard Walk Lodge

Hluhluwe
Welcome to Leopard Walk Lodge, your perfect wedding venue nestled in the heart of nature. Whether you envision an intimate gathering or a grand wedding celebration, our venue offers the ideal setting for your special day.
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  • Affordable ($)
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The Du Boirs

Hillcrest, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Whether you are looking for a beautiful garden wedding, a stylish indoor wedding or perhaps a wedding with a touch of flair and pizzazz, the duBoirs can cater for your every need.
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Secret Garden

The Msunduzi, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Our stone chapel is the perfect place to say I do. From there guests are entertained on our welcome deck while you capture your wedding memories.
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  • 250
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hilton Bush Lodge & Function Venue

Hilton
At The Hilton Bush Lodge, we understand that your wedding day is a reflection of your finest tastes. Our boutique venue, nestled in the heart of the African bushveld, is the epitome of tasteful luxury and understated elegance.
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  • 130
  • 16 Bedrooms
  • R 28 000 – R 32 500
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Rockabilly Ranch

Pietermaritzburg, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Rockabilly Ranch is the perfect venue to host your dream wedding. We have a bridal suite, venue for your guests to stay over, the grounds have ample space for your marquee to host the reception and service.
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Packshed

Margate, Ugu District Municipality
Imagine a warm day with the sun setting behind the hills in the backdrop of Margate. The lush bush of the South Coast is slowly falling into relaxation. Birds are flying low while your guests starting to arrive for your wedding.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe

Hluhluwe
Celebrate your wedding day in the heart of the African wilderness at ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe. Our picturesque wedding venues, personalised service, and unique experiences ensure your special day is as wild and memorable as your love story.
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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Drakensbergkloof

Newlands West, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Drakensbergkloof Guest Farm and Wedding Venue is the ideal wedding venue to spend a weekend celebrating your love with family and friends.
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  • 250
  • Moderate ($$)
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Pongola Country Lodge

Pongola
We know that this is an exceptionally exciting time for you, and we are humbled at the prospect of you considering Pongola Country Lodge to assist you in planning and hosting your dream wedding.
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  • 250
  • Affordable ($)
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Hills Wedding Estate

Pietermaritzburg, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Hills Wedding Estate, located amongst the rolling hills of Chase Valley, offers a versatile, functionally designed space for weddings.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Netherwood Farm

Nottingham Road, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
We believe that celebrating love in all its forms takes centre stage. We have created a wedding space to allow romance to speak the loudest, for nature to be its backdrop and the clean interiors to be open to the individual’s design.
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  • 250
  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in KwaZulu-Natal

Coastal Romance

  • Venues along the Dolphin Coast and South Coast offer stunning Indian Ocean views and beach ceremony options.
  • Think elegant resorts in Umhlanga or boutique hotels with private beach access for a chic, seaside celebration.

Midlands Meander Magic

  • This area is famed for its charming country houses, rustic-chic barns, and sprawling garden estates.
  • It's the perfect setting for intimate, whimsical, and classic fairytale weddings.

Drakensberg Drama

  • For a truly majestic backdrop, consider a venue nestled in the Drakensberg mountains.
  • Ideal for adventurous couples wanting breathtaking landscapes and a sense of serene grandeur for their day.

Bushveld Bliss

  • Exclusive game reserves and safari lodges provide a uniquely African romantic setting, combining luxury with the thrill of the wild.

Venue Hire Fees

Costs vary widely based on location, exclusivity, and the day of the week. Prices are estimates and subject to change.

  • Mid-Range Venues: Expect to pay between ZAR 30,000 and ZAR 70,000 for venue hire.
  • Luxury & Exclusive-Use: Costs can start from ZAR 80,000 and exceed ZAR 150,000, particularly for sought-after coastal, Midlands, or safari venues.

What's Typically Included?

  • Basic hire often covers the space for a set number of hours, tables, chairs, and standard linen.
  • All-inclusive packages may bundle catering, bar services, and sometimes even coordination.

Ways to Save

  • Consider a mid-week wedding (Monday-Thursday) as weekend dates are always premium.
  • Off-season bookings during the cooler winter months (May-August) can also offer significant savings.

Spring (September - November)

  • A beautiful time for garden weddings, especially in the Midlands. Expect pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers.
  • There is a chance of afternoon thundershowers, so a backup plan is wise.

Summer (December - February)

  • Ideal for coastal weddings with long, warm days perfect for a beach-side atmosphere.
  • Be prepared for high humidity and frequent summer storms, particularly inland.

Autumn (March - May)

  • Often considered the best season. The weather is generally stable, warm, and less humid.
  • The Midlands Meander is particularly stunning with rich autumnal colours.

Winter (June - August)

  • Mild, dry, and sunny days make it perfect for inland and Drakensberg weddings. Venues with cosy fireplaces offer a wonderfully romantic atmosphere.

Accommodation Options

  • Urban & Coastal: Durban, Umhlanga, and Ballito offer a wide range of hotels, from luxury brands to boutique guesthouses. Many coastal venues have on-site rooms.
  • Rural & Inland: The Midlands and Drakensberg are rich with charming B&Bs, country lodges, and self-catering cottages, often on the same property as the venue.

Getting Around KZN

  • King Shaka International Airport (DUR), north of Durban, is the main travel hub for local and international guests.
  • Renting a car is the most convenient way for guests to travel, especially to more remote venues.
  • Consider arranging a shuttle service for the wedding day, particularly if the venue is off the beaten track. This ensures guest safety and convenience after the celebrations.
FAQ's

What makes KwaZulu-Natal a unique destination for a romantic wedding?

KZN's unique appeal lies in its incredible diversity. You can have a beach wedding, a mountain ceremony, a countryside celebration in the Midlands, or a safari wedding in the bush, all within one province. The blend of Zulu culture, stunning landscapes, and a year-round mild climate creates a truly special and romantic atmosphere.

Do I need a wedding planner for a KZN wedding?

While not essential, a local wedding planner can be invaluable, especially if you're planning from afar. They have established relationships with the best local suppliers and can navigate the logistics of venues in more remote areas like the Drakensberg or Midlands, ensuring a stress-free experience.

What are the legal requirements to get married in South Africa?

To legally marry in South Africa, you'll need a marriage officer registered with the Department of Home Affairs. You must both present valid identification (ID books for SA citizens, passports for foreign nationals) and complete the required documentation before the ceremony. There is no residency requirement for foreign couples.

How far in advance should we book a romantic wedding venue in KwaZulu-Natal?

For popular romantic venues, especially in the Midlands Meander and on the Dolphin Coast, it's advisable to book 12 to 18 months in advance. This is particularly true if you are planning a wedding on a weekend during the peak seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May).

Are all-inclusive wedding venue packages common in KZN?

Yes, many venues in KwaZulu-Natal offer all-inclusive packages. These are a great option for simplifying the planning process and can often be more cost-effective. Packages typically include venue hire, catering, basic décor, and staffing, with some luxury venues also including coordination services.

What are some unique romantic activities for our wedding guests in KZN?

KZN offers fantastic options. Guests could enjoy a safari in a game reserve like Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, explore the beautiful hiking trails of the Drakensberg mountains, relax on the beaches of the North Coast, or discover the artisan shops and eateries along the Midlands Meander.