See profile
Haute Cabriere
Franschhoek, Cape Winelands District Municipality
One of Franschhoek’s most scenic venues, Haute Cabrière is the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories of your wedding.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
Wedding Venues in South Africa
Discovering the perfect setting for your day is simple with this selection of wedding venues in South Africa. The nation offers a breathtaking array of choices, from elegant wine estates in the Cape, to rustic game lodges in the bushveld, and chic urban spaces in Johannesburg. Each region provides a unique atmosphere for your celebration, whether you envision a grand affair or an intimate gathering with close family and friends.
See profile
Simplicity Venue
Pretori, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Situated in the heart of our vibrant city Pretoria, our wedding venue offers a unique and captivating atmosphere that combines sleek industrial design with stunning natural surroundings.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Plumbago Hills
Uitenhage, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Where dreams come true…
Nestled between the hills in Kruisriver, just outside Uitenhage, Plumbago Hills’ unique blend of stylish elegance and country charm creates the perfect setting for the wedding of a lifetime.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Deannie Landgoed
Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality
We cater for any type of ceremony, with options of spectacular views as well as intimate gardens and forest settings. All our wedding packages reserve exclusivity of the estate for your special day.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Crawfords Beach Lodge
East London, Amathole District Municipality
Crawfords Beach Lodge located on the beautiful Chintsa East beach offers the perfect location for a beautiful seaside backdrop wedding worth celebrating in style.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Sky Venue
Durban, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani has a glamorous history hosting weddings in Durban. Our stunning beachfront location, catering abilities and impeccable venues ensure a wedding to remember.
Read more
- 500
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Ollivanders Estate
Pinetown, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Ollivanders Estate is located in Shongweni, KZN, overlooking the magnificent Shongweni Dam and Nature Reserve and is a sought after wedding venue.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Winery Road Forest
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Winery Road Forest is an exclusive and private wedding venue, not open to the general public.
Here you will be the only bride being looked after by our team of specialists.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Bontevlei
Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality
At Bontevlei, we're more than just a wedding venue; we're dream-weavers. Nestled in the heart of Stellenbosch's wine region, our rustic farm wedding venue offers the perfect canvas for unforgettable moments.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Cape Winelands
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
We have the perfect venue for your wedding. Our luxurious guest house offers a large outdoor area and wedding venue hall which can be hired out for any type of wedding.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Sir James Van Der Merwe
Sandton, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Step into more than just a bar; Sir James van der Merwe offers an experience—a blend of old-world charm, laid-back sophistication, and a dash of Joburg flair. Engage in casual conversations and toast to a great wedding.
Read more
- 80
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Mambakloof Country Estate
Vrede, Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality
Our beautiful chapel and reception hall is ideal for a rustic and stylish country wedding. This one of a kind venue can easily accommodate up to 120 wedding guests.
Read more
- 120
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Veld and Sea
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Veld and Sea offers a rustic nature-inspired wedding venue resting against the beautiful fynbos mountains
of the South Peninsula and bordering the Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Read more
- 40
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Green Leaves Country Lodge & Venue
Hartbeespoort, Bojanala Platinum District Municipality
Our unique wedding venues will create an experience that will be rendered timeless in memories.
Read more
- 180
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Estate28
Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Beautiful country setting, perfect for weddings. Embrace the beauty of nature. The spectacular view of valley’s, rolling hills and the not too distant sea view with Jeffrey’s Bay in the background.
Read more
- 80
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
At the River
Centurion, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Pretoria’s premier wedding destination for hosting unforgettable weddings in a setting where elegance meets nature’s tranquillity.
Read more
- 700
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Boegoeberg 4×4
Graafwater, West Coast District Municipality
Boegoeberg is perhaps best known for its 4×4 trail that attained “Top Ten” status in Drive Out magazine many years ago and is the perfect place to celebrate unique weddings.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Kralinbergh Estate
Ermelo, Gert Sibande District Municipality
Having exclusive use of the Estate on your special day means you have the undivided attention of our experienced and dedicated wedding coordinators.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
The Rosendal Country Retreat
Rosendal, Thabo Mofutsanyana District Municipality
Welcome to our new wedding venue at The Rosendal Country Retreat, the perfect place to host your dream wedding!
Read more
- 120
- Moderate ($$)
See profile
Dawsons Lodge
R38 Running Waters Farm Plot A20, Nelsberg,
Celebrate your wedding in an idyllic setting, surrounded by Nature. Dawsons Lodge is a destination for those seeking a unique wedding experience, where luxury meets nature.
Read more
- Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in South Africa
All About Getting Married in South AfricaAverage Wedding Venue CostsWeather & The Best Time To MarryTransport & Accommodation
Legal Requirements
To legally marry in South Africa, you must be married by a registered marriage officer. You will need to present valid identity documents (or passports for non-residents) and have two witnesses present at the ceremony. If either party is a non-South African citizen, it's wise to check for any additional paperwork required by your home country.
Unique Venue Styles
South Africa's variety is its biggest strength. Consider:
- Winelands: Historic estates with Cape Dutch architecture and vineyard views.
- Bushveld: Luxury lodges offering safari experiences for guests.
- Coastal: Beachfront venues along the Garden Route or KwaZulu-Natal coast.
- City Chic: Modern hotels and rooftops in Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Venue Hire Fees
Venue hire can range from ZAR 30,000 to over ZAR 150,000, depending on the location, exclusivity, and day of the week. This fee usually covers the use of the space for a set number of hours, along with basic tables, chairs, and staffing.
Cost Per Person
Catering is often the largest additional cost, typically ranging from ZAR 500 to ZAR 1,500+ per guest for food and basic beverages.
Budgeting Tips
- Off-Season Savings: Winter weddings (June-August) often come with reduced rates.
- Mid-Week Dates: Venues may offer discounts for Friday or weekday celebrations.
- All-Inclusive Packages: These can simplify planning and prevent unexpected costs.
- Be Aware: Always check for hidden costs like gratuity, corkage fees, and overtime charges.
A Season for Every Style
- Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and vibrant. Perfect for coastal weddings, but be prepared for summer rainfall in regions like Gauteng.
- Autumn (Mar-May): Mild temperatures and beautiful golden light, especially in the Winelands.
- Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often dry. Ideal for cosy, indoor venues with fireplaces.
- Spring (Sep-Nov): Pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery as flowers begin to bloom.
Regional Climates
South Africa's weather varies significantly by region.
- Western Cape: Has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
- Gauteng: Experiences summer thunderstorms and dry, sunny winters.
- Kruger & Bushveld: Best visited in the dry, cooler winter months for prime game viewing.
- KwaZulu-Natal Coast: Humid and sub-tropical year-round.
Getting There
International guests will likely fly into O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg), Cape Town, or King Shaka (Durban) international airports. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring and reaching venues outside of major city centres.
Guest Transport
For venues in remote locations like the Winelands or bush, arranging a shuttle service for guests is a thoughtful and practical touch, ensuring everyone can celebrate safely.
Accommodation Options
Many premier South African wedding venues, particularly wine estates and game lodges, offer excellent on-site accommodation for the wedding party and guests. This creates a seamless and immersive destination wedding experience.
For venues without lodging, there is always a wide range of nearby hotels, charming guesthouses, and self-catering options to suit every preference and budget.
FAQ's
What is the average cost of a wedding venue in South Africa?
The cost varies widely. Venue hire can range from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 150,000+, while catering typically costs between ZAR 500 and ZAR 1,500 per person. Prime locations like the Cape Winelands are generally at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to other regions.
When is the best time of year to get married in South Africa?
Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are popular for their mild, pleasant weather nationwide. However, the 'best' time depends on your chosen region and style. The Western Cape's dry summers are perfect for outdoor weddings, while winter offers cosy indoor settings and potential discounts.
What are some unique types of wedding venues in South Africa?
South Africa is famous for its diverse venues. You can choose from elegant wine estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, luxury safari lodges in the Kruger area, dramatic mountain resorts in the Drakensberg, or chic, modern spaces in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.
What are the legal requirements to get married in South Africa?
To get married legally, you need a registered marriage officer, valid identity documents (or passports for foreign nationals), and two witnesses. Non-residents should confirm if any extra documentation is required from their home country before travelling.
Should we hire a wedding planner for our South African wedding?
While not a requirement, a wedding planner is highly recommended, especially if you are planning from abroad. Their local expertise is invaluable for sourcing trusted suppliers, managing logistics, and navigating the specifics of your chosen venue, which can save you significant time and stress.
Is it safe for international guests to attend a wedding in South Africa?
Yes. Many of South Africa's most popular wedding venues are in secure estates, private game reserves, or established tourist areas. As with any international travel, guests should take standard safety precautions. Venues are experienced in hosting international visitors and ensuring their comfort and security.