Romantic Wedding Venues in South Africa

Discover the most romantic wedding venues South Africa has to offer. From intimate vineyard estates in the Cape Winelands to dramatic coastal settings and exclusive safari lodges, this stunning country provides a breathtaking backdrop. Explore a handpicked selection of venues that specialise in creating unforgettable, love-filled celebrations, each with its own unique charm and elegance.
Whether you dream of a sun-drenched ceremony overlooking the ocean, a fairy-tale reception under a canopy of stars in the bushveld, or a chic urban celebration, South Africa delivers. These venues are renowned for their exceptional service, ensuring every moment of your romantic wedding is as perfect as you've imagined, creating a magical start to your forever.
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Summer Place

Sandton, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Our highly versatile banqueting venues ensure the perfect backdrop every time, making them ideal for weddings.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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Elandskloof Trout Farm

Dullstroom
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Just imagine: a beautiful natural setting, relaxed and romantic surroundings, the most amazing mountains and rocks in a picture surrounding for photos.
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  • 160
  • 49 Bedrooms
  • R 10 000 – R 19 993
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Hole In One

Roodepoort
We know that a lot of planning goes into creating this special celebration and that everyone aspires to having the perfect wedding day. We confidently offer assistance in making your dreams come true.
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  • 17 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Schaftplaas

Langebaanweg, West Coast District Municipality
Welcome to Schaftplaas, where your dream wedding comes to life against the serene backdrop of The West Coast just over an hour from Cape Town.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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Campagne Living

Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Our wedding venue is inspired by our lifestyle and our love for travel, especially the country side of Italy, France and Portugal. Campagne Living focus on smaller intimate wedding celebrations of up to 50 guests.
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  • 50
  • Moderate ($$)
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Blue Goose

Gansbaai, Overberg District Municipality
Whether you tie the knot under a canopy of trees in the lush evergreen garden or decide to say “I do” inside the spacious dining area, having your wedding ceremony and reception at Blue Goose will ensure your special day is magical.
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  • 90
  • Moderate ($$)
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Gala Gala Eco Resort

Mozambique, Mopani District Municipality
Celebrate Your Dream Wedding at Gala-Gala Eco Resort Barefoot Luxury Amidst Nature’s Beauty. Gala-Gala Eco Resort offers a Wedding at a venue that is a dream come true.
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  • 60
  • Moderate ($$)
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Cultiv8 Boutique Venue

Krugersdorp, West Rand District Municipality
Cultiv8 is the perfect setting for that small, intimate and romantic wedding of your dreams. Our focus is to create magical, memorable weddings for 6-84 guests.
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  • 84
  • Moderate ($$)
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Palm Villa

Port Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Palm Villa Wedding and Conference Venue is an all in one wonderland, offering the perfect setting for weddings. Set in a leafy forest estate, this 6 hectare property is a hidden treasure.
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  • 190
  • Moderate ($$)
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Dikhololo Resort

Brits, Bojanala Platinum District Municipality
For a completely unique and unforgettable bush wedding, say 'I do' at Dikhololo! The Resort can comfortably accommodate large groups.
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  • 400
  • Moderate ($$)
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Karoo Art Hotel

Barrydale, South Africa
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Indulge in a unique blend of art and hospitality at the Karoo Art Hotel. Discover boutique accommodation in the heart of South Africa's Klein Karoo, where creativity meets comfort.
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  • 60
  • 16 Bedrooms
  • R 1 465 – R 2 180
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Destiny Lodge Cullinan

Cullinan
DESTINY LODGE WHERE YOUR WEDDING DREAMS BECOME A REALITY Your wedding day is one of the most important days in your life. Destiny Lodges highly trained staff will make it their priority to exceed your expectations.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Blue Waters Hotel

Durban
Start planning your Dream Wedding at the Blue Waters! Our experienced coordinators and chefs will ensure every detail is just right. We offer four stylish wedding venues, some with ocean views that stretch to eternity.
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  • 250
  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in South Africa

Iconic Romantic Settings

  • Cape Winelands: Rolling vineyards, historic manor houses, and gourmet cuisine create a classic, elegant atmosphere perfect for a fairy-tale wedding.
  • Coastal Escapes: Pristine beaches along the Garden Route or the dramatic cliffs of the Western Cape offer stunning ocean backdrops for your vows.
  • Safari Lodges: The untamed wilderness of the Kruger or private reserves provides a uniquely adventurous and intimate setting.

Unforgettable Experiences

Many venues offer more than just a space. Think private wine tastings for your guests, sunset game drives with the 'Big Five', or intimate beach ceremonies followed by a bonfire. The natural beauty of the country, from Table Mountain to the Drakensberg, becomes an integral part of your celebration, creating incredible photo opportunities and a magical ambience.

Average Venue Costs

The cost for a romantic wedding venue in South Africa can vary widely based on location and exclusivity.

  • Exclusive-use Venues: Expect to pay from R80,000 to R300,000+ for venue hire, especially in prime locations like the Winelands or private game reserves.
  • Per-Person Packages: Many venues offer all-inclusive packages, typically ranging from R800 to R2,500 per guest.

Key Planning Tips

Book in Advance: Popular romantic venues, particularly for the peak season (September to April), get booked 12-18 months ahead of time.

Local Planners: Consider hiring a local wedding planner. They have established relationships with top suppliers and can navigate logistics, which is especially helpful for couples planning a destination wedding.

Spring & Summer (Sep - Feb)

This is the peak wedding season, offering long, sunny days and lush, vibrant landscapes. It's perfect for:

  • Outdoor ceremonies in the Winelands.
  • Warm-weather beach weddings.
  • Garden receptions that last late into the evening.

Be mindful of the 'Cape Doctor' wind in Cape Town during summer months.

Autumn & Winter (Mar - Aug)

Often overlooked, these seasons offer unique romantic possibilities.

  • Autumn: The Winelands are spectacular with golden foliage and milder weather.
  • Winter: Think cosy receptions with roaring fireplaces in the Midlands or enjoy dry, pleasant weather for a safari wedding up north. This is often a more budget-friendly time to marry.

Getting Around

South Africa is a large country. Major international airports are in Johannesburg (JNB), Cape Town (CPT), and Durban (DUR).

For guests travelling between regions or to remote venues, domestic flights are efficient. Car hire is highly recommended for exploring areas like the Garden Route or the Winelands. Advise guests to book transport well in advance of their travel.

Accommodation Options

Most premier wedding venues offer on-site accommodation for the wedding party and close family.

  • For larger guest lists, nearby hotels, guesthouses, and boutique B&Bs are plentiful in popular wedding areas.
  • Consider arranging a room block or providing a curated list of recommended local stays for your guests to make their planning easier.
FAQ's

What makes a South African wedding venue romantic?

The romance lies in the diversity and drama of the landscapes. You can marry on a vineyard estate with mountains as your backdrop, on a secluded beach at sunset, or in the heart of the African bush. This natural beauty, combined with world-class hospitality, creates a uniquely magical and intimate atmosphere.

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

A legal wedding ceremony in South Africa must be conducted by a registered marriage officer. Most venues can recommend trusted local officers who can officiate your ceremony and handle the legal paperwork, for both local and international couples. You will need to provide identification and complete some forms.

What are the most popular regions in South Africa for a romantic wedding?

The Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch, Franschhoek) are incredibly popular for their classic, elegant romance. The Garden Route and Western Cape coast are sought-after for breathtaking ocean views. For a unique and adventurous romance, private game reserves near the Kruger National Park are an exceptional choice.

Is South Africa an expensive country for a wedding?

Costs vary significantly. While exclusive luxury venues can be on par with international prices, South Africa generally offers excellent value, especially for international couples due to favourable exchange rates. You can find stunning romantic venues to suit a wide range of budgets, from intimate guesthouses to grand estates.

What kind of cuisine can we expect at a South African wedding?

South African wedding cuisine is a highlight, often focusing on fresh, local, and seasonal produce. Expect world-class food and wine pairings in the Winelands, fresh seafood along the coast, and traditional 'braais' (barbecues) given a gourmet twist. Venues pride themselves on creating bespoke menus.

Can we plan a romantic South African wedding from abroad?

Absolutely. South Africa is a top destination wedding location. Many venues have dedicated coordinators experienced in working with international couples. Hiring a local wedding planner is also highly recommended to manage logistics, time zones, and suppliers, ensuring a seamless planning process from afar.