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.
Explore venues with dramatic mountain backdrops, serene coastal views, or vibrant vineyard landscapes. South Africa’s diverse scenery and world-class hospitality make it a remarkable destination to say 'I do'. Consider the season and your personal style as you browse through these stunning locations, each offering a distinct and memorable experience for you and your guests. This is the starting point for finding your dream South African wedding venue.
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Tshikwalo

Hammanskraal
Bush Weddings in Dinokeng Game Reserve Experience the magic of Tshikwalo weddings – where simplicity meets the extraordinary.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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BOSJES

Western Cape,, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Whether it’s for an intimate elopement or destination wedding, BOSJES wedding venue is the perfect place for friends and family to gather and celebrate the union of two.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Juante Estate

Schaapkraal Rd, Otter
Are you planning your wedding ceremony or reception? If yes, chances are you’re feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with planning arrangements and getting things done. All this while life goes on!
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Cradle's Edge

Krugersdorp, West Rand District Municipality
As a boutique wedding venue, your theme and style is of utmost importance to us when choosing a wedding space that represents you as the future Mr and Mrs X.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Estate 28

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Estate 28 is perfect for all weddings. Situated on the outskirts of Colleen Glen within the Gqeberha metro, our unique wedding location allows for spectacular photo opportunities in and around the property!
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  • 80
  • Moderate ($$)
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Fountain Villa

Klerksdorp, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality
Our Beautiful Weddings.. Our beautiful Venues, chapel and manicured gardens provide endless options for your ceremony. Our Reception areas and variety of different locations can be perfectly set up for the precise size of the wedding.
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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Haycroft Farm

Farm 10, P162, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands
Choosing a wedding venue is one of the hardest decision's that you will have to make, and we believe that you will know straight away if our venue is a perfect fit for you. At Haycroft Farm, Pippa and the team strive to make the decision easy.
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  • 180
  • Moderate ($$)
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Castello Di Monte

Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Wedding Elsewhere: Stay Over at Castello di Monte on your special night. Castello Di Monte is the ideal, romantic Tuscany location to host your intimate wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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The Knoll Historical Guest Farm

Hilton, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
The Knoll Historic Guest Farm, nestled in the heart of Hilton, in the picturesque KwaZulu-Natal Midlands offers breathtaking ceremony locations and two stunning reception areas for an unforgettable wedding celebration.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Eikenhof Estate

Stellenbosch Farms, Cape Winelands District Municipality
The breathtaking views and natural elegance of this exquisite part of the Cape are of the many reasons why it is such a popular destination for weddings, and the perfect canvas for photography that will encapsulate the memories of your special day.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Nelson Wine Estate

Paarl, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Nelson's Creek Wine Estate has three separate wedding venues to cater for very small intimate gatherings through to large corporate functions or big weddings. We also have a number of locations suitable for garden weddings.
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  • 350
  • Moderate ($$)
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Will Chris Estate

eMalahleni, Nkangala District Municipality
Our venues are a magical combination of breathtaking spaces, lavish cuisine and superb service. Whether you are looking to host a large wedding reception, an intimate wedding bash or a romantic lakeside garden wedding, we have the space for you.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Acacia Bush Lodge

Kwazulu, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Set in the heart of the beautiful suburb of Bishopstowe. Acacia offers a peaceful and tranquil wedding environment. We offer weddings in our Three star graded hall which comes complete with decor and catering.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Relax Inn

Shaka's Rock, iLembe District Municipality
Our hidden gem is situated in Shaka’s Rock and offers a peaceful sanctuary in the middle of the hub of Ballito and its surrounds. Our gorgeous chapel, wedding venue, easy access to the beach for photographs and manicured gardens offer any bridal coup
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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Diamond Hill Country Venue

Rayton, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
An ideal wedding venue for a memorable wedding. Tying the knot in style, we can accommodate 40 to 140 guests and is only a stone throw away from Pretoria.
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  • 140
  • Moderate ($$)
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Marjaniek

Rietfontein, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush landscapes, Marjaniek provides an idyllic backdrop for your wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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The Winchester Function Venue

Durban, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Winchester Venues is certainly an iconic, high demand popular wedding venue in Durban. It is located in beautiful surroundings, at the border of Westville and Reservoir Hills, in Durban.
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  • 400
  • Moderate ($$)
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Blue Ridge Crystal

Newcastle, Amajuba District Municipality
Located in one of the best KwaZulu Natal’s landmarks, with a sunny and warm weather pattern, Blue Ridge Crystal is not just an ordinary place. It’s an exclusive wedding place where life and love is celebrated.
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  • 50
  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in South Africa

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.

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