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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Lekoa Lodge

Wilgefontein
Stay, play, interact, and join together Just 90 minute’s drive from Johannesburg, you’ll find a slice of countryside paradise.
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  • 100
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hotel Savoy and Conference Centre

Mthatha
Hotel Savoy is the ideal venue for your iconic wedding celebrations. Hotel Savoy and Conference Centre, conveniently situated in Nelson Mandela Drive, is the ideal venue for your iconic wedding celebrations.
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  • 400
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Royal Hotel

Riebeek-Kasteel
The Royal Hotel is the perfect place to celebrate your love and commitment to each other. Our venue provides an exquisite backdrop for the quintessential African wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Madikwe Safari Lodge

Madikwe Game Reserve
Life is all about celebrating special moments. Nature has created the perfect picturesque surroundings for you and your loved ones to celebrate your wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Meerendal Wine Estate

Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
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Meerendal is the perfect setting for your wedding. Our historic wine estate offers breathtaking views of the vineyards and mountains, with great service and warm hospitality.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Blaauwberg Beach Hotel

Bloubergstrand
Blaauwberg Beach Hotel offers a range of 11 wedding venues across 4 floors. In each of our modern venues, enjoy streaming natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows while allowing uninterrupted sea views and a spectacular backdrop of Table Mountain
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  • 100
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Rasmus

Pretoria
Experience the magic of an intimate wedding at our venue, where love is celebrated in its purest form. Nestled in the heart of Pretoria, our wedding venue is ideal for couples seeking the perfect blend of elegance, nature, and modern sophistication.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Marine Lodge

East London, Eastern Cape
The Kat Leisure Hotel Group offers you the perfect spot to celebrate your wedding in the Eastern and Western Cape. From seaside hotels to mountain getaways, we strive to meet your expectations.
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  • 80
  • Affordable ($)
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Brahman Hills

Nottingham Road
It’s time to celebrate at South Africa’s leading wedding venue! But first: how to tie the knot... without getting tied into knots? No problem! The Brahman Hills Wedding Team is ready to spin your dreams into reality.
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  • 400
  • Moderate ($$)
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Fern Hill Hotel

Howick
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Exquisite, Unique and memorable Weddings don’t need to be a stressful experience. Put your trust in our team to help carry the load and produce the wedding of your dreams.
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  • 150
  • R 3 000 – R 8 000
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The Garden Venue Hotel

Northriding
The Garden Venue, in North Riding, Randburg is the perfect place for your wedding. We’ve won multiple awards for our quality service and beautiful setting.
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  • 450
  • 46 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Mount Amanzi

Hartbeespoort
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Unique, personal and fun! Host your wedding at Mount Amanzi for extraordinary memories, tailor-made to your specifications. We create wedding celebrations guests will talk about for years to come.
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  • From R 38,00 pp
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Avela Lodge

Hekpoort, Gauteng
At Avela Lodge, we specialize in creating extraordinary weddings. With our expertise and passion, we will guide you through the entire wedding planning process, ensuring a seamless experience that you will never forget.
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  • 250
  • 10 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Monate Game Lodge

Modimolle
MONATE GAME LODGE IS IDEAL AS A WEEKEND WEDDING DESTINATION, OFFERING ON-SITE ACCOMMODATION FOR AROUND 120 GUESTS. Monate Game Lodge caters to every couple’s wedding whims and desires.
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  • 120
  • 42 Bedrooms
  • 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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