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Bamboo Garden Exclusive Venue
Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
BAMBOO GARDEN IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO MAKE YOUR WEDDING A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
Romantic Wedding Venues in ZA, South Africa
Discover the most romantic wedding venues South Africa has to offer. From intimate vineyard estates in the Cape Winelands to dramatic coastal settings and exclusive safari lodges, this stunning country provides a breathtaking backdrop. Explore a handpicked selection of venues that specialise in creating unforgettable, love-filled celebrations, each with its own unique charm and elegance.
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Bushveld Pond
Roodeplaat, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
A warm African welcome to the nature paradise of Bushveld Pond Wedding Venue and Guesthouse accommodation in Pretoria, Gauteng.
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- 170
- Moderate ($$)
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Destiny Castle
Klerksdorp, Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality
Come and celebrate your wedding with us... Destiny Castle can accommodate up to 8 persons overnight in luxury.
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- Moderate ($$)
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Juante Estate
Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Are you planning your wedding ceremony or reception?If yes, chances are you’re feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with planning arrangements and getting things done.
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- Moderate ($$)
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President Hotel
Cape Town
Looking for your dream venue for your wedding day?
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- 220
- Moderate ($$)
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MyPond Stenden Hotel
Port Alfred
The Perfect Wedding Venue. With riverside views and full equipment, your next meeting will impress
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- 100
- Moderate ($$)
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Willow Way Manor
Outer West Durban, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Willow Way Manor can offer wedding ceremonies with the beautiful gardens and rolling lawns, with a spacious and luxurious reception hall.
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- 100
- Moderate ($$)
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2 Swans
East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
2 Swans is a wedding venue in a picturesques setting with a beautifully designed white marquee on the banks of a huge lake.
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- 2000
- Moderate ($$)
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Pafuri Tented Camp
Makuleke Contract Park
RETURN Africa’s origins lie at Pafuri in the far north of the Kruger National Park. It is in this vast and varied land that we have built a unique social partnership and a collection of superb wedding experiences.
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- Moderate ($$)
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La Villa Vita
Nelspruit
La Villa Vita offers the perfect wedding combination - the ambiance of a guest house with the amenities of a small boutique hotel.
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- Moderate ($$)
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Hearts Desire Venue
Bloemfontein, Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality
Heart’s Desire is the perfect venue for your upcoming wedding with our rustic hall, tranquil garden, picturesque outdoor wedding area, and dedicated staff.
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- 300
- Moderate ($$)
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Tuin van Eden
Gauteng, Sedibeng District Municipality
At Tuin van Eden we specialize in rustic, romantic country weddings. Our beautiful surroundings provide the perfect setting for your dream wedding…
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- 200
- Moderate ($$)
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Dinokeng Game Reserve
Hammanskraal, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
The African bush and relaxed atmosphere of the Dinokeng Game Reserve combined with our very professionally managed venues offer the ideal environment for your wedding with the convenience of close proximity to Pretoria and Johannesburg.
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- 250
- Moderate ($$)
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Pat Busch Mountain Reserve
Robertson, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Couples have the freedom to plan the wedding of their dreams on our blank canvas venue with very few limitations.
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- 100
- Moderate ($$)
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Tava Lingwe
Vredefort, Fezile Dabi District Municipality
Your wedding day is one of the most important days in your lives and we at Tava Lingwe will do everything in our power, to make it a stress free and unforgettable day for you.
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- 150
- Moderate ($$)
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Emily Moon River Lodge
Plettenberg Bay
Emily and Harry’s great African romance touches the hearts of all who visit our river lodge. Their love was forged in the heart and wildness of our great continent and continues today in every heart warming toast and “I do”.
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- 50
- Moderate ($$)
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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 ($$)
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Tshikwalo
Hammanskraal
Bush Weddings in Dinokeng Game Reserve
Experience the magic of Tshikwalo weddings – where simplicity meets the extraordinary.
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- Moderate ($$)
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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 ($$)
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Accolades Boutique
Midrand, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Your unforgettable wedding Journey begins here. Let Accolades welcome you into our realm where wedding dreams come to life.
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- 300
- Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in
Embracing Romance in South AfricaWedding Costs & PlanningBest Seasons for a Romantic WeddingGuest Travel & Accommodation
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.