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.
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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Valley Lodge & Spa

Magaliesburg
Valley Lodge & Spa has a soft elegant indoor chapel for your wedding ceremony as well as a beautiful reception venue that can accommodate up to 100 guests with a dance floor.
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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Thaba Eco Hotel

Johannesburg
At Thaba Eco Hotel, we offer a serene setting for your wedding celebration, surrounded by loved ones amidst awe-inspiring bushveld views and abundant wildlife.
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  • 1000
  • 54 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Oyster Box

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Welcome to The Oyster Box, where your dream wedding becomes a reality. Whatever your vision, we have the venue, facilities, and service to create an unforgettable wedding day. Let us make your dream wedding a reality.
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  • 120
  • 86 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Umthunzi Hotel and Conference

Umtentweni
Out of this world ROMANTIC weddings and gorgeous RECEPTIONS on this tropical coastline! Awarded “Best Coastal Wedding Venue” by Top Vendor Awards recently Umthunzi is a wonderful venue offering all you need to begin your married journey.
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  • 220
  • R 39 500 – R 55 000
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Rhulani Safari Lodge

Madikwe Game Reserve
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Let Us Host Your Bush Wedding Rhulani Safari Lodge offers the opportunity to celebrate an intimate wedding with family and friends in a stunning bush setting.
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  • 9 Bedrooms
  • From R 2 260
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2Ten Hotel

Limpopo Province
Create a lifelong memory of your special day. We’re fully flexible and ready to adapt to all your needs on your wedding day!
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  • 350
  • Affordable ($)
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Hartford House

Mooirivier
It’s all in the detail! South Africa’s first-choice wedding venue in the land’s favourite romantic hideaway, its historic surrounds, great style and unique ambiance, have seen Hartford “marry” generations of the same family.
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  • 150
  • Moderate ($$)
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Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge

KwaNompondo
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MINDFUL LUXURY AND SPACE IN THE HLUHLUWE-IMFOLOZI PARK Capturing the suspension between earth and sky, this glass wrapped lodge rests on a ridge overlooking Africa’s oldest game reserve.
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  • 36
  • 16 Bedrooms
  • R 2 000 – R 2 450
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Rain Farm Game Lodge

uMhlali
Celebrate your wedding in the Boma with its ethnic feel or the Fairy Light Patio with its breathless view under the night sky, whilst enjoying a delicious gourmet meal.
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  • Luxury ($$$)
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Lagoon Beach Hotel & Spa

Cape Town
Indulge in magnificent views of Table Mountain over the Atlantic Ocean while situated on the beautiful Lagoon Beach, only 8.6km from Cape Town’s central business district and the V&A Waterfront – a hub of activity any time of the year.
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  • 179 Bedrooms
  • Luxury ($$$)
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Pondoro Game Lodge

Balule Game Reserve
Pondoro Game Lodge is a private Wedding or Honeymoon destination that offers the finest Safari experience on a scale that delivers an intimate experience.
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  • Super luxury ($$$$)
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Kaleo Guest Farm

Witzenberg, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Kaleo is the perfect wedding venue to host your special day! This unique purpose built wedding venue includes an onsite chapel and large outdoor space offering versatility to ensure your wedding is unique and a once in a lifetime experience.
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  • 200
  • 32 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Mont d'Or Swartberg Hotel

Prince Albert
Envision your wedding in the picturesque setting of Prince Albert or amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Swartberg Pass at Eerste Water. Allow us to bring your dream to life as your dedicated wedding planners for this special day.
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  • 25 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Lalapanzi Hotel & Conference Centre

Bandelierkop
Celebrate one of your wedding against a beautiful backdrop of the bushveld and lush gardens. The unique touch of lalapanzi’s indoor and outdoor wedding facilities makes this the perfect location for creating memories on your special day.
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  • 500
  • 32 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Battlefields Country Lodge

Dundee
Dundee Battlefields Lodge is the favourite wedding venue in Dundee, and the KZN interior. With different indoor and outdoor wedding venues to choose from, you can create your wedding, your way.
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  • 700
  • 70 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hallmark House Hotel

Johannesburg
From wedding planning, to vendor management, to on-site coordination, our dedicated and passionate team are here to run the show and serve you. So, you can be the star!
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  • 46 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in

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.