Wedding Venues in Eastern Cape, South Africa

Discover a stunning selection of wedding venues in the Eastern Cape, where dramatic coastlines meet untamed wilderness. This diverse province offers everything from luxurious game lodges and elegant country estates to rustic farm settings and breezy beachfront locations. Explore a variety of styles to find the perfect backdrop for your celebration, whether you dream of an intimate gathering or a grand affair amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Read moreThe region's unique blend of African culture and colonial history provides a rich tapestry for your special day. Whether it's a ceremony overlooking the Indian Ocean or a reception under starry Karoo skies, the Eastern Cape promises a truly unforgettable experience. Each venue offers its own charm, ensuring your wedding day is as spectacular as its surroundings, creating memories that will last a lifetime for you and your guests.
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Morgan Bay Hotel

Morganʼs Bay
Morgan Bay is a place for the incurable romantic and is fast becoming a favourite beach wedding venue in the Eastern Cape. The mile-long beach, ocean and majestic cliffs create a breathtaking backdrop to the most romantic of wedding ceremonies.
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  • 120
  • 39 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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African Sky’s Venue

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
African Sky’s wedding venue is fully licensed with in-house catering as well as an outdoor Chapel and self catering area.
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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Trennerys Hotel

Qolora Mouth
Trennerys Hotel is the perfect setting for that special wedding day. Have your wedding here, and your honeymoon will be compliments of us!
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  • 110
  • Moderate ($$)
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OppiePlaas Country Estate

Haga-Haga, Amatola Coastal, Amathole District Municipality
OppiePlaas Country Estate – located near Haga Haga on South Africa’s magnificent Wild Coast – caters for private weddings. We have a fully-licensed restaurant, and offer self-catering and bed & breakfast accommodation.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Royal St Andrews Hotel

Port Alfred, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
The Royal St. Andrews Hotel offers a uniquely magical setting for couples to celebrate their special day surrounded by exceptional beauty and fairy-tale romance.
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  • 150
  • Moderate ($$)
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Kob Inn Beach Resort

Willowvale,, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of pristine beaches and a serene lagoon at Kob Inn Beach Resort. Our dedicated team is committed to turning your dream beach wedding into reality, ensuring every detail is as perfect as you've envisioned.
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  • 80
  • Moderate ($$)
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Bush Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve

Paterson, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
Rustic luxury tented bush camp. Five-star Bush Lodge is discreetly positioned in the bush at the top end of an open valley in the reserve, each of the superlative en-suite, tented and thatched suites overlooks a watering point with big sky views.
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  • 20
  • Moderate ($$)
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Bukela Game Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve

Amakhala Game Reserve
Celebrate your special day in a stunning safari setting where the wild beauty of Africa provides the perfect backdrop for your vows. Say "I DO" in a picturesque location with panoramic views, surrounded by your closest friends and family.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Klein Kariba

Bela-Bela
An unforgettable Bushveld wedding ….Picture one of the most gorgeous ravines in the Waterberg, surrounded by green trees, streams and birds of the Bushveld.
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  • 700
  • Moderate ($$)
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Luxe-Molen Boutique Hotel

Queenstown
Your wedding should be a memorable event and as you begin to plan that special day in your life, Luxe-Molen would like to offer our wedding services to make it remarkable for you and your guests.
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  • 100
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hlosi Game Lodge - Amakhala Game Reserve

Amakhala Game Reserve
Celebrate your special day in a stunning safari setting where the wild beauty of Africa provides the perfect backdrop for your vows. Say "I DO" in a picturesque wedding location with panoramic views, surrounded by your closest friends and family.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Roydon Reserve

Komani, Chris Hani District Municipality
Roydon Lodge provides an extensive selection of wedding venue options both indoors and amidst our picturesque outdoor settings, accommodating weddings of up to 300 guests with bespoke wedding catering services
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hacklewood Hill Country House

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Situated in the beautiful leafy suburb of Walmer, Hacklewood Hill Country House is the perfect setting for weddings. This idyllic wedding venue for your wedding is a lot closer than you think.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Kings Lodge Hotel

Hogsback, Eastern Cape
KING’S LODGE HOTEL offers a fully-equipped and charmingly elegant Wedding venue, complete with decor and menu of choice, for the Bridal couple who wish to experience a rustic and enchanting ‘Forest’ style wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Estate28

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Beautiful country setting, perfect for weddings. Embrace the beauty of nature. The spectacular view of valley’s, rolling hills and the not too distant sea view with Jeffrey’s Bay in the background.
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  • 80
  • Moderate ($$)
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Crawfords Beach Lodge

East London, Amathole District Municipality
Crawfords Beach Lodge located on the beautiful Chintsa East beach offers the perfect location for a beautiful seaside backdrop wedding worth celebrating in style.
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  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in Eastern Cape

Legal Requirements

  • South African citizens need valid ID books.
  • International couples require valid passports and a letter of no impediment.
  • You'll need two witnesses present for the ceremony.
  • A registered marriage officer must conduct the service.

Popular Venue Styles

  • Coastal Bliss: Venues along the Wild Coast and Sunshine Coast offer incredible ocean views.
  • Safari & Bush: Exclusive game lodges provide a unique 'Big 5' wedding experience.
  • Country & Farm: Rustic barns and elegant country houses in the Karoo or Midlands.
  • City Chic: Sophisticated hotels and event spaces in cities like Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Venue hire fees in the Eastern Cape can vary significantly based on location, exclusivity, and capacity.

Average Costs:

  • Dry Hire: R25,000 - R60,000+ (venue only).
  • All-Inclusive Packages: R800 - R2,000+ per person.

These are estimates; luxury game lodges will be at the higher end, while rustic farm venues may be more budget-friendly.

What's Often Included:

  • Exclusive use of the venue.
  • Tables, chairs, and basic linens.
  • Service staff and a venue coordinator.

Potential Extras:

  • Catering and beverages.
  • Decor, flowers, and lighting.
  • Marquee or tent hire for outdoor spaces.
  • Accommodation for the wedding party.

The Eastern Cape's climate is diverse, offering something for every season.

Summer (Dec - Feb):

Warm and sunny, perfect for coastal weddings. Be prepared for occasional 'Berg winds' and humidity.

Autumn (Mar - May):

Mild temperatures and beautiful light make this a popular and reliable season for both indoor and outdoor events.

Winter (Jun - Aug):

Cool and dry inland, ideal for cosy Karoo weddings with fireplaces. Coastal areas are milder but can be windy.

Spring (Sep - Nov):

Wildflowers bloom, creating stunning backdrops. The weather is generally pleasant and mild, though spring showers are possible.

Top Tip: Always have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies, regardless of the season.

Getting There:

  • The main airport is Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport (PLZ) in Gqeberha.
  • East London Airport (ELS) serves the eastern part of the province.
  • For remote venues, consider hiring a car or arranging shuttle services for guests. The N2 highway is the primary road artery.

Major car rental agencies operate from both airports.

Where to Stay:

  • Many wedding venues, especially game lodges and country estates, offer on-site accommodation for the wedding party and guests.
  • Coastal towns like St Francis Bay, Jeffreys Bay, and Port Alfred have abundant guest houses and hotels.
  • For city weddings, Gqeberha and East London provide a wide range of hotel options to suit all budgets.
FAQ's

Do I need a wedding planner for an Eastern Cape wedding?

While not essential, a planner can be invaluable, especially if you're planning from afar. They have local knowledge of the best suppliers and can manage logistics for remote venues, like those in the Karoo or Wild Coast, ensuring your day runs smoothly.

What is the average cost of a wedding venue in the Eastern Cape?

Costs vary widely. A basic 'dry hire' for a rustic venue might start around R25,000, while all-inclusive packages at luxury game lodges or coastal resorts can range from R800 to over R2,000 per guest. Your final cost depends heavily on location, guest count, and inclusions.

Are there wedding venues in the Eastern Cape that offer safari experiences?

Yes, the province is famous for its malaria-free game reserves. Many private lodges, such as those near Addo Elephant National Park, offer exclusive wedding packages that include safari drives and unique bush ceremony locations for you and your guests.

What's the best time of year for an outdoor wedding in the Eastern Cape?

Autumn (March to May) is often considered ideal, with mild, stable weather and beautiful light. Spring (September to November) is also popular for its blooming landscapes. Summer is great for coastal weddings, but it's wise to have a backup plan for rain or strong winds.

How accessible are wedding venues for guests travelling from other parts of South Africa or internationally?

Venues in and around Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and East London are easily accessible via their airports. For more remote farm, bush, or coastal venues, guests will typically need to hire a car. It's a good idea to provide clear directions and consider arranging group transport.

Can I legally get married on a beach or in a game reserve in the Eastern Cape?

Yes, you can. The legal ceremony must be conducted by a registered South African marriage officer. Many venues will help you arrange the necessary permissions for ceremonies in unique locations like a private beach or a scenic spot within a game reserve, ensuring all legal requirements are met.

Explore 83 venues in Eastern Cape
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