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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Dune Ridge Country House

Kouga, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
Say ‘I do’ at Dune Ridge country house Only an hour from the metropolis of Port Elizabeth, lies the wedding sanctuary of tranquillity that is Dune Ridge Country House.
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  • 50
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Milestone

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
The wedding venue included an in-house co-ordinator to make the journey for the bride & groom that much more enjoyable with a lot less stress.
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  • 80
  • Moderate ($$)
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Running Waters Venue

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Our exclusive wedding venue is designed to accommodate from 70 – 450 guests with a designed divider offering you the opportunity to create your own floor spa
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  • 450
  • Moderate ($$)
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Olivewood Estate

East London, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
All weddings at Olivewood Private Estate celebrate life, love and happiness. We understand how every wedding detail represents your unique style and taste.
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  • 180
  • Moderate ($$)
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Gonubie Manor

East London, Gonubie
At Gonubie Manor we understand that every Wedding is different and we have proven to go out of our way to make sure that your Wedding day will be extra special.
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  • 450
  • Moderate ($$)
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Tea in the Trees

amatola, Amathole District Municipality
Celebrate your special day with us at our unique and versatile wedding venue, situated in a coastal forest just 2 minutes drive from 12 km of pristine beaches, simply perfect for wedding photographs.
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  • 80
  • Moderate ($$)
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Shamwari Long Lee Manor

Paterson
Are you busy planning your wedding? Do you want it to be an elegant, yet extraordinary affair? Then you need to have a luxury safari wedding at one of the most exclusive destinations in the Eastern Cape and South Africa: Shamwari Private Game Reserve
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  • 79
  • Moderate ($$)
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St Francis Links

Saint Francis Bay, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
Entrust your special “day to remember” to our experienced wedding planning team. Celebrate your important day against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean in St Francis Bay.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Adante

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Andante Venue wedding facilities include picturesque gardens, trees and water features that will set the ideal wedding location to capture your special memories.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Ukuphupha

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Ukuphupha is proud to be Your One Stop Shop for all your wedding requirements.
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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Prana Lodge

Chintsa
More Pricing Inside
Prana Lodge's unparalleled natural surroundings and luxurious modern décor create the perfect setting for scenic destination weddings.
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  • 60
  • From R 35 000
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The Woods Venue

Humansdorp, Sarah Baartman District Municipality
The Woods is a unique, one of its kind venue, situated on the banks of a farm dam and nestled between trees. We would love to welcome you to your venue of your dream venue for any type of wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Haga Haga Hotel

Haga-Haga
Haga Haga Hotel is the perfect place to celebrate your wedding. A stone’s throw from unspoilt endless beaches set against the backdrop of rolling hills and magnificent ocean views
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Sentry

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
The Sentry is Port Elizabeth’s premier destination wedding venue, surrounded by the picturesque natural beauty of Hopewell Estate in the heart of the Eastern Cape Bushveld.
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  • 160
  • Moderate ($$)
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Liamara Estate

East London AH, Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality
Make your wedding memorable by hosting it at the uniquely captivating Liamara Estate. A world-class destination with exceptional wedding service and scenic views.
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  • 60
  • Moderate ($$)
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Knotwood Forest

East London, Eastern Cape, South Africa
From the wedding ceremony to a picnic reception or intimate harvest 'soiree' and to the photoshoot, we would be honoured to host you on the day you begin your journey together!
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  • 100
  • 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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