Romantic Wedding Venues in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
KwaZulu-Natal offers a breathtaking backdrop for a truly romantic wedding. From the dramatic Drakensberg mountains to the sun-kissed Dolphin Coast, the province is filled with enchanting venues. Imagine exchanging vows in lush subtropical gardens, elegant country estates, or overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean. This region blends natural beauty with sophisticated charm, providing countless idyllic settings for your special day. Read moreWhether you dream of an intimate ceremony in the Midlands Meander or a grand coastal celebration, KwaZulu-Natal's romantic wedding venues cater to every style. Discover hidden gems offering exclusive use, world-class catering, and stunning photo opportunities. The province’s unique blend of Zulu culture and diverse landscapes ensures your wedding will be an unforgettable and deeply personal experience for you and your guests.
Celebrate your marriage in our lovely chapel, our manicured lawn or leave your footprints on our beach. Cocktail weddings can be enjoyed under the stars with breathtaking views.
From being greeted by warthogs as you arrive at the reception area to having zebras and giraffes visit you in the early morning, Tala Collection Game Reserve offers a memorable stay for all types of travellers.
Say your I do’s at our unique bush wedding venue. If the bushveld runs in your blood, iNsingizi is the perfect backdrop for the most special day of your life.
On behalf of Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa, we would like to congratulate you on your engagement and are excited at the prospect of you considering us to assist you in hosting your dream wedding.
Let Canelands Beach Club and Spa host your most special day. We have proudly hosted some of the most stunning and intimate weddings on the northern coast of KwaZulu-Natal.
It’s the perfect Drakensberg wedding venue. With millions of years old Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak watching over you and witnessing your vows, this is one of the most beautiful and romantic locations in the Drakensberg.
There is no substitute for getting married in the bush. From the moment the bride and groom arrive, until long after the wedding ceremony held in one of the most beautiful areas of the reserve, they are transported into a dream world.
Host the wedding of your dreams as emotions relating to space and tranquillity create a haven of peace and a sense of wellbeing. Take in the scenic mountains and enjoy the crisp mountain air
Located in the tranquil setting of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, surrounded by rolling green pastures and fresh country air, Midlands Saddle & Trout is the perfect wedding venue near Mooi River for your wedding.
No adventure is greater than the one you start with the one you love. The perfect step-off point is the gracious elegance we offer you at the magnificent 4 star family-owned Cathedral Peak Hotel to celebrate your wedding.
This is the perfect space for couples to create their own special and meaningful wedding celebration using the beautiful natural surroundings, and charming, rustic wedding venue as their canvas.
Dargle Valley, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Quintessentially country, the Crab Apple Chapel has large feature windows allowing the warm glowing sun and natural surrounds of forest and farmlands to form a glorious wedding backdrop.
Our charming, 100-year-old guest farm, nestled at the foot of the Winterberg mountains, offers the rustic beauty and timeless elegance that make for an unforgettable wedding
Situated just off the N3 in the picturesque suburb of Hilton and at the gateway to Natal Midlands lies Mendola. This beautiful wedding venue has been lovingly transformed into the venue for your very special day.
The Nest Hotel located in the Central Drakensberg is the perfect spot to say, “I do”. Picture Cathkin Peak as your backdrop with the surrounding rolling hills of the Drakensberg Mountains. It does not get more romantic than this!
The Royal Hotel has the information, knowledge, ideas and contacts to ensure an absolutely flawless day. Every person is different and your wedding should be something that projects your individuality.
Venues along the Dolphin Coast and South Coast offer stunning Indian Ocean views and beach ceremony options.
Think elegant resorts in Umhlanga or boutique hotels with private beach access for a chic, seaside celebration.
Midlands Meander Magic
This area is famed for its charming country houses, rustic-chic barns, and sprawling garden estates.
It's the perfect setting for intimate, whimsical, and classic fairytale weddings.
Drakensberg Drama
For a truly majestic backdrop, consider a venue nestled in the Drakensberg mountains.
Ideal for adventurous couples wanting breathtaking landscapes and a sense of serene grandeur for their day.
Bushveld Bliss
Exclusive game reserves and safari lodges provide a uniquely African romantic setting, combining luxury with the thrill of the wild.
Venue Hire Fees
Costs vary widely based on location, exclusivity, and the day of the week. Prices are estimates and subject to change.
Mid-Range Venues: Expect to pay between ZAR 30,000 and ZAR 70,000 for venue hire.
Luxury & Exclusive-Use: Costs can start from ZAR 80,000 and exceed ZAR 150,000, particularly for sought-after coastal, Midlands, or safari venues.
What's Typically Included?
Basic hire often covers the space for a set number of hours, tables, chairs, and standard linen.
All-inclusive packages may bundle catering, bar services, and sometimes even coordination.
Ways to Save
Consider a mid-week wedding (Monday-Thursday) as weekend dates are always premium.
Off-season bookings during the cooler winter months (May-August) can also offer significant savings.
Spring (September - November)
A beautiful time for garden weddings, especially in the Midlands. Expect pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers.
There is a chance of afternoon thundershowers, so a backup plan is wise.
Summer (December - February)
Ideal for coastal weddings with long, warm days perfect for a beach-side atmosphere.
Be prepared for high humidity and frequent summer storms, particularly inland.
Autumn (March - May)
Often considered the best season. The weather is generally stable, warm, and less humid.
The Midlands Meander is particularly stunning with rich autumnal colours.
Winter (June - August)
Mild, dry, and sunny days make it perfect for inland and Drakensberg weddings. Venues with cosy fireplaces offer a wonderfully romantic atmosphere.
Accommodation Options
Urban & Coastal: Durban, Umhlanga, and Ballito offer a wide range of hotels, from luxury brands to boutique guesthouses. Many coastal venues have on-site rooms.
Rural & Inland: The Midlands and Drakensberg are rich with charming B&Bs, country lodges, and self-catering cottages, often on the same property as the venue.
Getting Around KZN
King Shaka International Airport (DUR), north of Durban, is the main travel hub for local and international guests.
Renting a car is the most convenient way for guests to travel, especially to more remote venues.
Consider arranging a shuttle service for the wedding day, particularly if the venue is off the beaten track. This ensures guest safety and convenience after the celebrations.
FAQ's
What makes KwaZulu-Natal a unique destination for a romantic wedding?
KZN's unique appeal lies in its incredible diversity. You can have a beach wedding, a mountain ceremony, a countryside celebration in the Midlands, or a safari wedding in the bush, all within one province. The blend of Zulu culture, stunning landscapes, and a year-round mild climate creates a truly special and romantic atmosphere.
Do I need a wedding planner for a KZN wedding?
While not essential, a local wedding planner can be invaluable, especially if you're planning from afar. They have established relationships with the best local suppliers and can navigate the logistics of venues in more remote areas like the Drakensberg or Midlands, ensuring a stress-free experience.
What are the legal requirements to get married in South Africa?
To legally marry in South Africa, you'll need a marriage officer registered with the Department of Home Affairs. You must both present valid identification (ID books for SA citizens, passports for foreign nationals) and complete the required documentation before the ceremony. There is no residency requirement for foreign couples.
How far in advance should we book a romantic wedding venue in KwaZulu-Natal?
For popular romantic venues, especially in the Midlands Meander and on the Dolphin Coast, it's advisable to book 12 to 18 months in advance. This is particularly true if you are planning a wedding on a weekend during the peak seasons of spring (September-November) and autumn (March-May).
Are all-inclusive wedding venue packages common in KZN?
Yes, many venues in KwaZulu-Natal offer all-inclusive packages. These are a great option for simplifying the planning process and can often be more cost-effective. Packages typically include venue hire, catering, basic décor, and staffing, with some luxury venues also including coordination services.
What are some unique romantic activities for our wedding guests in KZN?
KZN offers fantastic options. Guests could enjoy a safari in a game reserve like Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, explore the beautiful hiking trails of the Drakensberg mountains, relax on the beaches of the North Coast, or discover the artisan shops and eateries along the Midlands Meander.
