Wedding Venues in South Africa

Discovering the perfect setting for your day is simple with this selection of wedding venues in South Africa. The nation offers a breathtaking array of choices, from elegant wine estates in the Cape, to rustic game lodges in the bushveld, and chic urban spaces in Johannesburg. Each region provides a unique atmosphere for your celebration, whether you envision a grand affair or an intimate gathering with close family and friends. Read moreExplore venues with dramatic mountain backdrops, serene coastal views, or vibrant vineyard landscapes. South Africa’s diverse scenery and world-class hospitality make it a remarkable destination to say 'I do'. Consider the season and your personal style as you browse through these stunning locations, each offering a distinct and memorable experience for you and your guests. This is the starting point for finding your dream South African wedding venue.
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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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Gourikwa

Gouritsmond, Gouritsmond
There can’t be many wedding venues that compare to Gourikwa’s offering. The picturesque chapel is a mere 50m from the shore making it ideal for newlywed pictures on the beach.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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Thanda Manzi

Centurion, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Thanda Manzi is the perfect venue for your wedding. Whether it’s a big or small wedding, we have a variety of venues to suit your needs.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Stoorhuijs Wedding Venue

Mooinooi, Bojanala Platinum District Municipality
Stoorhuijs is an unconventional wedding space which you should see as a blank canvas that can be transformed to fit any theme or aesthetic, not to mention that the addition of flowers and décor creates a beautiful contrast.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Olive Rock Wedding

Wolseley, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Olive Rock offers a stunning wedding destination location to exchange wedding vows and celebrate significant moments.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Didingwe River Lodge

Steelpoort, Sekhukhune District Municipality
Have your special day at our beautiful lodge itself, or at our Riverbarn right next to a spectacular river or let our Didingwe Team create a garden or veld wedding of your dreams.
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  • 110
  • Moderate ($$)
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Sun City

Sandton, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
CHOOSE A DESTNATION WEDDING VENUE IN THE PILANESBERG AT THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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De Haven Oost Wedding Venue

Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Nestled within the heart of lush, overgrown gardens lies a wedding venue unlike any other in Pretoria. A harmonious blend of untamed nature and industrial sophistication.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Chocolat Bistro

Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
If you are looking for somewhere to host your next fabulous wedding, look no further. The Birdcage at Chocolat Bistro is equipped to provide that certain je ne sais quoi to any celebratory affair.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Lord's Wines

McGregor, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Lord’s Wines wedding venue offers a space for a wedding couple to create their ideal wedding.
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  • 150
  • 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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Alkmaar Farmstay

Mpumalanga, Ehlanzeni District Municipality
Welcome to Alkmaar Farmstay Wedding & Function Venue. We are situated 16 km west of Nelspruit on the N4 Highway 3 and a half hours drive from Johannesburg, in the heart of the Lowveld.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Die schat

Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Die Schat at De Oude Caab strives to achieve for their guests to feel like they are at a home away from home. Our lovely garden setting with swimming pool allows for your dream wedding to become a reality.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Highberry Vineyards

Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Highberry Vineyards is a boutique wedding venue and winery located on the outskirts of Somerset West, Cape Town. Not only is the estate renowned for its quality grapes and wine due to its prime location near to the ocean and at elevated 200m.
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  • 125
  • Moderate ($$)
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Grand Exotic

Umhlali, iLembe District Municipality
If you decide to have your special day at The Grand Exotic, we will be delighted to host it for you!
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  • Moderate ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in South Africa

Legal Requirements

To legally marry in South Africa, you must be married by a registered marriage officer. You will need to present valid identity documents (or passports for non-residents) and have two witnesses present at the ceremony. If either party is a non-South African citizen, it's wise to check for any additional paperwork required by your home country.

Unique Venue Styles

South Africa's variety is its biggest strength. Consider:

  • Winelands: Historic estates with Cape Dutch architecture and vineyard views.
  • Bushveld: Luxury lodges offering safari experiences for guests.
  • Coastal: Beachfront venues along the Garden Route or KwaZulu-Natal coast.
  • City Chic: Modern hotels and rooftops in Cape Town and Johannesburg.

Venue Hire Fees

Venue hire can range from ZAR 30,000 to over ZAR 150,000, depending on the location, exclusivity, and day of the week. This fee usually covers the use of the space for a set number of hours, along with basic tables, chairs, and staffing.

Cost Per Person

Catering is often the largest additional cost, typically ranging from ZAR 500 to ZAR 1,500+ per guest for food and basic beverages.

Budgeting Tips

  • Off-Season Savings: Winter weddings (June-August) often come with reduced rates.
  • Mid-Week Dates: Venues may offer discounts for Friday or weekday celebrations.
  • All-Inclusive Packages: These can simplify planning and prevent unexpected costs.
  • Be Aware: Always check for hidden costs like gratuity, corkage fees, and overtime charges.

A Season for Every Style

  • Summer (Dec-Feb): Hot and vibrant. Perfect for coastal weddings, but be prepared for summer rainfall in regions like Gauteng.
  • Autumn (Mar-May): Mild temperatures and beautiful golden light, especially in the Winelands.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug): Cool and often dry. Ideal for cosy, indoor venues with fireplaces.
  • Spring (Sep-Nov): Pleasant weather and stunning natural scenery as flowers begin to bloom.

Regional Climates

South Africa's weather varies significantly by region.

  • Western Cape: Has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
  • Gauteng: Experiences summer thunderstorms and dry, sunny winters.
  • Kruger & Bushveld: Best visited in the dry, cooler winter months for prime game viewing.
  • KwaZulu-Natal Coast: Humid and sub-tropical year-round.

Getting There

International guests will likely fly into O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg), Cape Town, or King Shaka (Durban) international airports. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring and reaching venues outside of major city centres.

Guest Transport

For venues in remote locations like the Winelands or bush, arranging a shuttle service for guests is a thoughtful and practical touch, ensuring everyone can celebrate safely.

Accommodation Options

Many premier South African wedding venues, particularly wine estates and game lodges, offer excellent on-site accommodation for the wedding party and guests. This creates a seamless and immersive destination wedding experience.

For venues without lodging, there is always a wide range of nearby hotels, charming guesthouses, and self-catering options to suit every preference and budget.

FAQ's

What is the average cost of a wedding venue in South Africa?

The cost varies widely. Venue hire can range from ZAR 30,000 to ZAR 150,000+, while catering typically costs between ZAR 500 and ZAR 1,500 per person. Prime locations like the Cape Winelands are generally at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to other regions.

When is the best time of year to get married in South Africa?

Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are popular for their mild, pleasant weather nationwide. However, the 'best' time depends on your chosen region and style. The Western Cape's dry summers are perfect for outdoor weddings, while winter offers cosy indoor settings and potential discounts.

What are some unique types of wedding venues in South Africa?

South Africa is famous for its diverse venues. You can choose from elegant wine estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, luxury safari lodges in the Kruger area, dramatic mountain resorts in the Drakensberg, or chic, modern spaces in cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg.

What are the legal requirements to get married in South Africa?

To get married legally, you need a registered marriage officer, valid identity documents (or passports for foreign nationals), and two witnesses. Non-residents should confirm if any extra documentation is required from their home country before travelling.

Should we hire a wedding planner for our South African wedding?

While not a requirement, a wedding planner is highly recommended, especially if you are planning from abroad. Their local expertise is invaluable for sourcing trusted suppliers, managing logistics, and navigating the specifics of your chosen venue, which can save you significant time and stress.

Is it safe for international guests to attend a wedding in South Africa?

Yes. Many of South Africa's most popular wedding venues are in secure estates, private game reserves, or established tourist areas. As with any international travel, guests should take standard safety precautions. Venues are experienced in hosting international visitors and ensuring their comfort and security.