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Macnut Farm
Outer West Durban, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Macnut Farm has been the wedding venue of choice for many couples for the past 12 years.
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- 200
- Moderate ($$)
Romantic Wedding Venues in South Africa
Discover the most romantic wedding venues South Africa has to offer. From intimate vineyard estates in the Cape Winelands to dramatic coastal settings and exclusive safari lodges, this stunning country provides a breathtaking backdrop. Explore a handpicked selection of venues that specialise in creating unforgettable, love-filled celebrations, each with its own unique charm and elegance. Read more
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Oryx Hill Safari Lodge
Ottosdal, Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality
Oryx Hill Safari lodge is the ideal location to host any wedding ranging from a small private reception to an elegant wedding.
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- 140
- Moderate ($$)
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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 ($$)
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Pioneer Lodge
Lephalale, Waterberg District Municipality
Nestled in the heart of the bushveld, our stunning wedding venue offers the perfect setting for any wedding celebration. With two unique venues to choose from, we can accommodate intimate gatherings or larger wedding celebrations.
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- 145
- Moderate ($$)
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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 ($$)
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Bolivia Lodge
Polokwane, Capricorn District Municipality
We understand how important your wedding day is.
Our talented team will tirelessly work, side-by-side with you to ensure that your big day is everything you dream and envisaged it will be.
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- 150
- Moderate ($$)
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Mon Desir Estate
Pietermaritsburg, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Mon Desir is a romantic wedding venue, with year-round appeal, which caters for weddings and receptions.
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
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Oceana Beach and Wildlife Reserve
Port Alfred
More Pricing Inside
Oceana weddings aren’t just about your special day. Instead, they’re a full weekend affair – unrushed and relaxing, With everything taken care of.
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- 100
- R 24 489 – R 40 134
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Langberg Guest Farm
Langberg
Turn your dream wedding into reality with an intimate ceremony in our charming chapel.
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- Moderate ($$)
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Naftali Estate
Dyasons Klip Settlement, ZF Mgcawu District Municipality
The main focus and vision for the wedding venue was to create a space where family and friends can celebrate and get together in an open & tranquil environment in nature.
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- 280
- Moderate ($$)
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Mina's Farm
Haenerstburg
This is the perfect space for couples to create their own special and meaningful wedding celebration using the beautiful natural surroundings, and charming, rustic wedding venue as their canvas.
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- Moderate ($$)
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The Cowshed
Mashishing, Ehlanzeni District Municipality
Say your “I do’s” under the old Tipuana tree, or in the open air framed chapel overlooking the hills and plains of the Badfontein Valley. The Cowshed team will do everything they can to ensure your day is as beautiful and unique as your relationship.
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- 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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Izintaba Private Game Reserve
Limpopo, Waterberg District Municipality
Looking for that perfect, yet affordable, wedding venue, where you, your family and friends can celebrate your special day at your own pace and in your own way in the African Bush?
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- Moderate ($$)
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The Red Barn Dullstroom
Dullstroom, Nkangala District Municipality
With panoramic views of the picturesque Dullstroom countryside, overlooking a sparkling spring fed dam, and set in enchanting ruins dating back to the Iron Age, The Red Barn is the perfect setting for your country Wedding.
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- 120
- Moderate ($$)
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Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton
Johannesburg
Orchestrate Your Dream Theme wedding. We ensure stunning, bespoke wedding celebrations reflecting your vision.
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- Moderate ($$)
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Pienaardam
Middelburg, Nkangala District Municipality
Pienaardam offers the perfect venue for your wedding, with various spectacular settings to choose from. Our beautiful venues & wooden chapel provide endless options for your ceremony.
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- 250
- Moderate ($$)
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Willowbrooke
Kliprivier, South Africa, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
Willowbrooke wedding venue is nestled in the countryside of Midvaal, bordering the Suikerbos Nature Reserve on the banks of the Klip River with its beautiful natural spring lake, luscious gardens and abundant birdlife.
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- 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 ($$)
Everything you need to know about weddings in South Africa
Embracing Romance in South AfricaWedding Costs & PlanningBest Seasons for a Romantic WeddingGuest Travel & Accommodation
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.