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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 moreWhether you dream of a sun-drenched ceremony overlooking the ocean, a fairy-tale reception under a canopy of stars in the bushveld, or a chic urban celebration, South Africa delivers. These venues are renowned for their exceptional service, ensuring every moment of your romantic wedding is as perfect as you've imagined, creating a magical start to your forever.
❤️ Romantic
💞 Intimate
🌾 Barn or Farm
💫 Luxury
🍂 Rustic
💰 Affordable
🏨 Hotel
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Dolphin Beach Hotel

Bloubergstrand
With its rolling lush green lawns, prime beachfront wedding location, and the magnificent backdrop of Table Mountain, Dolphin Beach Hotel is a picture-perfect wedding location to celebrate your special day with family and friends.
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  • 160
  • 40 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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iNsingizi Lodge

Mid Illovo
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.
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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Lord Charles Hotel

Somerset West, Western Cape
We are able to host weddings of up to 450 people in the Grand Ballroom, a stunning space clad with oversized chandeliers and opulent features. The courtyard adjacent to the ballroom offers additional space in a beautiful, serene setting.
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  • 450
  • 198 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Lapeng Guest Lodge

Burgersfort
More Pricing Inside
The Ultimate Destination Wedding Venue in South Africa. Blow your guests away with the best Destination Wedding they've ever attended!
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  • 250
  • From R 210 490
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Isiphiwo Boutique Hotel

Pretoria
Our village is home to a collection of modern wedding venues, each designed to cater to your specific needs, whether you’re planning a grand affair or a more intimate wedding.
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  • 300
  • Moderate ($$)
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Hippo Hollow Country Estate

Hazyview
A wedding at Hippo Hollow, situated on the banks of the Sabie River, promises to be a memorable affair and offers the bride, the groom and their guests a truly life changing experience.
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  • 100
  • Moderate ($$)
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Grande Provence

Franschhoek, Western Cape
Planning Your Special Day Surrounded by a breathtaking view of the Franschhoek mountains and lush vineyards, Grande Provence is the ideal venue for your wedding.
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  • 120
  • Moderate ($$)
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Paternoster Lodge

Paternoster, Western Cape
Celebrate your special moments at Paternoster Lodge, where our event space are crafted to turn your occasions into lasting memories. By the Atlantic Ocean, our versatile venue offers a cozy backdrop for weddings.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Ivory Tree Game Lodge

Pilanesberg
Make the most important day in your lives together even better than you imagined, in the serene natural surroundings at Ivory Tree Game Lodge. Come and host the wedding of your dreams in the beating heart of the bushveld, in award-winning luxury you’
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  • 140
  • 67 Bedrooms
  • Moderate ($$)
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Garden Route Ilita Lodge

Groot Brakrivie
When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible and our specialist events team at Ilita Lodge is here to make sure your special day is beyond anything you dream of.
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  • 100
  • 19 Bedrooms
  • 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.