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 Key

McGregor, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Nestled between Robertson and McGregor, The Key Venue is a modern industrial wedding gem with a French twist.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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Nooitgedacht Estate

Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Nooitgedacht Estate specialises in the creation of seamlessly executed, personalised weddings in the Cape Winelands.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Eureka Estate

Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Thank you for showing interest in one of South Africa’s most esteemed wedding venues. Eureka comprises a team of creative professionals who specialize in creating luxurious weddings.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Tres Jolie

Roodepoort, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Trés Jolie is a country wedding venue situated on a 5 hectare estate in Ruimsig, Gauteng. The venue is accessible to all major centers of the region and the tranquil estate offers the bride and groom an ideal location for their wedding day.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Esperanza

Pretoria, City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality
If you love horses, the outdoors, the farm, the bush, and a romantic feeling, then our wedding venue is perfect for you. Our barn-style venue has a lovely farm atmosphere with lots of fairy lights, very romantic, and on the banks of the river.
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  • 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 ($$)
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Zorgvliet Wine Estate

Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Zorgvliet Wines can be the perfect wedding venue for you, if you want to add a touch of magic and style to your big day.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Hazendal Wine Estate

Cape Town, City of Cape Town Metropolitan Municipality
Set amid the vineyards of the Stellenbosch winelands, Hazendal offers an array of boutique multi-purpose venues for hosting the wedding you’ve always dreamed of.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town

Cape Town, Western Cape
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Experience timeless indulgence in the shade of Table Mountain! Set in the vibrant heart of Cape Town, this luxury hotel and spa offers easy access to all that's happening in this dynamic city and is the perfect place for your wedding.
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  • 50
  • From R 2 100,00 pp
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Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg

Randburg, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Step out onto your suite's balcony and take in the uninterrupted view: It's your wedding day, and the world is yours. Relax knowing that every detail will be taken care of and that you and your guests will revel in world-class service.
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  • 170
  • Moderate ($$)
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Cultivar Guest Lodge

Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands District Municipality
Spend the most beautiful day of your life at Cultivar Guest Lodge in Stellenbosch, right in the Western Cape winelands.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Katy's Palace Bar

Sandton, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
This beautiful open space is perfect for impressive weddings. Craft your own traditions within the majestic walls of Katy’s Palace. Here, grand weddings find their perfect setting.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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Die Boord Venue

Wolseley, eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality
Die Boord Venue is a beautiful wedding venue located in the heart of the Witzenberg Valley in Wolseley, Western Cape.
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  • 150
  • Moderate ($$)
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The Groves

Nottingham Road, South Africa, uMgungundlovu District Municipality
Nestled among the rolling hills in the picturesque Caversham Valley of the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, South Africa, The Groves Wedding Venue is the perfect country venue to host your destination wedding.
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  • 200
  • Moderate ($$)
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De Oude Kraal Country Estate

Bloemfontein, Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality
Nestled in the picturesque embrace of De Oude Kraal, we invite you to embark on a journey of love, charm, and rustic elegance as you plan your dream country-wedding.
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  • Moderate ($$)
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The Boma

Gqeberha, Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality
Have you ever dreamed of getting married in an enchanted forest, saying your vows under a canopy of trees and celebrating with friends and family in a festive, relaxed environment?
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  • Moderate ($$)
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The Polo Room

Johannesburg, City of Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality
Situated on the edge of the iconic 83 000m2 Inanda polo field, The Polo Room is an exclusive, up-market wedding venue in the heart of Sandton.
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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.

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