South Africa – The New Affordable Destination Wedding Hotspot

For a destination wedding in South Africa, all the best options are right in the country. The beauty of a destination wedding in South Africa is that there are many specialty destinations to choose from, so your guests have various things to do in their downtime.

Do you want to have a destination wedding?

For many purposes, destination weddings can be the perfect choice for your big day. One of the substantial benefits is that they help you get away from all of the bustle that comes with planning your event. If we know anything about destination weddings, they’re usually more reasonably priced than traditional ones. Sometimes destination weddings cost less than half as much as what you might pay at home! 

So how do you choose your affordable destination wedding locations?

Here are five tips for uncovering the best destination wedding location:

• Consider a country outside of your own
• Harvest a destination where you can get the most value for your money
• Take advantage of free wedding locations and special deals.
• Avoid destination weddings in popular destinations during peak seasons.
• Talk to a destination wedding planner about all of your possibilities. If destination weddings weren’t already on your radar, they should be.
• Research popular destinations
• Find out what type of activities will be available during your stay.

 Best affordable destination wedding locations in South Africa

South Africa has plenty of great destination wedding locations, but here are a few that have been known to be among the best:

Affordable Destination Wedding venues in Cape Town

Cape Town is nonetheless one of the most prominent destination wedding locations in South Africa. This destination is perfect for these sorts of weddings as it has many commodities to offer couples looking for a destination wedding.

These incorporate accessibility from other components of the country and different continents and plenty of spots to select from for your occasion. This is based on what you’re looking for – from small intimate destination weddings to weddings with hundreds or even thousands of guests – and unique activities you can enjoy during your stay. 

Stellenbosch is one destination that offers affordable rates, unique venues like wine farms, and a variety of things to do during your visit. No matter the type of destination wedding you are looking for – it’s guaranteed to have something that will fascinate you. This is a perfect niche to save more because of the affordable destination wedding locations available.

If your heart is set on the beach, then the Eastern Cape offers plenty of options for destination weddings. The options will include weddings along its coast or up in the bushveld. Just remember to book early! Many popular destinations are fully booked a year in advance during certain seasons.

• The V & A Waterfront – this famous Cape Town attraction has several luxury venues which offer excellent customer service, catering services, and top-of-the-line entertainment facilities. It’s no wonder brides often choose this place from around the world to host their destination wedding receptions. You can choose from several different restaurants with varying styles, so there’s certainly something here for everyone!

• Vrede en Lust

Born in 1688 to a European Jacques de Savoye, Vrede en Lust grew from a Wine farm to a luxurious estate in 1996. Its exotic combination of family ownership and ancient throwback makes it a perfect venue to host your destination wedding in style. Commodities associated with this estate are; The Franschhoek Wine Tram, cycling, ballooning, fishing, golf, gyms facilities, hiking, horse riding, spas, etc. 

This destination is ideal for classic vintage weddings due to its undying history of wine. If you are a wine lover, Vren en Lust, situated at the base of the Simonsberg, should be your destination wedding venue!

• The Grand Beach and Cafe

One of the VA Waterfront accessories, the Grand Beach and Cafe, lies on the shores of Atlantic and Robben Island. It has five bars, ocean-view decks, nine private function venue areas, and on-beach dining. You’re certain to discover the perfect spot to host your destination wedding day while the sea breeze performs its magic to your innermost satisfaction. It caters to up to 1050 guests! 

• Molenvliet

Their adage is “Simply Heaven On Earth.” It is snuggled on the ridges of the Banghoekrivier. MolenVliet Vineyards is recognized as the soul of the Stellenbosch Wine country. It is indeed heaven on earth with breathtaking scenery of the vineyards, mountains, river, and well-designated gardens. This wedding venue is home to your outdoor destination wedding.

•  Nooitgedacht Estate

The Wirths run this ship, and the Wirths go out of their way to please their clients. It dates back to 1692 in Stellenbosch Winelands. Tie your knot in class and style in this family-owned and governed ancient Cape Dutch wine estate.

They also have an initial cellar venue that caters up to 300 guests and broad gardens for your outdoor destination wedding. 

There is also Ashanti Estate huddled in Paarl. Mountains enclose it and alongside the Ashanti Dam is the excellent scenery to host your momentous day.

It has three venues; Café Aréz, Le Chambré Banquet Venue, and The V.O. Vintage Room. There are other extras like on-site staffing, beverage, and catering facilities. There are more affordable destination wedding locations in Cape Town; you just have to look thoroughly. 

 Affordable Destination Wedding Venues in Durban

Durban is one destination that’s flawless for destination weddings because it offers a beautiful oceanfront location that’s also affordable and accessible.

It is a coastal destination that features stunning views of the Indian Ocean, which means you can take in incomparable beauty during your destination wedding without worrying about consequences like long travel times or exchanging currency.

Durban also has an airport with daily flights to many places around the world. This makes it very attractive for guests traveling from abroad.

Getting married in Durban is quite affordable, especially compared to other more traditional options like the United States or Europe.

If you have a limited budget but want your destination wedding to be beautiful and memorable, then this city has just what you’re looking for! 

Some of the most popular wedding venues are hotels that often include amenities like on-site catering, decor, guest suites, & more. All of this can make planning your special day easier. 

Durban also offers lush tropical landscapes with exotic fauna and flora not found anywhere else on earth. For instance, did you know that there are over 3,000 species of birds in the city?

That’s a lot of unique sightings to catch on camera! Furthermore, Durban is a coastal city with many beaches. A destination wedding means you’ll get to spend time at the beach during your honeymoon too. This is home to the most affordable destination locations. 

Here are some of the most popular venues in Durban to check out:

• Suncoast Casino & Entertainment World

This is an oceanfront casino located amid uShaka Marine World, the Durban Convention Centre, the city’s Golden Mile beachfront, and close to the airport. It is deemed the fairest entertainment destination in KwaZulu-Natal. Your guests can indulge in family recreation, including movies, arcade games, live shows, exquisite dining in 13 restaurants and ten fast food outlets, and gaming thrills.

• The Pavilion Hotel

A cozy yet ample venue, Pavilion Hotel Conference Centre is exalted for its catering, sound, lighting, and decor. Blended with substantial parking and maximum security, it is a spectacular destination wedding venue. It also has the finest dining in its well-known restaurant. You are surely set to enjoy your day here.

• Meander Manor

This four-star deluxe guest lodge is the perfect choice for a small intimate wedding. This mysterious treasure is positioned in Shaka’s Rock and proposes a peaceful haven in the innermost part of the hub of Ballito and its surroundings. If you like mysteries and are wary, we couldn’t think of any other place to set up your perfect destination wedding.

• The Oyster Box

Curled up in the heart of Umhlanga rocks is The Oyster Box towering next to the Indian Ocean & the iconic lighthouse. With its famous traditional architecture, this venue has a five-star hotel with elegant suites and villas, a spa, tropical gardens, and so much more. Your guest will certainly admire the beauty of this place.

• iNsingizi Lodge and Spa

If you are seeking an adventure, a bushveld wedding is your go area. iNsingizi Lodge & Spa is found in the hills of Eston/Mid-Illovo. It is a gorgeous isolated valley with a bush ordeal, hiking trails, spa, thatched chalets, game reserve, high tea celebration, etc. They also set up an elope-like wedding with your closest cherished ones or merely the two of you.

 Affordable Destination Wedding locations Venues in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is incredible for destination weddings because of its proximity to local & international airports, many different options available for events based on what you’re looking for, and various activities during your stay. It’s one of the most diverse cities in South Africa, and it oozes history, art, and culture. Here are some of the most affordable destination wedding locations to get married in Johannesburg:

• The Farmhouse

A destination wedding held here is very secluded and private. It has an elegant rustic aura and an open field designed to be your wedding venue. It has diverse alternatives for accommodation and meals should you desire them

• Mount Grace Country Estate

 This hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in South Africa. The rooms are delightfully decorated with all the modern comforts you’ll need after a long day’s work. It also holds an art gallery, library, spa, outdoor pool, and a restaurant to cater to your every requirement.

• Gallagher Estate

Gallagher Estate is a  lovely venue with great rooms, an in-house movie theatre, and a restaurant. You can also invite up to 300 guests here without having to worry about noise restrictions. The views from the gardens and the deck are breathtaking, and it’s close to many other venues.

• The Red Tin Roof

 An amazing venue is situated on top of Beyers Naude Square. It has views of the city skyline, the Carlton Centre, and Nelson Mandela Bridge making it a great place to watch the sunset over Johannesburg. You can have your ceremony here or have drinks and entertainment afterward.

• Montecasino

 Johannesburg’s premium casino has many events venues and accommodation on-site, so if you’re looking to make it a weekend retreat for your friends and family, this might be the place for your destination wedding.

•  Avianto Wedding Venue

 They boast 21 years in the industry, and the wedding venue is conveniently situated in Muldersdrift, Johannesburg, a mere 20-minute drive from Lanseria Airport. Your happily ever after starts with them. So why don’t you buckle yourself up and host your destination wedding with them?

•  Makiti Wedding Venue

 This Johannesburg cheap destination venue has three main venues: Ennyani Wedding Venue, a wood and colorful brick thatched venue that caters to between 60-80 guests. The Ballroom Wedding Venue has a romantic chapel that caters to 60-300 guests. Sunset Wedding Venue includes a thatched chapel room and an outside river chapel with seating set amid trees beneath the open skies catering to 60-450 guests.

•  Memoire Wedding Venue

 It was established “in 2007 by 3 crazies daring to go on an adventure of starting a wedding venue out of nothing.” They hosted their first wedding in 2009. They have exquisite dining, luxurious suites, gardens with water features. As a bonus, a buffet breakfast is served to all guests who stayed over to congratulate you and your future husband the next morning. They are based in Driefontein, Muldersdrift.

• Usambara wedding venue

 The Lodge is situated near Muldersdrift, just outside Krugersdorp and a mere 30 minutes from both Johannesburg and Pretoria.

It is 1.8km from the Netcare Pinehaven Private Hospital. The Cradlestone Mall & Silverstar Casino are also both less than 3km from it. They have three main venues; Amani, Formal & Forest Chapel, and two reception venues; Magali and Mponde. They have special weddings to cater to their Muslim guests. So if you are a Muslim, don’t hesitate to hit them up! 

 Destination Wedding Venues in Port Elizabeth

PE is one of the most affordable destination wedding locations in South Africa, so couples are often drawn to it as a destination wedding location. It’s close to the airport, has unique venues for destination weddings, and has an abundance of activities that can be celebrated during your stay.

It’s also a great alternative to the usual destination wedding locations like Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg. It has something for everyone so you can make your stay as adventurous or relaxing as you want.

Here are some top destinations to consider in PE.

•  La Colline

La Colline is an excellent wedding venue located in Gqeberha. This spectacular destination wedding venue includes a main hall with all faculties, An enclosed wrap-around balcony. A stunning Deck with a Bedouin tent facing a gorgeous valley and a fascinating Stone Chapel. The venue brags ambiance of tranquility in its surroundings and will acclimate for a variety of tastes.

• The Boardwalk Hotel 

This is a unique venue with an antique feel to it. It can be rented for weddings, functions, and seminars. The hotel has two rooms where you can have your wedding reception, so there’s no need to worry about guests crammed into one room. They also offer catering services that will give your guests a real taste of South Africa!

• The Olive Restaurant

This restaurant has beautiful views overlooking Algoa and Sandy Cove Beach. Your guests will enjoy the alfresco dining experience with a rustic feel perfect for a destination wedding. The restaurant offers amphitheater seating ideal for intimate weddings where you can have your closest friends and family attend.

 Destination Wedding Venues in East London

If you want to have a destination wedding with an urban theme, East London as your wedding destination will deliver everything you need. From destination weddings with classified guest lists to destination weddings with thousands of guests, East London provides variety for all types of destination weddings. You can also find access to some pretty unique destination wedding venues that are perfect for your day.

What’s unique about East London destination weddings is their mix between an urban and a rural landscape.

While the city of East London may seem like it’s remote from anywhere, in reality, there are a lot of activities you can do on your wedding day within the city itself. The CBD offers great hotels, restaurants, and bars perfect for out-of-town guests to spend their spare time during the wedding weekend.

These same big city amenities will also be available for all your pre-wedding events that you would like to plan as part of your itinerary.

On the other side to this destination wedding, “jigsaw” is offered by nature parks, game reserves, and even hi-tech golf courses, which offer some pretty unique settings for your wedding, should you decide to forego the city life. The game reserves will provide guests with an opportunity to enjoy all South Africa’s wildlife has to offer and provide some great photo opportunities. 

Staying in one of the countryside safari lodges is also a great way to keep costs down while getting married in nature. For those planning their wedding around the year, don’t forget that East London does have its microclimate, which means events can happen at any time of the year, including winter!

The food scene here is growing exponentially, with each season offering something different. If you have problems finding the perfect destination wedding venue or are looking for inspiration on how to grasp your vision, then hiring a destination wedding planner might be the right thing. Let’s have a look at some affordable destination wedding locations in this joint.

• Gonubie Manor

To date, they call her “the grand old lady of Eastern Cape,” who has been around since 1800. It has been around longer than anyone in existence and has witnessed groundbreaking events in human history. This antique is located close to the N2 highway. There are dozens of things you and your guests can do. From beaches, game reserves, casinos, cinemas, shopping complexes to restaurants, health spas, quad biking, and bird watching facilities. 

• Mpongo Private Game Reserve

This joint is home to many wildlife habitats so if you are a nature lover, make your destination weddings stop here. There is on-site parking, game driving, safari walking, and other extramural activities. They have a conference room which can turn into a beautiful layout for your wedding. A lodge is around the corner for accommodation.

• The Venue @ Morgan Bay Hotel

Have you ever dreamed of yourself getting wed on a beach where you will have a sea in the picture with waves twirling back and forth as you say “I do”? If so, then Morgan Venue Hotel is home. 

They pride themselves on a well-ventilated venue with lovely parquet grounds and grand downlights. This can effortlessly be altered to your fantasy destination wedding. They have three venues; grassy terraces in front of The Venue, St Peter’s, Milkwood Spa Terrace. They deliver catering, spa services, accommodation, and other commodities.

• Santa Paloma Guest Farm

A farm! Yes, that’s right, a farm is your venue. How does it sound? If you are a farm life freak, then this is the perfect spot. Jacques and his daughter, Nadia, are expecting you. 

This farm venue consists of accommodation, a swimming pool, pool table, table tennis, and hiking trails. The venue caters up to 120 guests. It is installed in the glorious coastal jungle of the Eastern Cape.

• Areena Riverside Resort

Fancy saying your vows on the banks of the Kwelera River with not more than sixty guests? Don’t look any further; Areena Riverside Resort has got you. Alternatively, you can have an indoor destination wedding in a thatched chapel venue. This is a country venue with wonderful views.

Destination Wedding Venues in Pretoria

Pretoria is one of the three South Africa’s capital cities, serving as the executive branch of government. It is also known as the “Jacaranda City” due to its mauve blossomed tree-lined streets. Who wouldn’t want a destination wedding in this antique town? It is the safest city in South Africa with top attractions to visit like; Rietvlei Nature Reserve, Hennops Hiking Trail, Union Buildings, Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, Horseback Africa, etc. Your affordable destination wedding locations are not that far apart from each other.

• Bell and Blossom Wedding Venue

Hundreds of fairy flashes, a massive cozy fireplace earn this beautiful venue in Pretoria a spectacular view at night. This destination wedding venue is curled up in a bush-like encircling with a translucent shelter, excavated wood trusses, and amazing chandeliers. You can choose to arrange your 50-250 guests at the Garden Chapel or Glass Dome Chapel.

• Chez Charlene

This venue is located in the East of Pretoria. Offers “Five-star hospitality, world-class cuisine, service, and ABIA awards winner – Best Venue in Gauteng is the trademark of Chez Charlene “So what is your brand? Fantasy? Fairytale? Vintage? Classic? Morden? Then this destination wedding venue is sure to help you keep it. You can have your personally designed menu and decor in their chapel, accommodating about 100 guests. They also have beautiful gardens and horses.

• Monte de Dios

This elegant Spanish villa. They have several venues; majorka, caballo, capilla, bodega, boardroom, fuego, and fuente. You can choose from five sub venues that maintain different guest numbers; a lounge, a banquet, a schoolroom, and a cinema. These venues cater to every theme you may have in mind. They also have a pool, spa treatments, restaurant, coffee shop, kiddies play area, pop-up food stall, and accommodation. Their six deluxe rooms renounce seclusion and genuine indulgence. The rooms are equipped in the highest quality with en-suite bathrooms and minibars.

• Venue Nouveau

This destination wedding venue is curled up deep in the Bronberg mountains, on the urban edge of Pretoria East. This vintage French provincial joint was established in 2017 and is dog friendly. You can willingly have your dog bring the rings down the aisle. In summer you can have your reception in their gardens and winter they have a fireplace venue

• Zambezi Point

Zambezi Point is situated in Pretoria, with multiple venues: the Stone Chapel, with a roof, a rare bell tower, gallery, and a meranti wood pulpit. The Bush Chapel for your night wedding with candles and fairy lights lighting the bush, and the Garden Chapel with a gazebo and white or green umbrellas.

They have the African Boma for the reception, which is suited for a more rustic type of wedding with a huge bonfire setting the center stage for an outdoor wedding. The Zambezi Hall is which elegantly thatched and air-conditioned reception hall on a country estate facing the beautiful sunset over the northern hills of Pretoria.

Zambezi Point is solely the first wedding venue that delivers a FREE service where your guests that cannot attend the wedding can follow your wedding ceremony from the Stone Chapel via live streaming. Additionally, their craft beer is FREE for all your guests, but self-catering is prohibited. 

What Makes a Successful Wedding?

Everyone has a viewpoint on what makes a successful wedding. The most valuable things are that the bride and groom have fun, but explicit details should be evaluated to ensure the day runs smoothly. Some people feel that it is essential for everyone to attend all of the events.

Others think that it is okay if some guests miss out on one or more events. Details include the time of day the ceremony transpires and whether any formality can affect how many individuals come to each event. It’s important to consider these conditions when planning a destination wedding so you can accommodate everyone who wants to attend.

Nominating the best photographer

You’ve looked at all the facts about your desired wedding destination and affordable destination locations in South Africa. Now it’s time to choose a wedding photographer. It’s time to discover a wedding photographer who will preserve the moment for you. 

A wedding photographer who will capture your memories perfectly for you to keep forever.

A talented photographer is not only crucial but a significant investment at such an important time in your life. Everyone has seen and loved those amazing and romantic wedding pictures of the bride and groom with their loved ones and surroundings on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram. Photographing weddings is one of the most sought-after types of photography work out there. So go on and plan the best destination wedding of the century!!!