Getting Married In South Africa
Cape Town
overview
From the arid sands of the Kalahari Desert to the extensive beaches of the Garden Coast, South Africa is a state of multiple awe-inspiring destinations. Explore your most exotic wedding day vision within a country that has a vibrant soul and a great deal of heart.
the lowdown
South Africa occupies the Southern tip of the continent, a location with nature at the very centre of it’s appeal. This is the land of national parks and game reserves (Kruger and Pilanesberg) but also vineyards (Franschhoek Valley) and the urban buzz of cities such as Durban and Johannesburg.
From sprawling wine estates to rustic chic farmhouses and sophisticated city hotels, wedding venues in South Africa come in all styles. Perhaps it’s the sunsets or maybe it’s the majesty of the wildlife but people say that once Africa is in your heart it never leaves –a memorable wedding is inevitable if you set it here.
It’s not only locations at which this country excels but the wedding day experience too. Warmth is a constant in South Africa –the coldest month is June when temperatures drop to an average of 13°C but in summer (mid-October to mid-February) it’s hot and sunshine is virtually guaranteed.
Weddings follow much the same traditions as you’d expect anywhere else in the world but the after parties can really be something else. Traditionally, the karamu (wedding feast) lasts days, not hours, and many couples simply issue an open invite.
Wine lovers will of course be spoiled for choice when getting married in South Africa –this is the home of some of the best Chardonnays and Sauvignon Blancs in the world, after all. What you eat depends on what you enjoy – dishes such as roast pork, Springbok carpaccio and fresh seafood are all common. Choose a classic wedding cake or try a traditional koeksustertower–an Afrikaner confectionery made of fried dough piled up as high as gravity will allow.
Getting married in South Africa is the stuff of dreams and not a nuptial experience that you’re likely to forget. The landscapes, sights and sounds that make up your experiences will stay with you long after the champagne corks have popped.
Make sure to check out our hand picked selection of the best wedding venues in South Africa.
insider note...
The Western Cape has a very pleasant Mediterranean climate and is also home to some of South Africa’s most renowned vineyards – it’s a stunning spot to tie the knot. March and April are the ideal months to make the most of the area when the weather is warm and the countryside colourful – it might even be cool enough for a log fire at night.
Flight Duration
Approx 11hrs.
Currency
South African rand.
Language Spoken
South Africa has eleven official languages – if you speak English you’ll be fine.
Vaccinations
Up to date Tetanus and Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Typhoid.
Transportation
South Africa’s big cities have comprehensive transport networks, from buses to suburban rail
routes. Most taxis have to be ordered in
advance by phone – avoid the minibus taxis (or ‘black cabs’) as these are often dilapidated and rarely on time.
Public Holidays
Aside from Christmas and Easter some of the most important public holidays include Freedom Day (27th April), Human Rights Day (21st March), National Women’s Day (9th August) and the Day of Reconciliation (16th December).
