15 of the best places for a small African destination wedding
From gushing waterfalls to lush rainforests and endless savannah, Africa’s enchanting landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for a destinaion wedding. You can exchange vows as zebras graze nearby, say “I do” amidst the rolling vineyards of South Africa's wine country or opt for a toes-in-the-sand ceremony on one of Seychelles' idyllic beaches.
Whether you prefer a barefoot affair on a remote private island or a vintage wedding oozing old-world safari charm, this article has you covered, with 15 of the best places for a small African destination wedding.
Gibb’s Farm Lodge, Ngorongoro, Tanzania
Nestled within the lush Ngorongoro Highlands of northern Tanzania, Gibb's Farm is a charming safari lodge that exudes rustic farmhouse vibes. This award-winning property centres around the original 1920s farmhouse that has been thoughtfully restored and is surrounded by gorgeous gardens where you can say “I do”.
The historic home features plenty of cosy nooks and tranquil terraces for couple shoots while its tasteful cottages are furnished with nostalgic touches like wood-burning stoves and clawfoot tubs. The lodge’s farm-to-table cuisine spotlights fresh produce harvested right on the property and in the surrounding coffee plantation.
Once officially wed, you can embark on thrilling game drives into the Ngorongoro Crater and guided birdwatching walks before evenings spent fireside listening to Maasai storytelling. Gibb's Farm delivers a refined taste of the old-world safari life paired with contemporary comforts, making it one of Tanzania’s best wedding destinations.
The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille, Laikipia, Kenya
If you’re seeking exclusivity in a quintessential safari setting, then you can’t go past The Sanctuary at Ol Lentille. This luxurious oasis lies in the wild heart of northern Kenya's breathtaking Laikipia region on a 40,000-acre private conservancy - African weddings don’t get more private than this!
From its lofty perch on a rocky outcropping, Ol Lentille offers panoramic views of the rolling grasslands below and iconic landmarks such as Mount Kenya, Ololokwe and the distant Aberdare Range. It boasts just four exquisite stone and thatch villas - ideal for couples craving an elopement or an intimate wedding with just their nearest and dearest.
Guests at Ol Lentille can enjoy pampering spa treatments and walking safaris led by Samburu and Maasai warriors. From the warm welcome of dancing Maasai to the sounds of the African bush at night, a stay at Ol Lentille seamlessly blends luxury, adventure and cultural immersion.
Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, Seychelles
Perched on the pristine shores of Petite Anse, the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles offers an idyllic wedding setting in one of Africa’s most stunning destinations. It boasts a gorgeous collection of elegantly appointed villas and suites, each featuring a private plunge pool and expansive patio with sublime ocean vistas.
Couples can soak up the island paradise while lounging on their private sun deck, dipping into their personal pool or simply gazing out at the crystalline waters - what better way to start married life together? When it comes to dining, you can choose from interactive Creole cuisine at the Creole Grill, mouthwatering Mediterranean fare at ZEZ or Asian-inspired dishes at the Kannel Restaurant.
Active brides and grooms can partake in a variety of water activities like snorkelling, windsurfing and fishing for the catch of the day. With its enviable beachfront setting, indulgent rooms and gourmet dining experiences, the Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is a sun-soaked wedding destination tailor-made for couples.
Cottars 1920s Safari Camp, Maasai Mara, Kenya
For a vintage-themed African wedding, Cottars 1920s Safari Camp ticks all the right boxes. It’s positioned on a private 6,000-acre conservancy in southwestern Kenya, alongside the Maasai Mara National Reserve. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be transported back to the golden age of safari travel in the early 20th century.
With sweeping views of the vast Serengeti plains across the border in Tanzania, Cottar's 1920s Camp is strategically located to provide easy access to day and night game drives. It comprises just 10 luxury canvas tents with four-poster beds, antique furnishings and ensuite bathrooms styled to evoke the romanticism of safaris past.
At the heart of this award-winning camp lie two spacious mess tents, featuring stately dining rooms and cosy sitting areas reminiscent of a bygone era - the perfect setting for newlywed portraits. Here, couples can relax in between game drives and gaze out over the boundless landscape as they start their married life together.
Mnemba Island Lodge, Zanzibar, Tanzania
If you’re craving a tropical island elopement that oozes romance, you can’t go past Mnemba Island Lodge. Surrounded by an enchanting atoll just off the coast of Zanzibar's main island, this exclusive retreat is what destination weddings are all about.
Guests are welcomed into a world of barefoot luxury with just 12 rustic yet refined beachfront bandas featuring four-poster beds and breezy verandas overlooking the shimmering sea. As you exchange vows, you can sink your toes into the soft white sand before lounging with your new spouse beneath the swaying palm trees.
For more adventurous couples, Mnemba Island Lodge is a haven for snorkelling and kayaking, as well as sunset strolls along the shore. In the evening, indulge in locally sourced seafood and organic produce served beachside by candlelight.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge, Serengeti, Tanzania
Set in the heart of Tanzania's famed Serengeti National Park, the Four Seasons Safari Lodge is a perfect choice if you’re bringing family and friends to your African wedding. It’s a little bigger than some of the other wedding destinations on this list and with a whole host of facilities that will keep the wedding party entertained.
In each of the thatched roof villas, you’ll find a soothing palette of neutral tones, locally inspired textiles and private plunge pools overlooking the open plains. Be pampered with your bridal party at the onsite spa or delve into the natural and cultural history of the area at the Discovery Centre.
From hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti to cultural visits with nearby Maasai villages and exhilarating game drives, the Four Seasons offers everything you’d expect of an African safari lodge.
Giraffe Manor, Nairobi, Kenya
Tucked away in the leafy suburbs of Nairobi lies a unique and magical boutique hotel that offers couples an experience like no other - a wedding accompanied by a herd of resident Rothschild's giraffes. The Giraffe Manor is set within a stately 1930s manor house surrounded by 12 acres of verdant forest where giraffes wander freely (and often poke their heads through windows hoping for a treat).
For couples dreaming of highly unique wedding portraits with an African theme, the Giraffe Manor certainly delivers. You don’t even have to venture far from Nairobi’s international airport. The interior of the manor evokes the elegant safari lifestyle of the 1930s, with four-poster beds, antique furnishings and sunny terraces overlooking the gardens.
From the charming suites to the personalised service, the Giraffe Manor provides an enchanting escape into the wilds of Africa, without leaving the refined comforts of a luxury boutique hotel. It offers endless portrait locations and the romance of old-world Africa, as well as intimate encounters with endangered wildlife.
Bisate Lodge, Rwanda
Tucked away high in the Virunga Mountains of northwestern Rwanda, Bisate is a luxurious eco-lodge that’s ideal for a sustainable African wedding. Since opening its doors in 2017, Bisate has garnered 34 prestigious awards for its exquisite accommodations, refined dining and exceptional hospitality, cementing its reputation as one of Africa’s most celebrated jungle lodges.
Couples can stay in one of just six opulent villas inspired by traditional Rwandan royal dwellings, complete with private bathrooms and sweeping views of the surrounding volcanoes. From here, you can gaze out across the mist-veiled slopes of the eroded Bisoke and Karisimbi calderas, where famed primatologist Dian Fossey established her Karisoke research station dedicated to preserving endangered mountain gorillas.
While trekking to see these endearing creatures is the premier attraction at Bisate Lodge, newlyweds can also participate in reforestation efforts or embark on guided treks to spot golden monkeys. This Rwandan wedding destination will enchant eco-conscious couples looking for a unique place to exchange vows, within one of Central Africa’s most breathtaking backdrops.
Baraza Resort & Spa, Zanzibar, Tanzania
If you want to exchange vows on one of the world's most stunning beaches, consider an African destination wedding at the Baraza Resort and Spa. Fusing Arabic, Swahili and Indian design influences, this luxurious escape epitomises the exotic allure of Zanzibar with an air of refined extravagance.
Thirty private villas provide an intimate hideaway for couples and their wedding party, each featuring a private plunge pool and terrace overlooking the Indian Ocean. Days here are filled with indulgence - lounging on Sultan's beds during afternoon siestas, savouring gourmet cuisine and being pampered at the onsite spa.
For newlyweds seeking a little more action, the on-site water sports centre offers kite surfing and sailing along the coastline while local experts provide lessons in playing traditional Bao. At Baraza, your destination wedding will be infused with island vibes and the rich culture for which Zanzibar is renowned.
Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, Lake Manyara, Tanzania
If you want to (literally) be swept off your feet on your wedding day, then the tree-top suites at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge are calling. Nestled in the lush forests of Tanzania's Lake Manyara National Park, this unique safari lodge provides an intimate and romantic getaway unlike any other.
Crafted by local artisans from timber and palm fronds, each of its 10 stilted suites is suspended above the forest floor, enveloping guests in the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness. Inside, the elegantly furnished bedrooms and living areas exude a relaxed aesthetic, with neutral tones and freestanding tubs overlooking the forest. From your expansive deck, the green canopy stretches as far as the eye can see, teeming with birds and primates.
In the main lodge area, you’ll find local artworks and textured fabrics, as well as an interactive kitchen where flavourful dishes are created. These are served al fresco in the spectacular forest boma, an outdoor dining area adorned with traditional canoes. With everything from nature walks to game drives and cultural experiences on offer, a wedding at Lake Manyara Tree Lodge is sure to be one-of-a-kind.
Royal Malewane, Kruger, South Africa
Take a step back in time to a bygone era of refined luxury and safari adventures at Royal Malewane Lodge, an exclusive retreat nestled deep within the lush Thornybush Reserve bordering Kruger National Park. This award-winning South African lodge envelops guests in old-world elegance, making it ideal for vintage-inspired weddings and elopements.
From the African decor and antique furnishings to the private plunge pools and cosy fireplaces, each of the standalone suites is opulent, to say the least. In the early morning and late afternoon, experienced rangers and Shangaan trackers lead personalised game drives in open-topped safari vehicles, heading out in search of Kruger’s legendary Big Five.
After a thrilling day of wildlife viewing, you can return to camp for sundowners on the wooden viewing deck overlooking a lively waterhole. As the sun sets, the flickering glow of lanterns leads the way to dinner - a multicourse feast that’s fit for newlywed couples.
La Residence, Cape Winelands, South Africa
Boasting a magnificent setting within the Franschhoek Valley, La Residence is an opulent African wedding destination with stunning vineyard views. It occupies a 30-acre estate surrounded by rows of vines - a beguiling backdrop for exchanging vows and romance-filled couple portraits.
Each individually decorated suite at La Residence evokes grandeur and comfort, with palatial bathrooms and decadent furnishings fit for royalty. The dining experiences highlight the bounty of the region, with menus focused on sustainably sourced local produce and award-winning wines.
If you want to spend your first days as a newlywed relaxing at the spa, indulging in private tastings and enjoying leisurely high teas on the verandah, then La Residence may be just the answer. This elegant hotel also lies just a short drive from the charming village of Franschhoek, known for its art galleries, boutiques and restaurants.
Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Oozing romance, the Stanley & Livingstone Boutique Hotel not only lies within a wildlife-rich game reserve but also on the doorstep of one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World - Victoria Falls. This intimate property features lavishly appointed accommodations with canopy-draped king beds, private terraces and beautifully curated interiors that pay homage to the region's cultural heritage.
If you’re inviting families and friends along for the wedding celebrations, they can take advantage of the interconnecting suites. Alternatively, turn your nuptials into a private elopement and spend your days lounging by the sparkling pool, game driving to spot the Big Five and indulging in private candlelit dinners under the stars.
The 1871 Restaurant, named for the year of Livingstone's famous encounter with Stanley, serves sustainably sourced dishes that celebrate Africa's vibrant culinary traditions. With its serene natural setting, outstanding cuisine and exceptional service, the Stanley & Livingstone is one of the most enchanting wedding destinations in Zimbabwe.
Chobe Game Lodge, Botswana
For elephant lovers, Chobe National Park provides the perfect backdrop for a dream African wedding. There’s a reason it has been nicknamed the “Land of the Giants”! Within the park, the award-winning Chobe Game Lodge provides unparalleled safari experiences, as well as being highly photogenic in its own right.
Inspired by Moorish architecture, the lodge's sweeping arches and intricately carved walls will transport couples and their wedding parties to an exotic world of adventure. Each of the 47 air-conditioned rooms has been individually furnished with hand-picked antiques, colourful textiles and custom artworks to provide a one-of-a-kind stay.
In the lead-up to your ceremony, you can relax on your private veranda and soak in panoramic views of the Chobe River where massive herds of elephants gather to drink and frolic. In between game drives, kick back poolside on one of the plush daybeds or indulge in a spa treatment before learning traditional dances around the campfire.
The Plettenberg, Garden Route, South Africa
Perched atop a rocky headland overlooking South Africa’s rugged coastline, The Plettenberg is a romantic, year-round wedding destination for couples looking to tie the knot. It’s not only popular with South African couples but also those planning a wedding from abroad, thanks to its dedicated events team who will handle all of the logistics for you.
With its manicured grounds, elegant reception spaces and luxurious accommodations, The Plettenberg is well equipped to handle celebrations both big and small. For the ultimate in luxury and privacy, guests can indulge in the hotel’s two standalone retreats - the Beach House and Lookout Villa - which provide sprawling living spaces and wraparound verandas overlooking the coastline.
Aside from its spectacular setting, meals at The Plettenberg are a decadent affair, with fresh regional ingredients transformed into works of art and accompanied by wines from the award-winning cellar. For relaxation, the state-of-the-art spa offers indulgent treatments and an ocean view infinity pool. What more could you want?
Ready to turn your African wedding dreams into reality?
Africa's diverse landscapes offer dream wedding destinations. From savannahs to islands, each spot promises unique charm. Whether it's a safari lodge or a beach resort, couples can create lasting memories surrounded by natural beauty. Discover romance in every corner of Africa.
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