Want a wedding venue for your marriage ceremony in South Africa? Check out these top 30 cheap places to hold your traditional and white weddings.
The South African wedding scene is undergoing a fascinating shift as it transitions elegantly into the modern era. Couples are changing the core of their union from the lavish ceremonies of the past (though some still like the luxury ceremonies) to the personal and cost-effective celebrations of today.
Through this transformation, South Africa becomes known as a gorgeous and reasonably priced wedding venue paradise, as well as a cultural and natural treasure trove. The varied settings of the country, from picturesque gardens to historic wineries, offer an ideal setting for weddings that are memorable and affordable.
Modernizing Matrimony: A Glimpse into South Africa’s Wedding Evolution Without Breaking the Bank
Over time, South African weddings have changed dramatically, reflecting both distinct local influences and international trends. Opulent, intricate ceremonies are giving way to smaller, more customized gatherings. Couples are choosing less expensive festivities without sacrificing the romance of the occasion.
For instance, the rise of alternative wedding venues, such as rustic barns, botanical gardens, and even art galleries, signifies a departure from conventional banquet halls. Smaller guest lists, DIY decor, and a focus on experiences over extravagance are becoming the norm. This shift aligns with the modern couple’s desire for authenticity and a celebration that mirrors their unique love story.
South Africa: A Canvas for Unforgettable Backdrops
Beyond only being reasonably priced, South Africa is a highly desirable location for weddings. The nation offers a wide variety of stunning backdrops for couples to pick from, including the recognizable Table Mountain and the immaculate beaches along the Garden Route.
Whether surrounded by the vineyards of Stellenbosch, the tranquility of a botanical garden, or the historic charm of Cape Dutch architecture, South Africa provides an enchanting canvas where love stories are painted with the hues of nature and culture.
What to know about South African Wedding Venues
South Africa’s wedding venues offer a huge variety of stunning locations for your dream wedding. Whether you are looking at the wine estates and beaches of Cape Town, the exclusive game reserves and cosmopolitan hotels of Johannesburg, or one of the many other attractive venues in other South African regions and cities, there are plenty of wedding venues in South Africa to choose from, SA Weddings assures.
The wedding venue is the first and probably the most important wedding planning decision you’ll need to make. Your wedding venue will also almost always be the biggest single wedding cost, so your selection warrants careful thought and a thorough investigation of the available options.
Select a South African wedding venue that compliments the theme and mood you have in mind for your big day. Sophisticated, chic, rustic, traditional, eco-friendly, intimate, and grand—there are many wedding venues to match, whatever your ideas. Additionally, the time of year will be instrumental in your choice of wedding venue.
30 best wedding venues in South Africa
JanaTribe has gathered 30 of the most beautiful and ‘cheap’ wedding venues in South Africa you can choose from—all the inspirations you need!
These places/venues ensure that couples can find a venue that aligns with their budget while delivering a memorable and beautiful celebration.
1. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, Cape Town
New couples can consider Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town, as their wedding venue.
The garden is one of 10 National Botanical Gardens, covering five of South Africa’s six different biomes, and is administered by the South African National Biodiversity Institute.
The garden grows beautiful flowering plants, such as protea and heather, a large number of flowering bulbs, and huge cycads (palmlike tropical plants). Greenhouses grow plants from all climatic regions. There are three herbaria (collections of dried plants) that altogether hold about 300,000 dried plant specimens. It now contains over 7,000 species of plants from southern Africa.
Celebrate amidst the lush greenery of Kirstenbosch, one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens. Affordable venue options include the fragrance garden or the sweeping lawns with Table Mountain as the backdrop.
2. Lavender Hill Country Estate
Lavender Hill Country Estate is located between Clarens and Bethlehem in one of the most beautiful settings in the eastern Free State area. Nestled in 25 hectares of pure beauty, Lavender Hill provides its guests with amazing views of the Ash River and Maluti Mountains. The gardens at this venue have numerous flowers, including lavender and roses, for those nice wedding photos.
The venue has a magnificent chapel for the vow exchange ceremonies. The chapel has a full glass front that provides unobstructed views of the beautiful outdoors. In addition, it is fully equipped with air conditioning, sound systems, and microphones and can seat up to 200 guests.
3. Valverde Eco Hotel, Muldersdrift
Want to get married in the sun and have a breeze catch your veil? Then choose nowhere other than the Valverde Eco Hotel, an eco-hotel near Lanseria.
Valverde is a unique country venue in the Muldersdrift area. Valverde has two wedding venues, function facilities, conference facilities, and accommodation in 25 country-style rooms.
Situated in Muldersdrift, the Valverde Eco Hotel is easily accessible from both Fourways in Johannesburg and Lanseria Airport.
For a serene escape, Valverde Eco Hotel provides budget-friendly wedding packages. Surrounded by lush gardens and a lake, this eco-friendly venue offers a tranquil setting for a memorable celebration.
4. Montana Boutique Guest House, Pretoria
Montana Boutique Guest House is situated in Montana, in the north-eastern part of Pretoria.
Intimate and affordable, Montana Boutique Guest House offers a cozy venue with stylish decor. The garden setting and contemporary architecture provide a modern yet budget-conscious option.
It features an outdoor swimming pool and a lush garden.
5. Oxbow Country Estate, Bronkhorstspruit
Oxbow Country Estate is an oasis outside the city, offering idyllic wedding receptions, conferencing, and mid-week breakaways.
The estate is located 25km from Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng, on the banks of the Osspruit River, just 40 minutes from Pretoria, Witbank, and Benoni.
Oxbow Country Estate offers superior accommodation in 10 stylishly decorated double / twin rooms all with full bathrooms en-suite.
With its scenic lakeside setting, Oxbow Country Estate offers affordability without compromising on elegance. The venue features a thatched-roof chapel, beautiful gardens, and a modern reception hall.
6. Kuthaba Bush Lodge
This is a private game reserve in Modimolle, Limpopo Province. It forms part of the world-famous Waterberg Mountain Range, renowned for its unmatched scenic views. The lodge offers two gorgeous wedding sites.
The Cliffs: This venue was designed to reflect the idea of a bird flying off a cliff, an allusion to the journey the newlyweds are about to embark on. This venue offers spectacular views of the Modimolle area.
The Wild Fig Tree: As the name suggests, this venue’s main attraction is a massive wild fig with magnificent evergreen foliage. The tree’s distinctiveness, resilience, and strength are said to inspire the couples who exchange vows beneath it.
7. The Marine Hermanus
The Marine is among South Africa’s most spectacular oceanside properties. Perched on the cliffs, overlooking Hermanus’ Walker Bay, this venue is one of the best places to hold your wedding. Clients can choose from one of the different intimate venues or spaces at the gorgeous seaside location.
The staff at the guest relations team will assist with great food, ideas, and the finer details to make your wedding unforgettable. Weddings at The Marine are designed around four elements: cutting-edge cuisine, exceptional service, a unique setting, and exquisite accommodation.
8. The Fairway Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort
The Fairway Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort is situated 11 kilometres from Sandton and 2 kilometres from the Cresta shopping centre. This high-class hotel is the ideal destination for couples looking for an all-in-one wedding venue.
The venue has great views of the Randpark Golf Course, which also makes the perfect backdrop for wedding photos.
9. Jozini Tiger
Lodge The Jozini Tiger Lodge has a rich heritage and untamed natural beauty. The venue is located in the heart of the Zulu kingdom, alongside the banks of Lake Jozini. The nearby Lebombo Mountain Range further enhances the venue’s appeal.
Weddings at the spectacular Jozini Tiger Lodge can only be described as pure perfection. You can have your reception outdoors on the Boma, the upper deck, or the lake deck. The staff will provide every necessary amenity to keep your guests comfortable during the event.
10. Nooitgedacht Estate, Stellenbosch
Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, Nooitgedacht Estate combines historic charm with natural beauty. The venue offers budget-friendly packages and features a picturesque garden, a Cape Dutch manor house, and vineyard views.
11. Silver Sixpence, Midrand
Plan your perfect wedding weekend in the rolling hills and forests of Dullstroom.
A rustic gem, Silver Sixpence exudes country charm and affordability. The venue, surrounded by eucalyptus trees and gardens, offers a barn reception hall and open-air ceremony options.
12. Casa-lee Country Lodge, Bloemfontein
Situated in the Free State, Casa-lee Country Lodge offers budget-friendly wedding packages. The venue boasts a tranquil setting with landscaped gardens and modern facilities.
Casa-Lee Country Lodge is nestled in a serene country setting in the east of Pretoria, on the old Pretoria/Bronkhorstspruit Road (R104), next to the Witbank/Emalahleni Highway, just past the Donkerhoek/Boschkop turnoff. Approximately 15 to 20 minutes drive from Pretoria, it is a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is easily accessible via the N4 highway from Pretoria.
13. Simondium’s Country Lodge, Paarl
Surrounded by vineyards and mountains, Simondium’s Country Lodge provides an affordable yet charming venue. The rustic architecture and outdoor spaces offer a versatile backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
14. La Colline, Port Elizabeth
La Colline offers an affordable yet elegant wedding venue in the Eastern Cape. Set against the backdrop of lush gardens and rolling hills, it provides a charming and intimate setting for a memorable celebration.
15. Crab Apple Chapel, Gauteng
For couples seeking a quaint and budget-friendly venue, Crab Apple Chapel in Gauteng delivers. This charming chapel, surrounded by picturesque gardens, offers a romantic and affordable space for exchanging vows.
16. In The Vine Venue, Stellenbosch
Located in the heart of Stellenbosch wine country, In The Vine Venue combines affordability with vineyard charm. With its scenic surroundings and modern facilities, it is an ideal choice for couples seeking a budget-conscious yet stylish celebration.
17. Pheasant Hill, Magaliesburg
Pheasant Hill, nestled in the Magaliesburg Mountains, offers a tranquil and affordable escape. The venue features lush gardens, a beautiful chapel, and rustic reception spaces, providing a serene backdrop for a budget-friendly wedding.
18. Die Akker, Pretoria
Die Akker provides a budget-friendly farm-style setting in Pretoria. With its rustic charm, open spaces, and relaxed atmosphere, this venue offers an affordable option for couples seeking a laid-back celebration.
19. Toadbury Hall, Muldersdrift
Toadbury Hall, situated in Muldersdrift, offers an affordable yet sophisticated venue. Set against the Crocodile River, this estate provides a picturesque setting with manicured gardens, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious couples.
20. The Nutcracker Country Retreat, Parys
The Nutcracker Country Retreat in Parys offers an affordable escape to the countryside. With its rustic barn, expansive lawns, and scenic views, it creates a charming and budget-friendly atmosphere for weddings.
21. The Blades, Pretoria
The Blades, located in Pretoria, combines affordability with modern elegance. Set on a lake, the venue offers a serene and picturesque setting for weddings, complete with contemporary facilities and stylish architecture.
22. Zulu Nyala Country Manor, Fourways
Situated in gracious Chartwell on the outskirts of northern Johannesburg on 13 beautifully landscaped acres, Country Manor, Zulu Nyala Country Manor, is home to some wild African residents.
This location is ideal for overnight stays, conferencing, business trips, and functions aside from weddings.
The venue features lush gardens, thatched-roof architecture, and a warm ambiance, creating an affordable yet enchanting space.
Zulu Nyala Country Manor in Fourways provides a budget-friendly option with a touch of African charm.
Take a stroll around the lush grounds, and you’ll encounter Zebra, Blesbok, Springbok, Nyala, and other creatures that provide a delightful taste of the bush. Despite this, you’ll be just five minutes away from Johannesburg’s premiere nightlife, restaurants, and shopping areas.
23. L’Aquila, Pretoria
L’Aquila, situated in Pretoria, offers a blend of affordability and sophistication. With its Tuscan-inspired architecture, manicured gardens, and versatile reception spaces, it caters to couples seeking an elegant yet budget-conscious celebration.
24. Rosemary Hill Farm, Pretoria
Rosemary Hill Farm provides a budget-friendly, rustic setting in Pretoria. Surrounded by expansive gardens, a eucalyptus forest, and a rosemary field, this venue offers a charming and affordable space for couples to say, “I do.”
25. La Vie en Rose, Kyalami
La Vie en Rose, located in Kyalami, offers an affordable venue with French-inspired charm. The venue features a picturesque chapel, lush gardens, and stylish reception spaces, providing an elegant yet budget-conscious option for couples.
26. Stellenrust Wine Estate
The Stellenrust Estate has one of the best views of the Table Mountain Ranges. Nestled among the lush vineyards, this venue features a huge reception hall with pine floors and elegant lighting hanging from a reed ceiling.
The venue can host 300 guests without a dance floor and up to 220 with a dance floor.
27. Olive Rock
The Olive Rock is a unique and beautiful wedding venue that was created from rehabilitated and renovated structures alongside the Breede River. Guests at the venue are treated to breathtaking views of the majestic mountains in the Western Cape. Guest entertainment can be arranged in the shed-style mountain room with grand chandeliers, exposed trusses, and beautiful stack-away doors.
28. Altydlig
Altydlig is an elegant wine farm located at the foot of the highland vineyards between Kuilsriver and Stellenbosch. This picturesque wine farm overlooks the Table Mountain Range and boasts magnificent views of the Cape Peninsula.
The wine farm is an excellent wedding and function venue with numerous menu, accommodation, and décor options available. Clients get to choose among numerous customization options to create a unique look on their wedding day.
The farm also has professional chefs who prepare delicious country food and will gladly customize your menu to suit your preferences.
29. The Forest Walk Venue
The Forest Walk Venue is centrally located between Pretoria and Johannesburg, making it easily accessible. This venue has amazing forest surroundings and a huge, thatched hall to host a wedding reception. The venue also has landscaped gardens for you to walk and relax in.
Several guest houses are linked to the venue for easy accommodation. The staff are also well-versed in meal preparation. This combination of factors makes the Forest Walk one of the best wedding venues in Pretoria.
30. Highberry Boutique Winery
South Africa is renowned for its numerous vineyards and wineries. Besides the amazing wine and grapes that come from them, these locations also make excellent wedding venues. The Highberry Boutique Winery is one of these elegant wineries that also has wedding-centered features.
Clients get bespoke wedding packages customized to their specific needs. The winery is located on the outskirts of Somerset and borders some of South Africa’s finest vineyards. Guests are treated to breathtaking views of mountain vistas, lush lawns, horse paddocks, and a magnificent lake.
Unique Features of Affordable Venues:
Affordability Without Compromise:
- These venues prioritize cost-effectiveness without sacrificing the aesthetic appeal and quality of the celebration. Couples can enjoy a beautiful and memorable wedding without financial strain.
Versatile Settings:
- The selected venues offer versatile settings, allowing couples to choose from outdoor garden ceremonies, rustic barn receptions, or elegant indoor spaces. This versatility caters to diverse preferences and wedding styles.
Scenic Views and Natural Beauty:
- South Africa’s budget-friendly wedding venues capitalize on the country’s natural beauty. From vineyard panoramas to tranquil lakeside views, these locations enhance the romantic ambiance of the celebration.
Intimate Atmosphere:
- Many of these venues cultivate an intimate atmosphere, perfect for couples who prefer smaller guest lists and a more personal celebration. The focus on intimacy fosters a deeper connection between the couple and their guests.
Conclusion
The affordable wedding locations in South Africa are the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and budget-consciousness. These locations offer a perfect background for creating weddings that are both deeply personal and reasonably priced, as contemporary couples prefer memorable and meaningful experiences to extravagant displays. Couples can appreciate the beauty that is within their reach and create a celebration that represents the genuineness of their love story by embracing South Africa’s different landscapes.
