There is nothing quite as tranquil as going on a safari- even better if you’re sharing the experience with the person you love dearly! This is exactly what I offer my couples who travel from all over the world to have a magical, all inclusive safari elopement and a once in a life time experience like no other! I’m a South African safari elopement photographer who serve couples from all over the world! So if you’re planning a safari elopement keep reading! This guide will help you plan your safari elopement in South Africa! If you’re interested to view my full safari elopement brochure and packages, please reach out to me by clicking the button below. I offer all inclusive safari elopement packages.
Why you Should have a Safari Elopement in South Africa
Having a safari elopement in South Africa is like blending romance and adventure into one day. It is one of the most tranquil experiences one could have! South Africa is such a hidden gem that not many people know about! From stunning waterfalls, blue oceans and lush bushveld, South Africa has it all- making it the perfect spot for your big day. Let’s not forget the thrill of spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes while you tie the knot while staying at some amazing lodges in the heart of Africa!
Where Should I fly into for my Safari Elopement in South Africa?
There are 3 main international airports to fly into for a safari elopement in South Africa depending on the safari lodge you choose:
- O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (This is the most common one and is closest to the major wild-life in South Africa).
- Cape Town International Airport in Cape Town
- King Shaka International airport in Durban
From there, you can take a domestic flight or arrange ground transportation to your chosen safari lodge.
Here is a detailed overview of O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg and the surrounding nature reserves along with their respective airports.
1. O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB):
- Location: Kempton Park, Gauteng, approximately 23 km northeast of Johannesburg’s city center.
- Description: As Africa’s busiest airport, O.R. Tambo serves as the primary hub for both domestic and international flights in South Africa. Wikipedia
2. Kruger National Park and Nearby Airports:
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP):
- Location: Approximately 40 km from Kruger’s Numbi Gate. SafariBookings.com+1Contentful+1
- Description: Serves the southern part of Kruger National Park, facilitating access to various camps and lodges. Wild Wings Safaris
- Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport (HDS):
- Location: Near the town of Hoedspruit, serving the central region of Kruger.
- Description: Ideal for travelers heading to central Kruger and adjacent private reserves. Wild Wings Safaris+1www.travelbutlers.com+1
- Phalaborwa Airport (PHW):
- Location: Close to Phalaborwa Gate, serving the northern part of Kruger.
- Description: Convenient for accessing northern Kruger and nearby private reserves. www.travelbutlers.com+1SafariNow+1
3. Balule Nature Reserve:
- Location: Part of the Greater Kruger Park, situated west of Kruger National Park between Hoedspruit and Phalaborwa.balule.krugerpark.co.za+2SafariBookings.com+2www.travelbutlers.com+2
- Access: Primarily accessed via Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, followed by a road transfer. Adventure Begins Here – TourRadar+1Kruger National Park+1
4. Sabi Sands Game Reserve:
- Location: Adjacent to the southwestern section of Kruger National Park.
- Access: Accessible via:
- Skukuza Airport (SZK): Located within Kruger National Park, serving the southern regions.
- Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP): Followed by a road transfer to the reserve. Sabi Sands
5. Timbavati and Klaserie Private Game Reserves:
- Location: Bordering the western edge of Kruger National Park.
- Access: Best reached via Hoedspruit Eastgate Airport, with subsequent road transfers to the respective lodges. Kruger National Park+3balule.krugerpark.co.za+3SafariNow+3
6. Pilanesberg National Park:
- Location: Northwest of Johannesburg, near Sun City.
- Access: Approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Johannesburg. Pilanesberg International Airport serves the park, though many visitors opt for road travel. Adventure Begins Here – TourRadar
7. Madikwe Game Reserve:
- Location: Along the border with Botswana, northwest of Johannesburg.
- Access: About a 4 to 5-hour drive from Johannesburg. Charter flights can land at airstrips within the reserve. Eco Lodges Anywhere
8. Marakele National Park:
Access: Roughly a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Johannesburg. No major airports nearby; access is primarily by road.Domestic airlines in South Africa I recommend would include: FlySafair, CemAir, Lyft, SA Airlink or Mango.
Location: In the Waterberg Mountains, north of Johannesburg.
For ground transportation I highly recommend using SWIFT transportations. They are amazing!
The Best Safari Lodges for Your Elopement
There are so many amazing safari lodges to choose from in South Africa! I’ve listed some of my favorite ones below! I offer different safari elopement packages at most of these lodges. Kruger National Park also has tons of options, but I often find the private game lodges are better than Kruger.
Babanango Game Reserve
Babanango Game Reserve is located in the captivating region of Zululand, within the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The closest international airport is Durban (King Shaka International Airport). Transfers can be arranged from Durban International airport to the lodge and back. Babanango offers a romantic escape for couples wanting to elope. Enjoy a secluded Romance Tent with an outdoor shower and bath + a private heated plunge pool.
Nambiti Private Game Reserve
Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge is a luxury retreat in the Nambiti Big 5 Game Reserve near Ladysmith, South Africa. The closest international airport is Durban airport (King Shaka). Transfers can be arranged from Durban to Nambiti lodge and back. Nambiti lodge is a luxurious lodge and one of my favorites for safari elopements! Enjoy a view from your private terrace or bathe in complete privacy as you gaze upon the valleys surrounding your suite. The suite contains a king-size bed, an en-suite bathroom with a shower + stone bath, as well as an outdoor shower. The suite is equipped with air-conditioning, a fully stocked mini-bar + wifi and coffee making amenities.
Misava Safari Camp
This camp is located in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve on the western edge of Kruger National Park. The closest airport is Hoedspruit airport.
This Lodge is a family owned and run lodge, Misava Safari Camp (previously Angela’s camp) is one of the oldest camps in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, home to a vast variety of wildlife, birdlife and predators.
Chitwa Chitwa
This lodge is more than just a luxury private game lodge in the bush. It’s a holistic and sensorial experience which starts at sunrise and captures the very essence of the magnificent wildlife heritage and natural landscape of Africa before sunset. The Chitwa House consists of two beautifully appointed en-suite rooms with private decks and outdoor showers. The closest airport is Nelspruit Airport, which you can fly to from any of the Main airports listed above.
Return Africa
Known for its conservation efforts and authentic bush experiences. Your wedding ceremony can be held in several locations within the Makuleke Contractual Park, the most stunning being the Fever Tree forest, the Ana Tree forest, or the Luvuvhu flood plain. Your wedding reception will be held on the decks of Pafuri Camp overlooking the Luvuvhu River.
How to get there: There are direct charter flights from Johannesburg to Pafuri Airstrip. You can also get there by taking one of the daily flights to Hoedspruit from Johannesburg or Cape Town, connecting with a 45 minute charter flight to Pafuri.
Lion Sands
Lion Sands is a private game reserve located in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve in South Africa. It’s known for its luxury accommodations, wildlife viewing opportunities, and exclusive safari experiences. Many couples choose Lion Sands as a destination for weddings, or elopements! This is one of the most expensive safari lodges in the world, with rates starting at $1500pp per night and goes up to $7000pp per night.
Isambane Bush Lodge
Isambane Bush Lodge is a beautiful, eco camp lodge situated in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park area in South Africa. The lodge is within a private reserve, offering guests an exclusive and secluded experience! Isambane Lodge is one of my favorites! It’s small and private and absolutely breathtaking! The closest airport is Hoedspruit, which you can fly into from Johannesburg or Cape Town Airport.
All Inclusive Safari Elopement Packages
I offer a variety of different safari elopement packages, which all include the following:
- Accommodation for bridal couple
- All meals & snacks
- All (non-alcoholic) Beverages
- 2 game drives per day
- Full Day Photo Coverage
- Hair & Make Up
- Florals + Set Up
Starting at $6.5K
Contact me to receive my full safari elopement brochure.
Best Time to Elope in South Africa
South Africa is in the southern hemisphere, meaning their summers are from Nov-Mar. Choosing the perfect time for your elopement in South Africa is key to ensuring an unforgettable experience. In my opinion there honestly isn’t a bad time to elope in South Africa. The Winter months (May-August) are still gorgeous and make for the best time to see animals on safari as the bush isn’t as lush and dense. During Summer time (November-March), the lush, green bushes are dense and the sceneries are beautiful. The animals often have young babies in the middle of summer, making it super fun to see the little ones!
The best time to elope in South Africa largely depends on the type of scenery and weather you prefer, but I recommend the months from February to November! Avoiding the holiday rush during December and January.
Decide What to Do on Your Safari Elopement Day
Plan activities that align with your interests and the unique offerings of your chosen lodge. Here are some ideas!
- Safari Game Drives: Experience the wildlife up close in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Hiking: Explore the bush on foot with a guided walking safari.
- Massages: Enjoy a relaxing couples massage in the heart of the bush.
- Fine Dining: Indulge in a romantic dinner under the stars.
- Boat Trip: If available, take a scenic boat ride on nearby rivers or lakes to see the hippos!
- Helicopter Ride: This is an incredible way to view the sceneries and wild life!
- Hot Tubbing: Enjoy a relaxing hot tub with your lover!
- Cultural Dance Experience: Have a native group perform a cultural dance or ceremony at your elopement!
- Stargazing: The stars are absolutely magnificent at any safari lodge in South Africa!
What to Pack for Your Safari Elopement
Pack essentials and be prepared for various weather conditions. Here’s a checklist to help:
- Passports and Travel Documents: Ensure all your paperwork is in order, including visas if necessary. (US citizens, Canadians and Europeans do not need any visa’s to visit South Africa)
- Wedding Rings: Don’t forget these!
- Clothing:
- Light, breathable fabrics for hot weather (safari-friendly colors like khaki, beige, and green).
- Warmer layers for early mornings and evenings.
- Rain gear if you’re traveling during the rainy season.
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.
- Swimwear if your lodge has a pool.
- A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect against the sun.
- Toiletries: Bring all necessary personal items, including any medications (Most safari lodges provide hairdryers etc).
- Insect Repellent: Essential for keeping mosquitoes and other bugs at bay (most safari lodges already provide this.
- Camera and Binoculars: To capture and enjoy the wildlife and scenery.
- Travel Adapters: For charging your electronic devices. South Africa has 3 associated plug types: type C, type M and type N.
- Wedding Attire: If you plan to wear traditional wedding outfits, make sure they are appropriate for the weather and setting. Don’t forget your shoes, belt, dress socks veil and jewelry.
Choosing a Photographer for your Safari Elopement
When it comes to picking a photographer for your safari elopement, you want someone who knows their way around South Africa like the back of their hand. That’s where I come in! I was born and raised in South Africa for 23 years of my life. I now live in the US with my husband and travel back annually to visit my home country and capture beautiful safari elopements and destination weddings. I’ve got the insider knowledge to make your elopement photos truly epic. From secret spots with killer views to knowing the best times to capture that golden African light, I’ve got you covered. Plus, I understand the unique magic of South Africa’s landscapes and wildlife, ensuring your photos will be perfect.
Go check out some of my previous safari elopement galleries:
Prospective Itinerary Example for a Safari Elopement:
Below you will find an example of a very basic itinerary for a safari elopement. Your itinerary will look different depending on what package you choose and how many nights you stay. All itineraries can be modified and discussed to find something that suits you best.
Day 1-Arrival Day:
Transfer from nearest airport to lodge.
Lunch.
Sunset Safari.
Dinner.
Honeymoon suite.
Day 2-Elopement Day:
Sunrise Safari.
Breakfast.
Couple’s massages.
Lunch.
Hair + Make Up. (Photography Starts)
Elopement Safari.
Private Vows.
Romantic Dinner. (Photography ends)
Honeymoon suite.
Day 3-Day After:
Sunrise Safari.
Breakfast.
Relax (activity of choice)
Lunch.
Sunset Safari.
Dinner.
Bed.
Day 4-Departure Day:
Sunrise Safari.
Breakfast.
Pack up.
Transfer to airport.
If you’re ready to hire me as your safari elopement photographer, let’s do it! I want to be a part of your special day! Contact me here and let’s go on this adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions about my Safari Elopements in South Africa
No, there are no required vaccines.
Many couples prefer symbolic ceremonies while handling legalities in their home country
Requirements typically include passports, birth certificates, and affidavits of marital status.
Your safari elopement will be perfectly safe! All the lodges are top lodges with amazing guides. You will be personally picked up at the airport and transferred to your lodge when booking a package with me.
Yes, up to 12 guests are welcome to join depending on the package you choose. Price per guest per night will be $200.
Yes, you can choose your florals, depending on what is available in the season.
Yes, all the lodges have wifi available.
Yes!
Backup indoor or sheltered venues are usually available at lodges.
Your flights. Alcoholic beverages and any extra activities that are not included in the packages.
For more information on eloping in Africa, go check out my other blog on How to Elope in South Africa.
Safari Elopement Vendor Recommendations
I’ve worked with some of the most amazing safari elopement and wedding vendors. Here are links to their websites below:
- Florals, Table Decor & Design: Droom Exclusive Creative
- Wedding Dresses: Bespoke By Maryke and Hanrie Lues Bridal
- Make Up: Charne Dreyer Beauty and Mua and @sunetbassonmua
- Hair: @accentuatehairandmakeup
- Travel Experiences: Assured & Tailored Tours
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