Looking for a South Africa safari elopement photographer to guide you through planning an unforgettable wedding experience in the African wild? Whether you dream of saying your vows beneath ancient Marula trees, surrounded by giraffes and golden light, or sipping champagne after your “I do’s” while lions roar in the distance. This blog will help guide you and show you exactly what’s possible.
Sorica and Caleb’s intimate safari elopement in the world-renowned Sabi Sands Game Reserve, which borders Kruger National Park was an experience like no other. It was a weekend full of wildlife sightings, heartfelt vows, and the kind of magic that only happens when you’re tucked deep into the bushveld with the one you love. If this is something you’re wanting for your intimate elopement, I would love to help you plan the most amazing experience!
I’ll give you real tips, insights, and expert recommendations. So if you’re not from South Africa and don’t know where to begin with planning a safari elopement, you’re in the right place.
Plan Your Safari Elopement in Sabi Sands
How To Get To Sabi Sands ✈️
Sorica and Caleb reached out to me while planning a trip to South Africa from California. They knew they wanted something different. A wedding day that was quiet, meaningful, and deeply connected to nature. I helped them plan their entire elopement package that included their stay at one of Sabi Sands’ private lodges, where intimate elopements are seamlessly woven into the lodge experience.
They flew into Hoedspruit Airport (HDS), one of the easiest access points for Kruger-area reserves. Then I arranged a private transfer to the safari lodge. Within an hour, they were sipping welcome drinks on a deck overlooking a dry riverbed while elephants wandered nearby.
The Safari Elopement Weekend Experience at Sabi Sands 🦒
I help couples from overseas who want to elope on safari in South Africa by organizing all inclusive safari elopement experiences that take out all the stress in planning. No need to worry about anything. This is what Sorica and Caleb’s all inclusive safari elopement package at Sabi Sands included:
Day 1: Arrival + Sunset Game Drive
After settling in and enjoying the lodge’s open-air suites, they had an amazing lunch overlooking the watering hole. Then they headed out on their first sunset game drive. Giraffes strolled past, the light turned golden, and the bush began to hum. Half way through the game drive, they sipped some sundowners and ate some snacks while enjoying a herd of elephants passing by. It was pure magic!
Day 2: Wedding Day in the Wild
The wedding day began with an early morning sunset game drive with amazing coffee as the sun peeked over the African plains. Spotting the most amazing wildlife had set an exciting tone for the day. After the game drive, a three course breakfast was served overlooking the watering hole.
Then it was time to get ready. Sorica’s dress hung from a branch just outside her suite. Caleb wore a simple, linen suit. There were no timelines, no pressure, just the sounds of the bush and the warm African sun. The two of them got ready together in their open air, luxury tented safari suite. I captured every detail, from getting ready, to first look.
They exchanged vows beneath a marula tree with a private guide and myself as witnesses. We followed that up with a celebratory toast and then went out for golden hour portraits with the lodge’s open-top safari vehicle. The timing was perfect — just as we were wrapping up, a small herd of giraffes appeared in the distance. It was straight out of a dream.
Evening Dinner Under the Stars
That night, after popping champagne on the drive home under the stars, the lodge staff set a private table on the deck. Candlelights flickered, and the stars stretched endlessly above. It was intimate, sacred, and unforgettable. The ended off the night by slow dancing under the stars.
View Kendra & Marquise’s luxury safari elopement photos here.
View Dave & Michelle’s Intimate Safari Elopement photos here.
Top 6 Safari Reserves for Elopements Near Kruger
If you’re dreaming of your own safari elopement, you might be wondering: where should we go? Here are my top picks, all bordering Kruger National Park, with world-class lodges, incredible wildlife, and ultimate privacy.
1. Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Legendary Big Five sightings + ultra-luxury lodges. Perfect for couples wanting a high-end, exclusive experience. All inclusive safari elopement packages starting at $10K (USD).
2. Balule Nature Reserve
Less crowded, affordable luxury, and known for intimate lodges that love hosting small weddings. All inclusive safari elopement packages starting at $6K (USD).
3. Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
White lions, remote lodges, and a raw, untamed feeling. Ideal for wild-hearted couples. All inclusive safari elopement packages starting at $6K (USD).
4. Klaserie Private Nature Reserve
Understated, off-the-beaten-path, and incredibly peaceful. Great for eco-conscious elopements. All inclusive safari elopement packages starting at $8K (USD).
5. MalaMala Game Reserve
South Africa’s oldest private reserve — high-end and highly private. For couples who want luxury and world-class guiding. All inclusive safari elopement packages starting at $10K (USD).
6. Manyeleti Game Reserve
Less commercial, beautifully quiet, and still Big Five territory. Often overlooked, but absolutely stunning. All inclusive safari elopement packages starting at $8K (USD).
Safari Elopement FAQ (For International Couples)
Most couples fly into Johannesburg (JNB) and take a short domestic flight to Hoedspruit (HDS), Skukuza (SZK), or Nelspruit (MQP), depending on which reserve you choose. I can help you pick the best route based on your lodge.
It is not required to take any vaccines to elope on safari in South Africa. Some safari regions higher up north fall within malaria zones. Most couples take simple malaria prophylaxis — and no, you don’t need yellow fever if you’re flying directly into South Africa from the U.S. or Europe.
Yes! Most private reserves offer two game drives per day, meaning you can time your ceremony or portraits around wildlife activity. I’ve had couples elope with giraffes, elephants and zebra in the background or lions roaring nearby at night. It’s surreal and beautiful.
Yes! Many high-end lodges are used to hosting intimate weddings and elopements. Some even have a private ceremony deck or bush clearing for vows. I can help you select one that fits your vibe and guest count (if any).
Absolutely. That’s one of the biggest advantages of a safari elopement. Most couples spend 3–5 nights at their lodge, blending romance, adventure, and relaxation. Some even follow it up with a trip to Cape Town or the Garden Route.
Yes! Private game reserves are professionally operated with trained rangers, secure accommodations, and incredible hospitality. I’ll also help you plan things like transfer routes, arrival timing, and other logistics to keep things easy and safe.
All-Inclusive Safari Elopement Packages for International Couples
Hey, I’m Heidi, a South African-born elopement photographer who splits time between my hometown in South Africa and my sweet life in Minnesota with my American husband and our two dual-citizen daughters (South African & American).
I’ve spent years helping couples from around the world plan and photograph their dream safari weddings in South Africa’s most breathtaking reserves. From guiding you through where to elope, to which lodge is best for your vibe and budget, to handling logistics, timelines, and even trusted local vendors — I offer more than just photography.
I offer peace of mind.
My all-inclusive elopement packages are built specifically for international couples who want to:
- Elope in a private game reserve (like Sabi Sands, Balule, Timbavati, or Manyeleti)
- Experience luxury, privacy, and wild beauty without the stress of a big wedding
- Have everything handled in one place — from planning to photography to post-wedding support
If you’re ready to create a one-of-a-kind wedding experience that blends adventure, intimacy, and South African magic, I’d love to hear from you.
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