How to organise a South African Bush Wedding

Organising a South African bush wedding is an incredible idea—it’s adventurous, romantic, and deeply connected to nature. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan one that’s unforgettable, smooth, and logistically sound:

1. Choose the Bush Location

You’ll need a game lodge or private reserve that allows weddings. Some of the most popular regions include:

• Kruger National Park (or private reserves around it like Sabi Sands, Timbavati)

• Madikwe Game Reserve

• Pilanesberg

• KwaZulu-Natal (Phinda, Hluhluwe–iMfolozi)

• Eastern Cape (Shamwari, Amakhala)

Look for lodges that:

• Offer wedding packages

• Are accessible (road or charter flight)

• Have accommodation on-site or nearby

2. Pick a Season

• May to September (dry season) is ideal: cooler, fewer insects, better wildlife viewing.

• Avoid summer (Dec–Feb) if possible—hot, humid, rainy, and bush can be very dense.

3. Guest List & Logistics

• Keep the guest list smaller (20–60 guests is ideal).

• Consider lodge capacity: many bush venues have 10–20 suites.

• Arrange group transport: chartered buses, transfers, or small planes if remote.

• Give guests detailed travel and packing advice (e.g., neutral clothes, malaria precautions if needed).

4. Legal vs. Symbolic Ceremony

South African marriage laws require:

• A marriage officer

• Valid IDs/passports

• If foreign: affidavits, full birth certificates, divorce decree (if applicable)

Tip: Many couples do the legal ceremony at home and have a symbolic bush wedding. Much easier logistically.

5. Work with an experienced South African Wedding Planner or Lodge Coordinator

Most bush venues have in-house wedding coordinators. Alternatively, hire a local wedding planner familiar with remote locations. They can help with:

• Setup and décor in wilderness conditions

• Working with wildlife & park regulations

• Sourcing flowers, food, music, and legal help

6. Design the Experience

Ceremony Location Ideas:

• Under a Marula or Baobab tree

• On a deck overlooking a waterhole

• In a dry riverbed with lanterns at sunset

Reception Vibes:

• Long tables under the stars (with fairy lights or fires)

• Safari-chic décor (natural linens, local florals, rustic wood)

• Live African music or acoustic sets

7. Catering & Bar

• Lodge chefs typically handle catering—focus on local, seasonal cuisine.

• Bush dinners often include braais (BBQs), game meats, and open fire cooking.

• Ensure you have a bar plan: open bar vs. cash, stocked wines/champagnes, signature cocktails.

8. Extra Touches

• Game drives for guests

• Welcome bonfire the night before

• Sunrise bush breakfast the day after

• Safari guides to explain wildlife

• Local cultural touches, like Zulu dancers or traditional blessings

9. Backup Plans

• Rain contingency: marquees or lodge decks

• Wildlife risk: lodge staff will manage this, but you can’t just walk anywhere in the bush

• Power: check if the venue has generators or solar

  
  

10. Budget Considerations

• Prices range widely: from £10,000–£60,000+ depending on exclusivity and guest numbers

• Include flights, transfers, accommodation, venue hire, catering, décor, licenses, planner fees

Dreaming of a wild, unforgettable wedding in the heart of the African bush? Let Yuzu Private Dining bring refined elegance and seamless luxury to your safari celebration. From curated menus under the stars to personalised planning and on-the-ground coordination, we turn remote into remarkable. Get in touch to start designing your bespoke bush wedding experience—where adventure meets indulgence.

Speak to one of our team