So, you are trying to plan how to elope on a South African safari, and don’t know where to start. You have come to the right place! Eloping on a safari in South Africa would be a magical adventure – one you are sure to never forget.

So what does an elopement look like on a safari? You and your partner, along with whoever you choose to bring with you (friends, family, photographer, officiant), and of course your safari guide will journey through the savanna to the spot you choose to say your vows. You can choose to have an exchange of rings while on a game drive, or select a secluded spot on the lodge grounds if you prefer – either one will give your ceremony a unique backdrop surrounded by the untamed beauty of nature.

Let’s take a look at other things to consider when planning a safari elopement.

Choose a Specific Safari Destination

There is a large variety of safari destinations in South Africa – Kruger National Park, Sabi Sands Game Reserve, and Karoo National Park just to name a few.

There are too many to list in detail here, so research each and every location to determine which one best suits your preferences in terms of wildlife sightings, accommodations, and budget. It is also so important to take season and weather into consideration. You can take a look at that info here.

Ask yourself what is important to you. Is it only important to see elephants or would you rather have a Big-Five Safari experience (with lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo)? Would you prefer to stay close to the beaches of Cape Town, or head further north to heighten your chances of spotting big cats? These are the questions you must answer before moving to the next step in your planning process.

Select Accommodation

Now that you have narrowed down the location of the safari experience, you must decide what type of lodging best suits your needs. It is important to find lodges and camps that can offer elopement or small wedding packages, or at least who are able to accommodate such events. Consider factors such as luxury, privacy, and proximity to wildlife viewing areas. I personally and whole-heartedly recommend Isambane Bush Camp! Read all about Isambane here.

It’s always a good idea before booking anything to reach out to your chosen accommodations to inquire about their elopement packages or discuss customizing a package to fit your preferences. Some lodges may offer services such as arranging a ceremony location, catering, and even assistance with legal paperwork.

Plan Your Ceremony

Once you have your lodging information, it’s time to plan the specifics of the ceremony. As previously mentioned, you can choose a secluded spot within the lodge grounds, or you can plan for the exchange of vows to be done during a game drive. The latter is my personal recommendation! Can you imagine this intimate moment amongst the elephants? A dream!

Legal Requirements

Make sure to research the legal requirements for getting married in South Africa if you want your elopement to be legally recognized. At the time of writing this, there are no residency requirements for getting married in South Africa, that is one of the benefits of planning your safari elopement here. Though you do have to bring some additional documents, such as birth certificates or divorce decrees depending on your situation. You will also have to find a local officiant, that is unless your lodge provides that service.

Photography and Videography

For an adventure this special, you will want to hire a professional photographer and/or videographer to capture your time and preserve memories. It’s recommended to find a photographer who specializes in elopement photography, and one who has safari experience would also be a plus. I do happen to check both of those boxes, so reach out so we can make your safari elopement dreams come true.

Transportation

Of course, once you have plans and dates set in stone, it is time to purchase your flight ticket. It is important to give yourself a few days after arrival before the big day in case of delays or cancellations.

Not only do you need a flight into the country, but depending on where you decide to stay, you might have to book a flight to a closer city or arrange ground transportation to and from the safari lodge or reserve.

For Kruger National Park specifically, the cheaper option is to fly into Johannesburg and arrange ground transport to you lodge, whereas, you also have the option of flying into a closer airport at a much higher price tag.

Pack Appropriately

Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the safari, including neutral-colored clothing for game drives, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. You also want to make sure you pack your wedding dress as your carryon item, and any other necessary things like rings and medications can and should be put in your personal item. Here is a full list of what to pack.

Enjoy Your Safari Elopement

Once all the details are in place, relax and enjoy your special day surrounded by the beauty of the South African wilderness. Take advantage of the safari activities available, from game drives to bush walks, and create lasting memories with your partner.