Why Africa is the ultimate wedding and honeymoon destination
For travel and nature lovers, there's no wedding destination quite like Africa. It is the ultimate dream location for luxury destination weddings and since there's so much to experience, why not stay on to explore the vast and beautiful country for your honeymoon?
"Africa offers high-end wedding and honeymoon experiences rivalling those of Europe," explains destination wedding photographer and Fine Art Curation member, By Bhavika Photography. "Once Africa captures your heart, you'll never forget it. It's a truly magical place." South African-born Bhavika shares her insider tips on why Africa is the ultimate wedding destination from the stunning venues and expert suppliers, to the breath-taking landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
1. The picturesque landscapes
The most touching wedding celebrations I’ve been a part of have a connection to the location, in one way or another. Even if you’ve just always dreamed of going, there’s some connection. Africa embodies something more than words, a certain magic that is hard to describe and can only be truly appreciated through experience.
Often thought of as only a go-to destination for safaris, you will be surprised at Africa’s vast landscapes and diverse experiences, from pristine beaches with beautiful palm trees swaying in the wind, lush rainforests, savannahs and rolling sand dunes in the deserts, to vineyards surrounded by mountains and so much more. Africa is home to some of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world, from the Pyramids in Egypt to the world’s largest waterfalls, Victoria Falls. These scapes are even more beautiful with Africa’s iconic sunsets that are unforgettable and breath-taking to view.
2. World renowned wedding venues and accommodation
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, cultural rambler, wildlife wanderer or love travelling for the senses…no matter what kind of traveller you are, there are countless world-renowned venues and accommodations to choose from. The variety of accommodation, from suites to private homes, cater for wedding parties of all sizes. Can you imagine the getaway your guests would enjoy sitting by their private veranda? Or celebrating your love under the starry night skies of Africa?
With a deep-rooted spirit and unravelling hospitality, Africa is always ready to welcome you and your guests to the most scintillating and awe-inspiring environment. Luxury venues like Lilayi Lodge in Zambia offer gourmet dining that brings an explosion of flavours through culinary experience created by top chefs, using the finest ingredients farmed from onsite gardens and sourced locally.
3. Luxury experiences for before and after your wedding
Africa goes beyond your wedding day or honeymoon with many resorts and hotels offering guided activities for you and your guests that are adventurous, rejuvenating, and memorable. Imagine welcoming your guests to a sunset dinner, with the warm spirited melodies from local musicians playing in the background. Or perhaps relaxing with your bridal party or significant other while enjoying luxury spa treatments at acclaimed spas resorts and hotels.
How about an afternoon on safari with cocktails in hand as the sunset sets over the horizon? Or experience wine tastings at some of the most beautiful vineyards, that aren’t just gorgeous to visit but amazing to host weddings at too. Ultimately, Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime wedding and honeymoon destination that has something for every taste.
4. Exceptional service from acclaimed wedding vendors
Not only does Africa have incredible wedding venues and accommodation, it is also home to many acclaimed and highly experienced luxury wedding vendors. From planners, designers and photographers to florists, musicians and stationers, our esteemed vendors strive to encapsulate all that is important to you and your loved ones. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, culinary enthusiast, fashion lover, cultural rambler or wildlife wanderer, African vendors pride themselves in creating experience-focused weddings that go beyond your wedding day and leaves your guests in awe with an experience of a lifetime.
5. The bespoke wedding of your dreams with lighter environmental footprint
As a conservationist, nature-driven wedding are at my heart of hearts. As global issues like climate change become more prominent, ensuring we take care of how we craft and create exceptional wedding experiences with the environment in mind is key. With vast landscapes and astonishing wildlife, many wedding vendors have found ways for you to have a sustainable and luxury wedding experience, that supports the local communities and skilled artisans who create bespoke décor pieces to elevate your wedding experience. From locally sourced florals, hand-painted china to bespoke table linens to adorn your wedding tablescapes; no matter the details, each vendor ensures that you experience the ultimate wedding of your dreams that is still environmentally friendly.
6. Value for money
With the Dollar, Pound or Euro, the local currencies tips in your favour to have the bespoke luxury wedding of your dreams. Whether you choose to have grand celebrations big, little, or extra small, Africa is perfectly suited to host your multi-day destination wedding, pre-wedding sessions or a memorable experience shared with your family and friends. Africa’s magic will leave you with an experience that is transcending unlike any other… So, I leave you with these words from Ernest Hemingway…
“When you leave Africa, as the plane lifts, you feel that more than leaving a continent you're leaving a state of mind. Whatever awaits you at the other end of your journey will be of a different order of existence.”
vendor details
Planning and creative direction: Love from Mwai and Exalt Africa | Project manager: Lonah Shawa | Photography: By Bhavika Photography | Photography assistant: Classy Art Photography | Videographer: Conway International | Videography Assistant: SFE Productions | Florist: FG Floral Design | Assistant Florist: David Banda | Rentals: Urban Desiigns | Cake: House of Cakes Zambia | Set-up: Glorious Touch Events | Stationery: Krysta’s Designs Co | Venue: Lilayi Lodge
