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How to Plan a Safari Wedding in Africa

Consider this the ultimate destination wedding.

Jaimie Mackey was the real weddings editor at Brides from 2013 to 2015. She also worked as a luxury wedding planner and produced over 100 high-end weddings and events in Colorado

Heather Waraksa 

When it comes to destination weddings, we say the more exotic, the better. And nothing could be more exotic than tying the knot in the middle of the Serengeti in Tanzania or among the grasses of the Okovango Delta in Botswana during a safari wedding! When Sasithon Pooviriyakul of Sasithon Photography wed Monty Hermann in Kenya, we couldn’t get enough—so we turned to the pros for a little insight into how you can make this adventurous destination wedding idea your own. So grab your binoculars, pack your khakis, and get ready to plan a safari wedding that your guests will never believe!

The current outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) has been declared a pandemic by the  World Health Organization . As the situation remains fluid, we’ll be sharing tips and stories from industry experts to give you of-the-moment advice and help you navigate wedding planning today. For the most up-to-date guidelines and latest on travel restrictions and requirements, check the  CDC  and U.S. Department of State websites.

Choose a private reserve

“When you’re looking for a wedding location, I recommend a property that is in a private game reserve instead of a national park ,” says Michelle Rago of Michelle Rago Destinations . “You’ll be able to get much closer to the animals in a private reserve, making for some thrilling game drives!” 

Embrace your vision

“Safari lodges come in all shapes and sizes, from traditional elegance to rustic luxury," says Lindsey Epperly Sulek of Epperly Travel . “You can really find a lodge that fits your travel style and the way you want your wedding to look.” 

Consider the entire property

Weddings, even small ones, take up space, so make sure to look for a lodge that can host a ceremony and reception. “Tenting may not be an option like it is for weddings here in the States, so it’s important to think about whether there is adequate covered or indoor space for your celebration as well,” says Rago.

Check the flight map

Getting to Africa isn’t easy, and requires multiple connections and at least a full day of travel. “To make it a bit easier on your guests, narrow your venue search down to camps that can be accessed with a direct flight from New York, followed by a drive (instead of an often pricey second flight on a small plane),” Rago advises. “For example, Shamwari Private Game Reserve is relatively accessible from Port Elizabeth in South Africa.” She also recommends Sabi Sands , Camp Jabulani , and Kapama Game Reserve , all private reserves in Kruger National Park.

Match the guest list to the lodge size

“Now isn’t the time to play the A-list, B-list game,” says Rago. “While it may work fine when you’ve got access to local hotels and a flexible venue, this much travel and limited space isn’t so easy!” Adds Sulek, “Most safari lodges are on the boutique side, which means adding someone at the last minute isn’t possible just based on the number of rooms available.” Instead, set a list based on how many people your venue can accommodate. Remember: There’s a chance you’ll have a much higher rate of “yes” RSVPs from guests who want to join you for the trip of a lifetime than you would for a wedding at home! “I recommend a buyout of the hotel—and the lodge might even require it depending on the size of your group,” Sulek concludes. 

Consider alternative options

“If you are having a hard time cutting down your guest list, but the destination wedding you’re envisioning is beyond the scope of a safari lodge, look to nearby cities,” says Sulek. “ Cape Town , in particular, is a stunning destination for a wedding.” Once you’ve tied the knot in the city, you can head out on a safari for your honeymoon. “Add on a few days at islands like the Seychelles, and you’ll have a full, unforgettable experience of the best of Africa.” 

Know where your budget will go

“Decide in advance what you will be paying for, versus what guests will pay for on their own,” says Rago. “Whether you’re covering costs or not, choosing lodges and reserves that are closer to major airports will make travel much more affordable.” When it comes to lodging, most are all-inclusive , so you won’t have to worry about surprise charges that can get pricey in a hurry. “This will help you estimate your costs up-front, and will help guests more accurately decide if they can afford to attend.” That being said, a trip to Africa will be expensive no matter what, which could be a strong impetus to keep your guest list—and therefore your costs—down. 

Rethink your design

While you’ll be able to include many western wedding traditions (plus local cultural aspects!), the design and décor may be more limited. “The more remote a lodge is, the harder it will be to get your décor must-haves there—and therefore, the more expensive it will get,” says Sulek. So keep your design simple, letting the setting speak for itself. 

Employ a travel concierge

Before you even have a guest list, a travel professional will be able to help you find the perfect lodge for you. “A great travel team will find the property to match your vision, as well as understand each venue’s benefits and limitations,” says Sulek. And they’ll be invaluable once your guests are ready to book their flights. Says Rago, “A travel concierge should be part of your event team any time far-flung travel is involved. They will be able to help guests book travel, and also provide a support network both before and during the trip.” That means you won’t be the one fielding those last-minute phone calls or trying to arrange group transportation! 

Prioritize health

Your travel concierge and the lodge’s on-site staff will be able to guide you through any vaccines and medication needed for your journey, and you should reiterate it to your guests as much as possible. “Malaria is absolutely something to be aware of, and guests should be on a course of malaria medication during their trip if you are visiting an area where the disease is present,” says Rago. Also ask about other inoculations that might be required, such as yellow fever or hepatitis A and B. 

Incorporate local customs

“One of my favorite African bush traditions is the evening ‘sundowner,’ which fits perfectly into a wedding celebration,” says Rago. “Every afternoon, you stop for a cocktail and a snack as the sun begins to set over your game drive. For a wedding, it can be dressed up with a full bar and more substantial hors d’oeuvres, giving your guests a chance to savor the sounds and sights of the setting sun.” If your lodge is near a local village, ask the property about dance and singing groups who might be able to come perform around an evening campfire. And of course, keep the menu local ! “Regional dishes will help spice up your menu and give your guests a taste of the area,” says Sulek. “In South Africa, for example, that might mean a spread of unique game meats!” 

Bring in your own talent

“Planning a destination wedding is already challenging, and becomes more so in a remote area where vendor options are few and far between,” says Sulek. “For the most important item—such as photography and videography—you may be better off bringing the professional of your choice to ensure the quality lives up to your expectations.” 

Make it educational

“Conservation is a wonderful aspect that is included in many game reserves and lodges,” Rago notes. “Protecting wildlife and preserving the land is a core component of why these lodges and reserves exist.” Educate your guests about the work that is being done in the area, and consider asking for donations in lieu of wedding gifts. 

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Clane gessel studio, safari wedding photography – african wedding in the safari.

Safari wedding photography – for couples looking to get married or have their wedding in the safari.  Photos from this article were shot on location in South Africa by the Clane Gessel Studio.

safari wedding photography

Whether you’re looking for an intimate destination wedding for just the two of you or hoping to celebrate your special day with close friends and family, it’s hard to picture a more idyllic location to say “I Do” than in the untamed beauty of the Safari in Africa. Time stands still as the sheer beauty of the African Safari roams free and offers a truly unique experience to adventurous couples tying the knot. With a wide range of options and different amenities, having your wedding in the Safari can be more tangible than the wild may first appear to be.

Where in the African Safari Should You Tie the Knot?

South Africa’s luxurious private game reserves and National Parks have been at the forefront of safari weddings for decades and it’s easy to see why. Simply picture yourselves celebrating your marriage beneath an ancient Tamboti tree, on the banks of the Timbavati River, overlooking a waterhole, or where lodges have beautifully blended in the landscape, having your wedding in the Safari allows a couple to answer the call of the wild on their special day.

Kruger National Park is a romantic African destination for a wedding in the Safari and is perfect for couples who want a wedding ceremony they will never forget. Enjoy timeless luxury, experience the wilds of the Kruger Park where the Big Five gather and the spirit of Africa stands witness to the celebration with convenient Five Star lodges nearby. Located about a 4 hour car drive from Johannesburg, Kruger Park offers many beautiful lodges and all-inclusive packages that can make for easy wedding planning.

A couple get married in a safari in Africa- safari wedding photography

Karongwe Game Reserve is in Limpopo, 45 minutes away from Kruger National Park.   Karongwe is known as the untamed Garden of Eden and offers enchanting views over the Makhutsi River. It offers ample wildlife, tranquil settings, and exciting photo opportunities.

Botswana and Namibia are also excellent possibilities, especially if you’re seeking something very discreet and private. For those planning a small-scale wedding, why not consider looking in to one of East Africa’s private concessions, such as those close to the Masai Mara or Serengeti? Cape Town can be overfilled with tourists and can become expensive quickly during peak travel season, but also offers stunning views and luxurious lodges on the coast.

When is the Best Time to Have a Wedding in a Safari?

Africa is truly a year-round destination for luxury safari travel and weddings. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meats arrive daily to most of the lodges and camps from the surrounding area’s rich farmlands. However, what is the best choice for you depends on where you want to get married and what you would like to experience. Most countries in Africa experience a rainy and warm summer, and fine and dry winters. Spring starts in September and lasts until November, with summer starting in December and lasting until February or March.

A couple with an elephant and baby during their safari wedding in Africa

Spring is a beautiful time to get married in Africa as flowers are blooming, fresh grasses are growing and wildlife is abundant. Spring offers balmy days and warm nights. Keep in mind that the summer months of South Africa are the holiday season, and experiences a lot of travelers and tourists, so be sure to book venues, photographers etc well in advance if you are planning on a Summer celebration.

Wildebeests migrate on the plains of the Serengeti after the rains in November, and they settle in the southern plains between January and April. Although not always predictable, it may offer an exciting addition to your wedding in the Safari as it is punted as the “Greatest Show on Earth.”

The Customizability and Cost of Having a Wedding in the Safari

Let’s start by establishing that it is best to plan a wedding in the Safari in advance. It’s recommended to send out invitations as soon as possible (a year in advance) so your friends and family that you want there to celebrate have enough time to plan and save for a trip. You may be surprised how many will RSVP yes to a far away destination, but they are ticking off a bucket list item too!

First step would be to determine your budget. It’s important to keep in mind airfare and lodging can add up quickly. Whether it’s just the two of you or you plan to rent out an entire lodge for the celebration, the Safari has many choices to choose from. Destination weddings are often broadcasted as a cost-saving strategy since they usually come with a smaller guest list, but you need to factor in what may be additional (such as airfare) when you have fewer people to feed. Fortunately, when you plan a wedding in advance, you can also research airfare in advance to get the best pricing possible.

A couple poses for photos with an elephant during their safari wedding – safari wedding photography

Africa is known for it’s beautiful and luxurious lodges. With friendly and attentive staff, they help set up all accommodations and work to deliver the personal touches that will ensure your safari wedding photography exceed your wildest expectations. Each lodge has different maximum accommodations, so you should ensure they have enough room before booking that venue. You can purchase different packages and can set up all-included deals to guarantee everything will be taken care of and give some peace of mind to the adventurous couple.

The Legalities of a Wedding in the Safari

Getting married in Africa is actually quite simple for visitors. It is suggested to get the marriage license in your country, as it can take 2 months to process. If you plan it out, it can be done but it is more simple to do it in your hometown before the ceremony. Most lodges have accommodations for a pastor and can be set up through the company you are working with.

Keep in mind that you will need to visit your Doctor before adventuring to the Safari, to make sure you are up to date on your vaccinations. Going a few months prior will give yourself ample time to get everything in order, since some vaccines require follow up injections that need to be done 4 weeks after the first one. Travel to Africa usually requires Yellow Fever medications in addition to Malaria injections.

You will need to have a Passport to enter, and for any travel it is recommended to have copies of all documents handy, such as copies of your travel itinerary and insurance.

A couple kisses with lions in the background at sunset after getting married in the safari in Africa

Bringing the Magic of the Safari to Your Wedding Day

There’s little as evocative as a wedding ceremony in the bush. With wild animals roaming on the landscape below and the beauty of untouched nature enveloping everything, tying the knot in Africa is as unique as it comes. Make this special day unforgettable by having your Wedding in the Safari.

To see more images from this beautiful wedding, shoot us an email – [email protected].

If you’re getting married and want beautiful wedding photography like you see here, be sure to  contact us today and we’d be honored to shoot your wedding!  You can look at booking an African safari wedding here .

Want to view more beautiful wedding images?   Check out our galleries here !

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A guide to your luxury wedding

Imagine a safari wedding in Kruger National Park: unforgettable animal sightings, spectacular sunsets, and open-air dance floors under vast starry skies. At Thornybush, our incredible teams at each of our luxury safari lodges go the extra mile to create the most incredible safari weddings.

Here, you can exchange your most sacred vows in the great South African wilderness, surrounded by nature and your loved ones. Best of all, we’ll handle the entire extravaganza from start to finish, ensuring you get to take in every minute of your special day.

What are Thornybush Safari Weddings?

Combine safari with a destination wedding and you have the Thornybush safari wedding experience. Whether you simply want to host the wedding ceremony in the African bush or enjoy a full-service wedding package, we’re the experts.

First, we assign a dedicated safari weddings coordinator and wedding team to handle every detail of your big day. They’ll handle:

• Marriage officers, photographers, hairdressers, make-up artists, and musicians
• The wedding cake
• Table settings
• All other decor
• Last, but not least, the food menu

You can look forward to incredible attention to detail and romantic touches, giving you the time to relax and prepare for the occasion.

More About the Venues

Dreaming of saying “I do” under the shade of an umbrella thorn tree? Or would you prefer a marquee overlooking a waterhole? Whatever your dream safari wedding looks like, we can accommodate it at our selection of safari lodges.

That means incomparable photo opportunities and natural backdrops that will make yours the most spectacular wedding you’ve ever experienced. Our accomplished chefs will dazzle with their culinary skills, serving freshly-prepared appetisers and meals throughout the event.

Your guests can drive in from Johannesburg or charter a direct flight to our airstrip. We can also privatise each of our five lodges for exclusive use.

Round it Off with a Safari Honeymoon

After the festivities, we invite you to wind down and embrace slow life in the African wilderness. Choose from a wide selection of accommodation options and enjoy game drives, guided bush walks, and private dinners in the wilderness.

Before you head back to the big city, take some time to relax at our bush spa . Our expert therapists use Africology products to recreate an authentic spa experience in the middle of nature.

Ready to book your Thornybush safari wedding? Contact our team today .

WORLD-CLASS LODGES

Safari setting, attention to detail, romantic locations, rates & availability.

Thornybush’s luxury safari lodges can accommodate up to 60 guests.

Depending on the size of your wedding party, each one of our safari lodges can be used exclusively, setting the scene for an intimate and unforgettable reception.

With daily airline connections from major South African cities and just over a five-hour drive  from Johannesburg, Thornybush is an easy wedding destination for local and international guests to reach.

2024 Wedding Package Rate: ZAR 47 500 Rate Excludes Accommodation 2025 Wedding Package Rate: ZAR 50 000 Rate Excludes Accommodation

AVAILABILITY FOR 2024 1 January – 31 December 2024

AVAILABILITY FOR 2025 1 January – 31 December 2025

Email [email protected]  to get a quote for a destination wedding package + accommodation.

Perfect wedding!

Wedding of our dreams, trip of a lifetime, included in your luxury bush wedding package, wedding planner, wedding venue, romantic touches, included in your luxury wedding package.

• Wedding planner : Our on-site team will work with you to plan and prepare your big day, which we understand is a daunting task if you live afar.
• Wedding venue : You can choose from one of our four world-renowned lodges as your reception venue. We will set-up your ceremony and reception.
• Officiant : Whether you are a couple who wants a simple blessing or require an official marriage union with a marriage certificate, we have you covered. We will also guide International guests through the paperwork regarding legal matters.
•   Flowers : A beautiful, locally sourced bouquet and buttonhole detail.
• Wedding Cake : Red velvet, vanilla, carrot or chocolate, our cakes are all about delicious decadence.
• Romantic touches : A personalised turn-down service in your safari honeymoon suite on your wedding night

Contact us:   [email protected]   ( +27 11 253 6500)

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How to Plan a Safari Wedding: The Complete Guide

A safari wedding is truly magical, but it comes with a number of logistical challenges. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a safari wedding.

By Monica Mercuri

The First Look ✨

• Be aware of seasonal considerations in your safari location around the time of your wedding, since much of your wedding will be centered on the outdoors.
• While it’s important to map out much of the guests’ entire two- to three-day weekend to make the most of their short time, make sure to include some optional downtime.
• Take time to enjoy yourself, and even consider making it a safari honeymoon.

There’s an intoxicating magic to a safari wedding—exchanging vows in the unrivaled beauty of wild, surrounded by loved ones. Imagine gathering a group of your nearest and dearest in one of earth’s most enchanting settings to experience its offerings together, and then layering a wedding celebration on top of it. It’s the whole wedding package.

That said, planning a big day in the bush comes with its own set of logistical challenges. It’s important to engage a planner who is both well-versed in the region and experienced in navigating the coordination required to pull it off. For a safari destination wedding (or safari wedding theme) you will never forget, read on.

Look to Africa and Beyond

Africa may be the obvious place to start your search for the perfect safari wedding venue , but your wedding day safari experience can be found in many places around the globe. Including:

Bušveldas (or Bushveld)

Start With Your Guest List

The size of your wedding can significantly affect your safari wedding options. If you want a larger wedding party and guest list, you’ll need to make sure your venue(s) can accommodate all of your guests, from ceremony to reception. “Many lodges are only able to host a limited number of guests, so depending on your group size, you will want to select lodges that are close enough to each other to allow for joint gatherings,” says wedding planner Kim Zabriskie of The Wedding Collab .This also allows some variation in price point to accommodate the respective budgets of your guests, though keep in mind that you will have to manage getting guests to and from their respective lodges for group activities and events (which can be its own fun adventure , traveling through the African bush along dirt roads in safari vehicles).

Choose the Date of Your Wedding Thoughtfully

There are several factors you need to be aware of when scouting out the ideal special day. These include, but are not limited to:

Weather. South Africa's summer, for example, runs from about December to March, but the dry, colder months of May to October are the best time for animal sightings.

Diseases. The risk of diseases such as malaria is also higher during certain months compared to others.

Wedding Planning and Logistics: Step by Step

For most of your guests, this is likely their first trip to the bush—and likely a long way from home. Help make this a smooth trip for everyone by providing logistics and information ASAP. Including:

Notice of the wedding date (at least six months in advance)

Arrival and departure dates

Transportation details

Vaccination suggestions/resources

Visa requirements

Appropriate attire

Suggested packing list

Highlight the Local Flora, Flavors, and Sounds

Safari themed weddings provide the opportunity to get endlessly creative with invitations, welcome bags, and daily room drops that incorporate local items and inspiration. Some of our favorites include:

• Table decor . Use elements from the local environment like grasses, reeds, and succulents that reflect your surroundings. These items are practical, beautiful, and often economical.
• Local music and performances . Incorporating local music and performance into the celebration is another fun way to transport your guests into their temporary new world. An African children’s choir performing the ceremony music, for example, is a spectacular alternative to the usual Canon in D.
• Bonfire braai. Host an outdoor bonfire and grill for your welcoming party or during the wedding reception.

Keep It Simple With Decor

You’ll never be able to outdo nature in terms of sheer beauty, so why even try? Don’t detract from the natural splendor with overcomplicated wedding design. Keep things simple and chic, with neutral colors and plain textures, and allow guests to be stunned by their surroundings.

Have a Back-Up Plan for Your Wedding Ceremony

Two things even the best planners can’t control: the weather and animals moving into your wedding setting. If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony in an area popular with animals, try to reserve part of your budget for a contingency plan and have a few Plan B ideas at the ready. Keep a flexible mindset and manage your expectations.

Take Time to Enjoy Yourself

Give yourself ample time to enjoy your dream wedding and safari experience. Join your loved ones on game drives or at private game reserves, savor a sunset toast, and enjoy any amenities. Many safari wedding venues are experts at treating couples to an experience of a lifetime. After finding the perfect safari lodge, you can truly bring your best wedding ideas to life. Consider prolonging the magic even further and transitioning right into a safari honeymoon.

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Weddings on Safari

There's little as evocative as a wedding ceremony in the bush. With wild animals roaming on the landscape below, and the beauty of nature enveloping everything, tying the knot in Africa is as unique as it comes.

Where in Africa should you tie the knot?

South Africa's luxurious private game reserves have been at the forefront of wedding safaris for decades and we've worked hand in hand with a number of them. From intimate ceremonies to celebrations for over 200 guests, these reserves provide a stunning inimitability.

Botswana and Namibia are also excellent possibilities, especially if you're seeking something very discreet and private. And if it's a small-scale wedding, why not consider one of East Africa's private concessions, such as those close to the Masai Mara or Serengeti ?

Once in a lifetime experience.

The setting is spectacular and there's something mystical about having a zebra herd in the background of a wedding photo. You'll be getting married in one of the world's most untouched landscapes, where nothing interrupts nature for miles around. It truly feels like you're in the wild. But then you're also at an opulent lodge that blends into its surroundings.

Luxurious lodges and amenities.

Guests can enjoy the magic of the safari experience, along with the charm of the lodge. Private game reserves have offered boutique accommodation since long before the term became fashionable. Exceptionally appointed and immersed in nature, they're places that will wow the most fussy of guests.

Luxurious extras add an inspiring twist. Perhaps a champagne breakfast with elephants nearby; a sunset boat cruise past the hippos; riding away from the ceremony in a game vehicle, passing giraffe and rhinos on route to a reception beneath acacia trees. These reserves have a huge landscape to play with, so however unusual your requests may seem, there's a very good chance they can come true.

Weddings are about the little details and that's where we use our passion and knowledge of Africa. If you want something truly unique, a wedding safari is unrivalled.

Quick Quote

Our favourite places for wedding safaris.

Full of magnificent big cats, luxurious camps, majestic game and wonderful experiences, it's no wonder Masai Mara is so popular with safari goers.

If you're looking for a hidden retreat where you're the only person for miles amidst Africa's giants and elegant game, this remarkable area is the place to be.

An unforgettable experience where no journey is ever the same, a balloon safari is one of our favourite ways to see Africa from a new, unique angle.

We're sure you've heard of Greater Kruger's unspoilt splendour by now, but this popular area is full of wonderful hidden gems, too.

Connecting you with the wonderful flora and fauna of the Serengeti, Singita Faru Faru is a rural oasis we’re sure you’ll love.

Full of unique wildlife and pristine landscapes, Laikipia Conservancy offers a one-of-a-kind African safari experience.

Authentic safari experiences are paramount at this rustic camp, offering one of the most secluded places to truly get back to nature.

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I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy – Ernest Hemingway.

We are so excited to show you the dreamy, safari-inspired and intimate shoot we did. It is for those drawn to the art of raw beauty and who love the warm-washed bushveld .

Why do we opt for this?

What started as a way to celebrate during a pandemic turned into experiencing unimaginable joy mixed with immense thankfulness. If Covid has taught us anything, it was to redefine what we deem important. Nowadays, we realise that true happiness is found in creating experiences that we share with others and not in how many things we acquire.

As wedding vendors and for many future brides and grooms, a lot regarding the perfect wedding has changed. An intimate safari wedding is an answer to hosting a private celebration and still having those special moments that will last a lifetime.

What Is an Intimate Safari Wedding?

An intimate safari wedding takes the complicated and simplifies it to the essence of what matters to you. Weddings are no longer only following traditional paths. Your wedding day is about you, your partner, and those nearest and dearest to you and removing the add-ons to make room for the unforgettable.

How did we celebrate intimately?

A secluded wedding celebration gives you the opportunity for closeness and authenticity without worrying about a venue, guest list or becoming absorbed in a myriad of details.

Rather than feeling stressed about hosting the biggest party you’ve ever organised, keep it simple and include those nearest and dearest to you. Be present, feel and comprehend that you’re getting married. Pause and embrace every moment in a nature-inspired setting surrounded by those you love most.

We echoed the decor of natural colours in the safari scape on the table settings and stationery by accentuating the main character, the bushveld. And attentive to bushveld textures and their perfect colour combinations, we explored depth and interest in our designs. Pampas grass and dried flowers make floral arrangements more manageable in warmer climates. And we also agree with our modern couples that eco-friendly and sustainable decor is a big yes!

I agree with Runaway Romance in saying that nature is our décor champion, and that responsible foraging is the way to go. Check out their article at https://www.runawayromance.com/how-to-forage-semi-decently/ and be inspired!

Our couple’s wedding outfits were relaxed and easy to move in, synonymous with the simplicity found on Safari.

The following venues come highly recommended:

Misava Safari Camp is a real gem. Small and intimate with a setting in the Klaserie Drift Private Game Reserve with boundless African plains spreading beside the meandering river. What better way for this adventurous couple to celebrate their life together than by embarking on a post-vow safari game drive with champagne and cake naturally part of the deal.

Chitwa Chitwa , with their uncomplicated yet spacious rooms, are divine! They house modern accommodations with decks and private plunge pools overlooking the magnificent bushveld. They cater to an array of preferences; my bride even went for a workout in their gym before the ceremony, and traditional dancing ends the exciting game drives.

Lion Sands takes pride in delivering on experience. They are situated on a private game reserve and are home to the southern hemisphere’s highest and most diverse concentration of wildlife. Accommodation includes six lodges with an assortment of stays and all-inclusive rates.

Return Africa is the ultimate African Safari at the Pafuri Tented Camp in Northern Kruger. They offer African escapes in various locations and are the ideal place to host your ceremony. Because they situate alongside the river, there are endless opportunities for fantastic animal sights, and you can hear the hippos nearby.

If you find inspiration in the intimacy of this safari wedding , then this might be just for you. As a photographer, I treasure part-taking in celebrations and capturing the instants of any intimate marriage.

Contact me by filling in this form here if the idea of a private ceremony surrounded by closest loved ones in the South African Bush appeals to your view of the perfect day, and let’s capture your memories.

Any intimate wedding celebration is incomplete without the support of the vendor’s skill. A mention and big thank you to them for the following:

Decor and Florals: DekInstyl | Bespoke Wedding Dress: Marlize Meeding | Christo’s Attire: Big and Tall , Woolworths & Cotton On | Stationery: Design Bar | Hair & Make-Up: Petro from Blush_Ed by Excellence | Cake: Tasty Treats by Theresa | Models: Kyla & Christo Lottering

• previous post: Adventurers Elope in Africa
• next post: Kruger National Park Intimate Wedding

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How To Plan a Safari Wedding in Africa

When it comes to planning a destination wedding, nothing is more authentic than choosing a country in Africa. Imagine tying the knot with the lush Okavango Delta and its magnificent wildlife as your backdrop; perhaps you prefer having your wedding ceremony close to one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls. With a safari wedding, you have the flexibility to decide on your dream wedding.

We’ve curated some top advice from our safari experts to help you plan your dream African safari wedding.

Start With A Guest List

The number of people on your guest list will have a big impact on the location that you select. For instance, if you are thinking about throwing a huge celebration, you will need to make sure that there are enough places to stay nearby to accommodate all of the guests.

The welcome areas offered by the various wildlife lodges vary greatly from one establishment to the next. This will help you narrow down your choices for a safari wedding location in Southern Africa much more effectively.

Choosing Your Destination

Before you start thinking about decor or wedding attire, it is important that you choose a destination that embodies your African safari dream. Southern Africa is ideal in terms of climate and wildlife viewing opportunities.

It also boasts some of the most luxurious lodges and safari camps in Africa. We would recommend choosing a lodge or camp in Botswana, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.

Choosing a Camp or Lodge

Weddings, even intimate ones, require a significant amount of room. You should search for a lodge or camp that is able to accommodate both the ceremony and the celebration.

Tenting may not be an option for weddings like it is in the United States, so it is crucial to consider whether there is sufficient covered or indoor space for your party as well. Ideally, you should visit the venue you intend to use to host your wedding ceremony. This makes all the difference, since you will be able to see you your vision of your Big Day in reality. Nothing is worst than seeing a venue on your wedding day and finding out its everything you do not want.

Our Picturesque Wedding Camps

Matusadona National Park, Zimbabwe

Okavango Delta, Botswana

Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia

Plan your stay wisely.

It’s really pointless to stay on safari for 1-2 days. We recommend that you plan your stay wisely. A safari wedding is perfect because it not only caters to your wedding ceremony and celebrations but also makes for an epic honeymoon.

We recommend you speak to your safari expert about planning your honeymoon itinerary and activities after your guests leave. If you want to include your guests, you can always arrange a morning and afternoon game drive and spend the rest of the day enjoying the luxury activities your safari lodge has on offer.

Keep Decor to a Minimum

The natural environment itself serves as the visual focal point of a safari wedding. You don’t want to draw attention away from that by making the wedding decor too complicated. Maintain a stylish and simple aesthetic, and let the location do the talking.

Keep Track of Your Budget

When it comes to wedding planning, having a detailed budget is essential. It is important to consider any additional charges, not just for yourself but also for your guests. For instance, airfare, visas, vaccines, rental vehicles, lodging, safari excursions, conservation fees, and tipping. Make sure you leave room in your budget for unplanned costs like, shipping costs, and baggage fees. Also, adding that welcome party or brunch the day after will cost you money. Don’t forget to inform your banking consultant that you’ll be travelling so you don’t get hit with foreign transaction fees or, worse, have your card declined at the last minute. You’ll also want to bring some cash in the local currency.

Consider Wedding Insurance

When getting married in a different country, you should expect the unexpected. Having wedding insurance will help protect your money and give you peace of mind. Some venues even require it. It’s best to sign up early, though some companies can work with short notice. Make sure you know exactly what policies are available and what kind of coverage you’re getting.

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Wild and wonderful weddings in africa.

Say 'I do' in the bush or on a beach

01 Aug 2018

04 nov 2020.

Imagine standing on a rocky escarpment surrounded by family, friends and several colourful warriors. You’re looking down towards the plains, watching a family of elephants trundle towards the watering hole. It’s warm, but there’s a welcome light breeze from across the savannah, and really there’s only one thing on your mind. You’ve just said ‘I do’ to the love of your life and can’t quite believe that your wedding has been right here, in the heart of Africa.

You’re looking forward to celebrating with champagne as the sun slowly sinks below the horizon, and then spending your first night as a married couple in the honeymoon suite of your dreams. Which just happens to have an open-air bath overlooking the world’s most incredible panorama and is perfect for a spot of romantic star gazing. Maybe you’ll see shooting stars. But first there are game drives, dinner and dancing...it certainly isn’t an average wedding.

A wedding in Africa makes a lot of sense. Not just because of the superb scenery, warm hospitality and the fact you can go on safari at the same time. Getting married here can often be far easier and cheaper than doing it back at home, especially seeing as you can combine it with a African honeymoon.

Whether you fancy tying the knot in the bush, at a luxury lodge, up a mountain or on a beach, an 'Out of Africa' destination wedding ticks all the boxes. You just can’t go wrong with a combination of sunshine, sea and safari.

If you’re looking for some inspiration for your own wedding, we’ve chosen some of the best places in Africa to get married:

Eastern Africa

Saruni samburu - kenya.

For complete seclusion in pristine wilderness

Everybody falls in love at Saruni Samburu in Kenya : with the landscape, with the people, and of course with each other (although if you’re getting married here you should already have that bit covered!). This luxurious and intimate lodge boasts some of the most dramatic vistas in Africa, and with the rugged landscape and warm Samburu hospitality this is a stand-out location for a rather unique destination wedding.

The ceremony can be held on top of the mountain overlooking the stunning landscape, or a traditional blessing can take place in a Samburu village with the participation of the elders, warriors and women.

Saruni Samburu is also perfect for a magical Kenya honeymoon , and you’ll be hard pressed to find a more romantic honeymoon suite. The private villa is perched on the edge of a rocky outcrop with a breathtaking backdrop of the Kalama Conservancy and is an amazing spot for a special candlelit dinner on your very own veranda. When you want to get out and about, there's the ' Samburu Special 5 ' to encounter, as well as walking safaris, star gazing, and even hunting for scorpions if that's your thing.

Governor's Camp - Kenya

For big cat sightings and ballooning over the iconic Masai Mara

The chances are that when you consider getting married in Africa, you're thinking of a bush wedding in the famous Masai Mara . If you're dreaming of a truly 'Out of Africa' destination wedding, then you can't go wrong with Governor's Camp .

Catering for both intimate and large wedding parties, Governor's Camp offers unrivaled ceremony locations, such as on the banks of the Mara river and out on the plains. Sunset ceremonies and candlelit bush dinners can also be arranged. Governor's Camp is luxurious and private, and the ideal choice for an iconic African bush wedding.

For something even more extraordinary, why not take to the skies and get married in a hot air balloon whilst floating serenely over the vast, wildlife filled plains of the Mara. Read our article here about what it's like to go hot air ballooning over the Masai Mara.

Southern Africa

Ulusaba - south africa.

For top notch service and romantic indulgence in a private game reserve

Whether it's just the two of you, or you have your whole entourage with you, a wedding at Sir Richard Branson's private game reserve in Sabi Sands in the South African bush is a wonderfully indulgent and personal affair. You can choose to hold the ceremony in a grassy bush clearing, on the dam overlooking the hippos, or up at the lofty Rock Lodge which has stunning views at sunset (and is the perfect backdrop for a sunset ceremony).

The choice doesn't end there. At Ulusaba you can also tie the knot in a dry riverbed surrounded by jackalberry trees, on the wine cellar deck at Safari Lodge (which is very romantic at dusk), or even on a beach! Yes, there is a beach at the side of the dam, a very exclusive location for intimate weddings.

“Having planned and organised over 100 weddings, the Ulusaba team are experts in local touches and traditions to make a memorable wedding day. During the ceremony, which usually takes place against the backdrop of the African plains, couples can mark their union the traditional African way by tying their wrists together with dried grass. A favourite way to complete the vows is with a performance from our very own Ulusaba Choir, who perform traditional Shangaan wedding songs from the local predominant tribe, for whom song and dance is equal to breath. (Llané Langdon, General Manager, Ulusaba)”

The wedding feast can be set up out in the bush under the stars and surrounded by flaming torches; up on the deck of the treehouse suite which has superb views out across the dam (see if you can spot the hippos); or in the elegant yet comfortable lodge dining room which is open to the sights and sounds of the bush.

“After the ceremony, there’s no better way to get the party started than with a South African ‘Braai’ (barbeque) in the bush. A visit from the Shangaan Dancers is sure to get everyone on the dance floor and guests can even take part in the ‘Expression of Joy’ dance which is usually performed by the groom and his father after a tribal wedding ceremony. (Llané Langdon)”

Garonga - South Africa

For wedding nights spent on a romantic bush platform with candlelit bush baths

Garonga is a luxury safari camp in the heart of the Greater Makalali Private Nature Reserve to the west of the Kruger National Park . A place of tranquility and romance, Garonga is a beautiful choice for an iconic safari wedding in South Africa. The service here is superb and the staff look after you from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave as a happily married couple.

“Why should you get married at Garonga? As well as having an incredible natural setting, a wedding at Garonga is stress free, relaxing and affordable. We take the pain out of the organisation and do it all for you. We also have many great add-ons to the wedding package, including choir and dance group performances, private dinners and even a decorated safari vehicle. (Bernie Smith, Owner of Garonga)”

Your big day begins with a sumptuous breakfast and a relaxing massage to calm those pre-wedding nerves, with the sounds of the bush all around. The ceremony can take place out in the bush, or in a number of stunning locations at either Safari Camp or Little Garonga.

The excitement doesn't end there. Next up is a game drive with lunch and some bubbly to toast your new life together. Then you'll return to the camp and spend your first night in wedded bliss, where for added romance under the vast African skies, Gargona have something rather special up their sleeves...

“Don’t forget that at Garonga we offer a ‘safari for the soul’ so after the big day, you and your new spouse can indulge in massages, long baths in the Bush Bath and even a night alone out in the wild at The Sleep Out deck if you choose. A perfect wedding and honeymoon combo! (Bernie Smith)”

Four Seasons - Mauritius

For secluded ceremonies and tropical island celebrations

Fairy tales are real. How do we know this? Because we've seen the Four Seasons in Mauritius - it's the perfect location for an island paradise beach wedding. A haven of tropical greenery, stunning views and turquoise water, the Four Seasons is a secluded oasis on the edge of a sparkling lagoon over on the east coast of Mauritius. Weddings can take place at a number of beautiful locations across the property, including on the beach, under a gazebo on the golf course, or even on a catamaran. Newly-weds can then take a champagne cruise or a private Mauritius honeymoon picnic to celebrate.

The resort is ideal for your honeymoon too, with stylish villas and private pools, an award-winning spa and the Indian Ocean at your fingertips. Adventure or relaxation, it's your choice.

We asked the Four Seasons what makes a wedding here so special:

“​Celebrate this special day on an island once said to have inspired heaven. Say yes to a happily married life on our Wedding peninsula overlooking the Indian Ocean, set against a backdrop of the rolling, green Mauritian mountains, or if you prefer, celebrate privately in the garden of your private Residence Villa.​”

“For those seeking the ultimate seclusion, exchange vows floating on the turquoise lagoon on our Sea Cloud platform. Our team at Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita will oversee every detail of the planning stages and offer a tailor-made wedding according to your wishes. Ask our chef to create the bride and groom’s dream menu, take home a hand painted "Just Married" sign or embark on a newlywed photoshoot around the island. Find elements of the unexpected in everything we do.”

A rather unique option for your marriage ceremony is to hold it on the Ile Aux Cerfs, famous for its sandy beaches, beautiful lagoon and world-class natural beauty. If you're looking for something that stands out from the crowd that your guests will be talking about for years to come, then this is it.

“If you are planning on tying the knot on one of the most popular beaches of Ile aux Cerfs it incorporates taking a boat to the islet, saying your vows on a pristine beach then moving to your reception for a feast next to the sea. Our Wedding planner will give you endless ways to create your dream destination wedding with your loved ones present to help you celebrate.”

Breezes Beach Club and Spa - Zanzibar

For barefoot beach ceremonies and honeymoon paradise

If you're looking for a beach wedding with a difference, then the mystical spice island of Zanzibar is a beautiful and affordable choice. A luxury hotel on Zanzibar's beautiful east coast, Breezes Beach Club is perfect for the romantic African beach wedding of your dreams.

Set in beautiful, tropical landscaped gardens on a pristine and peaceful beach, Breezes Beach Club and Spa provides one of the best spots for enjoying sun, sea and sand. Its meticulously designed buildings, intimate and private dining and traditional décor create an elegant and unique atmosphere.

The ceremony can be held on a palm-fringed sandy beach overlooking the enchanting Indian Ocean, with gorgeous sunsets and light sea breezes making your occasion one to remember. And the best bit? You're already in a tropical island paradise ready for the honeymoon of a lifetime. Breezes Beach Club offer special honeymoon packages with romantic surprises during your stay, the ideal retreat to relax after your big day.

For some honeymoon ideas, take a look at our top 10 African honeymoon ideas or call our friendly team on 01768 603 715 who would be happy to help you arrange your dream wedding or safari honeymoon .

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Safari wedding the romance of africa, a very african honeymoon safari wedding & honeymoon ideas.

Since the earliest days of colonial exploration, Africa has been inspiring romance and more than the occasional safari wedding.

Its quixotic landscapes and expansive spaces offer solitude and privacy, bathed in the glorious light so ubiquitous and distinctive of an African safari. In the early 1900s, Europe’s aristocracy escaped the austere suffocation of high society, finding forbidden love on the plains. Most famously, Dame Karen von Blixen migrated to Africa to establish a new life, meeting the rugged and dashing Denys Hatton, so creating one of Hollywood’s most iconic and moving safari weddings, documented in her autobiography and immortalised in Out of Africa .

But time rose-tints the romance of the past, and these magical moments were fleeting, amidst a morass of struggles and challenges. Love blossomed as much from these challenges – almost out of necessity – as despite them.

Fortunately, a century of advancements has allowed us to maintain the classical romance of yesteryear while overcoming all of the hardships, resulting in staggeringly romantic, wonderfully timeless safari weddings with every trapping and convenience of our modern world.

Whether bending a knee on the Maasai Mara , uttering your vows in the Okavango or escaping the clamouring attention of family and friends to spend the first days of your new life alone together, Africa is one of the most exceptional destinations for newlyweds and lovebirds.

Inspired by Valentine’s Day just passed and offering ideas for marital bliss in 2024, these are some of our most romantic suggestions for a safari wedding or honeymoon:

SAFARI WEDDING PROPERTIES

• Segera’s Bird Nest
• Londolozi Granite Suites

Sungani Lodge

Nyamatusi camp, nyungwe house, safari wedding experiences, ballooning over namibia, helicopter horizons, a spa day in the cape winelands, horseriding in the okavango, knysna, the pearl of the garden route.

Segera’s Nay Palad Bird Nest

The seclusion of Laikipia county, with its rolling hillsides, golden plains and plentiful wildlife, inspires even the least poetic of visitors to pick up a pen, focus a camera or daub a canvas in expression of its compelling romanticism.

Into this already divine landscape comes Segera – a highly intimate collection of private properties at which peace washes over you like silk on a gentle breeze and time ceases to be relevant. Here, couples can immerse themselves as much in their surroundings as in their love, sharing incredible game drives, wandering the gardens amid fluttering hummingbirds and enjoying candlelit dinners under the luminescence of nightfall.

The piéce de resistance in Segera’s romantic offerings is its elevated ‘bird nest’ – a private overnight suite a short distance from the main property with an intimate enclosed bedroom and striking rooftop viewing platform swathed in a nest-like wickerwork of sticks.

Even when leaving friends and relatives behind and visiting the most perfect hotel or residence, new love can feel stifled by staff, fellow guests and a lack of privacy. At Segera’s Bird Nest, the world disappears, every distraction is silenced and you are free to indulge uninterrupted in the wonderful glow and excitement of new union.

Granite Suites

A safari wedding is incomplete without a little extravagance. These moments will – hopefully – only happen once; they are yours to share, forging memories like fireworks to illuminate your long and happy life together.

Set in the private Londolozi Reserve on the borders of Kruger National Park , the Private Granite Suites are the crowning jewel of Londolozi’s collection of exclusive properties. Specifically catering to honeymooning couples, each of the three suites is set apart, giving guests plenty of personal space and seclusion. 

Overlooking a waterway that weaves between vast granite boulders smoothed over thousands of years, couples can enjoy a supremely indulgent bath together while watching families of elephant drinking from the river. 

The greater property contains a bar and restaurant at which you can enjoy drinks and meals with the handful of other guests, or you can request chilled, crisp sparkling wine and canapés on your balcony as you conclude a day of game drives and wildlife watching in privacy.

There is something in the serenity of water that fills the heart. The Zambezi gracefully winds its way through South Luangwa National Park , carving out channels and islands isolated from the rest of the world and providing the perfect setting for the more adventurous safari wedding. 

Each tented camp offers the comfort of a more established property while eliminating the separation from nature that walls of brick and mortar can instil.

Waking to the trickling waters of the Zambezi, falling asleep to the sound of grunting hippo and enjoying absolute solitude with all the conveniences of a larger property, Sungani is the perfect marriage of privacy and provision.

The indulgence and comfort of the lodge complement the remarkable delta, surrounded on all sides by the Zambezi. The tranquillity is intoxicating, and love and romance are borne upon the ever-changing, gently flowing waters. Couples can canoe, take a game drive or set out on an exciting walking safari, though perhaps leaving the wedding dress and high heels at camp.

Above all, a picnic or champagne brunch in the bush is an imperative addition to your stay, and there are few better ways or locations in which to toast your new life together.

Set in one of the wildest and most remote parts of Africa, and nestled on the banks of the Zambezi in Zimbabwe’s Mana Pools National Park , Nyamatusi Camp touches on the romance of colonial Africa but with a chic, modern approach. Crisp linen drapes grace each private suite’s interior, flynets gathered around a sumptuous four-poster bed and the property has been impeccably designed to unite traditional building methods with modern luxury and sustainability practices.

When flying into the remote camp, one can only be inspired by a desire to explore the landscapes below. Herds of hippo wallow lethargically in the river’s depths, the water gently oozing like honey through the tall grass at its banks. Elephant amble slowly between trees, taking life one step at a time, and flocks of carmine bee-eaters fill the skies in a continually-fluttering cloud of crimson.

Taking a private game drive, one can gain a true sense of the wilderness, but on foot, this becomes almost inebriating. Taking the time to join an expert guide on a walking safari will uncover experiences that, if not shared, might not be believed. As a couple in love, this can be divinely uniting, walking across the dry grass, between ancient trees, to spot zebra, antelope or if lucky, elephant and leopard.

It is the magic of these experiences that bring couples closer together, revelling around each evening’s campfire in the sights and sounds shared through each day.

The private suites spill out onto timber balconies with breathtaking views, especially at dawn, and a plunge pool to cool off or simply take in the twilight with a glass of bubbles in hand. At Nyamatusi, one enjoys that sense of being cocooned in lavish decadence, pristine sheets and fully-appointed en suites, immaculate furnishings and welcoming comfort. But one glance reminds guests that they aren’t in an exclusive New York hotel, but in the untouched wilds of Africa.

A marriage and a honeymoon are once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Even for those who may undertake them several times within their lives, each one will stand apart as its own unique, highly memorable experience.

There are many ways to exacerbate the potency of these moments, through the choice of venue, guests, décor and so on. Though absolutely essential for a safari wedding or honeymoon, it is sometimes the additions that can be the most memorable.

Nyungwe House is, without exception, a property of unwavering excellence inspired by more traditional homesteads but crafted with distinctly contemporary flair. Though perfect for honeymooners or couples celebrating their relationship, what makes Nyungwe particularly romantic lies in the forests of the surrounding mountains.

Photos: One&Only Nyungwe House

The lush foothills of Nyungwe National Park are home to one of the strongest populations of chimpanzees, in addition to several other primates and myriad bird species. Explorations of the jungle pathways or lofty canopy bridges fill one with a sense of wonder and an absolute joy to be alive. After sunset, the verdant hillscapes form darkened shadows on the spectacular night sky, a canopy of stars scattered like confetti across the deep blue heavens.

Sharing these moments gives one a newfound appreciation for life, and a life shared with the one you love.

Is hot-air ballooning a clichéd addition to a honeymoon bucket list? Perhaps, but for very good reason. So unlike anything else, beginning in the cold hours of dawn and drifting silently through the sky before descending for a champagne breakfast, few things could be more romantic.

Replicable across the world, whether sweeping across familiar terrain or seeing the Great Migration from the sky, ballooning is a truly valid choice for any honeymoon. But there are some places in which the same experience becomes vastly and movingly different, and the deserts of Namibia are one such place.

Few things can prepare you for your first glimpse of the arid plains skirted by towering red dunes, juxtaposed with a vibrant blue sky and occasional shadow of wandering elephants or blackened camel thorn trees. There are numerous elegant properties in the region to choose from, and on the ground, your wedding or honeymoon portraits will be otherworldly, ethereal and simply stunning.

Rising above this wilderness in the dawn’s early light, one will fall in love all over again, and even more so if it is kept as a surprise by your betrothed. Drifting on the morning breeze for an hour or more, you return to the earth and a breakfast setting, complete with furniture, linen and silver cutlery, an icy glass of champagne presented as the gourmet meal is served.

If you weren’t utterly in love before you took off, you certainly will be after a magical balloon flight.

Though soaring across the Okavango Delta in an expertly-piloted helicopter may seem to be the epitome of romantic safari wedding indulgence, which indeed it is, it is the destination that brings it onto our list. 

Solitude is an important aspect of any honeymoon, but not so much as to feel isolated. Here in the Delta, newlyweds can board a helicopter and be whisked away to a private island for canapés and sparkling wine, left to drink in the bubbles and the surrounding vistas, while birds chase bugs across the water’s surface and the tranquillity is palpable.

Botswana has a superb collection of first-class properties, and these independently-run helicopter tours can be arranged from several. This allows honeymooners to stay in the lodge of their choice and add a helicopter flight to their safari wedding.

Gloriously romantic on any occasion, the Cape Winelands of South Africa are a picture-perfect vista of towering mountains, lush, green landscapes, quaint historic towns and exquisite luxury properties.

There are several to choose from – including one of our favourite Winelands properties, Babylonstoren.

However, Delaire Graff Estate in the famed Stellenbosch Winelands is a sublime honeymoon getaway. Positioned atop the Helshoogte Pass, overlooking the breathtaking Banghoek Valley below, Delaire Graff is as much a luxury residence as it is a finely-curated art gallery, featuring fine art and sculptures from many of Africa’s leading creators.

Pairing innovative cuisine with award-winning wines, dining at Delaire Graff is a sensational experience. With a choice of two restaurants, the contemporary, ‘bistro-chic’ Delaire Graff and the Afro-Asian-inspired Indochine, there is more than enough choice of culinary delights.

Photos: Delaire Graff

But wining and dining are only the beginning. Wandering the impeccably-landscaped gardens, taking in the dramatic scenery, honeymooners can then venture to the property’s private spa for a selection of pampering treatments. And of course, for those seeking a shared experience, the Jardin de Delaire couples package is unmissable, incorporating African botanicals, indulgent massages and a scrub and body mask, culminating in a relaxing sauna.

This half-day of luxurious pampering would be wonderful in any location, but embraced by the hillsides of the Cape Winelands, with such flawless scenery in every direction, the sublime becomes an incomparably dreamlike blend of all the region has to offer.

Returning to the Okavango Delta, our next safari wedding experience remains on terra firma . Horseback riding has a beautifully poetic nostalgia to it, harking back to the seemingly carefree days of a careless world, meandering the prairies without a care in the world.

In the Okavango, horseriding takes on a new dynamic. 

A half-day horseback safari allows riders to get closer to wildlife, almost accepted as part of the herd, the animals seeing four legs and a familiar shape, feeling far less intimidated than at the sight of a rumbling steel box.

Time slips away in the plodding gait of your horse, and one’s thoughts drift with the breeze as you marvel at the landscapes and their inhabitants.

But the Okavango isn’t the Serengeti, and grasslands are punctuated by creeks and streams that must be forded. In a plume of spray, horses gallop through the floodplains, their riders gleefully grasping saddle and rein, exhilarated and enthralled.

This combination of sedate serenity and dynamic drama brings all participants closer together, particularly if joined in holy matrimony. The laughter, the thrill, the wonder and the peace are shared completely, creating camaraderie and kinship even with strangers.

Dismounting, riders will be treated to a picnic lunch, and few things could embody the archetypal romance of Out of Africa than a picnic on the plains beneath a thorntree, horses quietly grazing and the African sun illuminating the graceful vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see.

South Africa’s Garden Route stretches for 190 miles (300km) eastwards from Cape Town, itself a wonderfully romantic city on the water. Hiring a car and taking a leisurely drive along the quiet coastal roads, weaving in and out of secluded bays with verdant mountains stretching inland and the Indian Ocean reaching beyond the southern horizon, this is a fine way indeed to spend a few days of one’s safari wedding and honeymoon.

There are numerous small towns along the way to offer intimate boutique accommodation or an array of mouthwatering cuisine accompanied, of course, by some of South Africa’s fine wines, but Knysna is particularly well-suited to honeymooners for one specific, rather slippery reason.

Huddled around a tranquil harbour, Knysna is regarded as the producer of South Africa’s finest oysters, and numerous bars and restaurants proffer the local bounty. The harvest culminates each year at the end of June in the Knysna Oyster Festival a ten-day celebration of the local produce during which more shellfish and shucked than could possibly be counted.

For the rest of the year, the town is significantly more sleepy, and strolling the harbour or nearby beaches hand in hand with the one you love is blissfully romantic. 

Knysna also holds a fabulous Pride festival each year – the Pink Loerie Mardi Gras – in celebration of creative expression, unity and love in all its myriad glory.

A wedding and its honeymoon are some of the most precious days of our lives. Every thought is given to the ceremony, but little to the honeymoon, short of its destination.

But a wedding isn’t the only cause for romantic celebration, and fifth, tenth or fiftieth wedding anniversaries are equally as worthy, possibly even more, of a commemorative adventure to reignite the love of the past decades.

With the right advice, that unforgettable special day can last for weeks, each and every moment as magical, memorable and wonderfully romantic as the next. Talk to your Travel Designer about crafting the perfect safari wedding or anniversary.

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Photobug community, wedding blog, safari wedding inspiration photographed by kay english photography.

Ever since visiting Africa a few years back and getting to see the incredible natural beauty of Zambia and Botswana I’ve had a huge soft spot for anything related to Safaris! East Coast wedding photographer Kay English Photography recently joined forces with MDS Floral Design , dress designer Sarah Seven and a whole team of other creative wedding professionals for this Safari inspired wedding photo shoot at The Ashford Estate , and I love all the little details and colors ideas that could bring a little bit of the African wilderness to a glamorous wedding day!

Photo Shoot Team:

Photography, Concept & Styling: Kay English Photography Overall Concept by Meghan Barbato Floral Design & Table Decor: MDS Floral Design Wedding Dress: Golden Lights gown by Sarah Seven Wedding Cake: Compass globe cake by Hudson Cakery Location: The Ashford Estate and Six Flags Safari Props and Decor Accessories: Butterfly Globe by ImagineNations , Butterfly Bow Tie by Fox and Lamb , Vintage Parasols by Bella Umbrella , Hairpieces by Erica Elizabeth Design , Safari Cookies by Tookies , Heart Confetti & Garland by The Path Less Traveled , USA to Africa Map by Here and There Shop , Coordinates Pillow by Aislinn Creations , Heart Burlap Sign by Brooke Trost , Map Envelopes by Sandy Banner , Giraffe Cufflinks by Avant Garde Design , Map Pinwheels by Banner Girl Design

So fun! You can see more of this creative wedding photo shoot on the Kay English Photography blog , and more wedding inspiration of all kinds in our Wedding Photo Gallery!

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A DESTINATION WEDDING IN THE MAASAI MARA

Angama’s wedding safari, your dream wedding in africa.

With endless views of the Maasai Mara Reserve, Angama Mara serves as the most beautiful backdrop to your destination wedding, be it a classical ceremony, or a traditional Maasai blessing.

The team at the lodge love nothing more than planning memorable weddings – always beautifully simple with hints of Maasai culture, overflowing with Kenya’s world-famous roses and views over Africa so wide that your guests will be overwhelmed by the splendour of it all.

We look forward to creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Where to Say ‘I Do’

A Choice of Settings

The Out of Africa Saddle

Probably the most iconic wedding setting at Angama Mara, our Out of Africa Saddle brings together the romance from the film with the dramatic views of the Reserve below.

Here, the bridal couple can choose to exchange their vows in the middle of nowhere with nothing but chairs, flowers, a table and the endless African sky overhead.

Quick Facts:

Suitable for 30 – 60 guests

Best in the late afternoon

Ideal for Maasai wedding entourage

Angama’s one-acre Shamba is a garden unlike any other. A joyful stroll along the winding pathways down to a deck canopied under two huge moth trees where the Shamba wedding ceremony takes place.

Suitable for 10 – 30 guests

A magical garden setting with views of the Mara

Perfect for intimate weddings

Hidden away in the heart of the property and just next to the Shamba sits the Angama Chapel – a beautiful non-denominational Maasai brick and stained glass building that serves as a place of peace and comfort.

Suitable for 30 – 60 guests

Perfect wet weather option

Beautiful when filled with flowers and candles

The Reception

After the ceremony, drinks, bitings and photographs, it is time to head back to one of Angama’s Guest Areas to celebrate the exchanging of vows.

The Guest Area is the most beautiful location for your wedding feast. Long tables laden with fresh flowers and candles cast a warm glow over the elegant copper and brassware.

Soft lighting and beautiful architecture

Expansive deck and baraza overlooking the Mara

A celebratory feast ending with Angama’s signature wedding cake

Wedding Styles

Two Wedding Options to Choose From

A Traditional Maasai Blessing

Maasai Blessings can be performed for either newlyweds or vow renewals and are held at sunset in either our traditional Maasai Boma or Shamba.

This very special ceremony begins with the couple, dressed in traditional Maasai attire, arriving at their blessing accompanied by Maasai warriors and maidens. After a traditional performance of song and dance, the Maasai elder will bless the couple.

A Classic Wedding

Many brides dream of their classical white wedding dress framed against a dramatic sky. With Angama Mara’s breathtaking views of the Mara Reserve, there are a multitude of settings as a backdrop to your elegant safari white wedding.

Surrounded by unspoilt nature and your loved ones, this must be one of the most romantic settings in the world from which to begin your beautiful journey as a married couple.

PLAN YOUR DREAM SAFARI DESTINATION WEDDING

An unforgettable celebration for all.

There are endless ways to spend your time at Angama Mara – from beautiful days exploring the Mara landscape and discovering the great animals that call it home, to quiet moments of gentle relaxation.

Arrive in the world-famous Maasai Mara and settle into your spacious tented suite perched right at the edge of the escarpment. After a celebratory glass of sparkling wine, set off on safari to get your first taste of the wonderful adventure that awaits.

Spend the morning at the lodge, perhaps enjoying a massage or sitting back on your red rocking chair and taking in the view. After a delicious lunch, head out on another afternoon safari.

Start your wedding day by floating high above the Mara in a hot-air balloon followed by a champagne breakfast and a quick pre-wedding siesta. Then it’s time to get ready for the ceremony and celebration.

After a lazy late-morning lie-in, join your friends and family over some more wonderful food and wine, reliving the wonderful day of wedding celebrations. In the evening, dine under the stars at Angama Mara’s Forest BBQ.

Watch a final Mara sunrise from the foot of your bed, before setting off on your last morning safari. Return to the lodge for breakfast, check out and a final farewell before departing to start your new adventure as a married couple.

The Finer Details

At Angama Mara there are no costs attached to venue hire. Our wedding party guests simply pay for their accommodation. For sole-use of a guest area for the reception, guests will need to reserve one or both camps for their wedding. Our standard wedding set up includes:

Up to 60 white chairs for the ceremony

A table covered in a white table cloth as an altar

An officiant from our staff

15 Maasai warriors or maidens

Sparkling wine, drinks and bitings at the ceremony

At the wedding feast the tables in the guest area are set with handsome copper under plates, candles and flowers

East African Honeymoons

After a beautiful wedding at Angama Mara, what better way to ease into married life than barefoot luxury on one of the Indian Ocean’s many beach destinations and private islands.

All You Need to Know

Weddings at Angama Mara will not be an official marriage. You are advised to be married in your home country before or after coming to Kenya.

Angama Mara offers weddings for 30 guests, or 60 guests (the bridal couples has to take either one or both camps – both of which are identical). Alternatively, if you would prefer a private affair with just yourselves and a few guests, that too is possible.

Angama Mara works with professional photographers and videographers based in Nairobi. Please contact us to discuss the options available.

Should you like to work with a wedding planner, we ask that the Angama Mara team sets up a call with them prior to the wedding to explain the advantages and limitations to a destination wedding in the middle of the Maasai Mara.

The pastry team have perfected a beautiful signature wedding cake – a Persian Love Cake. The rose-scented cake is the softest chiffon with pops of cardamom and saffron cream – the rose and the spices having a very strong connection to Kenya which is one of the world’s biggest rose exporters, as well as influences from the coastal Swahili culture and flavours. Set on a marble cake stand and adorned with fresh roses, the Angama wedding cake is displayed in the guest area awaiting the couple’s arrival.

Flowers can be sourced on request, as well as rose petals. Certain flowers hold up to the African sun better than others, and the Angama team can guide you on the best options.

Angama’s Chapel is a beautiful wet weather option that can be kept as a standby alternative should it rain on the day.

Please note that while all weddings require at least one of Angama Mara’s camps to be booked exclusively, sound does travel across the Great Rift Valley and as such, music at wedding receptions is limited to a small speaker and until a reasonable hour. Should a wedding of both camps (60 guests) be booked, the music may be played at your discretion.

Whether you prefer the beach, or some more time in the bush, our Angama Safaris team of knowledgeable East Africa specialists are standing by to help you plan the perfect honeymoon.

Explore More

Guests staying at any of Angama’s camps and lodges are faced with the toughest of choices — how they wish to spend their day. Take a look at some of the daily adventures on offer:

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Safari Wedding

There were a million small details that went into to making each day perfect; everything from finding a Tanzanian pastor, to having the right plugs to accommodate the bride’s curling iron, to planning the details of the day of wedding day (massages before, romantic bush dinner after of course). By working with closely with the property owners and managers both weddings went off without a hitch. And then of course both couples continued on to their safari honeymoons!

Don’t tell us you’ve never thought about it….well if you really haven’t, after looking at these pictures you will be!

Patricia Mangold and Guy Johnson (October 2013)

Trish and Guy were married at Singita Sabora , Singita’s Grumeti Reserve, western Serengeti, Tanzania

What the couple had to say:

“Our wedding and honeymoon was magical!! We’re still on cloud nine! Even brought a few tears to my dad. Thank you so much for all your help in organizing this amazing trip that we will never forget. Many, many thanks.”

-Trish and Guy

Brittany and Brad Sparks (November 2013)

Chem Chem Safari Lodge , Lake Manyara, Tanzania

What the couple had to say (from the Chem Chem Guestbook)

Both trips of these happened to be in Tanzania, but you can get married on safari at properties throughout Africa.

THREE WAYS TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR SAFARI WITH AFRICANMECCA

TRAVEL & OPERATIONS OFFICES

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WEDDING SAFARIS IN AFRICA

Are you planning a wedding safari in africa scroll down for details...

• Travel Guide

Learn More On AfricanMecca Safari Tier Ratings & Experiences

1. Safari Trip Ideas

2. beach trip ideas, 3. mountain trip ideas, 4. itinerary trip ideas.

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Wildlife safaris in africa.

Africa is home to many of the biosphere's most majestic and glorious creatures. No matter where you go on safari, you are assured of once-in-a-lifetime wildlife, historical and cultural experience.

CUSTOM & PRIVATE AFRICA SAFARIS

We tailor-make your itinerary to your needs and desires. Bespoke and Private Safaris by AfricanMecca offer the utmost personalization for your activities and timetable based on your specifications.

HONEYMOON SAFARIS IN AFRICA

Africa evokes romance and adventure in all who visit. Nothing bonds you more with your loved one than celebrating your new married life together and sharing precious moments during your safari travels.

FAMILY SAFARIS IN AFRICA

A family safari is fun-filled and educational for children and adults alike! Surrounded by cultural, historical and natural treasures are enlightening ways to spend time bonding as a household.

LUXURY SAFARIS IN AFRICA

A boutique safari offers the utmost in wilderness poise and authentic grandeur. Discreet and friendly staff tends to your every wish, leaving you to indulge simply in the many personalized services.

PHOTO SAFARIS IN AFRICA

Your Photo Safari by AfricanMecca is more than just reaching the best locations for superb pictures. We team up with specialist nature photographers and provide you with lessons and expert insights.

CULTURAL SAFARIS IN AFRICA

The many native cultures of Africa are some of the oldest in the world. A Cultural Safari by AfricanMecca is your chance to meet and interact with indigenous people on a personal and intimate level.

PRIMATE SAFARIS IN AFRICA

The human-like behaviors, social interactions and playful antics of primates capture the hearts of people. Our safaris are led by guides with an intimate knowledge of primate habitats and behaviors.

WALKING SAFARIS IN AFRICA

A bush walk allows you to authentically peer into miniscule worlds of Africa. You study and investigate the earth for animal tracks, wildlife droppings and learn ancient techniques for tracking fauna.

BIRDING SAFARIS IN AFRICA

Ornithologists, avian enthusiasts and like-minded twitchers looking for resident and migrant feathered creatures will love the specialist AfricanMecca Birding Safari that are tailored to your needs.

HORSEBACK SAFARIS IN AFRICA

Uncovering the beauty of Southern and Eastern Africa on a horseback is unlike any other experience that takes you into the pristine wilderness. The experience is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

BALLOON SAFARI IN AFRICA

Take your dream Africa trip to a new level on a balloon ride over some of the most beautiful landscapes! You simply cannot imagine the spectacular beauty that unfolds below you as you drift silently.

Your wedding day should be a time to reflect on the depth of your devotion, and celebrate the life you begin together in unity. We know the perfect locations in the wilds of Africa to give you a dream wedding.

AFRICA BUSH & BEACH SAFARIS

The juxtaposition of inland wilderness and coastal tropical beaches makes Africa one of the best destinations for adventure travelers. Experience terrestrial, avian and aquatic fauna alongside distinct flora.

CONTACT AND TALK TO OUR SAFARI EXPERTS TODAY TO KICK-START YOUR TOUR PLANNING PROCESS

Request Africa Custom Or Tailor-Made Safari Pricing Based On Your Specific Travel Dates At Your Preferred Safari Tier Camp Or Lodge

SAFARI PRICES FOR AFRICA

Review recommended itineraries and prices of our discerning Africa safaris with the option of customizing your tour based on your needs and preferences.

AFRICA TRIP IDEAS

Review experiences from wildlife photo safari, horse riding, bush walks, mountain treks, honeymoon to family beach vacation, diving, snorkeling & fishing.

PARKS & RESERVES IN AFRICA

Review information on wildlife parks and reserves in Eastern and Southern Africa: Tanzania, South Africa, Kenya, Botswana, Zambia and other countries.

ACCOMMODATIONS IN AFRICA

Review information on safari camps, lodges, city hotels, beach resorts in Africa's pristine wilderness, cities, Swahili coastal shores and idyllic islands.

BEST TIME TO VISIT AFRICA

Review details on the best time to go to Africa to visit its diverse wildlife wildernesses, lakes, rivers, mountains, forests, islands, beaches and other ecologies.

BEACHES & ISLANDS OF AFRICA

Review Africa's beautiful Indian Ocean coast and islands where the turquoise waters tenderly wash up white sand beaches that create a serene ambience.

AFRICAN COUNTRY PROFILES

Review information and travel tips on African countries: climate, culture, geography, history, tipping guide, entry requirements, what to pack and wear and more.

CITY DAY TOURS FOR AFRICA

Review full or half day city tour options for Cape Town, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Zanzibar etc. Experiences can be customized around your vacation travels.

TOP 12 REASONS TO VISIT AFRICA

There are infinite reasons to visit Africa e.g wildlife safaris, gorilla and chimp treks, birding, beaches, mountain climbing, cultural tours and more.

AFRICANMECCA REVIEWS

Greetings to you and our most fervent thanks for a wonderful trip of Kenya, Zanzibar, South Africa & Victoria Falls. Everything went very well. This was truly a perfect vacation. Thank you so much for all your arrangements.

Adrienne & Barrie Carter - Canada

Dear Raza, The accommodations you recommended were superb. We loved them all -- Giraffe Manor, Wilderness Trails, Governor's Il Moran, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge and Mnemba Island Lodge.

Pat Bernard, Vice President, Global Channel Sales, Novell Corp - New Hampshire United States

AfricanMecca Safaris created a remarkable honeymoon tailored to our interests and desires. The quality of service and delivery of experience was unsurpassed. I highly recommend AfricanMecca Safaris to honeymooners, families, or any traveler.

Noorin & Jason Nelson - Maryland, United States

We had a great time on your safaris. Thank you very much for all that you did for us. We were in Africa overall for 5 weeks and spent time in South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Tanzania. We just totally loved it.

Bruce and Susie Ironside - New Zealand

I cannot say enough about the quality of AfricanMecca. Their teams in Kenya and Tanzania were top notch. Raza, again thanks to you and your entire organization! We will be repeat customers.

Dan Kobick - Managing Director, PricewaterhouseCoopers - New York, United States

I booked my safari holiday through AfricanMecca. They were the most helpful company I have ever dealt with and I work within the travel industry. I had the most amazing time. The holiday went as clockwork with no hitches anywhere.

Shelley Roberts - Hemel Hempstead, United Kingdom

This is to let you know my guests, The Bryant's, had a wonderful time on the trip Samburu, Masai Mara/Kenya, Chobe/Botswana & Victoria Falls/Zambia. Everything was perfect! Thank you..

Christine Milan - MT Carmel Travel - Connecticut, United States

Safari booking & tour holiday idea for africa.

When visiting Africa, we recommend your tour to varied national parks in Africa like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania , Kruger in South Africa , Chobe and Okavango Delta in Botswana , Masai Mara in Kenya to climbing Kilimanjaro , or gorilla and chimpanzee primate safari treks in Rwanda & Uganda ending with beachfront retreat to Zanzibar Island or Cape Town.

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SAFARI PRICES

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ARE YOU PLANNING TO BOOK AN AFRICAN SAFARI?

Do You Need Knowledgeable, Experienced & Specialist Guidance For Your Travels In Africa? Let Us Help Plan Your Trip Itinerary Correctly

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Wedding Safaris

• Need to know

Experience your dream wedding in an unforgettable, unmatched African safari setting.

There’s something magical about a destination wedding in an exotic, faraway land. And there’s nothing more faraway, more exotic or more magical than sharing your wedding with your closest family and friends under the warm glow of the African sun.

Many of the safari lodges at Madikwe Game Reserve offer exactly that dream, with a picture-perfect location amid the bush landscapes and abundant wildlife, married to all the comforts and luxuries your heart could desire.

As a private reserve, Madikwe Game Reserve does not have the same limits or restrictions (or crowds!) as a national park. Here you’ll get closer to the animals, sharing thrilling safari game drives by day and intimate moments in the safari lodge hideaways at night.

There’s also a range of choices here. Madikwe Game Reserve’s safari lodges come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and settings – from rustic to traditional, and from elegant to opulent. This gives you the chance to choose a location that fits your style, your needs and – down to a tee – the way you want your African safari wedding to look. Whether it’s a small and intimate affair or a big and boisterous party you’re after, Madikwe Game Reserve has world-class safari lodges to provide the unforgettable setting, and highly trained staff to assist with the planning and provide the execution.

Weddings are, of course, about the little details. That’s where our team of on-the-ground consultants come in, arranging all the accommodation for your wedding party and hooking you up with reputable local suppliers who can attend to any other needs you might have. Our love for Africa truly makes the difference here, giving you the comfort of knowing that everything is taken care of – and that the only surprises are those that will delight you and your loved ones.

And those little luxurious extras will make memories that’ll last forever. Maybe it’s a champagne breakfast near the watering hole, as elephants parade past. Perhaps it’s the picture of you and your new spouse riding away from the ceremony in a safari game vehicle, passing Africa’s unique guard of honour – zebras, rhinos, and antelope – as you make your way to a charming reception by the riverside. Or it could be the luxurious overnight hideaway under the starry canvas of the African night sky.

The magic of a destination wedding lies exactly there: in the destination. Here again, Madikwe Game Reserve is unrivalled, set in a malaria-free area with excellent weather through most of the year, and lying in close proximity to international airports in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Gaborone, Botswana. The reserve is a faraway dreamland, but it’s also quickly, easily and feasibly accessible.

And it’s all yours. Madikwe Game Reserve has a vast landscape to play with, giving you and your party solitude and privacy in the unforgettable, unmatched setting of the African bushveld.

ROMANCE & HONEYMOONS

Madikwe Game Reserve safari lodges that offer destination weddings:

• Impodimo Game Lodge
• Jaci’s Safari Lodge
• Jaci’s Tree Lodge
• Jaci’s Starbed Suites
• Jamala Madikwe
• Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge
• Madikwe Safari Lodge
• Mateya Safari Lodge
• Molori Safari Lodge
• Motswiri Private Safari Lodge
• Rhulani Safari Lodge
• RockFig Safari Lodge
• Tau Game Lodge
• Tuningi Safari Lodge

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Trees of madikwe – a celebration of life, the wisdom of african proverbs, monitoring monitors, experience the magic of madikwe game reserve.

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21 Safari Photography Tips for Capturing Stunning Safari Photos

As a passionate ethical wildlife photographer and qualified safari guide, I've gathered some valuable safari photography tips to help you elevate your safari experience. Even if you've never held a professional camera, you can still capture the raw beauty of the wild with just a few tips and tricks.

Embarking on a safari in Africa is a magical journey, and capturing these moments through photography allows you to relive the excitement and share the beauty of the African wilderness with others. Photography on safari also encourages you to pay attention to other things that might have gone unnoticed. By actively seeking unique angles and observing moments to capture, you become more attuned to the intricate details of the wildlife and the breathtaking landscapes surrounding you. It helps you notice small details and appreciate nature even more.

Read my 21   safari photography tips for capturing stunning safari photos :

1. Immerse Yourself in the Experience

Each day on safari brings unique moments. Photography not only preserves memories but also encourages you to notice intricate details and appreciate nature. Seek unique angles and moments to capture, and let the beauty of the wild inspire you.

2. Be mindful of the Environment and Respect Wildlife

Patience is key to capturing natural behavior. Maintain a respectful distance, observe quietly, and avoid disrupting the animals' natural rhythm. Remember, you are a guest in their home and therefore this is one of the most important wildlife photography tips . Always respect local regulations, cultures, and environments. Your patience will be reflected in the authenticity of your safari photos.

If you approach an animal sighting, always be careful to not disturb the animal and minimize noise. How to show respect for the animals during wildlife photography ? 

• Maintain a respectful distance
• Approach animals indirectly
• Avoid positioning yourself upwind from the animal
• Keep your voice extremely low
• Switch your camera to silent mode to avoid startling wildlife
• Don’t use your flash

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, adhering to a code of conduct ensures the well-being of wildlife, contributes to conservation efforts, and ensures a more authentic safari experience.

3. Utilize Your Guide's Knowledge

Collaborate with your local field guide who possesses invaluable knowledge of animal habits, territories, and behavior. Communicate your photography preferences, and leverage their expertise to position yourself for the perfect shot. Guides can anticipate lighting conditions and animal movements, enhancing your photography experience. For example, positioning the vehicle in a way that the sun is in your back instead of in your lens to have nice lighting on the animal or landscape you want to capture. However, on some occasions, it’s also great to photograph towards the sun to create a nice rim light around the animal.

As a nature and wildlife enthusiast, I encourage you to ask your safari guide lots of questions  to learn more about the behavior and habitats of the wildlife you encounter. This knowledge helps you anticipate movements and position yourself for the perfect shot.

4. Pay Attention to Composition

Crafting attractive compositions on safari is key to impactful photography. Be creative. Explore angles, perspectives, and framing techniques to create visually appealing images.

Rule of Thirds

Apply the rule of thirds by placing your subject off-center for dynamic images. Utilize paths, tracks, or natural elements like bushes, rocks or trees for depth and scale. These composition tips elevate your photos without requiring advanced technical skills. Most cameras also have a grid that helps you to better frame your subject. Also, always think of leaving an empty space in the direction the wildlife is heading or the direction the animal is looking. In some occasions, it's also a good idea to put your subject in the middle.

Shoot from a low angle

Shooting from a low angle (on the ground) can also make your composition more attractive. Safari in a game drive vehicle mostly doesn’t allow you to get out of the car to photograph wildlife, but on some occasions it might be possible. Another occasion could be if you’re on a walking safari . The advantage of getting low on the ground is that you are able to change the background in your scene. Being on eye-level with your animal also establishes a better connection.

Please consider the ethics of your framing – prioritize the well-being of the wildlife you encounter.

5. Show animals in their natural environment

Capturing close-ups of the Big Five is often popular among safari tourists, and wildlife photographers, but don’t forget the beautiful environment these animals live in.

Their natural environment is equally important as they form that bigger picture together. And it’s those areas that we need to protect to save wildlife from extinction.

Every part of the ecosystem is dependent on each other. That’s the beauty of nature, and it allows the viewer to understand where the animal lives and flourishes. As a conservation photographer, I also love to showcase the wildlife’s home that we need to protect.

6. Master the Exposure Triangle

Light is a fundamental element in photography, and understanding the exposure triangle is a fundamental part to master the art of safari photography. Understanding aperture , shutter speed , and ISO allows you to adapt to various lighting conditions. These three factors work together to determine how bright or dark your photos will turn out, as well as the level of sharpness and graininess.

Adjust aperture for light control and depth of field , use shutter speed to freeze or create motion of animals, and set ISO for sensitivity (lower during the day, higher when it’s getting darker).

7. Use Shutter Priority Mode for moving wildlife

If you’re used to photographing in automatic mode, it can feel like a puzzle if you want to photograph wildlife manually. Therefore, my best photography tip is to set your camera on shutter priority mode (S). It means that you only have to think about the shutter speed and the camera does the rest like your ISO and Aperture (semi)automatically.

This technique ensures sharp and clear images, especially when photographing animals in motion on your safari . Use a fast shutter speed to freeze fast-moving wildlife action, and try to practice with various settings between 1/250th of a second up to 1/2500s. Additionally, fast shutter speeds can help prevent camera shake, particularly when shooting handheld.

A rule of thumb: choose a minimum shutter speed based on the focal length you are shooting. An example: I often capture wildlife with a focal length of 400 mm, meaning my minimum shutter is 1/400s. If you are in a moving safari vehicle, boat or hot air balloon, and/or the animal you want to photograph is moving fast, then use a minimum of 2 times the focal length. So, shooting at 400 mm would mean a shutter speed of 1/800s. To capture moving birds in flight , you might want to practice choosing shutter speeds to up to 1/2000s.

8. Choose AI Servo (AF Continuous) Mode for moving wildlife

AI Servo  is the best mode to capture wildlife that is moving, to automatically keep track of and stay focussed on the moving animal.

9. Practice with Aperture Priority Mode for a ‘blurry’ background

Aperture Priority in safari photography allows you to set the desired aperture , controlling the depth of field in your wildlife shots. In situations where you want a blurred background to emphasize the subject, or conversely, a broader depth of field to capture more details.

Aperture Priority mode gives you this creative control. For example, when you want a close-up of a lion or a colorful bird with a blurred background effect, like the Lilac-breasted Roller in the above image. The more zoom and the lower the aperture number, the more you are able to eliminate the background in your image and create that nice compression.

On the other hand, if you want to photograph a group of animals like a herd of elephants, I recommend choosing an aperture of f/8 to get the whole group of animals in focus (and not only one).

10. Try Burst Shooting Mode in Safari Photography

Shooting in  burst mode is an important wildlife photography tip for safari enthusiasts, catering to both beginners and advanced photographers. Wildlife is unpredictable, and animals often move swiftly. Burst mode allows you to capture a series of rapid shots, increasing the chances of freezing dynamic moments, ensuring you don't miss critical actions or spontaneous behaviors.

Beginners benefit by having a safety net, capturing shots even if timing is a challenge. For advanced photographers, burst mode offers creative opportunities to select the perfect frame from a sequence.

11. Focus on the eyes of an animal

Always focus on the eyes of the animals ; that’s the cardinal rule of wildlife photography ! This golden tip elevates your shots, creating a connection between the viewer and the wildlife subject. Instead of hastily snapping numerous wildlife images, wait for the moment when the animal turns its gaze towards you.

Focusing on the eyes provides viewers with a unique perspective. It creates a visual connection, as if the animals are looking directly through the photograph at the audience. This transformative approach adds depth and emotion, making your wildlife images more memorable and resonant, especially when capturing close-up shots of animals. This technique enhances the details in the eyes, showcasing the intricacies and expressions that might be missed in broader shots.

Aim for a shutter speed between 1/250s to 1/2500s, depending on the animal's movement, and an aperture between f/2 to f/6, depending on your lens. These settings ensure both eyes are in focus, capturing the essence of the wildlife subject.

Remember, the eyes are the windows to the soul , even in the animal kingdom. So when focusing on the animal’s eyes, you can create truly remarkable and memorable wildlife photographs.

12. Shoot in RAW if you can

Shooting in RAW format on a safari offers several advantages.

RAW images provide a higher dynamic range compared to JPEG, capturing more details in both shadows and highlights. This is crucial in the diverse and often challenging lighting conditions encountered during a safari.

RAW files contain more image data , allowing for extensive post-processing without compromising quality. This flexibility is valuable when adjusting exposure, contrast, color balance, and other elements during the editing process (I usually edit my wildlife images in Lightroom).

Shooting in RAW preserves the original quality and detail captured by the camera's sensor. This is especially important in wildlife photography , where preserving the authenticity of the scene is crucial.

13. Timing is Everything: The Golden Hour and Beyond

The golden hours of sunrise and sunset conveniently align with the typical timing of game drives during a safari when the animals are most active. The warm, soft light enhances the colors and textures of the African landscape, creating a captivating backdrop for your photos.

The advantage of photographing during the Golden Hour , sometimes called ‘Magical Hour’, is that the soft golden light reduces harsh shadows and creates a golden glow. Patience during these hours rewards you with captivating glimpses into the animals' daily lives.

14. Equip Yourself Wisely with the right camera gear

Ensure you have the right camera equipment for safari photography.

Bring a DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) camera and zoom lenses with 200-600 mm range or a quality compact camera for versatile quality wildlife photos. Safari photography on a smartphone is not the best option to photograph wildlife, but it is, of course, a great option to create short videos, stories, and reels.

Zoom lenses for safari photography

I highly recommend a long lens with a minimum of 200 mm zoom to capture distant wildlife. A zoom lens allows you to effortlessly switch between photographing animals from a distance without disturbing them and capturing intricate details of flora and fauna up close.

More ideally, a zoom lens with a focal length of 300 mm+ is great for capturing wild animals or birds. If you’re using a full-frame camera, I would suggest a 400 mm zoom lens and if you are a keen birder a 600 mm long lens is perfect for bird photography on safari.

Wide-angle lens

Apart from zoom lenses, I always carry a wide-angle lens (for example 16-35 mm), great for capturing the beautiful African landscapes and its animals or magical sunsets.

Essential accessories

Don't forget essential accessories, such as memory cards, extra batteries, cleaning wipes, a charger, a camera bag, and a rain cover. Consider a beanbag for stability.

Hire photography gear for safari

Not having the right camera gear ? Nowadays, the quality of compact cameras is pretty good as well, and it’s also possible to hire photography gear .

15. Consider bringing a tripod and/or beanbag

Bringing a tripod and/or beanbag on safari is a crucial photography tip for the following reasons:

• Stability for Clear Shots: A tripod or beanbag provides stability, reducing camera shake and ensuring clear shots, especially when using longer lenses.
• Flexibility in Composition: Both tripods and beanbags allow photographers to compose shots with precision. A tripod is ideal for setting up shots in a fixed position, while a beanbag provides a more flexible option, allowing quick adjustments and movements.
• Support for Heavy Equipment: Professional camera gear , including telephoto lenses, can be heavy. A tripod and/or beanbag offers robust support for heavier equipment, preventing fatigue during extended periods of shooting.
• Long Exposure and Low Light Conditions: In low light or during sunrise/sunset safaris, a tripod is essential for capturing long-exposure shots without introducing motion blur. A tripod is also great to practice with star photography and photographing the milky way when you're back at the safari lodge .
• Silent Shooting with Beanbags: Beanbags are preferred for wildlife photography as they provide a stable base without the noise associated with adjusting tripod legs. This is especially important to avoid disturbing animals in their natural habitat.
• Versatility in Safari Vehicles: Safari vehicles often have limited space, and tripods may be cumbersome. Beanbags are more versatile, easily adapting to the contours of the vehicle and providing a stable platform for photography.

16. Make a back-up of your images on safari

I always back up my images while traveling. When my memory card is full, I back up my images onto an external hard drive. That is mostly enough, but for people who want to travel longer, I highly recommend backing up to a second external hard drive (kept in different locations). Hard drives I use are Lacie Rugged, Samsung, and Seagate.

If you are using your phone only, I also recommend backing up your images in the cloud, for example iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, Google Photos, you name it.

17. Keep it Simple and Be Patient

Wildlife photography requires patience . Allow yourself time to observe and wait for the right moment, focusing on mastering basic techniques. Don't be overwhelmed by settings; simplicity often reveals the raw beauty of wildlife.

18. Edit your photos

Editing your safari photos is not essential, but if you want to step up your safari photography game, I highly recommend learning how to edit your wildlife images in, for example Adobe Lightroom (for both desktop and smartphone) and Photoshop . Especially if you are planning to print your photos, post-processing is an important step.

Get in touch for a private workshop on how to edit your safari photos or join me on a photo safari where I will share editing tips to improve your wildlife photography .

19. Know Your Camera

If you're a beginner photographer, all the settings on your camera can be a bit overwhelming. When I first started photography, my camera was a puzzle to me. I kept using the automatic mode until I learned the basics of photography during a volunteer program in South Africa . Having two game drives per day in Thanda Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal was the perfect way to start practicing shooting in manual mode and learn more about the best settings for safari. I highly recommend to start learning more about your camera and camera settings before you go on safari. Go through your camera manual to find the buttons and settings of some of the technical photography tips I mentioned in this article.

20. Embrace Learning and Growth

Whether you're a beginner or experienced photographer, nurture your interest in learning photography. Books about photography, online photography courses, workshops and guided photo safari tours with photography experts offer opportunities to enhance your safari photography skills; including my small group photo safaris . To master a new skill, learning by doing is often the most effective approach to get to know your camera better. So please remember, anyone can learn photography, and the wonders of a safari in Africa can ignite your passion for capturing the mesmerizing beauty of our planet's wildlife.

21. Join me on a photo safari to Africa

Do you want to improve your photography skills on safari  and travel with like-minded travelers? Join me on a small group safari to Africa . As a professional wildlife photographer, I can help to improve your photography skills on safari by sharing hands-on experience and valuable tips. Instead of rushing to tick off the Big Five , we will spend our time carefully during the beautiful golden hours around sunrise (morning game drive ) and sunset (afternoon game drive ).

It doesn't matter if you're a beginner, intermediate, or professional photographer. Having an interest in photography and and being prepared to learn are the most important aspects.

Safari Photography Tips to take the best photos on safari

These tips, coupled with the expertise on my photographic safari trip to Africa , will undoubtedly enhance your safari photography journey. Capture the essence of Africa 's breathtaking wildlife and create lasting memories with every click of your camera (or even your smartphone).

Tying the Knot: Maasai Wedding Traditions

By Asilia Africa News | 24 February 2018

Maasai weddings are elaborate affairs that incorporate many traditional customs. Historically girls are married at anywhere between 12 and 20 years, however, this is slowly changing as education becomes more available to the fairer sex. But the rites still stand.

The day before the wedding the husband and best man will bring the last of the pre-agreed dowry to the girl’s family. This is normally a combination of livestock, cash, blankets and honey.

On this day the girl gets her head shaved as a symbol for the new beginning she is about to embark on.

The wedding procession starts with a blessing from an elder. He/she spits out milk outside the girl’s mother’s house. Before the girl leaves the house grass is tied to her shoes as a further blessing. For the cattle-loving Maasai grass symbolizes abundance (of milk).

As the bride leaves her village the women come to jeer her a little and also pledge wedding gifts. For each present (e.g. sheep, chickens) the bride ties a knot in one of the long threads on the enkariwa wedding necklace as a reminder of how many presents she needs to collect after the wedding.

The girl is often crying at this point, leaving her family’s village into the unknown.

The procession then goes to the husband’s village where the main celebration is held. When she arrives at this village she is given a baby or young child to hold to symbolise the children that she will have.

In a Maasai homestead each wife has her own house, but when a new wife comes in there often isn’t a house ready, and so the bride shares with a co-wife.

Two guests at Rekero Camp recently renewed their vows the Maasai way.

The groom wore a cloak made from calf skin and had a white stick (a sign of wealth) and a black stick (a sign of peace). The bride wore a Kanga and a traditional wedding necklace.

Facing east, a symbol of new beginnings, the couple received a Maasai blessing from a Maasai elder from the community. It went like this:

Entaseriana – B e safe forever

Entobikoi – Have a long life

Entubul emputa enkop – Multiply and fill the earth

Meishuro Nkera Inyi – May your children succeed in life

Metapaasha Intae Ilmeita – May all bad things move away from your family

Entorik Enkop – May you lead the world

To which the bride, groom and wedding party answered in unison: NAAI – Oh God.

Celebrations ensued with the eating of goatmeat and singing and dancing.

After much discussion between all the Maasai present, the ceremony ended with the bride being given the Maa name Nalotuesha, which means “she who comes with the rain, where she goes it will rain”.

The post Tying the Knot : The Maasai Way appeared first on Asilia Africa .

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8 Stunning Safari Honeymoon Destinations

When it comes to choosing where to go on honeymoon , many couples are seeking out new experiences and a wild adventure – after all, that's kind of what marriage is, right?

And when it comes to adventures, it doesn't get much wilder than a safari.

Remote destinations, exotic animals, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of danger; a safari honeymoon is madly romantic and totally unforgettable.

Photo by  Amy Caroline Photography  via Bridal Musings

And while Africa is the obvious choice for a safari, there are so many other parts of the world that boast the same awe-inspiring locations, incredible creatures, and captivating lodges. While in Africa itself, there are lesser-tapped pockets that provide the most magical experiences.

The key to choosing a great safari adventure is to try to go as native as possible, choose sustainable lodges and camps, authentic guides, and look for unique experiences, that don't exploit the animals, or the resources of the place you visit – while adding a little honeymoon luxury of course!

With that in mind, we've selected eight of the most spine-tinglingly beautiful places on earth, with lions and tigers and bears (oh my!) on their doorsteps…

South Africa

Photo via Makanyane

Photo via Sabi Sands

With the likes of Kruger National Park, one of the largest game reserves in Africa, the beautiful Eastern Cape game reserves, and countless conservations boasting the big five, South Africa is one of the most exciting and diverse safari destinations. Pair it up with a city stay in Cape Town or a winery-pitstop road trip on the Garden Route.

See: All the big safari stars, elephants, lions, zebra, leopards, giraffes, hippos and rhinos.

Sleep:  Elizabeth stayed at  Vuyani Safari Lodge  on her South African travels and said that the rangers were great, the food was delicious, and it had a wonderfully intimate atmosphere – they only have 14 guests (max) at a time. The pool overlooking the bush was perfect for chilling out in after a morning on the lookout for lions and rhinos.  Makanyane  has incredible accommodation on the Madikwe Game Reserve and  Sabi Sand Reserve  have a wide selection of spectacular honeymoon backdrops at the edge of Kruger.

Season: May to October is the best time for game spotting in South Africa.

Photo  Serena Mivumo River Lodge  via Kuoni

Photo Ngorongoro Crater via Kuoni

Photo via Jacada Travel

Home to the breathtaking Serengeti, Tanzania is the place to witness The Great Migration. With a dazzling selection of landscapes, from rolling plains to dense bushland, rugged wetlands, and the dramatic volcanic backdrop of the Ngorongoro Crater – this diverse East African country offers the most memorable honeymoon experiences. Finish it off with a beach break in Zanzibar to unwind from your adventures.

See: Those epic herds of wildebeest on the move, tree-climbing lions by Lake Manyara, along with gazelle, zebra, big cats and of course, the national animal of Tanzania, the giraffe.

Sleep:  Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is a stunning setting on the crater for taking in the immensity of the landscape and dining with breathtaking views,  Serena Mivumo River Lodge  is a romantic and isolated hideaway, while the Lamai Serengeti is a dreamy, breezy spot to take in The Great Migration with a front row seat.

Season: Tanzania is a beautiful, year-round destination. As the wildebeest make their migration, they can be spotted in different locations, at different times of the year, so be sure to check they'll be passing by while you're there.

Photo via King's Lodge

Photo via Pugdundee Safaris

Photo via  The Bison

From a snow leopard safari in the Hemis National Park in Kashmir, to tiger spotting on the rugged plains of Bandhavgarh National Park in Central India, and wild elephant watching in lush Southern jungles in Kerala, there is a world's worth of wildlife to explore across this incredible subcontinent.

See: Endangered Bengal tigers, wild Indian elephants, snow leopards in the mountains, monkeys on the beaches and incredible birds, snakes, bears, deer, leopards, lions and hyenas.

Sleep: For an authentic safari lodge experience close to the tigers, King's Lodge in Bandhavgarh has the full package, head south to spot wild elephants, and stay in The Bison on the Kabini Reserve. For tracking snow leopards, homestays are the only way to do it, go with a sustainable organisation like Karma Quests .

Season: When to go to India depends on what you'd like to see, March to May is the best time to spot tigers, while lusher months, November to April are good times to see elephants in the wild.

Photo via Scott Dunn

Photo via Cristalino Lodge

Brazil might seem to be all about the beaches, but with the Amazon representing over half of the world's rainforest and the Pantanal boasting the world's largest, and most unusual wetland, this country is not to be overlooked for a unique and unforgettable safari honeymoon.

See: From the brightest birds to flesheating fish, the Amazon boasts the most diverse inhabitants on the planet, highlights include monkeys, macaws, dolphins, piranhas, jaguar, cougars and anacondas. On the Pantanal, you can expect to see rare deer, wolves, eagles and iguanas among the thousands of species that call the region home.

Sleep: For a sophisticated place to rest your head in the Pantanal, Caiman Ecological Refuge is a wildlife haven in the heart of the region. As for the Amazon,  Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge  offers rare comforts by the iconic Anavilhanas Archipelago, while  Cristalino Jungle Lodge further South, offers a romantic sanctuary amid incredible wildlife.

Season: June is a good time to visit the Amazon, as the rains ease off, but the forest is still flooded, while for those who want to explore by foot, the dry weather in October is the best time to hike.

Photo via Imagine Travel

Photo via Kuoni Travel

Photo via Nyungwe Forest Lodge

Enjoy a real life Gorillas in the Mist experience on your honeymoon, Rwanda is a lesser explored emerald in the heart of East Africa's safari belt. Lush, green and brimming with wildlife, this dramatic landscape of volcanoes, lakes and tea plantations will capture your imagination.

See: When it comes to Rwanda, it's all about the gorillas, but you'll also spot chimpanzees and other monkeys, along with bats, cats, and even some lions, giraffes and elephants.

Sleep:  Nyungwe Forest Lodge  is perhaps one of the most reknowned places to stay in Rwanda for honeymoons, Sabiyano Silverback Lodge has a beautiful perch on the edge of Volcano National Park and choose  Ruzizi Tented Lodge  for somewhere eco-friendly and atmospheric on the shores of Lake Ihema.

Season: The best time to visit Rwanda is June to September, making it a perfect honeymoon spot for summer weddings.

Photo via Longitude 131

Photo via Luxury Lodges of Australia

Photo via Silky Oaks Retreat

A country with multiple personalities and infinite landscapes, Australia is perhaps not an obvious choice for a safari, but on further inspection, a natural one. What it lacks in lions and tigers, it makes up for in indigenous species of its own, along with incredible coastlines, captivating plains, and rainforests to rival the Amazon.

See: The wildlife of Australia is as diverse and vast as the country itself. Of course you'll see the iconic kangaroos, koalas, and emus, along with platypus, echidna, wombats, dingos and camels. And don't forget incredible marine wildlife, stunning bird population, and the infamous snakes and insects.

Sleep:  Longitude 131  is the number one place to stay near Uluru with unrivalled views of the iconic red rock. Explore Western Australia's rugged wilderness from the comfort of El Questro Homestead . For a jungle escape, Silky Oaks Lodge will get you up close to nature and for a real safari experience in New South Wales, try Paperbark Camp .

Season: There's no bad time to visit Australia but for sunny, yet comfortable weather, Spring and Autumn are the times to go.

Photo via  Gaya Island Resort

Photo via Kuoni

Photo via  Ulu Ulu Resort

If you were following Elizabeth's Sabah posts over the last few months, you'll know that the island of Borneo, split between Malaysia and Brunei and Indonesia, is a veritable treasure trove of wildlife. Stunning resorts, tropical temperatures, and pristine waters make this a great place to combine a safari adventure with a paradise island escape.

See: Borneo's diverse ecology makes it home to some remarkable wildlife, most iconic perhaps are the orangutans, but you'll also find elephants, leopard cats, giant insects, and one of the most dazzling array of birds on the planet.

Sleep: For unadulterated luxury, stay at  Gaya Island Resort  (it's your honeymoon after all).   Sukau Rainforest Lodge  is a David Attenborough favourite, so a no-brainer for wildlife enthusiasts in Malaysia, while Shangri-La’s  Rasa Ria Resort  in Kota Kinabalu has its very own orangutan nature reserve. For incredible night walks, stay in lush Brunei's Ulu Ulu Resort .

Season: For orangutan-spotting, the best time to visit Borneo is April and November, when the trees are fruiting on lower ground.

Salt pans, deserts, canyons, beaches and lush oases, Namibia, nestled in the south west of Africa, is a stunning, and often overlooked honeymoon safari destination, with a very different backdrop to its East African counterparts. Etosha National Park, is one of the oldest game reserves in the world, the famous Skeleton Coast is a haunting place to explore, while the awe-inspiring red sands of Sossusvlei in Namib-Naukluft National Park are home to the iconic  Deadvlei .

See:  With one of the most unique landscapes on the planet, you'll find zebra, elephants, oryx, cheetahs, meerkats, lions, the endangered black rhino, flamingos, impala, and even seals.

Sleep: In Sossusvlei,  Sossus Dune Lodge  is an enchanting village-style resort to take in breathtaking sand dune sunsets, while Wolwedans Boulders Camp is a beautifully isolated backdrop to see the stars. For a luxury stay in Etosha, honeymooners love  Ongava Tented Camp , while on the Skeleton Coast, Serra Cafema Camp  is as remote as it gets.

Season: While Namibia is good to visit year-round, May to September will see the biggest clusters of animals by the waterholes.

Oh wow. Each one is so spectacular, it's impossible to choose! I'm definitely adding Namibia and Brazil to the bucket list though.

A safari is a great honeymoon to pair up with a city or beach break too, and most honeymoon specialists will be able to advice you on resorts within easy reach.

Would you consider a safari honeymoon? Which was your favourite? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Oh, and don't forget to check out Bené's safari packing guide here.

Planning your trip of a lifetime? Get more unforgettable honeymoon ideas here .

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Cape Town Destination Wedding with Spectacular Mountain Views

6 ideas for planning the perfect destination wedding weekend (& honeymoon), sparkling dusty rose marrakech wedding inspiration, our faves from the bm wedding shop.

The Best Online Wedding Tools & Resources

The best places to buy your wedding dress online, the best wedding registries for gifts, cash, honeymoons & charity, the best places to buy engagement rings online, the 20 best places to buy wedding flowers online, the 18 best places to buy wedding rings online, what are you looking for.

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Safari photo : comment en organiser un pour votre mariage ?

Vous cherchez une animation amusante et utile ? Un safari photo plaira aux petits comme aux grands et vous permettra d’avoir un superbe album photo en souvenir de votre mariage.

Vous voulez trouver le moyen d’immortaliser votre mariage original tout en amusant vos invités ? Rien de plus simple, organisez un safari photo ! Un jeu facile à mettre en place pour amuser tous vos convives. Votre robe de mariée sera prise sous toutes les coutures et les moments forts seront capturés sous plusieurs angles de vue. Grâce à ce jeu de mariage , tous les rires et sourires de vos invités resteront gravés et conservés !

Le principe du jeu 

Chaque table aura à sa disposition un appareil photo avec une liste de missions à photographier durant la journée. La table qui aura réussi toutes ces missions et réalisé les plus beaux clichés sera la grande gagnante ! 

Si vous n'arrivez pas à départager les joueurs, élaborez alors un concours au cours duquel vos invités devront élire la meilleure photo de groupe de la table par exemple ou la photo la plus originale... 

Déborah d'Hostel

La préparation du safari photo

Pour réaliser ce projet, il vous suffira d’acheter quelques appareils photo jetables que vous disposerez sur le lieu de la réception en plus de votre  décoration de table de mariage . Comptez un appareil pour environ 5 personnes afin que les convives d'une même table jouent par petit groupe.

Si vous souhaitez une meilleure qualité de photos, vous pouvez mettre à disposition de vos convives un appareil numérique ou deux que les convives se passeront à tour de rôle, ou bien quelques polaroids  pour obtenir des photos instantanées. (C’est un jeu mais n’oublions pas son objectif !). Enfin, la solution la plus pratique est de laisser les invités utiliser leur téléphone , ils devront ensuite partager leurs photos sur Wedshoots , une application Mariages.net qui permet de créer un album de mariage en ligne.

Pauline Franque Photographe

La réalisation des étiquettes

Vous devrez également préparer les listes des missions à photographier. Celles-ci seront rédigées au dos de chaque appareil ou posées sur les tables. Vous pouvez aussi customiser des étiquettes avec les consignes à suivre en imitant votre modèle de faire-part de mariage  ou un carnet de voyage pour rappeler votre lune de miel. N'oubliez pas d'ajouter des  annotations telles que « Avis aux paparazzis », « A vous de cliquer », « Cherchez, cliquez et faites passer » pour donner le ton de ce jeu amusant.

Les listes devront comprendre un minimum de  5 éléments à photographier pour chaque appareil, le but étant d’obtenir un panel de clichés à la fin pour obtenir un album rempli de  photos de mariage originales .

Thomas & Aurélie

Les missions de reportage

Concernant les idées de photos, vous pouvez rester classique, en demandant de shooter la robe de la mariée, un bisou, les alliances, un portrait de groupe, une robe de soirée rouge , ou des moments forts comme l’ ouverture de bal de mariage originale . Vous pouvez compliquer le safari en sélectionnant des moments instantanés : « Le marié souriant » ou « la mariée jouant avec son alliance ».

Vous pouvez aussi faire preuve d’humour en réclamant  « une grimace », « les pires danseurs », « un bisou volé », « un invité qui se tâche en mangeant », « un homme barbu ». Pas si évident tout ça ! Par ailleurs, vous pouvez suivre un thème plus particulier comme « une cravate originale » « des chaussettes à pois » « un chapeau rigolo » « la plus belle coiffure ».

Yann Texier Photographie

Des accessoires pour plus de folie

Vous pouvez également mettre à leur disposition quelques accessoires et déguisements pour pimenter un peu la séance, à la manière d’un photobooth . Les photographes du moment pourront alors réussir les missions qui leur sont demandées comme prendre une personne avec un masque de plongée, une autre avec un ballon sur la tête ou un bouquet de roses dans les mains.

Ils devront dans ce cas demander aux autres de jouer le jeu, ce qui est plus facile que de « capturer l’instant ». Vous aurez ainsi du matériel à disposition pour réaliser un album photo drôle où tout le monde aura participé.

Avec cette animation de mariage divertissante, vous mettrez vos invités en compétition pour détenir le meilleur cliché du mariage ! À voir qui sera en charge de prendre en photo le bouquet de mariée au moment du lancement en plein vol…

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Tech billionaire Ankur Jain marries ex-WWE wrestler in Egypt, photos of their luxury wedding go viral

The luxury wedding included a safari dinner in the heart of a south african jungle and a three-day adventurous jungle safari experience..

Bilt Rewards CEO Ankur Jain married former WWE wrestler Erika Hammond in a luxury wedding ceremony set against the backdrop of the Great Pyramids in Egypt.

According to The Sun, the wedding included a safari dinner in the heart of a South African jungle and a three-day adventurous jungle safari experience. This alone cost the couple $2,000 per night.

Sharing his wedding photos on social media , the tech billionaire wrote, “I love you. 4/26/2024 Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us!!! And to @zahi_hawass for marrying us!! Many more photos and memories from the wedding to come. Was the most incredible few days. And thank you to all the people who made our wedding possible.”

Take a look at the photos here:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ankur Jain (@ankurjain)

Jain also shared a compilation video of the wedding and captioned it saying, “Our wedding in Egypt. 4/26/2024 Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us!! To our families!!”

Ankur Jain and Erika Hammond’s wedding photos have triggered a frenzy on social media with one commenting, “It feels almost like it was a dream. So magical.” Another user wrote, “Now that is a freaking celebration. congratulations.” “Wowowowow so stunning, congratulations!!!” a third user wrote.

Who is Erika Hammond?

A former WWE NXT Diva, Erika Hammond shot to fame as a fitness coach. According to reports, she moved to New York to join Rumble Boxing as a founding trainer and met Ankur Jain when she was a fitness instructor there.

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Inside Billionaire CEO and Former WWE Diva's Epic Egyptian Wedding at the Pyramids! See the Photos (Exclusive)

Bilt Rewards CEO Ankur Jain wed Erika Hammond in front of the Great Sphinx on April 26: “Once in a lifetime experience,” the bride tells PEOPLE exclusively

When it came to planning their wedding, Ankur Jain and Erika Hammond agreed on one thing: it was going to be over the top. They just didn’t initially agree on where to get married. 

“My first pitch to Erika for the wedding was to get married in space,” says Jain, the billionaire founder and CEO of Bilt Rewards, a tech company that has disrupted the credit card industry by letting users earn cashback points on rent. His bride, a former WWE wrestler and creator of KNOCKOUT at Equinox, had different feelings: “I was like, ‘I don't want to die on my wedding day!’"

Their compromise? Having the first wedding celebration thought to be held in modern times at the base of the Great Pyramids in Egypt, in front of the Sphinx, officiated by the world's foremost Egyptologist, Jain's family friend Dr. Zahi Hawass.

“We’re New Yorkers and there's something so special about being in a completely different world environment. So we decided, our wedding is about having a moment together to celebrate the new beginning, having a really special party with our friends somewhere where you're in a different world,” says Jain. Adds Hammond: “It’s a once in a lifetime experience.”

For Jain, 34, who first visited Egypt as a boy during an annual family vacation, and recalls a magical experience going on his first archeological dig of the ancient tombs as a teen, with Dr. Hawass, it was a chance to share his love of ancient history with his wife-to-be, 32. “I’m obsessed with ancient history and society,” says Jain. “The pyramids are just insane to see. You’re speechless. I can’t believe that this is even a part of our civilization,” adds Hammond. 

As they got to planning, the couple agreed they were more interested in the experience than the traditions of a classic wedding. There were no bridesmaids or groomsmen; no wedding cake cutting moment or toasts. And they left the ornamental details of the night up to the planners. 

“I had no idea what the napkins looked like or what the table setting looked like,” says the Texas-born Hammond. “We're not traditional wedding people,” adds Jain, who grew up in Washington state, where his father was a tech executive at companies including Microsoft. “Why do you have to spend $20,000 on flowers? It doesn’t make sense. And none of that should matter when you're getting an opportunity to sit and have dinner at the base of the pyramids!” (Editor's note: PEOPLE was invited to the wedding itself, and for the record, the flowers were spectacular, featuring an assortment of local Egyptian blooms and foliage.)

Instead, the couple focused on creating an incredible four day itinerary for their 130 guests.

Although met with last minute travel disruptions that threatened to derail the entire destination wedding , Jain and Hammond pulled off a late night launch to the festivities April 24 with a a “Modern Cairo” themed welcome reception at the Muhammed Ali Palace in Cairo, complete with belly dancers, fire dancers and a shoppable bazaar for guests with a DJ playing Arab house music. “Everybody rallied when we were running late and our guests said, 'Nope, we’ll push the party, we’ll stay up…. we’re going to keep the party going and you guys come when you land, and we’re going to celebrate together,’ ” Jain told PEOPLE Thursday morning after the event. "We partied until 5:00AM having just the best opening night.”

On day two, “​​it was all about the ancient history of Egypt,” says Jain. The couple arranged for a fully private tour of the Pyramids and the Sphinx, including areas not generally open to the public, facilitated by Dr. Hawass, followed by an Ancient-Egypt x Met Gala themed dinner at the not yet opened Grand Egyptian Museum , featuring traditional performances and aerial dancers. “We wanted the vibe to be kind of like the Met Gala's Egypt section, but in the real Egyptian area, where you've got one of the largest statues of the Pharaoh Ramesses II in the middle of the hall,” says Jain.

Guests were able to shop specialty vendors at the event, including custom mixed Egyptian perfumes, customizable sentimental papyrus scrolls and body gems, and enjoyed specialty cocktails including passion fruit and espresso martinis into the extreme wee hours once again.

Despite the distinct lack of rest, the couple was ready and refreshed in time for their big day Friday, April 26.

Guests assembled at a specially constructed event site in front of the Sphinx at the base of the Great Pyramids of Giza shortly before sunset for a non-denominational wedding celebration, hosted by Dr. Hawass. "It was so special having Dr. Zahi officiate," says Jain. "He has written every major book on Tutankhamen and the pyramids and he's such a character. At dinner one time while we were engaged, he goes, 'Erika and Ankur, I am pleased to be your officiate for the wedding,'" Jain recalls. Adds Hammond: "We just said to ourselves, I guess we found our officiant! We couldn't have been happier."

Jain's parents Naveen and Anu Jain walked him into the ceremony. Then Hammond, flanked by parents Tonya and Will Hammond made her grand entrance as famed violinist Lindsey Sterling played a rendition of Ed Sheeran's "Perfect" in a showstopping gown designed by Indian designer Rahul Mishra. “It was important to me to draw inspiration and celebrate my fiancé’s Indian culture, ancient Egyptian culture, and Western traditions,” says Hammond of the gold-embroidered bridal gown. “Since we weren't doing an Indian wedding, I wanted a little bit of Indian inspiration, mixed with a Cleopatra feel.” (Hammond flew to Delhi, India a month before the wedding for final fittings and to retrieve the gown.) “His designs are modernized Indian. So like the sari gowns.”

Dr. Hawass opened the service with some gentle ribbing—saying the bride had learned so much about Egypt after once not knowing Tutankhamen was the one she knew more commonly as King Tut, and invited the couple back when they later had children. Then the pair shared heartfelt vows, remembering how they first got together just before the pandemic, and spent months bonding over FaceTime chats when they couldn't date in person. The bride vowed to always have a Tempur-pedic pillow for her new husband; the groom vowed to always focus on making his 'Fiancee Senior' happy."

“We wanted it to be very funny, very us. We were cracking jokes," Hammond says of their vows. "It was an emotional moment, and I was about to cry. Then he cracked a joke and lightened the mood. It was so very authentic to us."

She continues, "I wasn't as nervous because I felt I was there with my friends and family. It was this moment we were planning for a year.”

“I lost my words for a moment, I was so emotional," Jain adds. "There were a couple of moments when I looked at Erika and realized it was me and my wife standing in front of the pyramids, and I had to get my bearings. We were in the most magical place in human history to celebrate the most magical moment in our lives."

As the sun set on the Giza Plateau, the party was shuttled around to the other side of the pyramids for a cocktail hour with a stunning view of the desert and all six pyramids. The couple’s 130 guests included Lance Bass and his husband Michael Turchin, Robin Thicke and his wife April Love Geary, Ryan Serhant and his wife Emilia, Shark Tank's Kevin O’Leary and his wife Linda, Former Texas governor Rick Perry and his wife Anita, the Points Guy Brian Kelly, influencer Serena Kerrigan, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez and his wife Gloria, Fox Business anchor Liz Claman, Fox 5 New York anchor Bianca Peters, Equinox chairman Harvey Spevak, Dr. Hawass as well as fellow archeologist Dr. Mark Lehner.

For dinner, the couple had a New York inspired menu. “We chose all our favorites: the pasta from Lilia, the burger from 4 Charles,” says Jain. As guests dined at the base of the pyramids, violinist Lindsey Sterling performed a stunning, acrobatic set.

After the meal, the couple invited guests down to another area for the afterparty and dessert. Foregoing a classic wedding cake, the couple opted for affogatos and three dessert stations from their favorite New York confectioners: a sundae bar inspired by the American Bar, a Levain cookie station—(“they’re warm and gooey!” says the bride)—and Milk Bar station serving birthday cake slices.

Singer Robin Thicke performed a surprise set for guests, then the bride (in her afterparty mini dress by Grete Henriette) got up onstage to dance the night away as DJ Gryffin took over, playing iconic house music hits. Guests enjoyed midnight snacks of tacos and pizza along with plenty of Clase Azul Reposado tequila shots as the night wrapped up with an epic fireworks display over the pyramids, followed by an impromptu performance of "Bye, Bye, Bye" by Lance Bass.

The couple first met when Jain started working out at Rumble Boxing where Hammond, who is a founding member of the celeb-loved gym, was also an instructor at the time. "We were just acquaintances there," she recalls. "But a couple years later, Hammond happened to be with one of the gym's other co-founders when they ran into Ankur. The duo briefly chatted and then just a few days later they met again after signing up for the same workout class.

"It was funny because she's normally teaching the class, but we were both taking it," says Jain. "I'm not the fittest guy, so it was probably a dumb move in hindsight, but I was like, 'Why don't you come work out next to me?'" Afterwards, Jain asked her out for a drink.

"It's so great, adds Hammond. "I didn't have makeup on. I was in workout clothes and all sweaty. I knew he was going to love me no matter what."

After the wedding, Jain tells PEOPLE, "Surprisingly, I'm feeling alive after partying all night."

"Last night it was almost hard to really internalize everything. It was even crazier than we imagined," he added. "We had the best time. It was so special. When the fireworks went off, it was one of the most spectacular moments. I was so emotional, I couldn't even put it into words.”

Hammond, for her part, says, “I literally am speechless. Looking at the photos, I was living my best life. I became a popstar onstage last night. It was the most incredible night of my life."

Now, as the newlyweds continue to bask in wedded bliss, they're still taking in all the joy from their special day.

“It was amazing. Everybody we know from all eras of our life came together in one place to celebrate and it was very special,” says Jain. “If you only get married once, you want to make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for everybody!”

Event Management: Vertex Events

Photos: Bottega 53

Makeup: Kelly Dawn, Dawn Artist Agency

Stylist: Yasmine Kenawi @yasminekenawi and Margot Zamet @margotzamet

Wedding Ceremony Dress: Rahul Mishra @rahulmishra_7

Bridal Jewelery Customized by Ajour Consultancy and Louis Diamonds @ajourconsultancy @louisdiamondsofficial 

Shoes: Rene Caovilla

Wedding Dress After Party Dress: Grete Henriette @grete.henriette

Jewelry: Nado’s Jewellery @nadosjewell

Social: Olivia Burrows Sutherland

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UP girl raped, face branded with iron rod after rejecting marriage proposal

A girl was branded with a hot iron rod on her face by the accused, aman, after she rejected his marriage proposal, the police said..

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• Girl raped, face branded with iron rode in UP
• She had turned down accused's marriage proposal
• Accused arrested, sent to jail

A 17-year-old girl in Uttar Pradesh's Lakhimpur Kheri was held hostage for three days, raped, and her face was branded with a hot iron rod by a man who was miffed over his marriage proposal being turned down by her.

On April 19, the 21-year-old man forcibly took the girl to his home while she was returning from a show. He held her captive there for three days and abused her, according to the complaint.

“I went to the shop to buy goods on April 19. He took me to his house and did wrong things to me. Then he burnt my face with a rod and wrote his name, while his sister and mother were holding me. I kept shouting, but no one came to save us,” the survivor told India Today TV.

She somehow managed to escape captivity and returned home on April 21.

Following a complaint filed by the girl's mother, an FIR was registered, and the accused has been arrested and sent to jail today, police told news agency PTI.

IN THIS STORY

Bachelor Vet Nick Viall & Natalie Joy Shared Gorgeous Wedding Photos

There isn’t a red rose in sight.

Two runner-up finishes on The Bachelorette , a trip to Paradise , and a season as the Bachelor ended without a wedding ring for Nick Viall . He finally found his forever person outside of Bachelor Nation when he began dating Natalie Joy in 2020. Now, the couple is officially married, and they shared their gorgeous Georgia wedding photos with fans.

Tying The Knot

Viall and Joy’s wedding was a whole weekend affair in Georgia, where Joy’s family has a 300-acre farm , per People . They got the party started on April 26 with a welcome bash that Viall said “was giving love and country chic” in an Instagram post afterward. There were bolo ties, barbecue, cornhole, and even a mechanical bull.

It all led up to their nuptials the following day. Viall and Joy got married on her family’s property on April 27. She told People the black-tie ceremony’s vibe was “very ethereal, very romantic, with flowers everywhere,” while Viall called it “kind of like a Vogue on the farm” feel.

Fans got to see for themselves when Viall and Joy shared photos on April 28. “Husband and wife,” Viall wrote as the post’s straight-to-the-point caption. They posed with their 2-month-old daughter, River Rose, in some of the photos, and other snaps showed a pair of horses and their elaborate floral wedding arch. Red roses à la The Bachelor did not appear to be part of their aesthetic.

View on Instagram

Though Joy doesn’t come from Bachelor Nation, there were plenty of others in attendance who have been part of the long-lasting reality franchise. Among their guests were Ben Higgins, Jared Haibon, and Ashley Iaconetti, plus Victoria Fuller was one of the bridesmaids, People reports. Joy also had another famous bridesmaid in Jojo Siwa.

“The Best Part Of Life”

Viall and Joy didn’t meet through any of their famous friends. He divulged the story on his podcast, The Viall Files , in 2021, saying she slid into his DMs and it was “very romantic,” per Us Weekly . At first, they were just “hanging out,” so when she wanted to date and he wasn’t sure, he recalled her going off to “do [her] thing.” Soon, however, he realized “exactly what [he’d] be missing” if he let her go.

The two have been together since, and they welcomed River in February. Days after she was born, Viall posted on Instagram that they were starting “the best part of life.” Not long thereafter, he and Joy shared their birth story on his podcast, The Viall Files , on Feb. 22, and he got emotional recalling the experience, particularly when he remembered how his voice soothed River in the hospital.

With their wedding behind them, fans will have to wait and see what new adventures await the happy couple .

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's Daughters Sunday and Faith Make Their Red Carpet Debut

Nicole kidman and keith urban's teenage daughters sunday rose and faith margaret walked their first red carpet at the 2024 afi achievement award gala honoring their mom..

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban brought along two special surprise guests as they celebrated her latest honor.

On April 27, the Oscar winner and her husband were accompanied by  their daughters Sunday Rose , 15, and  Faith Margaret , 13, at the 2024 American Film Institute Life (AFI) Achievement Award Gala honoring the actress. It marked the official red carpet debut for the teens, whose parents have kept them out of the spotlight throughout their lives.

The Big Little Lies actress—also the mother of Bella Cruise , 31, and  Connor Cruise , 29, who she raised with ex-husband Tom Cruise —glittered in a gold sequin Balenciaga gown at the Los Angeles event. Her and Keither's daughters donned Monique Lhuillier dresses—Sunday wore a white floral strapless dress with a sweetheart neckline and Faith sported a strapless coral gown.

The Moulin Rouge star, Keith and their girls—who, despite keeping away from the spotlight, did make a brief remote appearance with their parents during the 2021 Golden Globes broadcast—were also joined by other members of Nicole's family at the AFI gala.

Seen with the four were her sister  Antonia Kidman , brother-in-law  Craig Marran and niece  Sybella Hawley , 17, who wore a red gown and stood beside Faith as they posed for group photos.

In addition to being a family affair, the event was also a star-studded one. Celebrity guests and participants included Nicole's  Big Little Lies costars  Reese Witherspoon   and Meryl Streep , Zac Efron —who starred with her in  The Paperboy ,  Special Ops: Lioness costars Morgan Freeman and Zoe Saldaña , Naomi Watts ,  Michelle Pfeiffer , Miles Teller and  Keleigh Sperry Teller and  Jane Seymour .

Read on to see photos of Nicole, Keith, their daughters and more celebrity attendees at the (AFI) Achievement Award Gala...

Nicole Kidman, Keith Urban & Sunday Rose

Nicole Kidman & Family

Nicole Kidman & Keith Urban

Nicole Kidman & Meryl Streep

Nicole Kidman

Miles Teller, Reese Witherspoon, Lee Daniels, Nicole Kidman, Meryl Streep & Zac Efron

Jane Seymour

Morgan Freeman

Zoë Saldana & Cisely Saldana

Faith Margaret & Sybella Hawley

Reese Witherspoon

Michelle Pfeiffer

Cynthia Erivo

Ava DuVernay

Naomi Watts

Miles Teller & Keleigh Sperry Teller

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