Imagine exchanging your vows in the heart of South Africa’s pristine coastal wilderness, where the ocean meets a sanctuary of tranquility. Get married in South Africa at the pristine Isimangaliso World Heritage Site, which offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and romance for your Sodwana Bay Wedding at Thonga Beach Lodge.
Enhance your Sodwana Bay Wedding Package with a romantic, private candlelit dinner on the beach deck, accentuated by the soothing sounds of the ocean. Whether you choose to go for another dive, indulge in a relaxing spa session, or simply unwind, your final day will be just as enchanting.
Location: Richard’s Bay, Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa
Wedding length: 3 days
Meeting point: Sodwana Bay.
Participants: 2 guests can join apart from the couple.
Child-Friendly Wedding
No dogs allowed
Activity level: Suitable for anyone.
Climate: Tropical Climate – Mild to hot temperatures throughout the year with minimal variation. The climate is generally humid, with abundant rainfall and distinct dry and wet (monsoon) seasons. Expect intense sunlight all year round.
Available: March to May
Recommended months: March to May
Meet your Wedding Photographer in South Africa
Hello, I am Kim.
My not-squeezed-into-a-box philosophy means I aim to make memories for like-minded couples that speak to their souls and reflect their unique and special relationships, not only on the day but for all the years to come.
Do you wish to amp up the extraordinary? I am your person in photography. Do you prefer getting married in your backyard or keeping things intimate? Please do it! Are you considering a sunrise wedding and breakfast at your favorite restaurant, a visit to a bucket-list location, or a vow exchange over champagne on a game drive? Why not?
It is a privilege to be part of all the moments if you choose to get married in South Africa, moments that increase in value over time. My strong documentary style of photography remembers the unscripted, in-between moments of the day that can go unnoticed. Capturing the raw emotion that unfolds naturally allows me to tell your story as it is and leave you with pictures that will last a lifetime.
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding - Itinerary
Transfer from Richard’s Bay to Sodwana Bay. Then from there, you will be transferred via a 4×4 vehicle to the lodge.
Arriving at the lodge you will have some time to settle in. There is an option for diving in the afternoon, going for a walk, or a relaxing spa treatment. And then dinner on the deck.
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding will kick off with breakfast, and a morning activity (walking, spa treatment, or diving).
The following is provided for your enjoyment. No program.
Get married in South Africa - Comments
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding is carried out under all weather conditions, even if it rains.
Regarding the ceremony, if you wish to get married in South Africa officially, I will need to obtain permission from the Wetland Park authority, as this is a marine protected area.
LGBTQ+ friendly.
There is a possibility to get legally married: You’ll need to obtain the letter from the embassy, consulate, or high commission here in South Africa. The appointment is made online, and the process is very quick. It’s essentially a standard letter from the USA or UK stating that they do not issue letters of no impediment.
Payment Plan & Terms:
A 15% deposit is payable directly through the platform to secure your date. Adventure Wedding Platform’s 21-day money-back guarantee applies.
30% after the first video call directly to the vendor.
The remaining balance is due three weeks before your Sodwana Bay Wedding, through a bank account or PayPal.
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding Package includes
Transfer from Sodwana Bay to Tsonga Beach Lodge.
3 Nights of Accommodation for 4.
Get married in South Africa with photo coverage of your wedding day, including getting ready, the ceremony, group photos, and couple photos at sunset.
Minimum of 300 edited high-resolution photos delivered within 6 weeks after your Sodwana Bay Wedding.
All meals, teas, and coffees.
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding Package does not include
Drinks
Park fees
Isibindi Foundation levy
Scuba
Open ocean experience
Spa treatments
Gratuities and items of a personal nature
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding - Packlist
Shoes for walking
Swimwear (wetsuits and gear can be hired for scuba)
Dress and/or suit vows and rings.
Get married in South Africa - Tips & Infos
If you choose to get married in South Africa, you can fly from O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg to Richards Bay. From there, it’s a 2.5-hour drive to Sodwana Bay. You can opt for a rental vehicle or use transfer services for the journey.
Layers are important, but the weather temps will be moderate.
The lodge offers guided snorkeling and equipment. Scuba diving must be arranged in advance.
Your Sodwana Bay Wedding - Add-ons
Get married in South Africa, with up to 2 guests who can join your wedding at no extra cost and they have the accommodation included. However, they will need to arrange their own transfer or drive to Sodwana Bay, with additional costs including drinks, park fees, open ocean experiences, spa treatments, gratuities, and personal items.
Musician – Guitar/Singer – 600 USD
Bridal Hair & Make-up – At the location – 600 USD
Guest Hair & Make-up – 300 USD/person
Bridal Flower Bouquet – 200 USD/piece
Boutonniere – 80 USD/piece
Celebrant – Includes ceremony and registrar – 600 USD
Picnic Lunch – Setup included – 200 USD/person
Additional Photography – 200 USD/hour
One extra night for the Couple – Lodge near the beach – 500 USD/night
One extra night for the Guests – Lodge near the beach – 500 USD/night