Join us and find out more on How to Make Your African Elopement Memorable. Nothing speaks to my soul quite like an African elopement. With incredibly romantic experiences and breathtaking landscapes at your fingertips, I simply love the deep intimacy and opportunity for connection eloping on this rich continent offers. But how, exactly, do you ensure eloping in Africa feels like a truly special celebration of your union and not just an international vacation?
Today, I’m offering up my top tips for making your African elopement one for the ages (and memory books). Let’s dive in…
1. Don’t simply settle on a safari.
Yes, Africa has all kinds of safari opportunities—but she is also so much more than a land of safaris. While media outlets and outside depictions of Africa often fool Westerners and others into believing zebra and hippo sightings are all we have to offer—this couldn’t be further from the truth. Of course, you may want to book a day safari on your trip here—that makes total sense!—but know there is so much more to experience than just your safari.
With farm-to-table dinners prepared by acclaimed chefs, high-end resorts with five-star spas, and secluded private islands all yours for the taking—Africa offers an array of endlessly romantic, elopement-worthy experiences worth exploring. A few you should consider adding to your itinerary?
- The Royal Livingstone Express: Book an intimate dinner for two aboard this iconic, old-world steam train—and enjoy epic views of Victoria Falls and her mighty mist as you dine like royalty in a storied setting.
- Tongabezi’s Sindabezi: After you’ve said “I do” consider staying in seclusion on Sindabezi Island. Located just 15 kilometres upstream from Victoria Falls, Sindabezi Island (operated by the coveted eco-lodge brand Tongabezi) offers five private luxury chalets and unbridled seclusion. (Psst…don’t forget to ask about booking a candlelit dinner for two on your own private sandbar on the Zambezi River.)
- Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort: With five-star hospitality, restorative spa treatments, luxe private villas, and jaw-dropping ocean-views—Anantara Bazaruto is an amazing place to take your African elopement up a notch. It is a true embodiment of the untold luxury that lies within Africa and offers meaningful opportunities for you and your partner to deeply connect.
2. Work with a local wedding planner and local vendors.
One of Africa’s best-kept secrets is the unprecedented level of high-calibre wedding and events professionals who call the continent home. While it may be tempting to work with a wedding planner who lives in your home country, remember—no one knows the land like a local planner will. Local African wedding planners and vendors will have access to the industry discounts, hidden-gem locations, and on-the-ground expertise you need to ensure your African elopement experience is as authentic as it is memorable.
From sourcing local flowers for your bridal bouquet and recommending the best area photographer—to having connections to chefs who can prepare farm-fresh meals for you and yours—African event professionals offer a level of local access outsiders simply aren’t privy to.
3. Plan a couples’ photoshoot.
A couples’ photoshoot is one of the best ways to help you mentally separate your African elopement from simply another international vacation. Adventuring around a local spot while a photographer captures your connection helps you see and celebrate one another—and it serves to remind you of why you’re here in the first place: to honour and solidify your union. There truly are so many places across this diverse continent where you can capture iconic images. Some of our favourites include:
- The sand dunes at Mozambique
- The white sandy beaches—with turquoise waters in the background—at Mozambique
- Aboard the Royal Livingstone Express steam train
- On the banks of the Zambezi River at the Royal Livingstone Resort
- On Sindabezi Island with a golden African sunset at your back
Seeking some inspiration as you plan an authentic African elopement? Images of this gorgeous couple aboard the Royal Livingstone Express should help with that…
Until next time, happy planning!
Xoxo,
Photography Credits:
Stepan Vrzala | http://www.stepanvrzala.com/
Contact Exalt Africa Weddings for more details or to discuss your upcoming wedding.