The Best African Safari Camps for Weddings
As one of the world’s top planners, I am always on the lookout for the most breathtaking and unique destinations for my clients to exchange their vows. And I have found just that in the heart of Botswana’s wilderness. While the days of countryside weddings in France and Italy will never be over, couples are opting for something more original. And that means traveling to remote places that are completely off-the-beaten-path to say their nuptials.
Don’t get me wrong, I still have classic European requests for vespas and villas in Tuscany; but 2023 is all about doing things differently and dabbling in what hasn’t been done before. Couples are staying true to what they want, even it seems far off, and taking their family and friends for a wild ride (quite literally speaking). So, I’ve been scouting the best African Safari Camps for weddings to accommodate the growing interest.
And guess what? I found the most lavish, bucket list worthy, dream-come-true options with Wilderness Destinations in Botswana. They offer the perfect blend of luxury and adventure, allowing couples to tie the knot or simply celebrate their love in the middle of remote untamed nature. But don’t let the “remote” part fool you; an all-inclusive trip with Wilderness and one of the world’s top planners (me) is about as luxurious as it gets. You’ll see what I mean.
Now, without further ado, here are The Best African Safari Camps for Weddings…
…and celebrating love in general…
There’s a good chance you and your lover will see elephants near the runway when you touchdown here; I did. This breathtaking camp is situated near the Osprey Lagoon and surrounded by two elephant pathways. Hence, it’s nickname “kingdom of elephants.” Given its location, DumaTau offers a unique blend of land and water experiences, including game drives, nature walks, and boat rides along the river. The camp consists of eight ultra-luxurious suites, each with tranquil overwater views and their own cozy lounge areas, private plunge pools, and breathtaking backdrops.
A stay at DumaTau helps preserve a vital piece of land within the Kavango-Zambezi transfrontier conservation area that is crucial for the protection of elephants, wild dogs, lions and other animal populations. Also, another major plus to this property: it’s sister property, Little DumaTau. An intimate oasis in the Linyanti Wildlife Reserve just 5-minutes away. Its strategic location offers convenient access to swamps, the Savuti Channel and woodlands. Here, animals and people live harmoniously. So, if you want to say “I do” with herds of buffalo or elephants in the background, it’s possible and likely as guests spot them from the decks on the daily.
Pro wedding planner tip: For couples looking to celebrate their anniversary or honeymoon at DumaTau, you absolutely must stay in the Sun Hide honeymoon suite. To kick things up a notch, I suggest a romantic private, guided boat ride along the Linyanti River. If you’re married, this is the perfect setting for a vow renewal. Hint. Hint. As the sun sets, enjoy a candlelit dinner campfire side, with a menu tailored to your preferences. End the night by stargazing from the comfort of your luxurious suite.
Another airstrip where you can expect to be greeted by wildlife. For me, it was a heard of Zebras. This luxurious camp is set in the heart of the Okavango Delta and offers couples an intimate, romantic escape. The camp consists of just six spacious tents, each with its own private deck and outdoor shower, offering stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. With a focus on water-based activities, guests can explore the Delta on game drives, boat rides, and guided walks, making it the perfect location for nature lovers.
Vumbura Plains is a prime location for wildlife sightings, with an abundance of elephants, lions, and other big game that roam the area. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, the camp is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Delta, while offering guests a lavish experience like no other. Another highlight of this camp is its nearby sister property, Little Vumbura, which is a stunning island oasis only assessable by boat. Sadly, it will only be available to visit for a limited time before moving locations.
Pro wedding planner tip: In my expert opinion, this is the perfect camp to celebrate your wedding! I recommend hosting a welcome party at Little Vumbura. Guests will absolutely love the private boat ride there full of wildlife sightings. If you’re doing the whole shebang, a bridal boat luncheon would give wedding VIPs something to talk about…well, forever. And to really wow everyone – a boma style ceremony and reception smackdab in the middle of the bush would do the trick. Just picture it: the sounds of the wilderness serenading you all as you share a meal under the stars, surrounded by beauty of the Okavango Delta. Aweeeeee.
A bonus for my hopeless romantics: End the night by sharing an outdoor shower under the stars. An ideal place to escape and celebrate your love in peace.
Ok. This one is a honeymoon destination fit for royalty. Mombo is one of Africa’s finest luxury safari destinations. With its chic sustainable atmosphere, this Okavango Delta camp offers unparalleled wildlife experiences and prime game viewing. Get lost intentionally by immersing yourself in over 45,000 hectares of exclusive private wilderness. The site is right where the Okavango River splits into its primary channels, making Mombo the best year-round game-viewing destination in Botswana. It’s called the “Place of Plenty” for a reason.
You and your guests can witness big cat predator-prey interactions, observe rare bird species, and be greeted by elephants each morning on your own private deck all in one place. Yes, really. Mombo’s spacious wood and canvas suites boast sweeping views over the floodplain with a ton of active animal residents. It gets better. This spot is most notable for food – you’ll be spoiled with award-winning dining on that’s mindful and highlights indigenous heritage ingredients. With eight luxurious safari tents and a sister property: Little Mombo, with four additional suites, there’s enough room for those close to your heart to join the journey if you’re considering a wedding…however…I love this spot for just two.
Pro wedding planner tip: This destination is my top choice for a honeymoon. First, I highly recommend you arrive by helicopter. Obviously, this choice will be dependent on proximity, but it’s an epic way to arrive in-style and in complete utter romance. Sit back, enjoy some champagne and relax. Transportation should never be a drag. If you’re splurging on the stay, consider giving your airfare the same attention so you can be in a great mood upon arrival. Second, stay at the sister property for some extra seclusion. Privacy is everything during a honeymoon.
Jao is a haven where the lines between earth, river, and wetland are blurred. The Okavango hideaway surrounded by floodplains and forests. It’s located on a remote island haven that offers an idyllic and serene experience for couples in peaceful setting. And while you might be in relaxation mode, the wildlife is very active, so there is never a dull moment in this lush paradise. Travel by boat when the water levels are high or take a game drive vehicle on land as summer warms up – either way, you’ll have plenty of romantic moments together no matter the season! You’ll fall in love with nature and each other all over again amidst this wild yet tranquil setting.
Couples can choose between five beautiful safari suites or two private villas that come their own private butler, chef, guide, vehicle, and private plunge pool for a truly indulgent experience. From the unique bird’s nest-style pool gazebo to the towering, spacious interiors, you’ll be pleased to know that Jao’s sculptural excellence is mostly made of recycled and natural materials. Crafty and conscious, right?! And don’t worry, no luxury was sacrificed in the making of this eco build. There’s a library, gallery, award-winning spa, gym and museum. Oh, and an extravagant wine cellar. So, all the comforts and more. Much more.
Pro wedding planner tip: This camp is great for any milestone. Truly. I think it’s best fit for my adventurous couples though. It’s really out there. To heighten the experience here, I recommend starting your day with a hot air balloon ride over the Delta. Be sure to check which season it’s offered. Spend the day at the spa with side-by-side pampering. Then, take a private boat ride at sunset, complete with champagne and canapés, to end the day in style.
Guys, believe it or not – I still have 5 other camps I scouted for you! If you enjoyed this adventure through Botswana and want to know where else I went, subscribe and stay tuned for my exclusive itinerary release. Only those on my email list will be notified when it’s available. And you’re not going to want to miss that. Planning from one of the world’s top planners (me) and Wilderness Destinations… normally, that would cost six figures. So, join my newsletter list and be the first to know!
XO,
Michelle Norwood
World’s Top Planner
