The post is an ultimate guide to help you decide on the best destination wedding location in the world! T we are biased and think you should choose to say “I Do” in Africa!
However, we are all for playing fair- so we have created a guide to choosing the perfect wedding destination venue for you- whether that is in Africa, Asia, South America, the UAE or Europe.
Planning a destination wedding is an exciting journey, but with so many incredible options around the world, it can be overwhelming to decide on the perfect location. Each region offers unique experiences, beautiful cultures, and breathtaking backdrops that can make your special day unforgettable.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare five incredible wedding destinations: Africa, East and South Asia, South America, the UAE, and Europe. We’ll cover ease of travel, popular destinations, unique experiences, and potential costs to help you choose the ideal place to tie the knot.
1. Africa: A Tapestry of Cultures and Scenery
Africa is a continent bursting with diversity, offering everything from dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife to vibrant cultures and historical heritage. The continent’s diverse beauty it truly unmatched! You can choose to exchange vows with a backdrop of sweeping savannahs, majestic mountains, unmatched wildlife or pristine beaches.
Note: we have compiled the best African wedding destinations here for you!
Unique Experiences
Stunning Landscapes: There is no place like Africa. Africa is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Picture saying your vows in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, surrounded by lush greenery or against the stunning backdrop of the Victoria Falls, one of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world.
Wildlife Safaris: Africa offers the unique opportunity to include a safari as part of your wedding experience. Many venues, especially in countries like Kenya and South Africa, allow couples to tie the knot in the midst of wildlife, followed by a romantic safari honeymoon. Imagine embarking on a sunrise game drive immediately after your wedding, spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat.
Cultural Richness: Each region of Africa has its unique cultural heritage. Some of which, with proper guidance and respect of the locals, you can incorporate into your own wedding. This will make it a truly unique and once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your guests. Traditional African weddings incorporate vibrant colours, music, and dance, giving couples a chance to experience the local culture intimately.
Gorgeous Beaches: Destinations like Zanzibar and Seychelles offer stunning beach settings with white sands and turquoise waters, perfect for couples seeking a tropical paradise.
Culinary Delights: African cuisine is as diverse as its cultures. You can explore and incorporate different foods and flavours and local dishes in your wedding menu. From spicy Moroccan tagines, fresh seafood in coastal towns, or a destination on the west coast of Africa with some jollof rice! Making your wedding feast truly unique
Popular Destinations
- Cape Town, South Africa: With its iconic Table Mountain, stunning coastlines, and world-renowned vineyards, Cape Town is a favourite for couples looking for a blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Venues range from luxurious beach resorts to charming vineyard estates, ensuring a picturesque backdrop.
- Zanzibar, Tanzania: This idyllic island is known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural history, and vibrant markets. A wedding on the beach at sunset, with the sound of waves lapping against the shore, creates an unforgettable ambiance.
- Maasai Mara, Kenya: Exchange vows in a luxury tented camp surrounded by the sounds of the African bush. After the ceremony, you can enjoy a romantic dinner under the stars, followed by a thrilling safari adventure.
Ease of Travel
- International Airports: Major cities like Cape Town, Nairobi, and Zanzibar have international airports with good connections to the rest of the world.
- Travel Requirements: Visa requirements vary by country; many offer e-Visas or visa-on-arrival options, making travel more accessible.
2. East and South Asia: Exotic and Enchanting
East and South Asia offer a rich tapestry of cultures, history, and stunning landscapes, making them ideal for couples looking for an enchanting wedding experience. Most of all- depending on what you decide to do exactly, this East and South Asia will offer you the most cost effective, while still beautiful and luxurious wedding options.
Unique Experiences
Breathtaking Landscapes: From the lush rice terraces of Bali to the cherry blossoms in Kyoto, the natural beauty of this region is awe-inspiring. Couples can choose between tranquil beach weddings or intimate ceremonies amidst picturesque mountains.
Rich Cultural Traditions: Each country has its unique wedding customs that can be far removed from a “western” wedding adding depth to the celebration. Although, many countries offer a “western” wedding option, so that you can still have your traditional wedding experience, but on the other side of the world.
Vibrant Markets and Cuisine: The culinary landscape in East and South Asia is diverse and rich. Couples can indulge in authentic Thai cuisine, savouring pad thai and mango sticky rice on their wedding menu.
Stunning Temples and Historical Sites: Weddings in places like Kyoto allow couples to exchange vows in front of ancient temples, surrounded by the serene beauty of Japanese gardens.
Popular Destinations
- Bali, Indonesia: Known for its lush landscapes and tranquil beaches, Bali is a top choice for couples seeking a romantic and serene setting. Luxurious resorts offer stunning ocean views, private villas, and world-class spa services. Bali is a great option because there are many planners and venues that offer beautiful and affordable wedding packages for you to choose from, for ease of planning. We would definitely recommend doing that!
- Kyoto, Japan: With its cherry blossoms, traditional tea houses, and historic temples, Kyoto provides a beautiful and serene backdrop for weddings. Couples can experience a Shinto ceremony, dressed in traditional kimonos, amidst stunning gardens.
- Thailand: From the picturesque islands of Phuket to the vibrant city of Bangkok, Thailand offers diverse wedding settings. Couples can choose a beach wedding at sunset or a grand ceremony in a luxurious hotel.
Ease of Travel
- International Airports: Major cities like Bali, Bangkok, and Tokyo are well-connected globally, making travel convenient for guests.
3. South America: Colourful and Lively
South America is renowned for its vibrant cultures, warm locals, stunning landscapes, and rich traditions, providing a colourful backdrop for a memorable wedding.
Unique Experiences
Diverse Landscapes: From the lush Amazon rainforest to the breathtaking Andes mountains, South America offers a variety of stunning landscapes. Couples can choose to exchange vows on a mountaintop or in a tropical rainforest.
Rich Cultural Experiences: South America is a tapestry of cultures and traditions. Couples can incorporate local customs into their wedding, such as a traditional tango performance in Argentina.
Culinary Delights: The region boasts a rich culinary heritage, with flavors ranging from Peruvian ceviche to Brazilian feijoada. Couples can curate a menu that reflects the local cuisine, offering guests a unique dining experience.
Popular Destinations
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: With its stunning beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant culture, Rio offers a lively atmosphere for weddings. Couples can host their ceremony on in one of the city’s luxurious hotels with panoramic views.
- Machu Picchu, Peru: For adventure-loving couples, a wedding at Machu Picchu offers a truly unique experience. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by ancient Inca ruins and breathtaking mountain vistas.
- Buenos Aires, Argentina: Known for its European-style architecture and passionate tango culture, Buenos Aires offers a romantic setting for weddings. Couples can enjoy elegant venues and vibrant nightlife.
Ease of Travel
- International Airports: Major hubs like Rio, Lima, and Buenos Aires are easily accessible with numerous flight connections.
- Travel Requirements: Many countries in South America have straightforward visa processes for tourists.
4. UAE: Opulence and Modern Luxury
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is synonymous with luxury, offering opulent venues and modern amenities, making it a premier choice for couples looking for a lavish celebration. This is one of our favourite destination wedding options. There is an array of local wedding and event planners who are ready to help you to create the wedding of your dreams- even while you are on the other side of the world. A wedding in Dubai will be by no means cheap- but it will be money well spent and an unforgettable experience!
Note: at the time of writing you cannot actually get married in Dubai if you are on a tourist visa- but you can certainly have your civil ceremony in your home country, then have the wedding/celebration of your dreams in Dubai.
Unique Experiences
Stunning Venues: From the iconic Burj Khalifa to luxurious beach resorts, the UAE offers a range of stunning wedding venues that cater to every couple’s dream. Couples can choose from extravagant ballrooms or intimate beachfront ceremonies.
Cultural Richness: The UAE is a blend of modernity and tradition. Couples can incorporate local customs into their wedding, such as traditional Emirati music and dance.
World-Class Service: The hospitality in the UAE is renowned for its excellence. It is truly world-class! Couples can expect impeccable service and attention to detail, ensuring their wedding day is nothing short of perfect. Some of the best wedding vendors and service providers in the world are based in Dubai
Desert Adventures: The Arabian Desert offers a unique backdrop for weddings, with options for desert safaris, camel rides, and star-lit dinners, adding a touch of adventure to your celebration.
Popular Destinations
- Dubai: Known for its glamorous lifestyle, Dubai is a favourite for extravagant weddings. Couples can choose from a variety of luxurious venues, including five-star hotels, beachfront resorts, and elegant ballrooms. Imagine hosting your wedding in the iconic Burj Al Arab or on the beach overlooking the stunning Dubai skyline.
- Abu Dhabi: The capital of the UAE boasts beautiful venues such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world. This majestic venue offers a breathtaking backdrop for a wedding ceremony. Abu Dhabi also features stunning beach resorts that provide a luxurious setting for your special day.
Ease of Travel
- International Airports: Dubai and Abu Dhabi have major international airports with excellent connectivity to destinations around the world.
- Travel Requirements: Many visitors can obtain a visa on arrival, making travel convenient for guests coming from various countries.
5. Europe: Romantic and Diverse
Europe is rich in history, stunning architecture, and romantic landscapes, making it a top, maybe obvious, choice for couples looking for a fairytale wedding. Though it will likely be one of the more expensive choices, depending on what you choose to do. Each country offers a distinct atmosphere, creating endless opportunities for memorable celebrations.
Unique Experiences
Historic Venues: Europe boasts some of the world’s most iconic historical venues, including castles, châteaux, and ancient ruins. The options are pretty much endless, a romantic castle in France or in the gardens of a grand villa in Italy- the choice is yours!
Culinary Excellence: European cuisine is diverse and celebrated worldwide. From Italian pasta and French pastries to Spanish tapas, couples can curate a menu that reflects their tastes and the local flavors of their chosen destination.
Picturesque Landscapes: Whether it’s the rolling hills of Tuscany, the charming canals of Venice, or the dramatic cliffs of Santorini, Europe’s landscapes provide stunning backdrops for wedding photos.
Cultural Richness: Couples can immerse themselves in local traditions, from a Venetian gondola ride to a traditional Greek wedding dance, adding depth and meaning to their celebration.
Popular Destinations
- Paris, France: Known as the City of Love, Paris offers romantic settings such as the Eiffel Tower, charming gardens, and elegant ballrooms. A wedding in Paris allows couples to indulge in fine dining and breathtaking views. Paris, and France in general, is a top choice looking to get married in Europe. For this reason, you can be sure that with a little bit of research, you can find a plethora of wedding venues and service providers around the country ready to cater to a couple from outside the country.
- Tuscany, Italy: The picturesque countryside of Tuscany, with its rolling hills and vineyards, is perfect for rustic weddings. Couples can host their ceremony in a vineyard or a charming villa, followed by a feast of local wines and culinary delights.
- Santorini, Greece: Famous for its stunning sunsets and whitewashed buildings, Santorini provides a breathtaking setting for beach weddings. Couples can exchange vows overlooking the caldera, followed by a celebration in a cliffside restaurant with spectacular views.
Ease of Travel
- International Airports: Major cities are well-connected through extensive air networks, making it easy for guests to travel.
- Travel Requirements: Many European countries are part of the Schengen Zone, which allows for easier travel between countries for tourists.
Conclusion: Why Africa Stands Out as the Best Destination Wedding Choice
In comparing the enchanting offerings of Africa, East and South Asia, South America, the UAE, and Europe, it becomes clear that Africa presents an unparalleled array of unique experiences and breathtaking locations for destination weddings (again- we are biased!). Though, to be honest, any of these options will offer an amazing, culturally rich wedding experience for you.
In conclusion, while every region has its unique charm and allure, Africa shines as the ultimate destination wedding choice. Its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, adventurous spirit, and diverse offerings create the perfect recipe for a magical celebration of love. So, as you embark on your wedding planning journey, consider the beauty and wonder that Africa has to offer—your dream wedding awaits!