Something to really sing & dance about…
We all know that weddings can be a stressful affair. Countless opportunities present themselves on the day that can put a dent in the bride’s perfectly calm demeanour. Whether that be, the florist flittering in with only a handful of weepy sprigs, or, the caterer’s qualms about Uncle Joe’s recently discovered veganism, something is bound to put a bump in even the best of laid plans.
However, here at My Destination Zimbabwe, we have the perfect solution- a venue that simply can’t be spoiled. Just imagine soft glistening pools, warm desert sands, roaming rhinos and staggering wildebeest. There is something so inherently romantic about the African wilderness that it simply can’t be compromised. So, the florist doesn’t turn up? You have a whole rainforest of exotic flowers at your fingertips. So, the DJ’s lights fail you? You have pink sunset skies to fall back on (not a bad back-up plan!).
Fast becoming one of the most popular wedding destinations, here are just a few of our favourite spots to tie the knot amongst the beautiful Zimbabwean wildlife…
Wedding Arches, Zimbabue
Victoria Falls
Undoubtedly one of Zimbabwe’s most famed wedding locations, Victoria Falls is a spectacular spot to say your I do’s. Whether it be stood upon the banks of the Zambezi River, encircled by the lush vegetation of the national park or overlooking the mighty falls themselves; Victoria cannot be beaten as a big day backdrop.
In addition to hosting the perfect ceremony, however, Victoria can transform into an atmospheric stage for a suitable evening of entertainment (whether wild or tame!).
Take Victoria Falls Safari Lodge, for example. Perched high up upon a plateau, just a few kilometres from the thundering falls and the flowing Zambezi River, here wedding parties can dance the night away amongst the grassy bushveld and roaming wildlife of the Zambezi National Park.
For a particularly elegant and stylish reception, however, we would also recommend the Victoria Falls Hotel. Home to countless statesmen and celebrities, the regal ambiance here will definitely set the tone of your reception.
Kariba
Nestled near the Zambezi Valley, Kariba is characteristically hot all year round with prime bird-watching and safari spots. If these two points alone don’t promote Kariba to the top of the wedding-venue-pack, however, then Bumi Hills Safari Lodge and Gache Gache Lodge certainly do. Found in the eastern basin of Lake Kariba, on the banks of the Gache Gache River, this rustic setting is as exotic as it is peaceful. Perfect for an intimate ceremony and reception, the views here simply won’t disappoint. And, when all is said and done, Victoria Falls sits right on your doorstep as the perfect honeymoon destination.
Wedding Pool, Zimbabue
Harare
The largest city and trading centre in Zimbabwe, Harare might not seem like your usual wedding spot. However, here in a small suburb of Harare lies one of the most sought after wedding venue of all- Zimbabwe Gardens. Located in Chisipite, and run by the efficient team at Zimbabwe Garden Weddings, this unique setting oversees three and a half acres of manicured lawn for the perfectly peaceful garden wedding.
Also highly recommended in Harare, however, is the Wild Geese Lodge. With vast open plains, roaming wildlife, dusky horizons and the Mazowe hills here, Wild Geese offers the ultimate spot for an African savannah-style wedding (and honeymoon!) Overlooking a private game sanctuary, and with in-house wedding and event coordinators, you simply can’t go wrong with this one.
For any further outdoor exploration after the wedding buzz is over, (or to simply send everyone on their way!), Shuttle Direct offer an excellent transport service in Harare.
Outside The Wedding Tent, Zimbabue
Bvumba Mountains
Last (but by no means least) on our Zimbabwean wedding wish-list is the Bvumba Mountains, meaning ‘mountains of the mist’. For those who prefer to bask in the cool African breeze, rather than the hot savannah plains, this wedding hot-spot is ideal. Here, amongst the tranquil setting of rolling hills and lush valley vegetation lies the Leopard Rock Hotel. Highly recommended for wedding parties and special social occasions, this luxurious location will leave you with lifetime of lasting memories, not to mention, an album full of incredible photos!
Main Photo: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge, Kariba
Wedding at sunset, Zimbabue
