MalaMala Safari Wedding in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Greater Kruger National Park. MalaMala’s lodges offer a unique destination from which to exchange vows. For the couple who seeks an intimate destination. With a heart of warm African hospitality, beautiful sunsets, panoramic views, and beautiful accommodations. This is THE place for romance and phenomenal game-viewing.
MalaMala Game Reserve is the oldest and largest (13 300 ha/33 000 acres) private Big Five game reserve in South Africa, in existence since 1927. MalaMala shares a 19km (12 miles) unfenced eastern boundary with the Kruger National Park and lies strategically sandwiched between the National Park and the Sabi Sand Reserve. This allows wildlife to move freely onto MalaMala and many of the territorial animals; such as leopards, lions, and rhinos will have a territory overlapping a portion of both reserves. There is no time limit on sightings which is an ideal scenario for photographers; no ‘queue to view’ as this enormous tract of land has a low density of vehicles traversing the area.
We are able to make arrangements for a non-denominational minister to perform your wedding ceremony. The minister is based in Nelspruit and is able to travel to MalaMala on any day of the week. Except a Sunday.
A fee will be charged to cover the Minister’s traveling expenses and a donation to the church. In addition; they would require the following before performing the ceremony for you: A meeting with you, at least one hour prior to the wedding. Copy of your identity book or passport. A copy of the Divorce Decree or a Death Certificate if applicable. Your ante-nuptial contract.
MalaMala Safari Wedding Ceremony
As stated in the legislation; the wedding ceremony must be in a “house-like” structure. We would be able to arrange for the legal ceremony to take place in a suitable location at the camp.
Two witnesses are required for the marriage ceremony. MalaMala staff members will gladly attend if you don’t have witnesses of your own.
A wonderful touch, once nuptials are complete, is a shower of confetti in the form of bougainvillea leaves. In the spirit of conservation; we don’t use paper confetti.
Snacks are provided on a complimentary basis. Champagne is an additional charge. We will gladly furnish you with our extensive wine and champagne list.
Flowers
We are able to arrange the flowers for your wedding and would obtain a quotation from a nearby florist.
We would require the following information from you before doing so: What color and size of the bridal bouquet would you like? If you have a preference as to the type of flowers used, please let us know. The color and quantity of buttonholes you would require? The quantity and type of floral arrangements required for the ceremony and / or reception? Because MalaMala is in a remote location; flowers that are more sensitive should be excluded. The lengthy transfers between the florist and camp could result in damaged or wilted blooms. The summer months are very hot and delicate flowers stand the risk of an untimely demise.
Wedding Cake
The MalaMala chef is able to bake a simple, chocolate or vanilla cake on a complimentary basis. However; should you want something more elaborate or more traditional; we would be happy to arrange this on your behalf. Before obtaining a quotation from a local supplier we would require the specifications as to: How many guests would be present at your wedding? What color and design would you prefer?
Wedding Photography
The rangers at MalaMala can film your wedding and take photographs for you. A basic camera / video recorder would be provided. But any additional equipment would be for your own account.
If you prefer professionally done photographs and video, we would be happy to get a quote from an audio-visual company. The cost of any extra accommodation for the crew would be for your own account.
MalaMala Safari Wedding Suggested Itinerary
We strongly suggest that you arrive at least a day prior to the planned marriage ceremony. Preferably at least 2 days. This will enable you to get to know the staff and to discuss any last-minute concerns and see where the ceremony will take place.
The minister will arrive in time to meet with you over lunch on the deck. This informal meeting will allow you all to get to know each other prior to the actual ceremony.
At approximately 3.30 pm; The “House” ceremony is performed in the presence of 2 witnesses. Or the whole wedding party.
Following this formality; you will be transferred in open safari vehicles to a carefully chosen area in the bush. Where under the guidance of the minister; you exchange your vows. The Shangaan staff will sing traditional African wedding songs. Before and after the ceremony. While the surrounding birds and insects provide a bushveld melody.
Snacks and champagne will be provided in the bush.
You and your guests depart on an evening game drive.
Cheetah
A special Boma dinner is waiting for you on your return to the camp. In the company of fellow guests and staff. If something a little more intimate is what you prefer; we can set up a private candle-lit meal on the deck of your suite.
Please note; the above is merely a guideline to assist you in the planning of your wedding. We would happily consider any other suggestions you may have for your wedding.
