Eloping in the Drakensberg Mountains

The Drakensberg Mountains are located in eastern South Africa right on the border of the country, Lesotho. With their breathtaking and unique cliffs, lush valleys, and vast skies, are the perfect backdrop for an adventurous elopement. Driving through the mountains is like driving through scenes from The Lord of the Rings. Whether you’re dreaming of exchanging vows on a mountaintop, beside a waterfall, or in an ancient cave, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers countless locations and experiences for nature-loving couples. Here’s your complete guide to planning an unforgettable elopement in the Drakensberg Mountains.

Why Choose the Drakensberg Mountains for Your Elopement?

The Drakensberg range, part of the Great Escarpment, provides unparalleled views, diverse landscapes, and opportunities for adventure. The area is rich in wildlife, rock art, and some of the most spectacular vistas in Africa, making it idea for couples seeking a unique and unforgettable elopement experience.

Step 1: Choose the Perfect Location

• Cathedral Peak: With its dramatic rock formations and panoramic views, Cathedral Peak is a great choice for those looking for a bit of a hike and amazing photographic backdrop. If you aren’t as siked for a long hike, a stay at the Cathedral Peak Hotel and exchange of vows at their chapel can be an option as well for a just as stunning view of these beautiful mountains.
• Amphitheatre: This iconic cliff face offers one of the most stunning setting in all of South Africa. You can exchange vows at the base or hike up the Tugela Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in the world. Here’s an article that describes the Amphitheatre hike.
• Giants Castle Nature Reserve: Known for its beautiful valleys and caves filled with ancient San Rock Art, this location is ideal for couples who want a bit of history with their adventure. I know we absolutely love learning about historical locations.

Step 2: Consider Season and Weather

The Drakensberg Mountains experience distinct seasons, each offering different elements for your elopement. Remember that South Africa is in the Southern Hempisphere so seasons are flipped from what they are in the United States. Winter is Summer and Summer is Winter, for example.

• Summer (November-February): Expect lush greenery and flowing waterfalls, though it can be rainy. Morning and late-afternoon ceremonies work best to avoid mid-day showers. When we were visiting Cathedral Peak in late February, we had perfect weather (a little warm) except for a couple very dramatic mountain thunderstorms at night.
• Autumn (March-May): Cooler weather and fewer crowds make this an excellent time for an elopement, with clear skies and vibrant landscapes.
• Winter (June-August): Perfect for snow-capped mountains and cozy scenes, winter adds a dramatic feel. Note that it can get cold, especially at higher elevations.
• Spring (September-October): Flowers bloom, temperatures are moderate, and the landscape is green but not overly rainy.

Step 3: Plan Your Travel and Accommodations

The Drakensberg Mountains are accessible from Johannesburg and Durban. For a multi-day trip, consider staying at one of the many lodges, resorts, or guesthouses nearby. Some popular options include Cathedral Peak Hotel, Montusi Mountain Lodge, and Champagne Castle Hotel. These lodges can often assist with local guides, which is helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the trails.

We had direct personal experience with Cathedral Peak Hotel and can personally recommend. Complete access to trails right from your room plus plenty of activities and places to visit in the area.

Step 4: Obtain Permits (if necessary)

Certain areas in the Drakensberg may require permits, especially if you’re planning to hike or visit specific nature reserves. Check with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the organization managing many parts of the Drakensberg, to confirm permit requirements and ensure you’re eloping in a designated and approved area.

We always practice Leave No Trace no matter where we are and we pride ourselves on wanting to preserve nature and wildlife. If you would like to learn more about Leave No Trace and what it is, you can check out our blog post here!

Step 5: Choose Your Vendors

Since the Drakensberg area may have limited vendors, you may have to look towards the larger cities and beyond for your elopement vendors. It is good to keep in mind that the Drakensberg is a very very remote area in the world.

• Photographer/Videographer: While we are partial to ourselves as your photographer and videographer, if you do not choose us as this vendor, we hope you receive valuable information from this blog post. We do have experience traveling from the United States to Johannesberg, staying in the city, going on safari at Mongena Lodge at the Dinokeng Game Reserve north of Johannesberg, and traveling to Cathedral Peak and staying there for a week.
• Officiant: South Africa recognizes elopements and marriages from a registered officiant or marriage officer. Some couples may choose to legally marry beforehand in their home country and have a symbolic ceremony at their destination. This seems to be the easiest way to handle things no matter where you are traveling.
• Local Guides: Having a guide familiar with the area is especially helpful if you plan to hike to a specific location. Like we mentioned before, many of the hotels and lodges in the mountains do offer trail guides with your stay there.

These are the bare minimum you would need for your elopement, but depending on the location some may choose to hire a musician, hair and makeup artist, catering or private chef, or transportation services (could be a helicopter to get to more remote locations).

Step 6: Embrace the Adventure

Eloping in the Drakensberg Mountains is all about embracing the wild, rugged beauty of the mountains. From hiking to your ceremony spot to capturing moments in remote, picturesque locations, focus on enjoying the journey together. Bring sturdy shoes, dress in layers, and remember to stay hydrated – especially if you’ll be hiking or spending the day outdoors.

It’s all about creating the adventure of YOUR dreams and making your elopement about you and your partner.

It is good to keep in mind how far away from your typical civilization the Drakensberg are. For example, to travel to Cathedral Peak, it is about a 5 hour drive from O.M. Tambo International airport in Johannesberg and about 4.5 hour drive from the King Shaka International Airport in Durban. There are some small towns along the way, but it’s all pretty remote.

Suggested Drakensberg Elopement Timeline

Morning: Start with an early hike to your chosen location to avoid midday heat and capture sunrise portraits.

Midday: Relax, picnic, and take photos in various scenic spots. If it’s summer, a nearby waterfall makes a great cooling-off point.

Afternoon: Exchange vows and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Evening: Capture sunset photos, then celebrate at a local lodge or under the stars with a private dinner.

Eloping in the Drakensberg Mountains is perfect for couples who love adventure and want a stunning, secluded backdrop for their wedding day. With some planning and the right team, your elopement in this magical setting will be an unforgettable experience that beautifully reflects your love story.

Want to hire a photo and video team that has been to the Drakensberg? We’ve got you covered! To find out more on what we have to offer you, visit our website!