A Love Story Under the African Sky
There is nothing more adventurous than deciding to elope on safari in South Africa. For Meryl and Besi, what started as their plan B soon turned into their dream wedding experience. Traveling all the way from Sweden, they embarked on a journey they would never forget—an intimate, magical celebration of their love amidst the breathtaking South African bushveld.
The Beauty of an Intimate Elopement
Elopements are unconventional, and that’s exactly why I love them. There’s something truly special about stripping away the expectations and focusing entirely on the couple and their love story. Traditional weddings often come with stress, long to-do lists, and moments where you wonder, “Was that really necessary?”
Choosing to elope means choosing simplicity, romance, and an experience that is purely about the two of you. It’s about embracing the adventure, the intimacy, and the wonder of a day dedicated to celebrating your love in a way that feels authentic. And when that elopement takes place in the stunning South African wilderness? It’s pure magic.
Finding the Perfect Safari Lodge
Meryl and Besi’s elopement took place at the breathtaking African Flair Boutique Safari Lodge, a hidden gem filled with African art, artefacts, and an atmosphere rich in culture. Every corner of the lodge tells a story, and you could easily spend hours exploring the intricate details and appreciating the talent showcased throughout the space.
Choosing the right venue is a key part of planning a safari elopement in South Africa. The hospitality industry here is world-class, with passionate professionals who prioritise making your experience unforgettable. Whether it’s a private game reserve, a luxury lodge, or a secluded safari retreat, the right setting enhances the magic of your special day.
The Emotional First Look
The morning of their elopement was filled with quiet excitement. Once they were ready, Meryl and Besi were driven separately to their ceremony spot. Besi waited under the shade of a tree, the African sun casting a golden glow around him. It was a warm day, but nothing could distract from the anticipation building in that moment.
Meryl approached from behind, gently touching his shoulder. As he turned around to see her, emotions took over—joyful tears, deep breaths, and a moment of pure love. Witnessing this raw and beautiful connection between them was truly unforgettable.
A Ceremony Spoken in Love
Their vows were exchanged in Swedish, a language I didn’t understand—but I didn’t need to. The emotions spoke louder than words. Love, commitment, and joy filled the air as they promised their forever to each other.
As the final words were spoken, they embraced, kissed, and shared a moment of pure happiness. Champagne was popped, laughter echoed through the trees, and the weight of the world melted away as they soaked in their first moments as a married couple.
A Safari Adventure to Celebrate
After the ceremony, it was time for an adventure. Together, Meryl and Besi climbed onto the safari vehicle, ready to explore the vast landscapes of the private reserve. The day was cloudy, and while animal sightings can be rare in such conditions, nothing could dampen their spirits.
The day before, they had already experienced an incredible game drive, spotting all of the Big Five and more. But today wasn’t about the wildlife—it was about them. About their love, their journey, and the beautiful memories they were creating in a country they would forever hold dear to their hearts.
A Romantic Dinner Under the Stars
As the sun dipped below the horizon and darkness settled over the reserve, we arrived at the boma, a traditional outdoor dining area. A softly lit pathway guided them to their intimate dinner table, where a cozy fire flickered and the sounds of the African night created the perfect ambiance.
They took a moment to call their family back home, sharing the joy and the emotions of their special day. There were happy tears, a longing to celebrate together, and a promise that once they returned to Sweden, they would relive the magic with their loved ones.
Some Advice on Choosing the Perfect Lodge for Your Safari Elopement
Over the years, I have visited several lodges both personally and professionally, and I can confidently recommend these incredible options for your safari elopement:
When choosing between the Kruger National Park (KNP) and the Greater Kruger private reserves, it’s important to understand the key differences:
Kruger National Park (KNP)
State-owned: The lodges within KNP do not receive the same level of investment or maintenance as private lodges.
**With the exception of Pafuri Lodge. It is part of the Return Africa group and is privately owned, but is located in the Kruger National Park.
Limited photography opportunities: Since you’ll be self-driving, you must remain on public roads and cannot leave your vehicle for better angles.
No private guide: You won’t have an expert guide tracking animals or positioning you for the best possible sightings.
Less flexibility: Sightings are unpredictable, and there are restrictions on where you can go, limiting scenic backdrops for photos.
The Greater Kruger Private Reserves (Sabi Sands, Klaserie, Thornybush & Timbavati)
Exclusive, intimate wildlife encounters: Private guides and trackers communicate about sightings, ensuring an incredible game-viewing experience.
Private roads & off-road tracking: Unlike KNP, private reserves allow guides to track animals off the beaten path, increasing your chances of amazing wildlife interactions.
Unforgettable photo opportunities: More flexibility means a better chance of capturing breathtaking moments against stunning backdrops.
World-class guides: Experienced rangers with deep knowledge of the bushveld will enrich your experience and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the wild.
The feeling of embarking on a game drive with a skilled guide is truly life-changing. Their passion, expertise, and storytelling transform the safari into something far beyond a simple drive—it becomes an experience that touches your soul.
To understand this layout better please follow this link to a map of the Kruger National Park and the Greater Kruger areas.
A Day to Remember Forever
What a truly special day. So many precious moments, shared between two souls who dared to create a wedding experience that was uniquely theirs. Meryl and Besi’s safari elopement in South Africa was more than just a wedding—it was a celebration of love, adventure, and the beauty of embracing the unexpected.
Elopements like these are a reminder that the most meaningful weddings aren’t always the biggest or the most extravagant. Sometimes, they’re simply about two people, in love, standing together in a place that feels like magic. And what better place for that magic than the heart of the South African wilderness?
Some interesting reads:
6 Savvy Suggestions To Consider When Eloping To South Africa
Elopement To South Africa: A Perfect Destination for International Couples