Wedding tourism is a fast-growing niche tourist market which is expanding rapidly worldwide, and in South Africa. This growing sector is also good for the property market, and will stimulate demand for lodge-styled properties, according to the Seeff Property Group.
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A study done by the South African GoldTrust Company based on google searches in America, showed South Africa as the most popular wedding destination in Africa. Weddings held here have featured in some of the most exclusive magazines including Vogue Magazine in America.
At one point the local wedding industry was worth an estimated R20 billion per annum locally. The Research and Markets’ 2023 Destination Wedding Global Market Report estimated the global market will grow by 33% this year to USD28 billion, and by 178% to USD78 billion by 2027 in the next three years.
Exchange rate, venue quality
The favourable exchange rate and quality of venues on offer to the local and international wedding market is also outstanding. Investing in a wedding venue can therefore be a rewarding venture. Demand and the prices of wedding and venue properties depend on the location as well as the particular facilities on offer, according to Seeff.
Dinokeng Lodge at Dinokeng Game Reserve
Seeff shares that a unique property such as Dinokeng Lodge which offers an attractive bush location, priced at R17.85 million, should therefore attract good interest, according to Karen McEwen and Tracy Keyter, agents with Seeff in Centurion.
The 23.5ha property comes with an upmarket wedding venue, event facilities, boreholes, water tanks and free roaming game. It is situated just 40-minutes from Pretoria in the malaria-free Dinokeng Game Reserve, the only Big 5 reserve in Gauteng.
The property illustrates the quality lodges on offer in South Africa. Its architectural features are designed to blend into the surroundings providing a bushveld experience with spectacular sunsets, and a variety of wildlife which frequent the garden area.
The lodge can accommodate weddings and a variety of events with indoor and outdoor facilities, kitchens for bulk catering, store rooms, a gin distillery and tasting venue, swimming pool, boma and braai. There is also accommodation for 88 guests, as well as for lodge managers and staff. The venue has Wi-Fi and 24-hour security.
Bush, hospitality opportunities
The agents say whether you want to live here and run the venue yourself, or invest and employ a team to run it, this is a good find for those looking to capitalise on the wedding and events industry.
They believe the property is well priced and offers excellent value. It will also appeal to international buyers who absolutely love the South African bush and hospitality opportunities.
