Kenya is a country that offers its visitors the right combination of stunning scenes and romantic hotels that are easily accessible to its visitors. For those planning a wedding in Kenya, this is the perfect opportunity for the bride and groom and guests alike to experience firsthand the romance associated with a Kenyan safari. On the outset, organizing a wedding in Kenya can seem such a daunting task but I have been arranging them for many years and would like to share my experience.
Kenya is lucky to have many private game ranches or lodges which allows a myriad of choice for those interested in having their wedding in this country. For example, the bride and groom can get a special wedding package that can also include their guests. On the other hand, Kenya is also considered one of the most romantic destinations for those seeking to have their honeymoon here. There are many options for those couples that are searching for a private paradise of privacy and peace.
When planning a wedding, couples should let their imaginations run wild for their wedding to be truly memorable. One of the major issues to consider when organizing a wedding in Kenya is the backdrop for the special day. Some of the options to consider include beach, the bush, riverbanks, tented wilderness camps or in remote safari locations. The choices are many.
Kenyan weddings can be informal and relaxed; barefoot on the beach, relaxing under canvas, or completely formal with black ties and wedding gowns in the bush. The cocktail of formality and wilderness has become a trademark of Kenya’s romantic safari lifestyle and is easier to arrange than you may think.
For example, when a wedding is held in one of the beach resorts at the coast, the reception area of the hotel is completely transformed into a wedding chapel decorated with local tropical flowers. The marriage registrar or local pastor officiates over a wonderfully informal ceremony followed by a garden reception. The reception is also an opportunity to enjoy a delicious Kenyan sea food buffet with an evening’s dancing bringing to an end a most relaxed and happy occasion.
Below is one option of having your wedding done in Galdessa Camp that is located in Tsavo East National park
Galdessa Camp
Galdessa Camp, located in Tsavo East National park, is a small eco-tourism luxury tented lodge. The camp has 8 spacious “bandas” that are found under the shade of the doum palms. The camps are elegant, fresh and comfortable. They are set part at good distances and they all face the Yatta Plateau.
The walls of the camps are made out of canvas and the mosquito nets are set tastefully in timber frames. The romantic interior is further enhanced by its natural woods, stone tables and thatched roofs and its mosquito netting which enhances the contact with the rhythms and sounds of the wild outside.
The Honeymoon Suite which makes the place even more romantic has its own sitting room, viewing platform and water wallow. The camp is located in the heart of one of Africa’s most successful conservation projects, and is lucky to have 48 black rhinos in its direct vicinity.
The required documents are: Birth Certificates, Passports, Certificate of No Impediment or sworn affidavit (in case of not having married before) Decree OR absolute (in cases of divorcees). OR Death certificate (in cases of widow or widower)
The couples that are intending to get married need to be in the country three working days before the wedding date and they need to apply for a special wedding license to go ahead with their wedding. When they wed they will receive a wedding certificate and after another four working days, will receive a certified copy of the entry into wedding registry.
