Plan a Kenya Wedding With a Stunning Safari Backdrop

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For some, a white-sand beach wedding is a paradise found. But adventurous types may go off the beaten path, opting for a safari adventure dripping in beauty and uniqueness. A Kenya wedding embodies all of these elements.

To be clear, coastal beach wedding destinations in Kenya, like Lamu Island and Diani Beach, also exist. However, safaris and savannahs are often where one's mind drifts when thinking of a vacation or the stunning wedding sites in Kenya—and for a good reason. Home to Maasai Mara, the site of the Great Migration, Kenya's wildlife, rich culture, breathtaking natural beauty and endless opportunities to explore outdoors make it an underrated gem among destination wedding locations.

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Whether you plan a safari wedding or beachside ceremony, it's an opportunity to lean into wedding traditions in Kenya and honor your heritage (or the country's if you and your spouse-to-be have no familial connection). Think of a dress code of "colorful" and skipping the black tie (black is thought to attract bad omens) and a signature drink with Mbangara, a traditional Kenyan liquor.

Still, you'll want to take some extra care when planning a Kenya wedding. For instance, you'll need to vet wedding venues in Kenya mainly from a distance. You'll also want to decide whether you want your Kenya wedding ceremony to carry legal weight. If you do, it's key to understand the ins and outs of getting a Kenyan marriage license. A wedding planner can be a clutch resource. But this guide to planning an unforgettable Kenya fete should provide tons of information to get you started, including top venues, transportation, budgeting and legal logistics.

Kenya Wedding Planning Tips in this Article:

• Why Couples and Wedding Guests Love Kenya Weddings
• The Best Wedding Locations in Kenya
• Top Kenya Wedding Venues
• Kenya Wedding Legal Requirements
• Kenya Wedding Planning Tips

Why Couples and Wedding Guests Love Kenya Weddings

Destination weddings, by nature, have a unique factor—a chance for couples and their guests to share a big day and make core memories during an epic journey. But a Kenya wedding offers that in spades. "Kenya is an ideal destination for couples, especially those from outside Africa, who dream of a safari wedding," says Robert Janeson, the director of events at Janeson. "Iconic locations like Maasai Mara offer a breathtaking and unique experience."

Indeed, couples and guests may have been to (or have easier access to) popular destination wedding spots in the Caribbean and the US. People are less likely to say the same about Kenya because it's a 13-to-24-hour-plus trek. So, your African safari wedding (or beach nuptials) can serve as an unexpected opportunity for exploration. That exploration will primarily take place outside—Kenya's game drives, national parks and beaches are ripe for pairs who would like to consider Mother Nature a guest of honor on their wedding day.

Alternatively, perhaps Kenya is a special place for you and your family or your partner and theirs, in which case saying "I do" here is a beautiful way to honor your past and celebrate your future.

Pro tip: Invite a destination wedding travel expert to join your vendor team. Browse travel agents near you on The Knot Vendor Marketplace for Kenya wedding expertise, group hotel blocks, flight arrangements and more.

The Best Wedding Locations in Kenya

A Kenya safari wedding ceremony? That's a no-brainer and a site to behold. But Kenya is also home to one of the best beaches in Africa: Lamu Island, a serene yet free-spirited spot off the northern coast. It's proof that the wedding destinations in Kenya are anything but one-size-fits-all. Before reaching out to wedding venues in Kenya, you'll want to hone in on a location that meets your vision.

Maasai Mara

For a quintessential safari wedding, look no further than Maasai Mara. Janeson calls it the "perfect choice for elopement destination weddings, offering a stunning natural backdrop." Wildlife is part of that backdrop. Lions and tigers and bears? Oh, please. Maasai Mara is home to the big five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo and rhinos. Every July through October, anyone willing to share the stage with wildlife can give guests a one-in-a-lifetime chance to see the Great Migration, the annual journey of millions of wildebeest to Maasai Mari that fills the savannah with zebra and other wildlife. A game drive followed by a sundowner (a post-drive nightcap) is a must. You can say "I do" in safari lodges and camps, including the spacious Mara Serena Safari Lodge.

Diani Beach

White-sand beaches and glistening turquoise waters aren't limited to the Caribbean. Fewer than 20 miles from the bustling coastal city of Mombasa, Diani's place along the Indian Ocean will instantly put you and your guests in a laidback state of mind. Lush vegetation adds to the breathtaking backdrop. The 11-mile stretch of beach is made for walking—down the aisle or in the sand for pre and post-wedding together time. Lounging is also on the table. Janeson notes that many of the area's hotels and resorts are seasoned hosts, with many offering Kenya wedding packages and all-inclusive deals.

Lamu Island

Boutiques, luxury hotels and unspoiled beaches as far as the eye can see have made Lamu Island a not-so-well-kept secret among designers and celebrities who are in need of a getaway. Despite its popularity among the who's-who list of red carpet staples, Lamu Island's beaches remain quiet and serene. It's an ideal spot for an intimate wedding brimming with natural beauty. Human-made structures also add welcome diversity to the scenery. Exhibit A: You'll find Swahili and Arabic stone architecture throughout the winding streets and within the enclosed courtyards of Lamu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Some buildings are chic clothing boutiques with finds that'll make perfect last-minute, morning-after meal outfits.

Nairobi

Kenya is loved for its opportunity to reconnect in nature, but the bustling capital, Nairobi, is ideal if you're looking for an urban soiree in East Africa. It also offers the best of both worlds as the home of the Nairobi National Park, a sprawling game reserve with endangered black rhinos. Plus, it's the site of a major airport, giving all attendees convenience. But make no mistake: Nairobi has all the trimmings of a contemporary city, including a lively nightlife and restaurant scene that is sure to turn your wedding into an endless dance party.

Pro tip: As you consider Kenya wedding locations, don't forget about your newlywed vacation. Plan an amazing Kenya honeymoon, too, with our complete guide.

Top Kenya Wedding Venues

Once you've chosen from the many wedding sites in Kenya, you can focus on finding your dream venue. When selecting a spot, you'll want to decide whether you're hoping to have access to Kenya wedding packages, which can streamline finding vendors. Some have Kenya wedding planners on staff. Others require a little more muscle, ideal for DIY stalwarts. From luxury resorts to basecamps and beaches, a wedding in this East African country truly knows few limits.

Saruni Basecamp Masai Mara

Set in the Mara, Saruni Basecamp Masai Mara feels remote and secluded. Its thatched roof tents and sturdy trees offer shade and privacy. Weddings can take place in the untouched wilderness, with community elders available to perform traditional blessing ceremonies to celebrate. It's a beautiful touch that comes in part because Basecamp is interwoven with the nearby community because of its proximity to Maasai village. It offers an authentic Kenyan experience—plus Talek River views, easy access to Maasai Mara National Park and consistent monkey and bird spotting opportunities. On the grounds, you'll find 17 eco-friendly tents, including one for honeymooners available to newlyweds.

Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa

A five-star spot surrounded by gardens and the Indian Ocean, Diani Reef Beach Resort & Spa epitomizes laidback luxury. You can exchange rings in an intimate ceremony in the sand, with the gentle Indian Ocean breezes blowing softly in the background. You'll work with a specialist to plan every detail and have access to Kenya wedding packages. Perks include two-tiered wedding cakes, marriage certificates and private use of a wedding venue. The spa is undergoing renovations with a TBD re-opening date. However, when it does, it'll be ripe for between-party pampering.

The Majlis Hotel Lamu

Found along Kenya's North Coast, The Majlis Hotel Lamu is a privately owned paradise. Imagine sharing intimate vows as the Indian Ocean waves provide a natural and soft soundtrack. The unspoiled and quiet palm-tree-lined beaches make room for idyllic and intimate nuptials, though the hotel sleeps up to 85 people. You can also reserve exclusive use of the resort. Kite surfing, fishing and game-drive safari excursions to Lake Kenyatta, where you'll see a bevy of hippos and buffalo, will keep guests plenty busy.

Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi

A five-star pink-hued urban oasis, Villa Rosa Kempinski Nairobi is dripping with luxury. A heated pool, on-site spa and proximity to the downtown area and Nairobi National Park are among the perks of booking a wedding here. You'll have your pick of nine venues, including a spacious Victorian-esque ballroom that fits up to 500 guests and is appointed with elegant chandeliers. The staff can also customize the space for more intimate parties. Couples get one complimentary night stay, plus access to a getting-ready room.

Pro tip: Once you've decided on your Kenya wedding venue, send out destination wedding save-the-dates with important info so your guests can book the time off and start thinking about travel plans.

Kenya Wedding Legal Requirements

There are plenty of memories to be made during a Kenya wedding. However, one logistic is necessary to square away: how you and your future spouse plan to make things official—as in legal. Couples will want to know the steps to getting a marriage license in Kenya, plus understand a separate way to get legally married. For more information about getting legally married in Kenya, Janeson recommends looking at the State Law Office website. A Kenya wedding planner familiar with local laws can also walk you through the steps, but this guide should help.

Legal Weddings vs. Symbolic Weddings

Couples can have a legal or symbolic wedding in Kenya. "For couples from the US, a wedding in Kenya is either legal or a celebration that does not carry legal weight," Janeson says.

The latter is a symbolic ceremony—a ceremonial ceremony that is not legally binding. Typically, couples going this route complete the legal paperwork at their local town or city hall before traveling to Kenya for a symbolic ceremony with loved ones.

"To marry legally, you need to obtain marriage authorization, commonly referred to as a marriage notification," Janeson says. Notably, Kenya does not recognize same-sex marriages.

Required Legal Documents

Anyone who isn't a Kenyan citizen must present valid passports and birth certificates. If one or both of you were previously married, you must prove that the marriage ended legally. This proof will come in the form of a death certificate of the previous partner or divorce paperwork.

Additionally, all couples must furnish a notarized separate statutory declaration stating they are legally free to marry. It must have the signature and official stamp of the notary. Any member of the couple under 21 years old will need a legal document with written parental consent.

Kenya requires a 21-day residency. However, you can request a special license by contacting the Registrar's office in advance.

Legal Marriage Timeline

First, you must file a Notice of Marriage at the Registrar's office with the Registrar of Marriages. There is a 21-day waiting period that allows anyone to file legal objections to the marriage. If no one speaks up? You're almost free to marry. You'll first need to complete an affidavit and marriage certificate form with the Registrar of Marriages and pay a fee. Then, you'll be able to secure your wedding date. You have 90 days to say, "I do."

You can also petition to waive the 21-day period (for an extra fee). The Registrar of Marriages has the final say.

Legal Marriage Cost

If you are not seeking to waive the 21-day waiting period, you can expect to pay around $20. This cost covers the ceremony, marriage certificate and commissioning of legal documents. The fee for a special license that waives the 21-day requirement is $54.

Additionally, it costs around $110 to have a licensed clergy member perform a marriage outside of the church. Couples can expect to pay about $110 for a wedding conducted by the Registrar of Marriages outside of the Registrar's office.

Kenya Wedding Planning Tips

Once you've made plans to legalize your marriage, you can get down to executing your vision. Practicalities are involved here, too, like ensuring you and your guests get to Kenya and around the country as smoothly as possible. You'll also want to pay attention to money matters and ensure your dream day remains within budget. Here are top tips on navigating transportation, your vendor search and budgeting for your Kenya wedding from the comfort of your couch a world away.

How to Get to Kenya

Janeson says direct flights to Kenya are possible, adding convenience. This information is true for some couples and guests—those flying from New York can touch down in Nairobi in less than 14 hours. However, others will need to budget time for layovers. Travelers from San Francisco can expect at least one stop and a 20-plus-hour trek to Nairobi or Mombasa. Once there, you'll still likely need to get to your wedding destination in Kenya. Bush planes commonly give people a lift to safari camps.

Safari camps may offer transportation to and from parks, and coastal towns and cities often have boat service. Motorcycle taxis called boda-bodas are popular, albeit not for the faint of heart (wear a helmet if you're taking this route). Some places can be explored on foot. Ubers and rental cars are also available.

Importantly, before hopping on a plane, you will also want to speak with their healthcare team to ensure they are current on vaccines. A member of your care team may also recommend malaria prevention medication.

Best Months to Marry in Kenya

The Great Migration occurs from July through September or October—expect a once-in-a-lifetime experience and higher prices. July to October and January to February are generally the driest seasons in coastal towns like Lamu Island. Wetter seasons bring rain, but the greenery is often at its best, and the island is quieter.

Kenya Wedding Venue and Vendors

Janeson says that sourcing vendors alone can feel overwhelming. "Hire a planner," Janeson says. "A professional planner can propose trusted vendors and manage them on your behalf."

Kenya destination wedding planners and venue coordinators in Kenya also typically have excellent insights into the top local pros. "Many hotels have preferred vendor lists and can assist in sourcing reliable professionals," Janeson says.

For help locating potential Kenya wedding venues and vendors, take a look at The Knot Vendor Marketplace's comprehensive list of travel specialists with expertise in destination weddings.

Budgeting Tips

So many factors dictate a destination wedding cost—and Kenya is no exception. "Costs vary widely depending on the venue—beaches, national parks, desert or five-star hotels in Nairobi—and the number of guests," Janeson says.

Janeson has planned parties for 50 guests that cost $7,000 and 80-guest, three-day celebrations complete with game drives that cost $70,000. He says elopements are naturally the least expensive. Overall, these may seem like bargains—relatively speaking, they generally are for US couples.

"Destination weddings in Kenya are generally more affordable compared to the US due to lower overall costs," Janeson says. "Kenya also offers better value compared to destinations like Seychelles or Mauritius. While Zanzibar is similarly priced, Kenya stands out for its diversity of options—beaches, deserts and national parks."

Kenya uses the shilling, and Janeson recommends asking for quotes in the local currency to avoid vendor conversion markups. (Most hotels will quote in USD, he says.)

Janeson says booking wedding vendors and venues in Kenya early can help you secure better rates. Although high seasons will result in heftier costs, there's often wiggle room. "Work with a planner to negotiate on your behalf and manage vendor costs effectively," Janeson says.

Pro tip: Set up a free destination wedding website on The Knot with all the event details, including your Kenya wedding itinerary, things to do, guest travel information, RSVPs and more.