Here's how much weddings cost in these 5 African countries

From the bustling city of Lagos to the breathtaking beaches of Mauritius, African weddings are as diverse as the continent itself. This article explores the average cost of weddings in five popular destinations in Africa: Nigeria, Kenya, Mauritius, Egypt, and South Africa.

Whether you're planning a lavish celebration or a more intimate event, having a comprehensive understanding of the costs involved will help you make informed decisions and ensure your special day is unforgettable.

Nigeria: In Nigeria, weddings can range from $9,460 to $13,515, with guest lists often reflecting larger budgets. According to CNN, prominent wedding planner Funke Bucknor notes that costs can vary greatly, with some weddings costing as 'cheap' as $13,869.65 and others reaching up to $277,393.

Nigerians love a good wedding party {newyorktimes} Pulse Nigeria

The wedding industry has also significantly impacted the makeup artistry industry, with celebrity makeup artist Jide of St. Ola charging a minimum of $1,000 for bridal makeup services.

Kenya: A 2018 survey by Samantha Bridals found that the average cost of a wedding in Kenya is approximately $34,854, with many couples striving to keep their expenses under $14,900. Kenya boasts stunning wedding locations, such as the Black River Gorges National Park and Port Louis, making it possible for couples to find affordable options for their big day.

A close-to-nature Kenyan wedding ece-auto-gen

Mauritius: According to The Telegraph, a wedding in Mauritius will cost an average of over $500, excluding expenses such as a photographer or designer wedding dress. With its stunning nuptial spots, Mauritius offers a budget-friendly option for couples.

Mauritius is home to plenty of gorgeous places to have a ceremony. BI Africa

South Africa: Johannesburg-based wedding planner Natasha Viet, owner of Weddings By Tasha, reports that the average cost of a wedding in South Africa she has seen is $12,000 (R200,000). This cost can vary greatly depending on the venue, catering, and decor. Natasha notes that some venues charge around $1,500 (R25,000) for hire and others $3,500 (R60,000), while catering costs can range from R350 to R700 per head.

An Authentic Xhosa Wedding in South Africa via Google Images

Egypt: Egyptian weddings are grand and elaborate, and are usually held in large event spaces, hotel ballrooms, or on private estates. According to Reuters, the cost of a wedding in Egypt can vary greatly depending on location, venue, and type of wedding, with the average cost ranging from $1,600 (EGP 30,000) to $5,500 (EGP 100,000). Venue, catering, entertainment, and decorations can all have a significant impact on the total cost.

The number of couples getting married in Egypt has continued to slide due to the high costs involved, according to experts. via Google Images

Correction: February 2, 2023 — This story has been updated to include the cost of a South African wedding in US dollars, which was previously omitted in an earlier version.