Where Is Blended Filmed In Africa

Ever watched Blended, the Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore rom-com where two single parents, after a disastrous blind date, get stuck vacationing together in Africa? You probably wondered, amongst the laughs and awkward moments, where exactly that beautiful, exotic resort was!

Well, buckle up, because the answer might surprise you! It wasn't quite where you might expect.

Sun City: South Africa's Playground

The primary filming location for the African resort scenes in Blended was actually Sun City, a luxury resort located in the North West Province of South Africa. Yes, not just “Africa,” but specifically sunny South Africa!

Sun City isn't just any resort; it's a sprawling entertainment complex known for its opulent hotels, casinos, a man-made beach with roaring wave pool, and two world-class golf courses. Think Las Vegas, but with a distinct African flair. The resort also has the largest permanent maze in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Palace of the Lost City

The grand, almost fantastical hotel that features prominently in Blended is The Palace of the Lost City, Sun City's most luxurious and iconic hotel. Imagine towering elephants guarding the entrance, intricate mosaics adorning the walls, and lush gardens surrounding a sparkling pool. It is an extravagant place, fit for a Hollywood movie!

You'll recognize its distinctive architecture throughout the film. It's not hard to spot, the hotel is very unique!

Valley of Waves

Remember the scenes where the kids are splashing around in a wave pool? That's the Valley of Waves, another key attraction within Sun City. It's a water park paradise and is an important part of the resort and of the film.

It's a massive pool that generates artificial waves, perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and generally having a fun time in the sun. The film really takes advantage of the setting.

Why South Africa?

So, why choose South Africa over, say, East Africa, known for its iconic safaris? Several factors likely played a role.

South Africa has a well-developed film industry and infrastructure, making it easier and more cost-effective to shoot a large-scale production like Blended. Think about all the crew, equipment, and logistics involved!

Sun City itself offers a ready-made, visually stunning location. It provides all the amenities and infrastructure needed for a film crew and cast. No need to build a set from scratch!

Beyond Sun City: Pilanesberg National Park

While the resort scenes were primarily filmed at Sun City, Blended also includes some breathtaking shots of African wildlife. These scenes were filmed at the nearby Pilanesberg National Park.

Pilanesberg is a malaria-free park, making it a safer and more accessible option for filming. It is home to the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo), as well as a variety of other animals and bird species.

So, those sweeping vistas of elephants roaming the savanna? Those were likely captured in the beautiful Pilanesberg National Park.

The Movie Magic Touch

Of course, movies often use a little movie magic to enhance the scenery. Don't be surprised if some elements were added or altered in post-production to create a more cinematic effect.

But the essence of the African setting in Blended is undoubtedly South Africa, and specifically the incredible Sun City resort. It's a real place you can visit!

More Than Just a Backdrop

The location in Blended isn't just a pretty backdrop. It plays an important role in the story.

The exotic and unfamiliar environment forces the characters to step outside their comfort zones and confront their issues. Being stuck together in a foreign location makes their conflict more comical.

The shared experience of exploring a new culture and encountering wildlife helps them to bond and develop feelings for each other. Without the location, the movie may not have worked as well!

Planning Your Own "Blended" Adventure

Inspired to have your own South African adventure after watching Blended? You can! Sun City and Pilanesberg National Park are both popular tourist destinations.

You can stay at The Palace of the Lost City (if your budget allows!), splash around in the Valley of Waves, and go on a safari in Pilanesberg. Just remember to book in advance, especially during peak season!

Who knows, maybe you'll even find your own Adam Sandler or Drew Barrymore on your trip. Hopefully not one you are stuck with on a blind date gone wrong!

A Fun Fact: Local Talent

Blended also featured a number of South African actors and crew members, contributing to the authenticity and cultural richness of the film. It's always great to see local talent being showcased in international productions.

The South Africans provided a more realistic portrayal of life in South Africa. Their involvement added a deeper layer to the film, beyond just the beautiful scenery.

So, the next time you watch Blended...

Take a closer look at the scenery and appreciate the beauty of South Africa. Notice the unique architecture of The Palace of the Lost City, the fun of the Valley of Waves, and the stunning landscapes of Pilanesberg National Park.

Remember that the African adventure in Blended is not just a fictional story, but a glimpse into a real and amazing place. It is worth visiting!

In Conclusion

Blended may be a lighthearted comedy, but it offers a taste of the magic and wonder that South Africa has to offer. It's a reminder that sometimes the most unexpected adventures can lead to the greatest connections.

So, next time you need a movie to make you laugh, and take you away, consider Blended! You might find yourself booking a trip to South Africa afterwards!

And who knows, maybe you'll even find your own happy ending in the heart of Africa, just like Adam and Drew.