When it comes to having a break or going on vacation, more travellers today look for an immersive experience, rather than a night at a fancy hotel. Glamping or (glam camping) is quickly becoming a trend all over the world as it allows travellers not just to witness nature but also to live in it. Whether it’s residing along a river or staying in a tent on a mountaintop, each glamping site has its own unique attractions.
South Africa has some of the most stunning glamping destinations on the globe. So, if you fancy a unique experience like this, consider some of our local offerings when planning your next vacation.
AfriCamps at Oakhurst, Wilderness (Western Cape)
For a great relaxing family experience along the Garden Route, head on over to AfriCamps at Oakhurst. Here you will be able to enjoy an authentic farm experience with some fun outdoor activities like canoeing and fishing. You”ll also be able to soak up the views of the Outeniqua Mountains in the distance from your private outdoor wood-fired hot tub, right next to your tent.
The tents overlook grassy fields, where dairy cows often make an appearance - a treat for a city child! Here guests will also have the opportunity to visit Oakhurst Dairy to watch cows being milked and calves being fed in their feeding camps. They’ll also have a chance to explore the property on horseback or mountain bikes along the many beautiful kilometers of forest here.
Kwafubesi Tented Safari Camp, Mabula (Limpopo)
Tucked away deep in the Mabula Private Reserve in Limpopo, you’ll find a wonderful location suitable for a peaceful getaway. The Kwafubesi Tented Safari Camp is perfect for families who would like to escape the busy CBD for a while. Each luxurious tent has a private deck overlooking the grassy plains where guests have the opportunity to watch herds of animals graze while enjoying a nice warm cup of hot chocolate.
Each tent also has an en-suite bathroom and electricity to ensure that guests are always comfortable. For the warmer days, there is a pool for kids to enjoy and beautiful game viewing drives at sunset.
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve, Chintsa (Eastern Cape)
If guided hiking trails, quad biking tours and elephant walks sound like fun, head on over to Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve in Chintsa, near East London. This awesome reserve has loads of fun activities to keep the entire family entertained and is perfect for families who would like to spend the night.
The safari tented suites are spacious with quality features and furnishings; they’re also positioned in a valley nestled among some of the reserve’s indigenous trees. From here you’ll be able to enjoy beautiful elevated views of the surrounding area.
AfriCamps at White Elephants Safaris, Pongola Game Reserve (KwaZulu-Natal)
If it’s a Safari experience you’re after, the AfriCamps at White Elephant Safaris should be at the top of your travel list. Here guests will be able to enjoy water-based and land-based safaris departing right from the camp they’ll be staying in.The Reserve is home to four of the five members of the Big Five, as well as over 350 species of birds and 12 different antelope species.
Guests staying in the reserve will also have the rare opportunity to track black rhino and spot hippos and Nile crocodiles from a boat in the 15 000 hectare Lake Jozini. Each self-catering tent consists of a fully equipped kitchen, two comfortable bedrooms that sleep up to 5 guests, a spacious bathroom and a large deck with excellent braai facilities. Each tent also has an indoor fireplace for chilly winter nights and air-conditioning to ensure that glampers keep cool on hot days.
