6 Breathtaking escapes to nature
South Africa is often described as a 'world in one country', thanks to the variety of stunning landscapes our country boasts. That's certainly true when it comes to the best glamping spots in the land. Treetop canopy? Coastal gem? Sparse desert landscape? You can take your pick!
Last year, glamping generated a whopping $65 million (approximately R1.18 billion) for the South African tourism industry. So, if you're venturing into the bush with all your creature comforts packed, rest assured that you are in very good company.
Nestled among ancient trees and fynbos, glamping in South Africa's coastal forests often means raised wooden tents or eco-cabins. The indigenous Knysna and Tsitsikamma Forests are perfect for birdwatching, hikes with plenty of shade, and off-grid relaxation. Glamping spots include: Teniqua Treetops (Sedgefield, Western Cape) or Misty Mountains Reserve (Storms River, Eastern Cape) The Karoo is a beautiful spot for glamping in South Africa. Image via Wikicommons.
With vast open plains, endless silence, and almost zero light pollution, the Karoo is one of the best places in the Southern Hemisphere for stargazing. This South African glamping destination provides solitude and an intense, surreal connection to nature. Glamping spots include: Mount Camdeboo Pods (Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape) or Tankwa Tented Camp (between Ceres and Calvinia, Northern Cape)
Picture waking up in a luxury tent with a 3000-metre mountain outside your door…With excellent hiking and birdwatching, the Drakensberg is full of dramatic scenery. But there's plenty of peace and quiet on offer, too, especially from a cosy tent with a view. Glamping spots include: Mahai Glamping (Royal Natal National Park, KwaZulu-Natal) or AfriCamps Champagne Valley (Cathkin Park, KwaZulu-Natal)
The Eastern Cape's Wild Coast is a sometimes overlooked gem. This remote stretch of coastline offers dramatic cliffs, green rolling hills, and untouched beaches. This is also an excellent glamping spot in South Africa for culture-lovers who want to experience Xhosa culture. Glamping spots include: Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve (Chintsa, Eastern Cape) or Mtentu Lodge (Bizana, Eastern Cape) Glamping tents are luxurious on the inside. Image via Hamiltons Tented Camp/Facebook.
Before 'glamping' was a trend, luxury tented camps were already all the rage in South Africa's game reserves. They combine the thrill of a wildlife safari with all the comfort of a five-star hotel. If you're in a scenic position, you could enjoy not just the hum of the bush but a few zebra or elephant spottings, too. Glamping spots include: Hamiltons Tented Camp (Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga) or Honeyguide Ranger Camp (Mokopane, Limpopo)
The arid beauty of the Cederberg includes red rock formations, ancient San rock art, and a meditative quiet. Glamping setups here often lean toward minimalist luxury. Because all eyes should be on the glowing mountains, after all… Glamping spots include: Cederberg Park (Kromrivier, Western Cape) or AfriCamps at de Pakhuys (Clanwilliam, Western Cape)
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