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If you have ever been camping, then you know how much fun it is to sleep under the stars and roast marshmallows over a fire. Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature.

But what if there was a way to camp that was even better? A way that allows you to enjoy all the best parts of camping in Africa without any of the downsides? This is where glamping comes in.

In this guide we look at what glamping is, the benefits of glamping, and the best spots for glamping throughout Africa.

What is glamping?

Glamping, or glamorous camping, is a luxury type of camping that combines the freedom and closeness to nature of traditional camping with amenities and accommodations that are far more comfortable than what is usually available.

It allows campers to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and style with different types of shelters, ranging from canvas tents to treehouses, and amenities such as running water, electricity, beds, and kitchenettes.

The global glamping market was valued at approximately $3.15 billion in 2023 and is forecasted to grow at a rate of 8.7% from 2024 to 2030.

Glamping in Africa continues to grow and particularly appeals to young people and families who are looking for unique and luxurious vacations that combine access to the outdoors with the luxury of typical hotel accommodation.

Glamping destinations are often quite scenic, making for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Why choose Africa for glamping?

Africa is a continent of breathtaking diversity and natural beauty, offering an array of experiences that make it an ideal destination for glamping.

The unique combination of its landscapes, wildlife, cultural richness, and climate provides an unparalleled backdrop for those looking to explore the outdoors in comfort and style.

A brief history

While the concept of glamping has gained popularity worldwide in recent years, its roots in Africa are deeply tied to the safari expeditions of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Early explorers and hunters sought to bring the comforts of home into the wild, setting up elaborate campsites in the heart of the African bush. Today’s glamping experiences draw on this tradition, combining the spirit of adventure with modern luxury and environmental consciousness.

Wildlife opportunities and safari experiences

Africa is synonymous with wildlife and safari adventures. Glamping sites are often located in or near some of the world's most famous national parks and wildlife reserves, offering unparalleled access to viewing Africa's iconic animals in their natural habitats.

Imagine sipping your morning coffee as elephants roam nearby or enjoying a sunset game drive to spot lions, leopards, and cheetahs.

Glamping makes these once-in-a-lifetime experiences comfortable and accessible, combining the thrill of a safari with the luxury of a boutique hotel.

Weather and climate

Africa's vast size means its climate varies greatly across the continent, making it a year-round destination for glamping. Southern Africa, for example, is best visited in the dry winter months from May to October when wildlife viewing is at its peak.

East Africa, known for its dramatic wildebeest migration, offers excellent conditions from June to October and from January to February. Meanwhile, the deserts of North Africa and the tropical regions around the equator provide unique glamping experiences that can be enjoyed at different times of the year, depending on your preferences for adventure and comfort.

Glamping in Africa is unique

Glamping in Africa offers more than just a comfortable bed in a beautiful setting. It's an opportunity to engage with the environment and local cultures in a respectful and meaningful way.

Many glamping sites are involved in wildlife conservation efforts and community projects, allowing guests to contribute to the preservation of the places they visit.

The diversity of glamping locations across the continent means that whether you're looking to explore the desert landscapes of Namibia, the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti, or the tropical beaches of Madagascar, there's a glamping experience waiting for you.

Types of glamping accommodation

Glamping locations can range from luxury tents, houseschaletshuts, treehouses, and yurts, allowing for many different looks and styles. These types of accommodation are also more affordable than high-end destinations while still providing a luxurious stay immersed in nature.

Luxury tents and yurts

Luxury tents are the quintessence of the African glamping experience, offering a direct connection to the wilderness with the added benefits of comfort and elegance. These tents often feature en-suite bathrooms, plush bedding, and private decks, providing a serene and intimate setting for wildlife watching.

Yurts, with their circular structure and durable design, offer a similar level of comfort with a unique architectural twist, often situated in locations that boast panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Eco-pods and treehouses

For those looking for an eco-friendly yet luxurious option, eco-pods are a perfect choice. Constructed with sustainability in mind, these accommodations are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing comfort and style. They blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings, offering a unique way to experience the beauty of Africa's ecosystems.

Treehouses elevate the glamping experience, quite literally, by providing accommodations nestled in the canopy of Africa's lush forests and woodlands. They offer a bird's eye view of the environment, making for an unforgettable stay amidst the treetops.

Safari lodges and bush camps

Safari lodges and bush camps offer a more solid structure than tents, often built with natural materials to blend into the landscape. These accommodations can range from rustic to ultra-luxurious, with common areas, swimming pools, and spa facilities, offering a more social but equally immersive experience.

Safari lodges and bush camps are typically located within or adjacent to national parks and wildlife reserves, providing easy access to game drives and guided walks.

Unique accommodations

Africa's glamping scene is also home to some truly unique accommodations that defy categorization. These can include converted vehicles, such as old Land Rovers or buses, outfitted with luxury amenities for a novel sleeping experience.

Airstreams, with their iconic silver bullet design, offer a retro-chic twist on the glamping experience, positioned in picturesque locations.

Other inventive options might include floating villas on tranquil lakes, desert domes under the stars, or even luxury caves carved into hillside retreats, each offering a one-of-a-kind way to connect with Africa's diverse environments.

Top glamping destinations in Africa

South Africa is one of the most popular destinations for glamping in Africa. The country offers a perfect balance of wild and cosmopolitan experiences, making it an ideal destination for a glamping getaway.

While on safari in South Africa, you can catch a glimpse of the “Big Five” (lions, buffalo, leopards, rhinos, and elephants), making it one of the best safari destinations on the continent. Or, you can head for the ocean and go cage diving with Great White sharks or scuba diving with whales.

Other African countries also offer unique glamping experiences. For example, Tanzania offers glamping under the stars near the natural habitat of chimpanzees, while Kenya offers thundering wildebeest herds.

Here are a few glamping destinations in Africa that we recommend:

Kibo Private Wing, Amboseli, Kenya: Offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro from private balconies equipped with deluxe camping chairs and a chic coffee table. This glamping spot features fully equipped gourmet kitchens and the opportunity to create homemade Italian-style pizzas or enjoy barbecued meals​.

AfriCamps at Stanford Hills, South Africa: Located on a boutique wine farm, this spot offers luxury glamping tents with breathtaking views of Stanford Valley. Each tent has a fully equipped kitchen and a private wooden deck, with some featuring luxurious wood-fired hot tubs​.

Ngala Tented Camp, Greater Kruger, South Africa: Known for its bush dining and evening cocktails in a guest area that promises relaxation and luxury amidst wildlife​.

Ngare Serian, Masai Mara, Kenya: Offers luxury tents with outdoor bathtubs overlooking the Mara River, ideal for watching hippos. The camp is accessible only by a swing bridge, adding an element of adventure to your stay​.

Mara River Tented Camp, Serengeti, Tanzania: Situated directly in the path of the Great Wildebeest Migration, this luxury tented camp is created with recycled and natural materials, offering an intimate experience with only six tented rooms​.

Wolwedans Private Camp, NamibRand, Namibia: Provides a sense of remoteness with panoramic desert views from each room's private deck. This camp caters to those looking for a tranquil and private safari experience​​.

Loisaba Tented Camp, Laikipia, Kenya: Located on a hilltop with views of remote valleys and Mount Kenya. The camp features an infinity pool and modern, chic tented suites​​.

South Africa

Kruger National Park and the surrounding private reserves offer some of the most luxurious glamping experiences in Africa. These destinations provide unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo), in a setting that combines natural beauty with luxury amenities.

The Western Cape also offers unique glamping experiences, with sites nestled among vineyards and along the rugged coastline, offering a blend of safari, cultural experiences, and gastronomic delights.

Kenya

Maasai Mara National Reserve is renowned for its spectacular wildebeest migration and exceptional wildlife viewing. Glamping in the Mara allows you to stay close to nature while enjoying the comforts of luxurious tents equipped with all the modern amenities.

The Laikipia Plateau and Amboseli National Park also offer unique glamping experiences, with stunning views of Mount Kenya and Mount Kilimanjaro, respectively, and the chance to engage with local Maasai communities.

Tanzania

Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area are iconic destinations for a glamping safari. The Serengeti's endless plains and the Ngorongoro Crater's unique ecosystem offer once-in-a-lifetime wildlife watching opportunities, from the Great Migration to big game viewing in a volcanic crater.

Glamping sites here range from eco-friendly tents to opulent lodges, all designed to provide an intimate connection with the surrounding wilderness.

Namibia

Namibia offers a different take on the glamping experience, with its dramatic landscapes and stark beauty. Sossusvlei in the Namib Desert is home to some of the world's tallest sand dunes, and glamping here offers a unique opportunity to experience the desert's solitude and splendor.

The Skeleton Coast and Damaraland provide rugged and remote glamping experiences, where guests can explore unique geological formations, ancient rock art, and desert-adapted wildlife.

Morocco

For those looking for a blend of culture and nature, Morocco's glamping sites offer an exotic escape. The Sahara Desert around Merzouga provides a timeless setting for luxury tented camps, where you can ride camels at sunset, dine under the stars, and immerse yourself in Berber culture.

The Atlas Mountains offer another dimension to Morocco's glamping scene, with luxury camps providing a base for hiking, visiting traditional villages, and enjoying the mountain scenery.

Botswana

Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park are premier destinations for a water-based safari experience. Glamping in Botswana often involves staying in exclusive, eco-friendly camps on private concessions, where you can explore the delta by mokoro (traditional dugout canoe), enjoy game drives, and even partake in fishing excursions, all while surrounded by an abundance of wildlife.

Planning a successful glamping trip in Africa involves careful consideration of several key factors to ensure an unforgettable experience that combines adventure with comfort. Here’s a guide to help you plan your African glamping adventure, from choosing the best time to visit to making the most of your stay.

Best time to visit various regions for glamping

  • Southern Africa (South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe): The dry season from May to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around waterholes. The weather is cooler and less humid, making for comfortable glamping conditions.
  • East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda): June to October and January to February offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara. The dry seasons provide pleasant weather for glamping.
  • North Africa (Morocco, Egypt): Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) are the best times to visit, offering milder temperatures ideal for desert glamping and exploration.
  • Central Africa (Congo, Rwanda, Uganda for gorilla trekking): Dry seasons from June to September and December to February are preferable for trekking and wildlife viewing, with fewer mosquitoes and accessible trails.

How to get there

  • International Travel: Major international airports in cities like Johannesburg, Nairobi, Cape Town, and Casablanca serve as gateways to Africa. From there, domestic flights, chartered planes, or road transfers can take you closer to your glamping destination.
  • Visas: Check visa requirements for your destination country well in advance. Some countries offer visas on arrival or e-visas, making the process easier.
  • Local Transportation: Consider the logistics of getting to your glamping site. Some remote locations may require transfers by light aircraft, 4×4 vehicles, or even boats.

Booking tips and finding the best deals

  • Early booking: Many glamping sites, especially those in prime wildlife areas, are small and exclusive, so book well in advance to secure your spot.
  • Travel off-peak: If your schedule is flexible, consider traveling during the shoulder season. You can enjoy lower rates, fewer crowds, and still have a great chance of wildlife sightings.
  • Use reputable agencies: Booking through a reputable travel agency specializing in African safaris can help you find the best deals and ensure a smooth experience. They can also offer valuable advice and handle logistics.

Packing essentials for a glamping trip

  • Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime and warmer layers for cool evenings and mornings. Neutral colors are recommended for safari activities.
  • Footwear: Durable, comfortable footwear is essential for game drives and any walking activities.
  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses will protect you from the strong African sun.
  • Binoculars and camera: Enhance your wildlife viewing experience with a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.
  • Health and safety: Bring any necessary medications, insect repellent, and a basic first aid kit. Check if you need any vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis for your destination.

Activities and experiences

An African glamping trip offers a plethora of activities and experiences that cater to a wide range of interests, from wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers to those looking to unwind in the lap of nature. Here’s a guide to some of the most popular and enriching activities you can enjoy while glamping in Africa.

Safari and wildlife spotting

  • Game drives: Guided game drives in 4×4 vehicles are a staple of the African glamping experience, offering the chance to see the continent’s iconic wildlife up close. These drives are conducted at various times of the day, including at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
  • Night safaris: Experience the African bush in a completely different light with a night safari, where you can spot nocturnal creatures with the help of your guide's spotlight.
  • Walking safaris: For a more intimate encounter with the wilderness, consider a guided walking safari. This allows you to appreciate the smaller details of the bush, from tracking animal footprints to identifying plants and insects.

Hiking and adventure sports

  • Mountain treks: Countries like Tanzania, Uganda, and Morocco offer incredible trekking opportunities, from climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to hiking in the Atlas Mountains.
  • Water-based activities: In destinations like the Okavango Delta or along the Zambezi River, you can embark on canoe safaris, fishing expeditions, or even white-water rafting for an adrenaline rush.

Cultural experiences and community visits

  • Village tours: Many glamping sites offer the chance to visit nearby villages, where you can learn about local traditions, crafts, and ways of life. These visits often support community projects and provide a deeper understanding of the region's culture.
  • Cultural performances: Enjoy performances of traditional music and dance, which are often organized at glamping sites for an immersive cultural experience.

Relaxation and wellness

  • Spa Treatments: Some luxury glamping sites offer on-site spas where you can enjoy massages and treatments inspired by African traditions, using local ingredients.
  • Yoga and Meditation: With the tranquil backdrop of the African wilderness, some glamping sites offer yoga and meditation sessions, either as part of their regular activities or upon request.

Sustainable glamping and responsible tourism

When engaging in activities and experiences while glamping in Africa, it's important to consider the impact on the environment and local communities. Many glamping operators are committed to sustainability, offering eco-friendly accommodations and supporting conservation and community projects.

As a traveler, you can contribute to responsible tourism by choosing eco-conscious operators, respecting wildlife and natural habitats, and engaging with local cultures in a respectful manner.