Beyond Safaris: Where To go Glamping in South Africa
November 28, 2017
By Jessica Armstrong and Alexandra McGowan South Africa is famous for its amazing wildlife, safari excursions, and unbeatable nature views. But now, there’s a new attraction drawing people to this beautiful country: glamping.
In case you’re unfamiliar with the term, it’s basically glamorous camping; something South Africa excels at. Think one-of-a-kind glamping accommodations that may look like something rustic like a tent or treehouse from the outside, but on the inside, you’re spoilt with proper furnishings, deep bathtubs and luxury bedding.
Whether travelers this year are looking for a luxury experience or an authentic outdoor adventure, there is no better way to visit South Africa’s most unique and beautiful terrains and sites than by staying at a glamping accommodation with an access to explore the outdoors unlike ever before. Being home to eight World Heritage sites, you’re spoilt for choice when picking the best places to visit in South Africa for a truly unforgettable experience, but here are some of my personal top picks.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park
This is one of South Africa’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This stunning nature reserve is home to hippos, crocodiles, pelicans, and flamingos. Visitors should also keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, and leopards! This incredible park will be an experience like no other. Nothing will make this stay more unique than by booking a glamping stay at these unique, eco-friendly tent rentals. Filled with high-end amenities and beautiful views of the reserve, these tents are a top pick for visiting iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Kruger National Park
Well known to most travellers, this park is sure to be an incredible spot to catch a glimpse of the Big Five. Hop into your cross-country ride and explore the wilderness. Your experienced guides will be sure to help you spot some of South Africa’s awe-inspiring wildlife. While you’re there, why not head up into the sky for a hot air balloon ride around the outskirts of Kruger National Park? Soar over the western edge of the park as you scan the horizon for luxury safari villa retreat down below. Nestled along Sabie River, glampers will want to repeat their day of excursions and afternoons enjoying the wellness retreat again and again.
Cape Town
Heading to Cape Town is an essential part of any trip to South Africa. This sprawling city is located on the Horn of Africa. Set on the majestic blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean, this metropolis is sure to impress. From whale-watching in the Atlantic Ocean to climbing to the top of the six-hundred-million-year-old Table Mountain, glamping guests will be enamoured by everything there is to explore and discover. Glampers have the opportunity to visit this worldly-wonder when booking these deluxe suites as their getaway spot. Right on the edge of Hout Bay, glampers will wake up with views of Cape Town most people can only dream of.
Durban
Make your way to South Africa’s third largest city, of Durban, and discover all that the stunning beaches have to offer! Venture to uShaka Beach and learn to surf in the far flung Indian Ocean. Just down the road in Mooi River glampers will find these stunning treehouse retreats. Being completely surrounded by greenery, nature reserves, and near uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, glampers will finally fulfill their childhood dreams of spending the night in a tree house under the stars in the heart of the jungle.
With this sprinkling of travel inspiration, you’ll be more than ready for a sub-Saharan adventure. Take a stroll through these South African getaways found on GlampingHub.com, here!
Chere has always loved writing, fashion and languages, and holds degrees in Psychology and Art, and postgraduate degrees in Applied Linguistics and Education. Her long career in journalism spans several continents: she’s edited and written for prestigious magazines in Toronto, Dubai, Paris, London and Buenos Aires. Learn more about Chere’s extensive career on LinkedIn.
