So, you might have heard of the term “Glamping” cropping up in conversations and perhaps caught a glimpse of it the media. But what exactly does it mean? You will be surprised to learn that the word “glamping” actually does exist in the dictionary. In essence, it is a more glamorous way of camping and thus became glamping.
Now if you’re anything like me, love the outdoors but definitely not up for sleeping on a cold hard floor or even worse, on a stretcher (and then falling off during the night or having it fold in half with me still on it), glamping is definitely the way to go! It has all the makings of a camping trip with the added benefit of the comforts we treasure most whilst away from home.
And today we are going on a glamping journey across Africa in search of the ultimate outdoors experience.
TOP 8 GLAMPING SITES IN AFRICA (In no particular order)
- COTTAR’S 1920’S SAFARI CAMP, KENYA
Established in 1919 as a hunting and filming service, Cottar’s Safari Service is the oldest running safari and camping service in Africa. Spread across 7 000 acres, its unique position on the brink of the Maasai Mara Reserve affords this 9-luxury tented camp breathtaking views and access to spot countless of its wild inhabitants from zebra, to lions, to antelope and more. Each tent includes a butler as well as a private guide and Maasai warrior, all extremely knowledgeable about the surrounding area and the animals. In addition, Cottar’s Safar Camp, is focused on sustainable living. Much of the produce is farmed on site and what makes it more incredible is that there is not a single trace of plastic bottles around. Drinking water is sourced from a local spring and heated water is only available for 10-hours in a day, and that too, is heated by firewood and elephant dung. Despite its 1920’s ambiance, the tents are equipped with luxurious four poster beds, chaise longues and elegance all around including game drives in 1920’s styled vehicles, this safari camp makes for timeless experience.
- DUNES DE DOVELA ECO LODGE, MOZAMBIQUE
Set in the lush Coastal Dune Forest in Southern Mozambique, between Maputo and Vilankulos, the Dunes De Dovela Eco Lodge has something for everyone. The pristine coastline with its undulating dunes and beach is the ideal destination to unwind and absorb the fresh, clean air and just to reset. The luxury stylish accommodation prides itself on sustainability and was built with the help of the local Chope community. The eco-friendliness of the lodge does not detract from the comfort of the luxury bungalows with its private amenities including an outside shower facing the sea. With its French windows and private terrace you have the ultimate in unrivalled views of the warm and inviting Indian Ocean where you can enjoy the sumptuous meals of the onsite restaurant serving both French and Portuguese cuisines.
- MARATABA SAFARI LODGE, SOUTH AFRICA
The sanctity of Marataba is located just four hours from Johannesburg and set on 23000 hectares of ancient soil within the Marakele National Park. The land itself dates back to the Stone Ages and is left pretty much untouched. The hues of browns and greens of the vast plains contrast with the rust reds of the Waterberg Mountains joined by the cool crisp sounds of the meandering rivers. Amid this tranquil haven lies a man-made retreat of opulence in itself. With its 15 canvas-and-stone tented suites, Marataba Safari Lodge offers ultimate rejuvenation and a smorgasbord of activities, big game viewing and bird watching.
- SAN CAMP, BOTSWANA
On the vestiges of an ancient lake lie the glistening salt pans of Makgadigadi and it is in this desertedness where you will discover the oasis that is San Camp. Easily accessible from Maun airport, the frosted tents of San Camp is the only thing visible for miles on end. The desolation by no means indicates the multitude of activities to experience. The seven tents are all uniquely decorated but each with four poster beds and private facilities. The main tent is where you will dine on delectable foods as well as savour a high tea in the tea room. There are plenty of board games, a library and booze to unwind from the safari adventures of the day. You can also revel in taking a walk with the friendly local meerkats or a guided walk with a Zu’/Hoasi Bushmen.
- TIME + TIDE KING LEWANIKA LODGE, ZAMBIA
Built in Zambia’s Liuwa Plains National Park and aptly named after the cardinal chief of the local Lozi people, the lodge is the essence of majestic beauty. It sits at the centre of one of the most momentous natural phenomenons, the grazing of thousands of wildebeest on the Liuwa Plains at the start of the rains in October. The villas are contemporary and elegant with king size beds and there are plenty of activities apart from enjoying the spectacular view from your private deck.
- DAR AHLAM NOMAD CAMP, MOROCCO
Another oasis in the middle of a desert in the Iriki National Park, the Dar Ahlam Nomad Camp is a unique experience and well worth the five hour drive (in a 4×4) from the town of Dar Ahlam in Skoura. The spacious private tents all with private facilities are set in typical Moroccan splendour with comfortable beds and sitting rooms bedecked with Berber cushions and vintage furniture. Watch the breathtaking sunset from atop a dune and enjoy the delicious feasts under the stars. Sigh….I wish I could just close my eyes and transport myself there right now.
- TAZIRY ECO LODGE, EGYPT
Just a mere ten minute drive from the city of Siwa and only twenty minutes from the Siwa airport, the Taziry Eco Lodge and Sustainable Village is the ideal place to spend a few days recuperating from the hustle and bustle of city sightseeing. The luxury lodge has some chalets that are actually carved out of the mountain whilst others are facing the natural pool of Lake Siwa. Either way, you will have magnificent panoramic views. The rooms were all constructed with natural materials according to Siwan tradition and the windows strategically allow for the flow of air and the natural breezes to waft through. Dine on exquisite dishes from North Africa and Siwa and enjoy activities such as horse or camel riding, tours to ancient temples and sand boarding among many others. A definite must if you’re going to Egypt and want a unique experience.
- NGOROGORO CRATER LODGE, TANZANIA
I have truly left the best for last. The Ngorogoro Crater Lodge is situated right on the edge of the Ngorogoro Crater in northern Tanzania. I remember reading somewhere that it was described as where Versailles meets Maasai and this phrase so perfectly describes this world renowned site. The crater itself is around 3 million years old and as I have experienced from craters before, they provide the most lush habitats for millions of fauna and flora to thrive and indeed, this crater is no different. But where it does differ is in its exceptional beauty and extravagance. It makes for the perfect honeymoon or romantic getaway. The lodge is divided into three camps with a total of 30 suites. Everything about the lodge is steeped in romance and elegance from the personal butler’s catering to your every need (including drawing you a romantic bubble bath filled with rose petals) to the utterly stupendous views all around. Combine lazy days with a hike in the crater or a game drive of this ancient caldera, or a mouth-watering private picnic in the middle of the crater floor with the idyllic backdrop of zebras strolling by. Whatever your choice, you are guaranteed an experience like no other. There are plenty more activities to indulge in as well.
Glamping has most certainly given me a new take on travelling. Whereas I was once completely comfortable with “roughing” it, now as I grow older and my tastes and habits change, I find that having certain comforts when travelling are essential to my enjoyment of a journey and being closer to nature without trading comfort for the experience, is a perfect way to any adventure!