Local glamping getaways perfect for all-year round travel

7 June 2021

Whether it’s something that you’ve never tried before or a firm favourite, there has never been a better time to go camping. After months spent indoors under lock and key last year and the need to maintain social distancing for the indefinite future, you cannot go wrong with some time out in the great outdoors, far away from crowds and busy cities.

Not quite into ‘roughing it’, though? No worries! South Africa has plenty of ‘glamping’ (or glamour camping) options – from Plettenberg Bay to Bela-Bela and everywhere in between. Think luxurious tented suites with plush king-sized beds, wood-fired hot tubs, open-air showers, and many more pleasures to savour throughout your holiday.

Here are some incredible glamping options from the Flight Centre team:

Plettenberg Bay Glamping at Africamps

Enjoy being surrounded by lush forest greenery, flourishing fynbos and perhaps even plan a hike in an attempt to get a closer look at Plettenberg Bay’s unique natural beauty. Africamps is a leading choice for keen glampers because it promises access to a fully-equipped boutique glamping tent, along with a private deck. Here, you can soak up the views of the rolling green hilltops, along with the peaceful sounds of Ingwe's forest, from the comfort of a lounger with a cocktail or a steaming cup of coffee in hand.  Another bonus? A number of the establishment’s tent suites also offer access to private outdoor wood-fired hot tubs – the perfect place from which to admire an African sunset or a starry night’s sky.

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Bela-Bela Bush Break at Safari Plains

When you’re in need of 5-star treatment, you can always be sure that Bela-Bela will deliver. Savour the views of Limpopo’s towering Waterberg Mountains in contrast with the wide-open savannahs as you take in the magnificence of South Africa’s diverse wildlife. Safari Plains is an ideal spot for finding a balance between glamping and a much-needed bushveld break. The safari-style tents boast private timber wrap-around decks for a full 360-degree lookout point from the comfort of your accommodation. The luxury tents also provide a sunken bath, showers, and a private sala where you can blissfully while away a lazy afternoon. Furthermore, air conditioning will be sure to keep you perfectly cool or cosy depending on the season that you choose to pop in for a visit.

Unrivalled Luxury in the Kruger Park at Hamilton’s Tented Camp

If wildlife viewing is the main activity on your travel party’s agenda, then glamping inside the Kruger National Park is a no-brainer. Hamilton’s Tented Camp stands out in this regard as the entire property is completely unfenced, allowing curious zebra and elephant to stroll through at their leisure. From your private tented suite, you’ll enjoy observing and listening to the tranquil flow of the seasonal Nwaswitsontso River, or you can choose to step out onto the raised timber viewing deck for a better look at midday when the animals searching for a refreshing drink. The tented suites themselves feature a gorgeous mish mash of modern comforts and vintage elegance, with teak flooring and furniture, an outdoor shower, and crisp white linens.

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Luxe Lodge Living in the Western Cape at Botlierskop Tented Lodge

Botlierskop Tented Lodge is nestled beneath a canopy of African trees and the tented suites are inspired by architecture and décor of old. The luxury tented suites offer guests the joys of open-air showers, welcoming oval-shaped bathtubs, king-sized beds with mosquito nets guaranteeing a peaceful night’s sleep, and a private patio with comfortable, cushioned seating. When venturing away from your suite, you can enjoy access to free internet, take a dip in the swimming pool while taking in stunning views of the valley below, or indulge in a treatment at the onsite Fijnebos Spa. A notable bonus is that all tented lodge guests have the chance to make use of the heated pool or visit the gym for a workout free of charge.

There’s no need for a sleeping bag and a campfire to get up close and personal with nature or avoid the crowds during your time away. Glamping promises the perfect middle ground for quiet relaxation and total peace of mind.

Contact a Flight Centre Travel Expert today for more information.