Planning a memorable getaway and looking for the best glamping in South Africa? Look no further, as I’ve compiled this list of the absolute best places to stay, that aims to help you find the perfect South African glamping stay for an experience you’ll never forget.
There’s no more authentic place to go glamping than South Africa. After all, most glamping destinations across the globe offer their own “African safari tent experiences”, and try to replicate the authentic experience you would enjoy in South Africa.
The sheer number of glamping accommodations in South Africa cannot be understated. This is Mecca for glamping, and each and every offering is high-quality, packed with inclusions, ethically operated and will leave you with fond memories for the rest of your life.
South Africa is a huge country, and I have made sure to include glamping options that span much of its wild landscape. Whether you’re keen to glamp in the famous Kruger National Park, on a protected elephant camp, in the serene countryside of the Western Cape or near the rugged and lengthy coastline of this stunning country, I’ve got you covered.
Glamping South Africa Breakdown
Before we dive into the full list of different glamping accommodations, here’s an overview of our favorite properties!
Overall Best Glamping in South Africa – Ndhula Luxury Tented Lodge
Best Luxury Glamping in South Africa – Nkomazi Game Reserve by NEWMARK
Most Unique Glamping in South Africa – The Dome – Misty Mountain Reserve
Best Cheap Glamping in South Africa – Kruger Adventure Lodge
Best Family-Friendly Glamping in South Africa – AfriCamps Magoebaskloof
15 Best Places To Go Glamping in South Africa
Let’s take a closer look at all the incredible options for unique glamping experiences in the epic country that is South Africa! We’ve done thorough research to compile the best of the best, and there’s something for every style of traveller on this list!
1) Ndhula Luxury Tented Lodge
Where: White River, South Africa
Price: $150+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/ndhula-luxury-tented-lodge.en-gb.html
It was a tall order to choose the overall best glamping in South Africa for this list, but I settled on Ndhula Luxury Tented Lodge for so many reasons. This tranquil spot in White River has it all. The luxury safari tents with garden views come at an affordable rate, and include a hearty breakfast. There’s a restaurant on-site, as well as spa facilities, and a stay here is the ultimate in relaxation in nature. Wild animals like zebras even roam onto the property!
The cozy holiday town of White River is located in Mpumalanga near South Africa’s east coast, surrounded by farms producing some of the best South African produce. You’ll be on the edge of Kruger National Park and 3.5 hours drive from Pretoria.
Credit: Ndhula Luxury Tented Lodge
2) Old Mill Lodge
Where: Oudtshoorn, South Africa
Price: $60+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://oldmillgardenroute.co.za
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/old-mill-lodge-a-la-carte-restaurant.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/OldMillRestaurantOudtshoorn
Old Mill Lodge is one of Booking.com’s most highly-rated and popular South Africa glamping offerings, and one glance at this outstanding experience and you’ll understand why. The 4-star stay is located on a working ostrich farm, and offers a range of accommodations to suit a variety of price points and stay styles. For keen glampers, there’s the luxury tents, many with waterfront views. If you’d prefer more traditional digs, there’s suites, studios, cottages, chalets and so much more. Accommodations are air-conditioned, and there’s an on-site riverside restaurant, three swimming pools, a zipline, a pony park and boating on the dam. Spend your days taking part in all of these activities, hiking or fishing. There’s little reason to leave these outstanding lodgings.
Oudtshoorn is located on South Africa’s picturesque Western Cape, renowned for its ostrich farms and deep in the famous wine region of the region. Cape Town is a four hour drive away.
Credit: Old Mill Lodge
3) Nkomazi Game Reserve by NEWMARK
Where: Badplaas, South Africa
Price: $400+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://newmarkhotels.com/accommodation/nkomazi-private-game-reserve
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/nkomazi-game-reserve-ka-ngubane.en-gb.html
South Africa has no shortage of luxury glamping options, but my favorite is Nkomazi Game Reserve by Newmark. Offering a superior South African glamping experience on 15000 hectares of private game park land, Nkomazi Game Reserve’s lodge offers luxury safari tents, equipped with their own air coolers, decks AND a private plunge pool! Each tent also has its own bathroom and even an outdoor bath and shower, and is ideal for a romantic South African escape. You’ll be spoilt for great food, with breakfast, lunch and dinner included in your stay. Visit the relaxation retreat, unwind on the shared viewing deck and don’t miss your daily sunrise and sunset game drives, also included in your stay. This entire experience is superb.
Two hours from Nelspruit, this fantastic game reserve is located in Badplaas in the province of Mpumalanga, which is located in eastern South Africa. You’ll be located near the Mozambique and Swaziland borders. Pretoria is under three hours away, and Johannesburg is not much further.
Credit: Nkomazi Game Reserve by NEWMARK
4) Kruger Adventure Lodge
Where: Hazyview, South Africa
Price: $40+ per night
Accommodates: 1-2 guests
https://krugeradventurelodge.co.za
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/kruger-adventure-lodge.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/krugeradventurelodge/?wtsid=rdr_0UazyEivWcNQoeFy2
A stay near Kruger National Park is on many people’s South Africa bucket lists, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune to have this once in a lifetime experience. Located on the edge of the famous national park, Kruger Adventure Lodge offers cheap and cheerful tent accommodations with private bathrooms. The site boasts a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, volleyball, BBQs, and at night, the lodge entertains guests with cultural performances. Local experts are on hand to take you on guided nature walks.
Kruger National Park is just 15 minutes from Kruger Adventure Lodge, which is nestled amidst some of South Africa’s best banana plantations. At Kruger, you’ll see the famous “Big 5” in their most natural habitat, and a visit here is an unforgettable experience.
Credit: Kruger Adventure Lodge
5) Chisomo Safari Camp
Where: Big Five Karongwe Game Reserve, Limpopo, South Africa
Price: $450+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://chisomo.karongweportfolio.com
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/chisomo-safari-lodge.en-gb.html
Nestled on a tranquil river in a leading game reserve, Chisomo Safari Camp promises a touch of luxury and an unforgettable experience for each and every visitor. Located within the Big Five Karongwe Game Reserve, each glamping tent has its own private shower room and the beds are surrounded by mosquito nets. There is no air-conditioning in these tents, but you’ll have a fan plus heating for those visiting in the cooler months. This serene safari camp boasts a swimming pool, a shared guest lounge and a restaurant, all surrounded by lush green gardens and with local wildlife dropping in to say hi from time to time.
This game reserve glamping experience is located in the South African province of Limpopo, a leading tourist destination in the nation’s east, right near the borders of neighboring countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Botswana.
Credit: Chisomo Safari Camp Luxury Tent
6) Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
Where: Oudtshoorn, South Africa
Price: $150+ USD per night
Accommodates: 1-4 guests
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/buffelsdrift-game-lodge.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/BuffelsdriftGameLodge/
Buffelsdrift Game Lodge in Oudtshoorn has won a host of awards, and it’s no surprise. A stay at this incredible game lodge on South Africa’s stunning Western Cape promises memories to cherish forever, a chance to meet and greet local wildlife and glamping tents that ooze comfort and a feeling of home. Each tent has the benefit of being air-conditioned and is equipped with a private bathroom, plus many have their own riverside private decks. There’s also a swimming pool, wifi in all public areas and a highly-rated restaurant. There is no shortage of activities provided by the lodge. Game drives, chances to visit with elephants, cheetahs and meerkats – and even to feed lions! – views of rhinos splashing about in the local waterhole, local ostrich farms and caves to explore. And all of this just off the iconic Route 62 that stretches along the Western Cape.
The scenic route from Oudtshoorn to Cape Town is unmissable, with the major South African city around 4 hours drive from Buffelsdrift Game Lodge. Sample wine from the world class vineyards that dot this landscape, enjoy the beaches of the cape and simply immerse yourself in this once in a lifetime experience.
Credit: Buffelsdrift Game Lodge
7) AfriCamps Magoebaskloof
Where: Magoebaskloof, South Africa
Price: $100+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2-5 guests
http://africamps.com/farm/africamps-magoebaskloof-limpopo/
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/africamps-at-magoebaskloof.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/africamps
Many South Africa glamping accommodations are geared towards two-person or couples stays, but if you’re visiting the country with your family, never fear! There’s a host of family friendly glamping in South Africa, and AfriCamps Magoebaskloof in the country’s north-west is my choice for the best of the best. They offer budget-friendly family safari tent accommodations for up to five guests, each with their own private terrace. A stay in the luxury tent even includes a private hot tub! AfriCamps is a leading glamping provider in South Africa, and has many unique locations across the country.
A stay here is perfect for those who are embarking on their own self-driving adventure, and the landscape in this part of South Africa is subtropical, green and mountainous, promising the best family photos and memories to last a lifetime. Pretoria is just over three hours away, and Maputo, the capital of neighboring Mozambique is seven hours drive away, amidst some of the region’s prettiest landscapes.
Credit: AfriCamps Magoebaskloof
8) Honeyguide Ranger Camp
Where: Golders Green, South Africa
Price: $275+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://www.honeyguidecamp.com
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/honeyguide-ranger-camp.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/honeyguidekrugercamps
Situated in the Limpopo province of South Africa, in the wilds of the the nation’s north-east, Honeyguide Ranger Camp is an all-encompassing experience that aims to give you a true taste of life on a South African camp. They offer a range of safari glamping tents, from standard to deluxe, and the thrills only start there. At the camp you’ll enjoy a swimming pool, spa facilities, a restaurant and bar and a large terrace, and for those visiting with children, there’s a kids club available on-site.
There’s a plethora of leading nature reserves located close to Honeyguide Ranger Camp, and the camp provides game drives that will show you some of the best sites of the area. There’s also some exceptional golf courses in the region.
Credit: Honeyguide Ranger Camp
9) The Dome – Misty Mountain Reserve
Where: Thornham, South Africa
Price: $400+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://www.mistymountainreserve.co.za/copy-of-lake-side-tented-lodge
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/the-dome-tsitsikamma.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/MistyMountainReserve
If you’re searching for a unique South Africa glamping experience, look no further than The Dome at Misty Mountain Reserve, where you’ll sleep with a perfect view of the stars in a see-through dome tent. Equipped with luxury linens, cozy beds, a hot tub, free wifi and sea views, a stay in “The Dome” is unmissable. Load up on breakfast in the on-site restaurant before heading out to explore the wild landscape of South Africa’s Eastern Cape.
The Eastern Cape of South Africa, before it gives way to the iconic Western Cape, offers a glimpse at real South Africa, with a varied landscape of rugged coastlines, deserts, mountains, forests and hills. Many visitors come to this region of South Africa to visit the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, and to take in the rich cultural elements that the region boasts.
Credit: The Dome – Misty Mountain Reserve
10) Bush Lodge – Amakhala Game Reserve
Where: Paterson, South Africa
Price: $400+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://www.amakhala.co.za/lodges/bush-lodge
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/bush-lodge.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/thebushlodge
With a near-perfect Booking.com overall rating and a plethora of guests raving about their stay, Bush Lodge at Amakhala Game Reserve is a special destination that promises a glamping experience to rival any other. The luxury lodge boasts romantic safari tents, with balconies, private bathrooms and their own private plunge pools! For those visiting in the winter months, you’ll love the inclusion of a roaring fireplace. The glamping tents, with their rustic wood floors and thatched roofs, offer a distinctly South African camping experience. The lodge has a swimming pool, viewing deck, and restaurant (where all meals are included in your stay) and experts are on hand to take you on amazing game drives.
Amakhala Game Reserve is located on South Africa’s Eastern Cape and offers the unique chance to see the “Big 5” on their 18000 picturesque hectares.
Credit: Bush Lodge – Amakhala Game Reserve
11) Hamiltons Tented Camp
Where: Kruger National Park, South Africa
Price: $1300+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
http://hamiltonstentedcamp.co.za
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/hamiltons-tented-camp.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/Hamiltonstentedcamp
A stay at Hamiltons Tented Camp within Kruger National Park may not come cheap, but the value included in a stay here is priceless. Drawing inspiration for its design from nostalgic Colonial concepts, the camp is a step back in time and a step into nature in the best possible way. Their luxury tents are a sight for sore eyes, with antique furnishings, teak floors, bathrooms with luxury freestanding baths, and private verandahs with river views. They are all air-conditioned. There is a swimming pool on-site, spa and wellness services and your stay includes two daily safari drives in an open vehicle.
Hamiltons Tented Camp is located on the Mluwati Concession, a 10000-hectare private reserve within the world-famous Kruger National Park. Here, the beautiful creatures that inhabit the park can live in safety and happiness in their most natural habitat, and animals are protected to ensure generations can enjoy them for years to come.
Credit: Hamiltons Tented Camp – Luxury Glamping Safari South Africa
12) Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa
Where: Gravelotte, South Africa
Price: $300+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2-4 guests
http://www.kilimagamereserve.co.za
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/kilima-private-game-reserve-amp-spa.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/kilimagamelodge
If you want to combine seeing the natural landscape of South Africa with some serious R&R, you have to book a stay at Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa in the wildlife-rich Limpopo province. This five-star resort offers a range of accommodations, from glamping tents to suites to traditional rooms, all set against a serene mountain backdrop. Their safari tents boast spacious interiors, comfortable beds, private kitchens, air-conditioning and balconies, and promise a restful stay. The resort has a range of shared facilities, including a swimming pool, a restaurant, games and a spa.
Located on its own private game reserve in a charming rural area west of Kruger National Park, Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa is five hours from Johannesburg.
Credit: Kilima Private Game Reserve & Spa
13) Langa Langa Tented Safari Camp
Where: Hazyview, South Africa
Price: $150+ USD per night
Accommodates: 1-2 guests
http://www.langalangasafaris.co.za
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/langa-langa-tented-safari-camp.en-gb.htmll
https://facebook.com/people/Langa-Langa-Safari-Camp/100088263221349/
Located in Limpopo in the vicinity of the awe-inspiring Kruger National Park, Langa Langa Tented Safari Camp offers comfortable and exclusive glamping accommodations surrounded by nature. Their luxury tents offer extra large beds, private balconies, wifi and breakfast and dinner are included in your stay. Perfect for a solo getaway or a romantic couples retreat, Langa Langa Tented Safari Camp also boasts a shared lounge and an outdoor pool that is warm enough to swim in year-round.
The entrance to Kruger is just a stone’s throw away, which is on the top of most visitors bucket lists. You’ll be right near the borders of countries like Mozambique, and the capital Maputo is just four hours drive away.
Credit: Langa Langa Tented Safari Camp Luxury Tent
14) Tembe Elephant Park Lodge Glamping
Where: Sihangwane, South Africa
Price: $250+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2-6 guests
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/tembe-elephant-park.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/TembeElephantPark
Located in the coastal South African province of KwaZulu-Natal, Tembe Elephant Park Lodge is a serious destination for animal lovers, and those who can’t get enough of elephants. This protected reserve is home to some of the oldest elephant populations on Earth, and their glamping tents will get you as close to these wise animals as possible. Each tent has its own private bathroom and a patio, which boasts amazing views. You’ll also enjoy all meals as part of your stay, and there’s a pool, bar and shared lounge on site. You can even have spa treatments in the comfort of your room, or head off on a game drive with expert guides.
Tembe Elephant Park Lodge is located in one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions, super close to both Swaziland and Mozambique. The landscape of this eastern province is marked by incredible beaches, vast savannahs and rugged mountains.
Credit: Tembe Elephant Park Lodge
15) Gorah Elephant Camp
Where: Addo, South Africa
Price: $600+ USD per night
Accommodates: 2 guests
https://www.booking.com/hotel/za/gorah-elephant-camp.en-gb.html
https://facebook.com/gorahelephantcamp/
Wrapping up my list of the best South Africa glamping stays is Gorah Elephant Camp, another outstanding destination for elephant lovers, this one located on the country’s culturally rich Eastern Cape. Its Booking.com rating is exceptional, with guests thrilled by the quality of their stay. Located in an elephant national park, Gorah Elephant Camp offers luxury glamping tents with stylish interiors, kitchenette facilities, ensuite bathrooms and their own private deck. Simply spend your days at this camp and the time will fly. Cool off in the swimming pool, dine at the superb on-site restaurant, enjoy traditional high tea each afternoon, book a private game drive or sit by the fire at night and revel in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The historic town of Grahamtown is just an hour away, as is the major port city of Port Elizabeth. Gorah Elephant Camp is one of this region’s most important wildlife preservations, and a stay here ensures that the local elephant population can thrive.
Credit: Gorah Elephant Camp
Looking for more Glamping Getaways?
Are you a fellow glamping lover and looking for more fun trips around the world for some unique stays? My travel blog has covered tons of amazing glamping destinations, so be sure to read and save some of my guides below for future trip inspiration!
- Glamping in Thailand
- Glamping in Sri Lanka
- Glamping Southern California
- Glamping Ontario Canada
- Glamping Malaysia
- Glamping Scotland
- Glamping Ireland
- Glamping in Mexico
- Glamping New England
- Glamping Germany
- Glamping New York
- Glamping Vietnam
Thanks so much for reading my Glamping South Africa Guide!
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