Glamping safaris in Africa

Forgo a traditional brick lodge or chalet for an African glamping safari and sleep under canvas in a beautifully designed tent. Enjoy proper beds with quality linens, en-suite bathrooms, flushing toilets, hot showers and maybe even a plunge pool. Meals, drinks, game activities are also included.

What is a glamping safari?

A glamping safari lets you enjoy the feeling of being in nature that staying under canvas allows without sacrificing any of the comforts of a luxury lodge. You'll sleep in a spacious tented suite rather than a permanent building, with walkways that typically connect you from the main lodge area, which is also usually constructed of canvas and other natural materials, like wood, to your private tented suite. Expect comfy beds, your own en-suite bathroom and often an outdoor shower, private deck, lounge area, and in some safari camps, private plunge pools.

Days usually begin with an early morning game drive or guided walk when wildlife is most active, followed by a leisurely brunch and time to unwind. In the afternoon, you'll head out again in search of animals before returning to camp for sundowners, fireside storytelling, and memorable dinners under the stars.

Is a luxury safari tent actually comfortable?

Yes. Luxury safari tents typically come with all the comforts of a high-end hotel. All Wilderness safari camps are unfenced, which means wildlife is free to move naturally through the surrounding wilderness but you’ll be escorted to and from your individual tented suite where necessary. And while you’ll be able to hear birds calling at dawn or a hyena whooping at night, you'll sleep in a comfortable bed and with a private en-suite there’s no need to venture into the wild at night. Your tent will also have hot water, electricity, and all the essentials you need. 

All of our glamping safari camps are also fully inclusive which means that all of your accommodation, meals, drinks and activities are included.

When is the best time to go on a glamping safari?

The best time for a glamping safari depends on where you're travelling and the wildlife experiences you're hoping to have. In general, the dry season is typically considered the peak time to go on safari (typically May to October in much of Southern and East Africa). During this time the vegetation is thinner and animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making wildlife easier to spot. Cooler temperatures and lower rainfall also create ideal conditions for game drives and walking safaris.

The green season (generally November to April) offers lush landscapes, afternoon thunderstorms, and an abundance of newborn animals. The dramatic skies and presence of migratory birds during these months make them popular among photographers and twitchers.

You may also choose to time your glamping safari around specific wildlife events such as the Great Migration, with iconic river crossings taking place between July and September and the Serengeti’s calving season occurring from January to March.

Is a glamping safari suitable for families or honeymoons?

A glamping safari can be suitable for both families and honeymooners, provided you choose the right camp.

Many of our safari camps welcome families with spacious family tents, interleading suite options, and our Bush Buddy children's programme, where younger guests can learn about wildlife tracking, birdlife, local cultures, and conservation through fun, hands-on experiences. It's worth noting, however, that most Wilderness camps only accept children aged six years and older, while guided walking safaris are generally restricted to guests aged 12 years and above for safety reasons. Families travelling with younger children can still enjoy exceptional safari experiences at some of our glamping safari options in Namibia, or by booking out one of our smaller camps on an exclusive use basis.

For honeymooners, a glamping safari offers the ideal balance of adventure, luxury, and privacy. Many tented suites are set well apart from one another, creating an intimate retreat in the heart of the wilderness. Private plunge pools, outdoor baths, candlelit dinners under the stars, and uninterrupted views over the bush make these camps ideal for celebrating a special occasion. You may even decide to add on a night in one of our Star Beds for the ultimate wild glamping experience.