Glamping 101

“Glamping” seems to have become a common word bandied about by my European friends and relations as if all the world’s a glamping playground.

So for those of us who still camp, or avoid anything without en-suite bathrooms like the plague, here is a quick guide to what the world of glamping entails.

• Read: Book Review: My Not So Perfect Life

Glamping.com answers the question: “What is Glamping?” in the following manner: “Recently, a global trend has caught fire that offers outdoor enthusiasts an upgrade on rest and recreation.

“It’s called glamping, a new word for a new kind of travel, defined as glamorous camping.

“When you’re glamping, there’s no tent to pitch, no sleeping bag to unroll, no fire to build.

“Whether in a tent, yurt, airstream, pod, igloo, hut, villa, cabin, cube, teepee or tree house, glamping is a way to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing luxury.”

It is the fusion of glamour and camping and has become more popular in the last decade.

The site comments that this has become an international trend, with both independent properties and global hospitality brands capitalising on “an elevated demand for travellers who want to experience the positive aspects of camping without the uncomfortable negatives.

“Glamping pivots on a high level of service that focuses on the complete comfort of the guests.

“The amenities found at glamping destinations far exceed anything recreational campers experience.”

The site offers a number of listings for glamping sites, and while there are a few in South Africa, neighbouring countries Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Kenya have an abundance of sites you can visit.

Rates vary from $130 (R1 687) and $1 300 (R16 870) per night, depending on the level of glamour your seek.

The two listed for SA are Marataba Safari Lodge in the Limpopo province, and Gorah Elephant Camp in the Addo National Park.