UNWIND OUTDOORS IN LAP OF LUXURY
Glamping is an ideal way for jaded city dwellers to get close to Mother Nature
IN the series Camping, Jennifer Garner plays an obsessively organised woman who arranges a camping trip. Unplugged from the rat race and tuned into nature, what could possibly go wrong? It’s a funny take on how relationships can be stretched to breaking point when one person takes the lead, while the rest think “can things get any worse?” But if you want to go camping at Christmas in South Africa, you shouldn’t have to compromise on luxury.
GLEN EDEN RANCH MONTAGU
MONTAGU, WESTERN CAPE
Unusually quaint by glamping standards, Glen Eden has three pods to choose from.
The Protea pod sleeps four, with its own handmade gypsy wagon sleeping two with a queen size extra length bed and a small seating area; a teepee tent sleeping two with two single beds and a private pod containing a bathroom with a shower, a small kitchen and stoep with dining furniture.
Activities: swimming, fishing and walking trails.
Rates: Starting at R800 (1-2 people) per night.
Contact: 071 100 2782.
HILLSNEK SAFARI CAMP
AMAKHALA GAME RESERVE, EASTERN CAPE
In a secluded corner of Amakhala Game Reserve in the malaria-free Eastern Cape, HillsNek is an intimate familyrun lodge set on the banks of the Bushman’s River.
The four private canvas safari tents are discreetly positioned, ensuring maximum privacy and tranquillity. The accommodation is elevated on wooden decks.
Activities: Stone outdoor swimming pool, hiking and game viewing.
Rates: From R6 290 per night per person sharing.
Contact: res@hillsnek.com
TENIQUA TREETOPS
GARDEN ROUTE, WESTERN CAPE
Imagine spending the night in the canopy of a forest surrounded by birdsong. Built on hand-crafted platforms in carefully chosen beauty spots, the tree houses have comfortable tented bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens and luxury bathrooms. Comprising honeymoon and family accommodation, the main focus is on being eco-friendly.
Activities: Bird watching, play area, swimming and walking trails.
Rates: R1 886-R2 807 per tree house.
Contact: queries@ teniquatreetops.co.za
TAMBOTI CAMP
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, LIMPOPO
Tamboti Tented Camp overlooks the usually dry Timbavati riverbed and is one of Kruger National Park’s satellite camping sites. All units are selfcatering and are serviced daily with bedding, towels and soap. One catch – you’ll have to use communal bathroom facilities. A small price, considering you’re on the outskirts of South Africa’s largest Big 5 park.
Activities: Guided bush walks as well as night drives.
Rates: N/A
Contact: www.krugerpark.co.za
MONZI SAFARIS
ST LUCIA, KWAZULU-NATAL
Each tent has a private walkway up to a raised balcony where you can look out onto the canopy of trees. Each has a standing fan plus mosquito nets on both windows.
Activities: Safari tours, night drives, fishing, kayaking, walking safaris and hippo and croc tours. Rates: N/A.
Contact: info@monzisafaris. com