Taking glamour to the outdoors
SA duo capitalising on what’s become all the rage in travel – glamping
AS GLAMPING takes root in Africa as a travel trend, a start-up initiative is taking the concept of luxury camping to another level by organising nomadic retreats across South Africa.
The move is buoyed by an increase in travel across the country.
Founded by Gugu Sithole and Davison Mudzingwa, Glamping Adventures seeks to inspire more travel in South Africa and an appreciation for its natural attractions.
Glamping Adventures occupies the niche of trendy travellers on a budget.
Curated on the concept of organising retreats in various parts of South Africa, the company believes the model plays a part in popularising travel and tourism.
“Our roving glamping – glamorous camping – retreats are hosted in iconic natural destinations that connect all our travellers in South Africa,” said Sithole, the chief executive.
“Adventure is a lifestyle that should not cost a fortune. Our packages include spacious tented accommodation set up for travellers, great cuisine and adventure activities; all with a touch of glam,” said Sithole.
Glamping is beginning to gain traction and is more popular with travellers on the go. In basic terms, it entails camping with luxurious provisions and amenities.
“Gone are the days of camping and roughing it,” Mudzingwa said.
“The world is changing and people should be able to enjoy the silence of nature – but along with all the available comforts.”
“We are glad to be at the pioneering stage of glamping in Africa. Our concept of travelling to various regional destinations will excite more people to travel and enjoy attractions in the region,” Mudzingwa said.
The wave of local travel is in motion.
In South Africa, for instance, the Department of Tourism reported that the tourism sector contributed
R136.1 billion, which is a 2.9% contribution, towards the total 2017 gross domestic product.
The broad value-chain impact of tourism-induced benefits totalled R412.5bn or 8.9% of the GDP.
In one of its recent report, Statistics South Africa said the country registered 3.5 million travellers last year.
“The culture of travelling exists, we just need a collective effort to stimulate it,” said Sithole who is a keen traveller, marketer and entrepreneur.
From the previous retreats, Glamping Adventures has noticed an exciting trend of foreign travellers keen to explore South Africa.
Most of them are from Europe and southern Africa.
“Travelling opens the mind and integrates people,” Sithole said.
“We believe that by encouraging and giving value to our travellers, our region will be stronger and cohesive.”
Glamping Adventures believes in having a strong multimedia and digital presence that also plays a part in marketing attractions in the country.
“We have a strong multimedia skills set,” said Mudzingwa.
“This is important considering the focus on the Fourth Industrial Revolution focus. Our content, through social media, draws interest from foreign travellers.”.
♦ Website: www.glamping-adventures.co.za
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♦ Twitter: @glampingza