10 luxurious tented camps for glamping lovers
It’s camping, but extra and in luxury hotels and nature
Text: Anna A
Image Credit: Singita
We at The Soothe love a stylish hotel. But some of us also have the country-girl vibe at heart so, along with the current need for social distancing, an escape to a luxurious tented camp is very appealing. Glamping may not be a new concept, but it’s a pretty darn perfect option thanks to the ongoing travel restrictions.
Research has proven that an immersion in nature is good for your health and the ideal antidote to stress, lowering blood pressure and hormone levels as well as reducing anxiety and significantly improving your mood.
Therefore, The Soothe has curated a list of swanky tented camps to inspire wanderlust and travel dreams for when the time comes to escape again.
Image Credit: Singita
1. Sabora Tented Camp, Tanzania
Located on the plains of the Serengeti in Tanzania, Singita Sabora Tented Camp has been re-designed as a modern interpretation of a classic African safari with a sustainable, innovative, contemporary design and features. A restorative sanctuary under canvas, Singita invites guests to connect with the African wilderness and immerse themselves fully in some of the world’s most iconic and evocative landscape. The nine self-contained suites feature a combination of in-and-outdoor living spaces including large decks – the ideal spot for yoga or sunset drinks. Guests can also head out on guided bush walks and twice daily game drives in the Serengeti, home to some of Africa’s most magnificent animals including the rhino, zebra and elephant.
Image Credit: Canvas Club
2. Canvas Club, Oman
This private camp is situated deep in the heart of the expansive Wahiba Desert, Canvas Club and offers guests a deluxe back-to-basics stay. The luxurious Bedouin tents are furnished with beautiful silk bedspreads, ornate rugs, oriental carpets and atmospheric sustainable magic lamps for special Middle Eastern magic. With views of the nearby dunes, guests can enjoy delicious evening meals prepared by the on-site chef, which are served on tables under the night’s sky. Tours of the desert from professional guides are available, or simply relax in the serenity of the camp by the fire and play cards.
Image Credit: Capella Hotels & Resorts
3. Capella Ubud, Bali
Nestled between Ubud’s rainforest, rice paddy fields and the sacred Wos River, this intimate retreat brings the wonders and myths of Bali’s exotic past to life. Designed by celebrated architect Bill Bensley, this ultra-luxurious tented camp is comprised of 22 unique tents as well as an extravagant two-bedroom lodge. Accommodation is crafted with an individual inspirational theme, allowing guests to enjoy the essence of Bali’s untouched natural surroundings in personalised comfort. All tents boast a private salt water Jacuzzi pool, lavish indoor and outdoor bathrooms, a spacious lounge and bedroom whilst two outdoor decks offer the perfect setting for a romantic candlelit dinner.
Image Credit: Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts
4. Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle, Thailand
Accessible only by boat and overlooking the Mekong River, the Four Seasons Tented Camp is nestled in the heart of Thailand’s Golden Triangle’s bamboo jungle that borders Thailand, Laos and Myanmar. A quaint walkway leads to each private, luxuriously furnished tent, where elephant-tusk-styled door handles open into the living area and the elegant interiors. Each tent has been uniquely decorated with local furnishings, and wooden hot tubs on the large outdoor decks. The camp offers guests a variety of luxurious spa treatments including the Mahout Recovery Treatment which is unique to this location. Using local techniques with a deliciously calming oil, we recommending kicking of your wilderness holiday here.
Image Credit: Whichaway Camp
5. Whichaway Camp, Antarctica
Whichaway Camp is one of the most remote camps on the planet, located in the icy expanse of Antarctica, offering a truly once in a lifetime experience and the ideal place to relax and recharge. The six state-of-the-art dome-shaped pods merge old world safari décor with space-age style and modern comforts. The pods are the cosiest place to come back to and enjoy time alone, or a great spot to hang out in with friends and family after a busy day spent exploring ice caves and discovering the pristine landscape of Antarctica.
Image Credit: Sal Salis
6. Sal Salis, Australia
Sal Salis represents ‘Wild Bush Luxury’ with nine tents tucked away in the sand dunes across stunning Western Australia coastline. Each tented suite features the finest bed linen, eco-friendly toiletries, a pumped-up shower and a comfortable hammock — perfect for admiring the surroundings and enjoying a bit of R&R. The on-site chef serves delicious contemporary dishes with hints of bush food and there’s a self-service fully stocked bar in the large, open lounge that is filled with books and comfy seating.
Image Credit: Poronui Lodge
7. Poronui Lodge, New Zealand
Hidden in the hauntingly beautiful Taharua Valley of New Zealand’s North Island is Poronui Lodge which boasts both luxurious guest cabins and canvas tents. Situated on an estate that is rich in wildlife and plenty of active adventures — from fly fishing to mountain biking to horse riding — guests will not get bored. The tents are ideal to come back to after a busy day, and when you’re not relaxing in your hideout, you can roast marshmallows by the campfire, or nod off al fresco to the sound of the nearby flowing river.
Image Credit: Chamba Camp
8. Chamba Camp, Thiksey
This off-the-beaten-track camp overlooks the Thiksey Monastery in a desert valley between the Kunlun Mountains and the Himalayas. It’s comprised of cream-coloured, Maharaja-style tents that are exquisitely furnished with ornate king-size beds, signature camp furniture, en-suite spacious bathrooms and a dedicated butler service. Each tent has a large wooden deck, the perfect place to star gaze or admire the surrounding mountain ranges. Evenings are spent relaxing by the fire, listening to talks from local experts while tucking into wholesome cuisine prepared by expert, local chefs.
Image Credit: Patagonia Camp
9. Patagonia Camp, Chile
A unique boutique hotel, Patagonia Camp is perched above a dazzling lake with magical views from up high. This quirky eco-camp combines a memorable glamping experience, accompanied with the comforts of a luxurious hotel. The eighteen circular-shaped yurts are nestled in a forest, giving guests a true nature experience of the unspoiled Chilean landscape. Each tent features a king-size bed, handcrafted textiles and furniture, a private bathroom, and a terrace with endless views across Lake Toro and Paine Massif. Daily excursions include hiking, cycling and even fishing in the nearby lakes.
Image Credit: andBeyond
10. &Beyond Nxabega Okavango Safari Camp, Botswana
Located under African ebony trees, &Beyond’s luxurious tented camp is in an exclusive wildlife concession in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Offering the best views of the unique flood plains, the elevated tented suites are decorated in natural colours to feel light and airy. There are with 360-degree views of the surroundings and traditional furnishings including hand-stitched patterns, reminiscent of traditional Botswanan designs. Each suite has a private deck with a swinging bench and outdoor showers. Daily activities include exploring the floodplains by mokoro, nature walks accompanied by guide or game viewing across the mopane forests.
