For most people the idea of spending the night under canvas surrounded by the sounds of the African bush brings to mind the romance of a bygone age of adventure.  Fortunately there are dozens of tented safari lodges and camps all across Southern and East Africa where it is possible to recapture this magic. 

Many of these lodges offer a level of luxury that would normally only be found in the very best 5* hotels, with many ‘tents’ boasting air-conditioning, luxury bathrooms, and even private plunge pools!

For guests travelling on a more modest budget, there are other tented lodges and camps which offer less extravagant accommodation, however the tents are all still large enough to have proper size double or twin beds and en-suite bathrooms … it’s still a long way from most people’s traditional idea of ‘camping in a tent’ !

Especially in East Africa, some of the tented camps are what is known as ‘semi-permanent’.  This means that they have no permanent cement structures like swimming pools, or brick / stone built areas, so the camps can be completely dismantled and removed, leaving a virgin site that has not disturbed the natural environment whatsoever.  These camps also tend to be run off generators and have solar powered lighting, which really enhances the eco-friendliness aspect. 

Another popular ‘tented’ experience in East Africa, which is offered by many of the lodges for guests staying 3+ nights, is to do a mobile / fly camp safari for one night.  Your fly camp is set up in advance by the camp staff, and you either walk there as part of your day’s safari activity, or you drive there after your last game drive.  Fly camping is about adventure, not luxury – your bed is comfortable and the crew cooks amazing meals in the middle of the wilderness, but tents are simple (normally 2 man dome tents), with outside shower and bathroom facilities.

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Properties 1 to 10 of 119

Moremi Crossing, Chief's Island ( Botswana )

Safari Lodge

The luxury accommodation in in 16 new-style large and airy en-suite meru safari tents, each with its own private wooden deck and magical views over the Boro River on to Chief’s Island. The main guest areas are home to a large open plan deck that has spectacular far reaching views over the Boro River onto Chief’s Island.

From USD310 per person.

Kwara Camp, Kwara Concession ( Botswana )

Safari Lodge

The 8 luxury safari-style tents are built on raised decks, within a grove of huge and ancient African ebony trees. Resident hippos will generally serenade you year round from the water on the floodplain in front of the camp.

From USD490 per person.

Camp Moremi, Xaxanaka Region ( Botswana )

Safari Lodge

The main guest area is an elegant elevated thatch and timber structure, consisting of a main lounge, wildlife reference library, dining room and cocktail bar. Other facilities include a secluded swimming pool with sun deck and a thatched boma, where brunch and high tea is served.

From USD495 per person.

Nkambeni Tented Lodge, Numbi Gate ( South Africa )

Safari Resort

Accommodation is in 150 timber and canvas chalets with en-suite facilities. All units are fitted with air-conditioning and have a private deck.

From ZAR610 ( approx US$ 82 ) per person.

Ilkeliani Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve ( Kenya )

Safari Lodge

   Average guest rating:5.0

The camp can accommodate a maximum of 30 guests at any one time. The tented rooms are raised up slightly on earth mounds, overlooking the river and the plains.

From USD90 ( approx US$ 82 ) per person.

Eagle Tented Lodge & Spa, Epacha Private Game Reserve ( Namibia )

Safari Lodge

   Average guest rating:4.0

This luxury lodge, built from natural rock with thatch roofs boasts 8 luxury canvas tents all with spacious en-suite facilities. All tents have their private raised wooden balcony with breath taking view over the valley amongst the mountains.

From ZAR700 ( approx US$ 94 ) per person.

Mara Plains Camp, Olare Orok Conservancy ( Kenya )

Safari Lodge

   Average guest rating:5.0

The camp caters for only 14 guests in 7 uniquely designed octagonal canvas rooms. Each is raised on decks, and opens on 3 sides to the outside.

From USD100 ( approx US$ 94 ) per person.

Camp Okavango, Nxaragha Island ( Botswana )

Safari Lodge

   Average guest rating:5.0

Camp Okavango accommodates only 24 guests in intimate exclusivity in East African-style safari tents, individually situated on raised teak platforms with en-suite facilities and private viewing decks. For those who demand the ultimate in exclusivity, Camp Okavango boasts the “Okavango Suite”, a thatched cottage offering complete privacy - ideal for honeymooners.

From USD710 ( approx US$ 94 ) per person.

Satao Camp, Tsavo East ( Kenya )

Safari Lodge

   Average guest rating:5.0

Nestled amongst trees and surrounding a central water-hole, the semi-circular layout of the camp provides an excellent viewing point for each guest. Satao Camp has 20 tents in total, thoughtfully positioned to ensure a full view of the camps "own" watering hole.

From USD110 ( approx US$ 94 ) per person.

Sarova Mara Game Camp, Masai Mara National Reserve ( Kenya )

Safari Resort

   Average guest rating:5.0

The 20 Club en-suite tents offer breathtaking views of the Mara plains. They are luxurious and extremely spacious decorated in whites and soothing earthy colors with large beds, loungers, wardrobes and a desk.

From USD135 ( approx US$ 94 ) per person.

Properties 1 to 10 of 119