Camping meets luxury in glamping, the latest travel trend. The Western Cape of South Africa is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, unique accommodations, and unforgettable experiences for glampers. Whether you’re seeking a romantic retreat, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo escape into nature, the Western Cape has it all.
You’ll find personal insights, detailed information, and practical tips to help you plan the perfect getaway in this comprehensive guide. Check out the ultimate glamping experiences the Western Cape has to offer, from Franschhoek‘s retro-chic Camp Canoe to the wild beauty of Botlierskop’s Tented Lodge.
1. Camp Canoe: A Retro-Chic Escape in Franschhoek
Where
Franschhoek, just 45 minutes from Cape Town.
Setting
Camp Canoe is like stepping into a nostalgic summer camp, but with a luxurious twist. Nestled on the rustic side of the Simonsberg Mountains at Boschendal, this glamping spot is surrounded by lush fynbos, olive trees, and boulders. The seven tents are pitched around a sparkling dam, offering a serene and secluded atmosphere.
“Waking up to birdsong from the comfort of a sumptuous bed is pure magic,” I thought as I sipped my morning coffee on the viewing deck. The retro aesthetic, complete with Tupperware in the kitchen, adds a playful charm to the experience.
The Lodgings
- 7 tents with king-size or twin beds and luxury linen
- Ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower
- Fully equipped kitchen with a Smeg induction stove
- Indoor seating area with a fireplace
- Viewing deck with outdoor seating and a Weber braai
- Hot tub and air-conditioning
- Complimentary wood, charcoal, and ice
- Picnic, braai, and breakfast boxes available to order
Things to Do
- Paddling and swimming in the dam
- Picnics on the jetty or in nature
- Hiking and mountain-biking trails
- Horse-riding
- Wine-tasting at Boschendal and nearby estates
Good to Know
- House Canoe, the “clubhouse” dining area, is available for larger groups.
- Child-friendly on request.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Wifi is available.
Cost
From R3,400 per tent per night.
2. Dwyka Tented Lodge: A Luxe Safari Experience
Where
Near Montagu, 3 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
Hidden along Route 62, Dwyka Tented Lodge is a romantic haven surrounded by 350-million-year-old rock formations. Situated within the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, this lodge offers a luxurious safari experience with sightings of the Big Five and ancient Khoisan rock paintings.
“The sunset over the Karoo plains was surreal,” I recalled, as I enjoyed a glass of wine on my private deck. The heated plunge pool was the perfect spot to unwind after a day of game drives.
The Lodgings
- 9 luxury tents with king-size beds
- Ensuite bathroom with a shower, freestanding bath, and outdoor shower
- Private deck with a heated plunge pool
- Minibar and tea/coffee station
- Air-conditioning
- Main lodge with a lounge, fireplace, and wine cellar
Things to Do
- Two daily game drives
- Guided walks and bird-watching
- Stargazing with telescopes
- Spa treatments at the relaxation retreat
Good to Know
- Rates include all meals, activities, and selected beverages.
- Not child or pet-friendly.
- Wifi is available at the main lodge.
Cost
From R14,910 per person sharing per night.
3. Wolwehoek Luxury Camp: Secluded Bliss in the Klein Karoo
Where
Near Montagu, 2.5 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
Wolwehoek Private Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in the untouched Keisie Valley. With just one glamping unit, Leopard’s Kloof, this is the ultimate off-the-grid escape. The camp’s old-time explorer aesthetic, complete with a brass bed and Chesterfield sofa, adds to its charm.
“The 12-metre super-hammock was my favorite spot,” I confessed, as I swayed gently with a book in hand. The wood-fired hot tub under the stars was equally enchanting.
The Lodgings
- King-size bed with luxury linen
- Freestanding bath with a view and outdoor shower
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Outdoor lounge with a braai area and pizza oven
- Wood-fired hot tub (plunge pool in summer)
- Firewood included
Things to Do
- Hiking and rock-climbing
- Birdwatching and mountain-biking
- Stargazing
Good to Know
- The camp is solar-powered with no plug points.
- Accessible only by 4×4/SUV.
- Not child or pet-friendly.
- No wifi on-site.
Cost
From R3,300 per night.
4. Tula Retreat: A Private Waterfront Escape
Where
Near Calitzdorp, 4.5 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
Tula Retreat is a secluded paradise accessible only by boat. Perched on the water’s edge, this off-grid retreat offers utter privacy and stunning views of rolling hills.
“The wood-burning hot tub was the highlight of my stay,” I shared, as I soaked in the warm water under a starry sky. The outdoor kitchen and dining area added a rustic charm to the experience.
The Lodgings
- Extra-length king-size bed with luxury linen
- Ensuite bathroom with a slipper bath and additional shower
- Outdoor shower and wood-burning hot tub
- Fully equipped outdoor kitchen
- Lounge with a fireplace and tea/coffee station
- Deck with sun loungers and a hammock
Things to Do
- Swimming and paddling in the dam
- Boat cruises and fishing
- Hiking in the surrounding valley
Good to Know
- Staff are on call from 8am to 6pm daily.
- Teens are welcome, but not younger children.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Wifi is available.
Cost
From R4,300 per night (minimum two-night stay).
5. The Gaia Sanctuary: A Permaculture Paradise
Where
Buffeljagsrivier, near Swellendam, 2.5 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
This organic permaculture farm on the Breede River is a haven for nature lovers. The A-frame glamping cabin and boho bell tent offer unique accommodations that blend seamlessly with the environment.
“Floating on a lilo down the river was pure bliss,” I reminisced. The farm’s off-grid lifestyle and eco-friendly practices made me feel truly connected to nature.
The Lodgings
- A-frame cabin with a queen bed and sleeper couches
- Boho bell tent with single or double beds
- Compost toilet and communal bathrooms
- Private braai area and gas heater
- Shared glamp deck with kitchen facilities
Things to Do
- Swimming and paddling in the river
- Farm walks and holistic healing sessions
- Wine-tasting and exploring nearby nature reserves
Good to Know
- Child and pet-friendly.
- No wifi.
Cost
A-frame cabin: from R1,610 per night
Bell tent: from R800 per night
6. Southern Yurts: A Nomadic Encampment in Bot River
Where
Bot River, 1.5 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
Nestled in Diepklowe Nature Reserve, Southern Yurts offers a unique glamping experience surrounded by mountains, streams, and abundant birdlife. The yurts, made from wooden beams and canvas, are beautifully decorated and provide all the comforts of a luxury chalet.
“The private wood-fired hot tub was the perfect way to end the day,” I recalled, as I soaked under the stars. The Forest View yurt, with its secluded setting, is ideal for couples.
The Lodgings
- King or double beds, plus daybeds or sofa beds for kids
- Outdoor bathroom with a hot shower
- Fully equipped kitchen with a gas stove
- Indoor fireplace
- Outdoor seating and braai area
- Private wood-fired hot tub
- Pizza oven, hammock, and sundowner deck (at Forest View)
- Solar power and chargers
- Firewood and basic kitchen supplies included
Things to Do
- Visit the Secret Forest
- Walking and hiking trails
- Swimming and paddling at the dam (kayak and canoe provided)
- Catch-and-release fishing (gear to rent)
- Birdwatching (books and binoculars supplied)
- Explore the Bot River wine route
Good to Know
- Breakfast, sundowner, dinner, and pizza baskets can be ordered.
- Child and pet-friendly (R100 per pet).
- Wifi is available.
Cost
Forest View: From R1,850 per night (sleeps 2)
Malachite or Kestrel: From R1,250 per night (for 2); R1,650 (for 4)
7. Tented Lodge at Botlierskop: A Safari on the Garden Route
Where
Garden Route, 4.5 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
Located halfway between George and Mossel Bay, Botlierskop’s Tented Lodge offers a luxurious safari experience with views of the Indian Ocean and the Outeniqua Mountains. The 4,500-hectare game reserve is home to four of the Big Five, making it a wildlife lover’s paradise.
“The horseback safari was unforgettable,” I shared, as I rode through the reserve with the ocean in the distance. The hilltop lodge, with its spacious tents and private jacuzzis, added a touch of romance to the adventure.
The Lodgings
- 30 tented suites (Luxury with Fireplace, Deluxe, Super Deluxe, Superior, and Executive)
- King-size four-poster bed (can be split into singles) and day bed for children
- Ensuite with freestanding bath and shower, plus outdoor shower (except Luxury suites)
- Lounge with fireplace
- Minibar and tea/coffee station
- Smart TV with Netflix (in Superior suites)
- Furnished deck with river and mountain views
- Private jacuzzi (in Executive suites)
- Air-conditioning
Things to Do
- Guided game drives and bush walks
- Horseback safaris and outrides
- Catch-and-release fishing
- Luxury picnics at the dam
- Pampering at Fijnebos Spa
Good to Know
- Rates can be breakfast only, half-board, full-board, or all-inclusive.
- Conservation fees (R530 per tent per stay) are not included.
- Child-friendly (from 6 years old).
- Pets are not allowed.
- Wifi is available.
Cost
From R12,210 per tent
Children (ages 6–11 years) pay half the adult rate
8. AfriCamps at Stanford Hills: Rural Bliss in Stanford
Where
Stanford, 2 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
AfriCamps at Stanford Hills is set on a picturesque wine farm in the foothills of the Klein River Mountains. The lush green meadows and rolling hills create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing getaway.
“The wood-fired hot tub overlooking the dam was pure bliss,” I recalled, as I enjoyed a glass of wine from the farm. The farm’s wine tastings and Portuguese cuisine added a gourmet touch to the experience.
The Lodgings
- 2 extra-length queen-size beds, with a kids’ bunk bed above one
- Ensuite bathroom with rainshower
- Fully equipped kitchen with gas stove
- Indoor seating area with fireplace
- Furnished deck with braai
- Wood-fired hot tub
- Air-conditioning
- Cook-your-own breakfast and braai packs delivered (at an extra fee)
Things to Do
- Swimming and canoeing in the dam
- Hiking and mountain-biking trails
- Bass fishing in the top dam
- Wine-tasting on-site
- Horse-riding on the farm
Good to Know
- Single-parent specials (child stays free), 3-night specials, and pensioner specials are available.
- Child and pet-friendly (one dog per tent).
- Wifi is available.
Cost
From R1,740 per night for two adults
R295 per extra adult; R195 per child (up to 16 years old)
9. AfriCamps at Doolhof: A Winelands Escape in Wellington
Where
Wellington, 1 hour from Cape Town.
Setting
AfriCamps at Doolhof is nestled on a beautiful wine estate between the Groenberg and Limietberg Mountains. The sound of the Kromme River and the fresh mountain air make this a rejuvenating escape.
“The labyrinth for walking meditation was a unique experience,” I shared, as I strolled through the peaceful garden. The complimentary wine-tasting and farm-fresh platters added a gourmet touch to the stay.
The Lodgings
- Two extra-length queen-size beds, one with a kids’ bunk bed above
- Ensuite bathroom with rainshower
- Fully equipped kitchen with gas stove
- Indoor living room with fireplace
- Furnished deck with braai
- Wood-fired hot tub
- Air-conditioning
- Cook-your-own breakfast and braai baskets delivered (additional fee)
Things to Do
- Vineyard hike and mountain trail
- River walk with picnic spots
- Labyrinth for walking meditation
- Mountain-biking (including a kids’ trail)
- Wine-tasting and lunch/platters on-site
Good to Know
- Single-parent specials (child stays free), 3-night specials, and pensioner specials are available.
- Child-friendly.
- Pets are not allowed.
- Wifi is available.
Cost
From R1,740 per night for two adults
R295 per extra adult; R195 per child (up to age 16)
10. Oakron@Patatsfontein Stay: A Karoo Cottage Retreat
Where
Near Montagu, 2.5 hours from Cape Town.
Setting
Patatsfontein is a fruit farm in a valley just outside Montagu, offering a peaceful retreat surrounded by ancient oak trees and the Wabooms Mountains. The glamping tent, raised on stilts, is a charming couples’ bolthole with a Karoo cottage aesthetic.
“The hot tub in the garden was the perfect spot to watch the stars,” I recalled, as I soaked in the warm water. The farm’s rustic charm and homely touches made it a memorable escape.
The Lodgings
- Queen-size bed
- Ensuite with freestanding bath with a view, plus outdoor shower
- Fully equipped kitchenette with gas stove
- Open-plan living and dining area
- Deck with outdoor seating
- Firepit
- Wood-fired hot tub
- Board games
- Portable fan
Things to Do
- Farm walks and fruit picking
- Picnicking (baskets available to order)
- 4×4 route on-site
- Hiking and mountain-biking
- Hot springs (16km away)
Good to Know
- Two other glamping tents, Aloeron and Buckron, are available.
- The gravel road to the farm is not suitable for low-suspension vehicles.
- Not child-friendly.
- Pet-friendly (additional R300 cleaning fee).
- Wifi is available.
Cost
From R1,750 per night
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit the Western Cape for glamping?
A: The best time is during the spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) months when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
Q: Are these glamping spots suitable for families?
A: Yes, many spots like AfriCamps and Southern Yurts are family-friendly, while others like Dwyka Tented Lodge cater more to couples.
Q: Do I need a 4×4 to access these glamping sites?
A: Some, like Wolwehoek Luxury Camp, require a 4×4, but most are accessible with a regular car.
Conclusion
The Western Cape’s glamping getaways offer a perfect blend of luxury and nature, making them ideal for any traveler seeking a unique escape. Whether you’re drawn to the retro charm of Camp Canoe or the wild beauty of Botlierskop, these destinations promise unforgettable memories.
Disclaimer:
WakaAbuja has made every effort to ensure that the information in this post was correct at the time of publication. However, we do not assume any liability caused by errors, such as price, cost, time, and location. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please visit the official websites or contact the glamping sites directly.
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