Ah, to be out in the bush with nothing more than a tent, a gas cooker and the light of the stars – some people’s perfect getaway – though it’s certainly not everyone’s cuppa chai tea!

Yes, like most of us, some folk want the best of both worlds… The chance to see the beauty of the South African wilderness AND enjoying the comforts that we’ve become accustomed to at home. Well we’ve got good news for you all, there’s a new trend in town (…or bushveld) called ‘glamping’!

Pack your khakis if you insist, we know that it goes with everything, but if sharing your bed with bugs and other critters is a stretch too far, take a look at SA’s top ten budget-friendly “glamp”sites! These are the kind of places you can take your better half without running the risk of heading home alone.

Check out them all out here:

Buffalo Drift, Tulbagh (Western Cape) – R250 p/p sharing

Situated on the banks of the beautiful Berg River, Buffalo Drift offers couples a secluded getaway that’s both romantic and affordable.

There are four comfortably furnished tents with bunk- or double beds and en-suite bathrooms. Each tent has a private patio and a fully equipped kitchenette for all your self-catering needs.

Guests can spend their days lazing on their private stretch of the riverbank, or by taking a refreshing dip in the fresh water.

Iphofolo, Vivo (Limpopo) – R250 p/p sharing

Iphofolo is a classic safari tented camp situated near the small town of Alldays, in the Limpopo Province. The camp offers an exclusive experience to see 20 mammals and over 100 birds on this 1200 hectare farm. The location is ideal for a weekend away from the city or a week exploring the surrounding Limpopo attractions.

Shady trees and tranquil surroundings create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. The luxury tents are set on elevated wooden viewing decks, providing a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the scenic views over the African bush.

The Beach Camp, Paternoster (WC) – R220 single

Bury your toes in the sand while sipping your favourite drink, staring over the ocean by day and at the campfire at night. With comfortable bedded tents and A-frame huts, all the necessary equipment and delicious seafood dinners, camping doesn’t get much better than this.

This is a unique experience getting back to nature for those who want to rediscover peace of mind, the healing of nature and slowing down to appreciate the birds, hear the sound of the waves crashing against pink granite rock – the sounds of nature abound.

Teniqua Treetops, Karatara (WC) – R965 per unit

Teniqua Treetops is an eco-friendly, self-catering tree house resort in the Garden Route of South Africa. Each tree house provides unique accommodation in the indigenous forest.

They are all fully equipped and include a kitchen with a microwave, gas cooker, large fridge and a Weber braai. There are great walks in the indigenous forest as well as down to the river where there are large pools for swimming. There is also an entertainment area with swimming pools, trampoline and table tennis.

B’sorah Luxury Tented Camp, Broederstroom (North West) – R490 p/p sharing

B’sorah Luxury Tented Camp comprises of four luxury tents set under huge trees, on the edge of a stream near the Skeerpoortriver. The location of each tent has been handpicked for beauty and privacy. Each deck overlooks the stream and the area abounds with birdlife.

Hiking and cycling is a great way to get closer to nature and to experience some of the rarer creatures such as Mountain reedbuck and dassies, and to investigate tracks and birdlife. Other game such as kudu, impala, waterbuck, warthogs, and blesbuck are to be seen more frequently.

nGomo Safari Lodge, Kromdraai (Gauteng)- R285 p/p sharing

nGomo Safari Lodge is a privately owned safari lodge situated deep in the heart of the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve. Here is where you become one with nature. Warthogs lazily feed within touching distance and other animals can be seen down in the valley. Visit this exclusive game lodge for a weekend break or a relaxing getaway. It is only a 40 minutes drive from Johannesburg or Sandton.

Namaqua Flowers Beach Camp, Namaqua National Park (Northern Cape) – R1500 per unit

Namaqua Flowers Beach Camp is located in close proximity to the Groenriever Gate inside the Namaqua National Park. Guests will be accommodated in either sleeper Dome Tents or Family Tents, and all fresh West Coast meals will be provided.

The West Coast is famous for its rich West Coast fare, and we intend to capture some of the flavours and combinations as we present freshly prepared meals each day. The daily programme includes breakfast or brunch, followed by high tea and dinner.

Jackalberry Ridge, Marloth Park Conservancy (Mpumalanga) – R700 per unit

The luxury tented camp has all the characteristics of the African Safari of years gone by. With their brown and khaki shading and wooden floors, the tents create a cosy and romantic atmosphere.

Whilst staying at Jackalberry Ridge, you have the pleasure of viewing 1700 types of game from the comfort of your own viewing deck, or enjoy the thrill of walking along the Crocodile River while hippos and elephants drink water.

Bundox Safari Lodge, Hoedspruit (Limpopo) – R400 p/p sharing

In amongst the mysteries of Africa and South Africa, steeped in mythology, an Eden awaits; imagine a place so beautiful, serene and unspoilt that it will wrap your soul in eternal longing to return. Share the flickering camp fire with your hosts and fellow guests and walk away with a memorable experience.

Spend languid days next to the pool, take part in Big 5 walks or open vehicle game drives. Relax and let your hosts escort you on wonderful activities including game drives into Kruger National Park, elephant back safaris, visits to local rehabilitation centres and much more. Bundox Safari Lodge offers you a complete journey to wonderful memories.

Monzi Safaris, St Lucia (KZN) – R403 p/p sharing

Monzi Safaris Tented Camp offers 13 luxury tents with en-suite bathrooms. Cool down in their large pool while the fire is going in the barbecue area. Prepare your meal in a fully stocked outdoor kitchen or dine at one of the many restaurants surrounding the camp.

All guests share the large kitchen which is fully equipped with gas stoves, hotplates and crockery, with Wi-Fi available through the tented camp.

See! Camping doesn’t have to mean giving up the comfy pillow or bottle of vino that you just can’t do without, and it doesn’t require you to break your piggy bank either 😉