Luxury Safari Tents for Glamping and Campsites
Are you considering expanding your campsite or holiday park with rental accommodations? If so, the safari tent is likely high on your list. But which luxury safari tent or glamping tent best suits your location? What does such an investment cost, and what tangible returns can you expect?
Safari Tents: Luxury Camping at Your Park
Glamping has moved beyond its pioneering phase and has become a lasting holiday trend. Guests seek the freedom of camping, combined with the comforts of home: a safari tent with private sanitary facilities, high-quality beds, and an atmospheric interior. On this page, we provide a comprehensive overview for campsite owners and investors looking to purchase a safari tent or glamping tent—from tent types and lifespan to return on investment and the benefits of collaborating with De Waard.
What Is a Safari Tent?
A safari tent is a spacious, comfortable tent installed on a fixed wooden platform, specifically designed for glamping: the camping experience combined with the comfort of a holiday cottage. The concept originated in African wildlife parks but has since become integral to the European leisure landscape and is a true eye-catcher at many campsites and holiday parks.
- Ambience: The design is inspired by adventure and outdoor living.
- Construction: Traditionally, a safari tent consists of a wooden frame (often poles) combined with heavy-duty canvas fabric.
- Interior: The furnishings are typically robust, with extensive use of reclaimed timber for furniture and partition walls.
Interestingly, tent rentals originally emerged out of necessity shortly after the Second World War, when many families did not own their own camping equipment. Several decades later, around 2008, this changed completely with the arrival of “glamping.” The simple rental tent gave way to fully furnished accommodations. What began with “sleeping in real beds” has evolved into guest expectations of safari tents with private sanitary facilities, a kitchen, and sometimes even wellness amenities.
What Does a Safari Tent Cost?
The investment in a luxury safari tent depends on factors such as size, layout, sanitary facilities, and level of finish. As a general market indication, prices typically range from €10,000 to €15,000 for a basic model; larger tents with multiple bedrooms and a private bathroom are priced higher.
At De Waard, for example, you can choose one of our new safari tents, such as the Wild Tamboti. This tent also has African roots: the model was originally developed for participants in safari tours in Tanzania, Africa. For families and glamping parks, there are more luxurious accommodations like the Big Oak and Round Holly, which offer increased living space and the option of private sanitary facilities. The final price is always determined on a bespoke basis, taking into account factors such as the number of guests, desired level of luxury, insulation requirements, and the specific conditions of your campsite or holiday park.
Why Choose a Safari Tent from De Waard?
The market has continued to evolve. Alongside the classic wooden models (the first generation), we now see the rise of “Glamping 2.0.” These are further-developed designs that respond to modern holidaymaker needs as well as those of operators. If you are planning to purchase a safari tent, these are key considerations:
1. Wood versus Steel
The traditional safari tent features a wooden frame. While this offers an authentic appearance, wood naturally expands and contracts, can be sensitive to weather conditions, and requires maintenance. The newer generation of luxury tents increasingly uses steel or aluminium frames.
- Advantage: Greater storm resistance, a longer lifespan, and lower long-term maintenance costs.
- Appearance: With the right finishing, the natural look is preserved, enhanced by a cleaner, more contemporary aesthetic.
2. Sanitary Facilities Are Now Standard
Guests value privacy. For many target groups—especially families and older guests—a safari tent with a private bathroom has become a non-negotiable requirement. When making your purchase, pay close attention to the installation options: is there sufficient space for a full-size shower and toilet? Can plumbing be connected easily? Some luxury models even offer space for a bathtub.
3. Insulation and Season Extension
A standard canvas tent can feel cool during the early and late seasons. Would you like to extend your rental period? Then consider models that are suitable for insulation or the installation of a stove or heater. This directly impacts your occupancy rate and return on investment. In models such as our Big Oak, Round Holly, and Sunny Olive, additional insulating inner canvas is used to help extend the rental season.
Our Safari Tents
Would you like to purchase a safari tent that truly sets you apart? At De Waard, you will not find generic, mass-produced models, but tents with character. Whether you are looking for a compact two-person tent or a spacious family tent with all modern comforts, we combine the adventurous atmosphere of a safari tent with De Waard’s proven quality.
Curious to see examples of Glamping 2.0?
When Should You Choose Our Safari Tents?
Selecting the right tent type depends largely on the character of your site and the guests you wish to attract. Whether you operate a campsite seeking to upgrade its offering or manage an eco-resort where nature experiences take centre stage, our tents cater to a wide range of preferences.
Broadly speaking, we see two types of holidaymakers for whom our tents are ideally suited:
- The Adventurer: This guest seeks a classic, rugged appearance. For this audience, the tent should feel robust and natural—delivering the “true camping experience”—while still offering the comfort of quality beds and a solid roof overhead.
- The Bon Vivant: A growing group of travellers who opt for luxury safari tents that resemble boutique hotel rooms in nature. They are willing to pay more for design, distinctive shapes, and the availability of private sanitary facilities.
With our models, you cater to both groups: offering the charm of canvas combined with the quality and luxurious comfort that align with modern expectations.
Request a Quotation
The safari tent is here to stay, but guest expectations continue to rise. Whether you choose the rustic appeal of wood or the durability of modern constructions, it is essential that the accommodation matches the overall character of your park.
Curious about the possibilities for your site? Would you like to discuss the optimal layout for your campsite or gain insight into the potential revenue model? Feel free to request a complimentary, no-obligation consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safari Tents
Do safari tents include sanitary facilities?
In most cases, yes. As guests increasingly seek comfort, a safari tent with private sanitary facilities (its own shower and toilet) has become the standard for new glamping projects.
What is the difference between a safari lodge and a tent?
The distinction usually lies in the walls. A safari tent is made of canvas, which creates that characteristic outdoor feel and allows guests to hear the sounds of nature. A lodge, on the other hand, tends to resemble a small cottage: these structures typically feature solid wooden walls and therefore feel more like a bungalow than a tent.
How long does it take to set up a safari tent?
This naturally depends on the size of the tent and the experience of the installation team. On average, assembling a complete safari tent (including the wooden platform) takes approximately one to two days with a two-person team.
