Five Best Tented Camps

Do you remember when you were younger and camping was so much fun - even when the tent leaked, there were no toilets for miles and a thin sleeping mat was as good as it got? It’s a part of every Kiwi’s upbringing. So, if you find yourself reminiscing then read on. If you love being outdoors but still like your creature comforts, then ‘Glamping’ or Glamorous Camping is for you. Now you can stay in some of the best spots, have every luxury available at your fingertips and still be in a tent. Here are our top five picks of the best tented camps around the world.

Lemarti’s Camp, Laikipia, North Kenya

The African bush is exquisite no matter how you see it. But to have a truly authentic experience with a luxury twist, head to Lemarti’s Camp in Kenya. Run by Samburu and Masai tribesman and created by celebrated designer Anna Trzebinski, this is a truly magical spot. Lemarti’s has a further 2 campsites – Nomadic; a seasonal camp that does not move and Stargazing Camp; completely mobile and attached to a camel unit. Join these proud Nomads of Kenya for an unforgettable encounter with untamed Africa. www.lemartiscamp.com.

Four Seasons, Golden Triangle, Thailand

Exotic, unique and exclusive, 15 tented accommodations await you at an elevated site overlooking the Ruak River, Burma, the mountains of Laos or the bamboo jungles of Thailand. The site can only be reached by boat and the tents, situated apart for privacy, feature custom made furnishings such as hand-hammered copper bathtubs. For a long time after you have departed, the memory of the elephant trekking, picnics in the jungle and sundowners in the stilt bar will linger on. www.fourseasons.com.

Aman-i-Khás, Ranthambhore Park, India

Found on the edge of the former Maharajah’s hunting ground, Aman-i-Khás offers you a chance to be part of this richly elaborate period in history. The 10 identical tents in moghul style have six-metre high canopies with cotton partitions that create bathroom, lounge, private dining and sleeping areas. Other special touches include delicate drapes to allow for nature spotting from your tent and a traditionally designed ‘step-well’ for a refreshing dip after a long day on safari. Take a step back into a bygone era; you won’t regret it. www.amanresorts.com.

Banyan Tree Madivaru, Maldives

Madivaru, encircled by a white sand beach, beautiful lagoon and breathtaking house reefs, is the first of its kind in the Maldives. Each of the 6 freestanding tents are made up of three individual tents - living, sleeping and bathing - all with timber flooring and rattan and teak furniture. In the bathroom tent you will find a pair of spa beds for all those luxurious in-villa treatments. And when you step out of your desert island inspired tent, it will be into a tropical paradise where your every wish will be granted. www.banyantree.com.

Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, Tofino, Canada

Open from mid-May to end September, Clayoquot Wilderness Resort offers a wonderful paradox of decadent pampering in a remote and untamed wilderness. Inspired by late 19th Century Great Camps, 20 tents are scattered along the water’s edge and nestled under a canopy of trees. The tents are filled with antique dressers and tea tables, opulent rugs, oil lamps, heirloom china and an abundance of candles that recreate a yesteryear ambience. Partake in the myriad of activities on offer or simply relax; the choice is yours. www.wildretreat.com.

Honourable Mentions

• Hamilton’s Tented Camp, Kruger National Park, South Africa

• Manvar Camp, Jodhpur, India

• Longitude 131°, Uluru, Australia

• Wild Bush Luxury (Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, Bamurru Plains, Blue Mountains Private Safaris), Australia

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Published 8th Jul 2009

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