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When people think of glamping, they don’t picture a dusty tent with a sleeping bag and a campfire. They imagine cozy beds with real mattresses, private hot tubs, wood-burning stoves, and views that make you forget you’re even camping. But not all glamping spots are the same. Some are remote treehouses. Others are safari-style tents with en-suite bathrooms. So what’s the most popular glamping accommodation out there today? The answer isn’t one single type - but one style dominates the market: luxury safari tents.
Why Safari Tents Rule the Glamping Scene
Look at the top 10 glamping sites in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Canada, and you’ll see the same thing over and over: large, canvas-walled tents on wooden platforms, with king-sized beds, glass windows, and heating systems. These aren’t your grandpa’s pup tents. They’re designed like boutique cabins - just without the walls.
Companies like Under Canvas, Nobo, and The Domes have built entire brands around this style. In Australia alone, over 65% of booked glamping stays in 2025 were for safari-style tents, according to data from the Australian Glamping Association. Why? Because they hit the sweet spot between comfort and nature.
They’re spacious - often 20 to 30 square meters - with room for a living area, a small kitchenette, and even a private outdoor shower. Most come with real electricity, Wi-Fi (yes, really), and climate control. And unlike cabins or yurts, they’re open to the sky. You can lie in bed and watch stars, or wake up to birdsong without feeling boxed in.
What Makes a Safari Tent Different
Not every tent labeled "glamping" is a true safari tent. Here’s what sets them apart:
- Structure: Raised wooden platforms, not just ground-level fabric
- Walls: Heavy-duty, waterproof canvas with double-layered insulation
- Windows: Large, roll-up or sliding glass panels for ventilation and views
- Furnishings: Real beds (memory foam or spring), armchairs, rugs, lighting fixtures
- Utilities: Running water, flush toilets, electric heating or air conditioning
Compare that to a dome tent - which is often smaller, has limited headroom, and no plumbing - or a yurt, which can feel closed-in. Safari tents give you the feeling of being outdoors without sacrificing comfort.
Real-World Examples
Take Under Canvas in the U.S. - they operate in national parks like Zion and Yellowstone. Their tents have king beds, private bathrooms, and even nightly turndown service. Bookings are full 6-8 months in advance.
In Australia, Wilderness Retreats near Byron Bay uses safari tents with outdoor bathtubs, espresso machines, and fire pits. Their guest reviews consistently mention "felt like a hotel, but better because I could hear the ocean."
Even in Europe, Glamping UK’s top-rated site near Lake District uses the same model: 30 tents, all with wood-burning stoves, heated floors, and private decks. They’ve increased capacity by 40% since 2023 - and still can’t keep up with demand.
Why Other Types Don’t Compare
You might think dome tents are trending. They’re cute, Instagram-friendly, and great for couples. But they’re usually small - under 15 square meters - and lack amenities. Most don’t have running water. They’re perfect for a weekend getaway, but not for families or longer stays.
Treehouses? They’re magical. But they’re expensive to build and maintain. Only a handful of sites offer them, and they’re often priced over $500/night. That limits their appeal.
Yurts? They’re sturdy and warm, but their round shape makes them hard to furnish. Most lack privacy, and ventilation is tricky. They’re popular in colder climates, but not the go-to choice for most travelers.
And mobile homes or cabins? Those aren’t glamping - they’re just fancy RVs. Glamping is about blending nature with luxury, not hiding inside a building.
Who Chooses Safari Tents - And Why
It’s not just millennials. Data from Booking.com shows that in 2025:
- 48% of glamping guests were aged 30-49
- 31% were couples without kids
- 21% were families with children under 12
Families love safari tents because they’re safe, spacious, and have real bathrooms. Couples love the privacy and romance. Solo travelers enjoy the quiet and the view. And because they’re scalable - you can book one tent or rent out a whole row - resorts can cater to groups too.
Plus, they’re sustainable. Canvas is biodegradable. Wood platforms can be recycled. No concrete foundations. No permanent structures. That’s why many national parks now prefer them over cabins.
The Future of Glamping
As climate change pushes more people toward eco-friendly travel, safari tents are only getting more popular. New models are coming with solar panels, rainwater collection, and composting toilets. Some even have smart thermostats and app-controlled lighting.
But the core idea stays the same: comfort without compromise. You don’t have to give up luxury to feel connected to nature. That’s why safari tents aren’t just the most popular glamping accommodation - they’re the definition of what glamping should be.
| Accommodation Type | Average Size | Private Bathroom | Heating/Cooling | Max Guests | Booking Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Safari Tent | 20-30 m² | Yes | Yes | 4 | 6-8 months |
| Dome Tent | 10-15 m² | Often no | Minimal | 2 | 1-3 months |
| Yurt | 15-25 m² | Usually shared | Yes (wood stove) | 3 | 3-6 months |
| Treehouse | 12-20 m² | Usually yes | Yes | 2 | 12+ months |
| Cabin/Chalet | 25-40 m² | Yes | Yes | 6 | 2-4 months |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are safari tents really worth the price?
Yes - if you value comfort and experience over cost. A safari tent typically costs $250-$500/night, which is more than a regular campsite but less than a hotel. You get real bedding, private bathrooms, and nature access all in one. Many guests say it’s the only way they’ll ever camp again.
Can families stay in safari tents?
Absolutely. Most safari tents are designed for 2-4 people, but many operators offer larger models that sleep up to six. Some even have bunk beds, changing tables, and child-safe outdoor areas. They’re safer than cabins because there’s no risk of falling down stairs or getting locked in.
Do safari tents get hot or cold?
Modern ones are built for all seasons. Double-layered canvas blocks heat in summer and traps warmth in winter. Many include electric heaters, ceiling fans, and insulated flooring. In places like Australia or Canada, they’re tested to handle temperatures from -10°C to 40°C.
Are safari tents pet-friendly?
Many are - but not all. Always check the site’s policy. Some charge a small pet fee, others require proof of vaccinations. Because the floors are wooden and the interiors are clean, pets usually adapt better than in traditional tent sites.
What’s the difference between a safari tent and a yurt?
Safari tents are rectangular, have raised platforms, and use canvas with glass windows. Yurts are round, made of felt and wood, and have a central skylight. Safari tents feel more like cabins; yurts feel more like traditional nomadic homes. Safari tents are easier to heat and clean, and they’re more common in commercial glamping sites.
Final Thought
If you’re planning your next getaway and want to feel like you’re in nature - but without sacrificing comfort - skip the dome tents and the overpriced treehouses. Go for the safari tent. It’s not just the most popular option. It’s the one that actually delivers on what glamping promises: luxury, without losing the wild.
