From the Plains of Africa to Modern-Day Glamping: A Deep Dive into Safari Tents

Safari tents are one of the most recognisable, and arguably the best, types of glamping structures out there, and safari tent glamping is one of the top choices for those seeking a fun break in the UK. But what’s all the fuss about?! Keep reading to discover everything there is to know about safari tents, and why they continue to take the crown as one of Britain’s favourite glamping accommodations.

The History of Safari Tents

When you hear the word “safari”, you may picture yourself observing exotic animals through oversized binoculars in the plains of Africa before retreating to a “safari tent” after a long day of exploring. Well, you’re not far wrong.

For thousands of years, nomadic people have lived outdoors using tents as shelter. In the 1100s, Mongolians built and lived in yurts- circular tents made from animal skins or felts. Royal folk resided in Persian and Turkish tents, filled with comfortable furniture and intricate décor. And native North Americans began to stay in tipis- large cone-shaped tents made using wooden poles and animal skins.

By the early 20th Century, Europeans began to safari in Africa, and, you guessed it, they stayed in safari tents. These tents were luxuriously decorated with antique furniture, Persian rugs, and real beds, with butlers and chefs serving the wealthy guests.

These sturdy structures have remained popular over the years due to their mobility and durability. They are made from heavy waterproof fabric such as cotton, polycotton, or nylon canvas, with metal or wooden frames and strong ropes for support. The inside, though, is where the magic really happens.

The Benefits of Safari Tents

A stay in a safari tent boasts all the benefits of camping without the added hassle. Often situated in rural areas, you can get up close and personal with nature while staying in a safari tent. They bring a sense of adventure and discovery, which makes them attractive to adults and children alike.

Safari tents are the most luxurious glamping tents out there. They are durable enough to last all 4 seasons and are spacious enough to accommodate multiple people with lots of belongings. They are robust in design, providing excellent protection against extreme weather conditions such as strong winds, rain and even snow.

Fully equipped with everything you could want and need, safari tents offer ultimate comfort and luxury. They are exceptionally spacious yet cosy, making them suitable for couples, families, and friends. They are a popular choice for families and groups travelling together, as they can accommodate multiple people.

Swallowfields Luxury Safari Tents

We like to describe our safari lodges as laid-back luxe with a touch of 1920s glitz and glamour. They have a cosy feel, with rich dark colours and velvet accessories. Our tents blend Art Deco-inspired interiors with the golden age of African safari chic but with a modern twist. Nods to the 1920s include Art Deco tiles, lighting and lampshades, and texture is added with safari chic animal prints from the 1920 great safari expeditions. Think velvet cushions, sumptuous bedding, cosy lighting, and your very own drinks cabinet stocked with twinkly crystal glassware.

Our safari tents are incredibly spacious and cover an area of over 75 square metres. They sleep up to 6 people in 3 bedrooms (2 doubles and 1 bunk room), a baby/toddler in a travel cot and 2 dogs. They have modern luxuries, including flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and Nespresso coffee machines. The open-plan kitchen-diner features everything you need to rustle up a delicious meal, including a hob, oven, fridge, dishwasher, sink, microwave, and dining table. Our safari tents have fully plumbed private bathrooms with rainforest showers, flushing toilets, sinks, toiletries, fluffy bathrobes, slippers, a hair dryer, and towels.

Step outside and discover your own private garden with an electric hot tub, fire pit, decking with seating, hammock, and much more. At the end of a long day exploring the sights and sounds of the Malvern Hills, enjoy cooking a meal on the campfire, watching TV beside the wood burner, snuggling up in front of the fire pit, soaking in the hot tub, or indulging in a Meadow Spa treatment. Ahhh, bliss!

Sound good?! Click here to book your luxury safari tent glamping break in the heart of the Malvern Hills.

  • WELLBEING BREAKS

    Malvern has long been associated with healthy living, ever since it originated as a spa town. Many benefits have been linked to its spring water, as well as people. Charles Darwin, Queen Victoria and Florence Nightingale are all said to have enjoyed its therapeutic qualities.

    It’s a legacy that’s lived right on to this day and one we wholeheartedly embrace. Not only are we fortunate to be nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, we live and breathe nature and its many benefits.

    There’s no pounding the treadmill at Swallowfields, just beautiful walks with wonderful vistas provided by nature. Come visit our retreat and enhance your wellbeing in the best way for you, from reading a book and taking naps in your own hammock to cooking on a campfire and enjoying spa treatments. Our world awaits you…

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  • FAMILY BREAKS

    Nothing beats a great family break! When you laugh so much your sides hurt and enjoy yourself so much, you’re thinking, talking (and giggling) about it for many weeks to come.

    Swallowfields is geared up for families. You’ll find that all of our safari lodges, which easily sleep six people, are located on a child-friendly site. There are also plenty of things for the whole family to see and do too.

    Take a wander in our lovely wildflower meadow, toast marshmallows on the camp fire, explore the Malvern Hills and beyond and check out our Adventure Castle and Nature Hideout! You can even bring the dog too!

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  • ACTIVITY BREAKS

    You just bring yourself, we’ll point you in the direction of the action! And there’s lots of it!

    Maybe you want to challenge yourself and try something different, like paddleboarding or kayaking, or perhaps you want to practice your favourite hobby, such as mountain biking or hiking?

    There are lots of things to do all around Swallowfields and, when you’re back at your lodge, there’s a relaxing hot tub waiting for you.

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  • DOG FRIENDLY BREAKS

    We’re animal-lovers here at Swallowfields and we understand that your dog is a big part of your family, so why leave them behind?

    They’ll be right at home in our pet-friendly safari lodges. There’s oodles of room for them, their bed, bowls and fave toy! All that we ask, is that you keep them on a lead when walking around on-site and don’t leave them unattended.

    For just £25 per dog, per stay*, you can make sure the entire family get their hands (and paws) on our wonderful glamping experience! Oh, and don’t forget to ask us about our complimentary doggie essentials pack too!

    * Maximum of two dogs per lodge

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