Glamping noun: a form of camping involving accommodation and facilities that are more luxurious than those associated with traditional camping.
Say goodbye to the days when camping meant outhouses and no running water, and hello to camping amenities that resemble 5-star experiences. Comfy beds, air conditioning and a view that will leave your jaw on the floor are just a few advantages you’ll find at these upgraded camping sites. From enchanting forest hideaways to picturesque ocean retreats, here are our top 9 spots worldwide to get your glamp on.
1. Three Camel Lodge｜Gobi Desert, Mongolia
Situated in the Gobi Altai Mountains of South Gobi, Mongolia, Three Camel Lodge couples luxury with adventure. This eco-friendly retreat is composed of 40 luxury tents decorated with wool carpets, camel hair blankets, wood-burning stoves, hand-painted furniture and en suite bathrooms built with local stone.
During your stay, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of the Gobi Desert. Explore the vast sand dunes, rugged mountains and ancient fossil sites on guided tours led by experienced guides. You can also participate in some of the activities offered on the campsite, like nomadic archery, ger building (putting together traditional Mongolian tents) or horseback riding. When you get hungry, make your way to Bulagtai Restaurant, an on-site restaurant serving thoughtfully prepared, local Mongolian dishes.
2. Whitepod Originial｜Les Cerniers, Switzerland
If glamping in the Swiss Alps has always been your dream, or you want to add something unique to the bucket list, look no further than Whitepod Original. This one-of-a-kind retreat offers an unforgettable stay in one of their eco-friendly pods or cabins. Each pod gives you an incredible view of the valley below and comes with wood-burning stoves, plush bedding and private terraces. If you’re traveling with a larger group (4-8 people), check out the resort’s cabins, offering everything from private bedrooms to smart TVs and an equipped kitchen.
If you’re staying at Whitepod in the winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding on private slopes, go snowshoeing through pristine forests or take a guided hike to enjoy the alpine terrain. In the summer, the area transforms into a paradise for bikers and hikers, with numerous trails offering views for miles and the opportunity to encounter native wildlife. There are also a variety of wellness and relaxation options that are available to guests. Unwind in the sauna after a day of skiing or get a massage at the spa after your hike. There’s truly something for everyone here.
3. Suján Jawai｜Rajasthan, India
Suján Jawai, located in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, is the ideal combination of adventure, culture and wildlife. This camp provides a front-row seat to wild leopards, as encounters are practically an everyday experience. Each luxury tented suite comes with floor-to-ceiling views of the outside world and everything you need for a comfortable stay.
One of the main highlights of Suján Jawai is its wildlife safaris, offering you a rare opportunity to see leopards in their natural habitat. Expert guides lead you through the rocky terrain where you can also spot other wildlife like hyenas, sloth bears and a variety of birds. The camp’s commitment to conservation and community engagement ensures that your visit supports local efforts to protect this unique ecosystem and its inhabitants. Other activities include horseback riding through the Jawai landscape and community visits to some of the surrounding villages.
4. Aman Camp Sarika｜Canyon Point, Utah
For those who crave camping in a breathtaking setting, Aman Camp Sarika in Canyon Point is for you. Set within a secluded canyon in the landscapes of the Colorado Plateau, this campsite has 10 luxury tented pavilions designed to blend in with the environment seamlessly. Each tent is equipped with a spacious lounge, soaking tubs and plunge pools.
The camp offers many activities that allow guests to take in the uniqueness of the desert. Take a guided tour of one of the National Parks close by, like the Grand Canyon, or join in on a hot air balloon ride over Amangiri’s 600 acres of wilderness. All stays include daily meals, group wellness classes, guided group hikes and in-room refreshments. You’ll also have access to an extensive spa menu, a pilates and yoga studio and so much more.
5. Collective Retreats｜Governors Island, New York
Just a short ferry ride from downtown Manhattan, Collective Retreats offers luxury glamping accommodations with a stunning view of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Here, you’ll find a variety of private tents and cabins offering high thread count bedding, plush towels, designer lighting, air conditioning and high-end bath products.
In addition to luxury places to sleep, Collective Retreats also offers a range of activities that guests can enjoy while on Governors Island. Yoga classes, bike rentals and communal fire pits are just a few of the unique experiences that are available here. And don’t worry about food – à la carte dinners are available at Three Peaks Lodge every night and in-tent breakfasts are available each morning.
6. Mendocino Grove｜Mendocino, California
Located just south of the quiet coastal town of Mendocino, Mendocino Grove allows you to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Each of the 60 tents are thoughtfully designed and furnished with a heated mattress pad, campfire pit, private deck and picnic table. The tents are well spaced out, ensuring peace and quiet.
Make sure to take advantage of all Mendocino Grove has to offer by spending your days hiking through the nearby forest, whale watching at the beach or exploring the charming town. At night, gather around the communal firepits for s’mores and some time under the stars. The dining options are casual and flexible. If you prefer to prepare your food, use one of the communal BBQ grills and picnic tables available. You can always choose option c and venture into town for some local seafood dishes.
7. Longitude 131º｜Red Centre, Australia
16 luxury tented pavilions make up Longitude 131º, a glamping getaway located adjacent to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Each tent comes with custom furnishings, floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor decks. The two-bedroom Dune Pavilion comes with all that plus a private plunge pool and eco-smart fireplaces.
The signature experiences offer chill sunsets, light hikes and everything in between. Indulge in the magic of Uluru sunsets at the exclusive pop-up bar, embark on a guided sunrise expedition to Kata Tjuta and Walpa Gorge or explore the history of the Mala people during a guided Uluru base walk. When you get hungry, make your way to Table 131º for a culinary experience set among the red sand dunes in a remote, secret location.
8. Under Canvas｜Livingston, Montana
Under Canvas in Yellowstone is ideally located near the North Entrance of the park and just 20 minutes from the charming town of Livingston. At this resort, you’ll enjoy a range of safari-inspired tents, each designed to provide a cozy and stylish retreat after adventuring. Each tent includes a king-size bed, plush linens, ensuite bathrooms, hot running water, a wood-burning stove and private decks.
Spend your days hiking the nearby trails, taking a fly-fishing lesson on the pristine Yellowstone River or going on a guided ride through Yellowstone National Park to witness the region’s wildlife like bison, elk and even grizzly bears. For those seeking relaxation, you can enjoy yoga sessions, live music or the fire pits around camp. End your day in the dining tent where meals are served using locally sourced ingredients.
9. Treehouse Grove｜Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Make your childhood dreams of sleeping in a treehouse a reality by staying at Treehouse Grove, located on the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here you’ll find 16 treehouses, all designed by the “Treehouse Master” himself, Pete Nelson. Choose from different cabin options, from pet-friendly houses to ones that can sleep up to 10 people. All guests are encouraged to utilize the nearby grills, outdoor pizza oven and communal hot tubs and firepits.
With the camp being ideally located near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and the free-to-access Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s something for everyone. Take the fam to Dollywood for some good ol’ Dolly Parton fun or grab a craft beer at one of the many local breweries around Gatlinburg. When you’re done exploring the surroundings, make your way back to home base to relax in the hot tubs or satisfy your sweet tooth with some s’mores around the campfire.
Adventure never looked so good
Mix camping with luxury, and you have glamping. Mix travel insurance with people who care, and you have Faye.
These activities and websites are suggestions and Faye is in no way associated with them. This post is meant to give you ideas and inspiration on glamping experiences around the world.
