Changing the Game of Glamping at Bushveld Bivoauc

“We don't like to brag, but we're changing the game” is used on your website. What makes Bushveld Bivouac truly exceptional and a “game-changer”? 

Magnificent, totally private suites each hand-picked to ensure views from every angle (including the bathrooms), private plunge pools, kitchens and bathrooms, a “bespoke, cherry-picking” approach where although we are primarily self-catering, guests can choose to order any one of a range of delicious meals delivered to their unit. Additionally, we have an extensive walking and cycle trail network, with or without guides as well as a number of select activities (game drives, romantic packages, waterhole dinners, bush picnics, massages and beauty treatments) on request, as we as a large number of easily accessible external activities such as Kruger trips, balloon rides, HERD elephant orphanage experience, visits to  fascinating undertakings such as the Hoedspruit Endangered  Species Centre, the Panorama Route etc.

Bushveld Bivouac is fully off the grid, with a move towards eco conscious. Although this is not a new concept, Bushveld Bivouac has redefined “glamping” and “Bivouac” (meaning a temporary camp – a light footprint which is what we have been based on). Each glamping unit is in itself an exclusive-use private glamping site. The deck space of each of the Luxury Tented Suites ranges from 90 – 120 meters squared; privately positioned, 100m apart. Also, it’s unique given that the layout and design is a deconstructed glamp site, meaning that the bedroom, kitchen and bathroom are all separate, emphasising privacy. In these luxury units, everything about the build is hand-crafted and tailor-made specifically to each suite e.g., from the bed frames to the kitchen counters, and the cupboards etc. 

Have you noticed an increasing trend whereby travellers are looking for authenticity and a true connection with African nature and how did this lead to the establishment of Bushveld Bivouac? 

Yes. People are wanting to leave the laptops and phones behind. That being said, there is still WiFi and mobile connectivity for guests who need it at Bushveld Bivouac however, we encourage a submersive bush experience and the rejuvenation and tranquility that provides. Guests come to dare, dream, discover and just relax. Also, there is a trend towards sustainability and conservation, which is part of the core values at Bushveld Bivouac. The whole plan behind starting Bushveld Bivaouc was to bring guests back to nature and to connect with nature and one another – we offer a peaceful retreat for travellers to relax, recharge, unwind and inspire them, away from the hubbub of everyday life.

As owners, and with a background working in the luxury industry, we have travelled extensively all over the world and particularly in southern Africa. We kind of took the elements that we liked best (and hadn’t always found): privacy in a beautiful setting, an “a la carte” offer so we didn’t necessarily feel forced to go on game drives or eat endless meals, simple, yet high-end, authentic accommodation. Having just done a major trip ourselves through Botswana and Zim, we realised once again what a rare pearl our little piece of unadulterated Africa is becoming.
 

Can you touch on how important it was for you to offer a broad variety of options to cater to various budgets? 

We wanted to make a safari escape accessible for the South African market as well as international, while still producing a high-end product. We offer both full board as well as self-catering rates, so guests have options. It’s important to offer variety as it then caters to families, groups of friends or even those seeking romance. The self-catering rates with the options of our various add-ons (meal baskets) for those seeking to spoil themselves allow for even more flexibility and no pressure in committing well in advance. We also offer a personalised grocery shopping service for guests so they can arrive to a full fridge. Anyone not wishing to self-cater at all can opt for a full board rate so that all needs are satisfied. In the same way our activity add-ons (in-room massages, game drives, bush walks etc.) also offer this flexibility.

Can you comment on the gap that glamping fills within the broader tourism market in South Africa? 

In a nutshell, it is something different, unique and affordable. There is a plethora of safari lodges in the market, so to offer glamping is both bespoke and an immersive experience in the bush – bringing you one step closer to nature (no brick walls between you and the melody of the bush). With the idea of “camping” as a core concept– reconnecting with loved ones, camp-fires, tranquility of the bush, waking up to nature etc. our glamping set-up now offers the elevation of this basic concept with good quality linen, comfortable beds, hot showers, ease of food and cooking facilities … our glamping option now makes ‘camping’ a luxury option. All the comforts of a very exclusive, boutique hotel, but in the confines of a luxury tent in the bush. Now everyone can enjoy camping in style.