Africa is preparing to host its first-ever Glamping Expo, an industry-focused event scheduled for June 20–21 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre.
The event, organized by Gugu Sithole, founder of Glamping Adventures, aims to bring together key players in the tourism and outdoor hospitality sectors to explore the evolving role of glamping in Africa’s travel landscape.
The Expo will serve as a platform for industry stakeholders—including operators, developers, and investors—to engage in dialogue around the potential of glamping to offer sustainable, immersive nature-based experiences.
As the market for eco-conscious tourism continues to grow globally, organizers see the event as an opportunity to position Africa as a competitive player in this niche segment.
“Glamping is not just about where we go, but how we experience the destination,” said Sithole in a report by Travel and Tour World.
Her vision for the Expo is to foster a community of professionals dedicated to reshaping the way nature tourism is delivered, with an emphasis on luxury, sustainability, and cultural inclusion.
The glamping trend, which combines upscale amenities with outdoor settings, has seen rising demand across the globe, and African tourism stakeholders are beginning to take notice.
From safari tents with modern comforts to domes and treehouses equipped with Wi-Fi and plush interiors, these accommodations are attracting a growing segment of travelers seeking unique, low-impact experiences.
“Glamping allows us to showcase our natural heritage while supporting conservation and local communities,” said Sithole.
Her comments highlight one of the Expo’s key themes—creating travel models that benefit both the environment and the people living in proximity to tourist destinations.
For outdoor hospitality businesses, particularly those looking to diversify offerings or enter new markets, the Expo presents an opportunity to learn about emerging trends, partnership models, and infrastructure solutions tailored to African contexts.
Attendees can expect a mix of product showcases, educational sessions, and networking opportunities focused on sustainable tourism development.
As interest in eco-luxury accommodations continues to rise, the Glamping Expo may serve as a springboard for innovation within the continent’s broader tourism economy, offering a glimpse into the future of experiential travel in Africa and beyond.