Choosing the right glamping accommodations is the foundation of a successful glamping resort. The type, design, and quality of your accommodation structures will define your guest experience, your brand identity, and your financial returns. This comprehensive guide walks you through the various types of glamping accommodations available, their pros and cons, and how to select the perfect mix for your new glamping business.
What Are Glamping Accommodations?
Glamping accommodations are premium, nature-based lodging structures that combine the immersive outdoor experience of camping with the comfort and amenities of a hotel room. Unlike traditional camping tents, glamping accommodations are designed as permanent or semi-permanent installations, engineered for year-round use, and fully equipped with furniture, bedding, climate control, and often en-suite bathrooms.
The glamping industry has evolved dramatically over the past decade. What started as a few luxury safari tents has grown into a diverse ecosystem of accommodation types—each with its own unique appeal, target market, and price point. Understanding these options is essential for any new resort developer.
Popular Types of Glamping Accommodations
Safari Tents
Safari tents are the classic luxury glamping accommodation, inspired by the iconic tented camps of East Africa. They feature a distinctive ridge roof design, high ceilings, and spacious interiors that can be configured with separate bedroom, living, and bathroom areas. Safari tents are known for their elegance and versatility, making them a popular choice for boutique resorts and eco-lodges.
Best for: Luxury resorts, wildlife lodges, forest retreats, and high-end glamping parks
Price range: Mid to high ($8,000-$25,000 per fully furnished unit)
Key advantages: Spacious, elegant, customizable, blends naturally into most landscapes
Geodesic Dome Tents
Geodesic dome tents have become one of the fastest-growing glamping accommodation types. Their unique spherical shape offers exceptional structural strength, panoramic views, and excellent energy efficiency. The curved surface allows for large skylights and panoramic windows, making stargazing domes a major guest attraction.
Best for: Stargazing experiences, mountain resorts, unique architectural statements
Price range: Mid-range ($5,000-$15,000 per unit)
Key advantages: Strong structural performance, panoramic views, energy efficient, visually striking
Eco Lodge Tents
Eco lodge tents are designed specifically for sustainable, off-grid glamping experiences. They prioritize eco-friendly materials, minimal environmental impact, and compatibility with renewable energy systems. These tents blend naturally into sensitive ecosystems and appeal to environmentally conscious travelers.
Best for: Eco-resorts, nature reserves, off-grid locations, sustainability-focused brands
Price range: Mid-range ($6,000-$18,000 per unit)
Key advantages: Low environmental impact, blends naturally into nature, sustainability narrative
Bell Tents
Bell tents offer a more affordable, traditional glamping option. With their classic bell shape and central pole, they create a cozy, intimate atmosphere. While less spacious than safari tents or domes, bell tents are cost-effective and easy to set up, making them ideal for entry-level glamping businesses.
Best for: Entry-level glamping, festivals, group accommodations, budget-friendly properties
Price range: Budget to mid-range ($2,000-$7,000 per unit)
Key advantages: Affordable, quick setup, portable, classic camping aesthetic
Tree Houses and Elevated Tents
For the ultimate in unique glamping experiences, elevated accommodations like tree houses or stilt-mounted tents offer guests a bird's-eye view of their surroundings. These structures are more complex to build but command premium rates and generate significant media attention.
Best for: Premium resort experiences, Instagram-worthy destinations, boutique properties
Price range: High ($20,000-$50,000+ per unit)
Key advantages: Ultra-unique experience, panoramic views, premium pricing potential
Key Features to Look for in Glamping Accommodations
Quality Construction Materials
The materials used in your glamping accommodations will determine their durability, comfort, and lifespan. Look for:
•Heavy-duty canvas: 650gsm minimum, 850gsm+ for premium installations. Should be waterproof, UV-resistant, and fire-retardant.
•Robust framing: Galvanized steel or aluminum alloy frames with adequate wall thickness. The frame should be engineered for your local wind and snow loads.
•Quality hardware: Zippers, hinges, and connectors should be durable and rust-resistant. These small details make a big difference in long-term satisfaction.
Comfort and Climate Control
Guests expect year-round comfort. Quality glamping accommodations include:
• Insulated walls and roofs for temperature regulation
• Ventilation systems to prevent condensation
• Compatibility with heating and air conditioning
• Proper flooring that elevates the structure off the ground
Functional Interior Layout
The interior layout should maximize both comfort and usable space. Look for designs that include:
• Adequate sleeping area with quality bed and storage
• Living or seating area for relaxation
• Bathroom facilities (en-suite is preferred for luxury glamping)
• Lighting and electrical outlets
• Storage solutions for luggage and belongings
Privacy and Noise Considerations
Guests value their privacy. When selecting glamping accommodations, consider:
• Soundproofing between units (or enough distance between them)
• Privacy screens or natural landscaping
• Window placements that ensure privacy from neighboring units
• Quality door seals that prevent noise leakage
How to Choose the Right Mix of Accommodations
Most successful glamping resorts offer a mix of accommodation types to appeal to different guest segments. Here's how to plan your mix:
Understand Your Target Market
Who are your ideal guests? Their expectations and budget will dictate which accommodation types make sense:
•Romantic couples: Premium safari tents or stargazing domes with luxury amenities
•Families: Larger units with multiple sleeping areas, or interconnecting tents
•Wellness travelers: Eco-friendly accommodations in peaceful, natural settings
•Group travelers: A mix of smaller units that can be rented together
Consider Your Location
Your physical location should influence your choice of accommodations:
•Forests: Safari tents and eco lodge tents blend naturally into wooded settings
•Open meadows or beaches: Domes offer great views and handle windy conditions well
•Mountain areas: Sturdy, weather-resistant structures with great views
•Hot climates: Ventilation-focused designs with shaded outdoor spaces
Plan for Your Budget and ROI
Your budget will determine how many and what type of accommodations you can build. Remember that more expensive units typically command higher nightly rates, but they also take longer to recoup your investment. A good strategy is to start with a mix of mid-range and premium units, then expand based on demand.
Essential Amenities for Modern Glamping Accommodations
To compete in today's glamping market, your accommodations need more than just a bed. Modern guests expect:
• En-suite bathroom with hot water shower and flushing toilet
• Reliable Wi-Fi
• Quality bedding and furniture
• Coffee and tea making facilities
• Lighting options (overhead, bedside, ambient)
• Heating and/or air conditioning
• Safe and secure entry
• Outdoor seating area or deck
While these amenities add to your upfront cost, they're essential for getting positive reviews and charging premium rates. Guests who feel comfortable and well-cared-for will recommend your property and return for future visits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to build a glamping resort?
The cost varies widely depending on size, location, and level of luxury. A small glamping site with 5-10 basic units might cost $50,000-$150,000 including tents, basic furnishings, and site prep. A mid-range resort with 15-20 units, en-suite bathrooms, and common facilities typically requires $300,000-$1,000,000+. Luxury resorts with premium accommodations, high-end finishes, and extensive amenities can cost several million dollars. Remember to budget not just for the accommodations themselves but also for infrastructure, landscaping, marketing, and operating capital.
What is the most profitable type of glamping accommodation?
Profitability depends on your location, target market, and operating costs. Generally, safari tents and geodesic domes offer the best balance of cost and nightly rate potential. They're desirable enough to command premium prices, but not so expensive that they take years to pay off. Stargazing domes, in particular, have become highly popular and can command significantly higher rates than standard units. The key is to offer a unique experience that justifies premium pricing.
How long do glamping accommodations last?
With proper maintenance, quality glamping accommodations last 10-15 years or more. The structural frame typically outlasts the fabric cover, which usually needs replacement after 7-10 years. Regular cleaning, re-waterproofing, and inspection after extreme weather will extend the lifespan. Investing in high-quality materials from the beginning pays off in long-term durability and lower replacement costs over the life of your resort.
Do I need planning permission for glamping accommodations?
Planning regulations vary by country and local jurisdiction. In many areas, glamping tents are considered temporary structures and have simpler approval processes than permanent buildings. However, commercial glamping operations typically require various permits and licenses, including business registration, health and safety certification, and sometimes environmental permits. Always check with your local planning department before starting construction. It's better to understand the requirements upfront than to face costly delays or fines later.
Conclusion
Your glamping accommodations are the heart of your business. Choosing the right mix of accommodation types, features, and amenities will define your brand, attract your ideal guests, and determine your financial success. Take the time to research your options, understand your market, and invest in quality structures that will stand the test of time.
Whether you choose safari tents, geodesic domes, eco lodge tents, or a combination of types, prioritize quality, comfort, and unique experience. The glamping market continues to grow rapidly, and travelers are increasingly willing to pay premium rates for distinctive, well-designed accommodations. With the right choices, you can create a glamping resort that delights guests and delivers strong returns on your investment.