What Glamping Operators Can Learn from African Safaris
The latest episode of The Unique Hospitality Podcast, titled What Glamping Operators Can Learn from African Safari, provides deep insights into the roots of the luxury outdoor experience and what North American glamping operators can take from the African safari industry. Hosted by Nick Purslow and Connor Schwab, the episode features Andrew Murphy and Michel Girardin, two seasoned professionals with extensive experience in both African safaris and the evolving glamping industry in North America.
The Birthplace of Glamping: Lessons from African Safaris
African safari lodges have long been the gold standard for luxury outdoor hospitality. Long before “glamping” became a mainstream term, safaris in Africa were offering high-end, nature-immersive accommodations and experiences that blended conservation, community, and hospitality.
As Connor pointed out, “The whole North American industry owes a lot to African safari lodges, even if it’s just because Sarah Dusek from Under Canvas was inspired by her experience over there. The industry goes back a long way, long before the term glamping was ever used.”
Creating a Seamless Guest Experience
One of the key takeaways from the African safari model is how they choreograph every aspect of the guest experience. At renowned safari lodges like Sabi Sabi in South Africa, the entire operation—from guided game drives to surprise dinners under the stars—is designed to create a sense of magic and immersion.
Andy Murphy described his first experience at a South African safari lodge: “The guides communicate with each other in local languages to ensure every guest sees the Big Five. They limit the number of vehicles at a sighting to maintain an intimate experience, and every detail, from sundowners at the perfect time to storytelling around the fire, is intentional.”
For glamping operators in the U.S., this approach can be adapted by offering personalized guest interactions, guided nature experiences, and curated surprise-and-delight moments that make a stay unforgettable.
The Power of Storytelling in Hospitality
Michel Girardin emphasized that one of the key differentiators for safari lodges is the art of storytelling. “The most important person in a safari camp is the guide. They don’t just point out animals—they weave a narrative, share cultural history, and create an emotional connection between the guest and the landscape.”
This is something North American glamping operators can integrate into their guest experience. Whether it’s through guided tours, fireside chats, or even written stories in welcome guides, storytelling can elevate a stay from just another night in nature to a truly transformative experience.
Luxury Beyond Material Goods
One fascinating perspective from the episode was the evolving definition of luxury. Michel pointed out that, “Less can be more. Luxury isn’t always about the highest thread count sheets or having the most amenities—sometimes it’s about an experience that allows guests to reconnect with themselves and nature.”
For some properties, this could mean going fully off-grid, eliminating Wi-Fi, and fostering deep digital detox retreats. For others, it could mean offering ultra-personalized services that cater to each guest’s unique preferences.
Hiring for Heart, Not Just Skills
A major challenge in outdoor hospitality is hiring and training staff who create that world-class guest experience. In the African safari industry, guides and staff aren’t just employees—they’re hosts, storytellers, and cultural ambassadors.
Andy shared his approach to hiring at Zaina Lodge in Ghana: “We didn’t just look for hospitality experience—we hired for attitude, energy, and the ability to make guests feel at home. Some of the best staff members were people who grew up near the park and had deep local knowledge and pride in their community.”
For U.S. glamping operators, this means focusing less on formal hospitality experience and more on hiring individuals who are naturally warm, engaging, and passionate about the outdoors.
Bringing the Safari Spirit to North America
African safaris offer a masterclass in guest experience, conservation, and sustainable tourism. While the wildlife and landscapes may be different, the fundamental principles of creating an unforgettable, seamless, and soulful guest experience are universal.
By weaving in storytelling, choreographing surprise-and-delight moments, redefining luxury, and hiring for heart, glamping operators can elevate their offerings and create something truly exceptional.
As Andy put it, “By the time people leave, they should feel like they’re leaving old friends behind. That’s the magic we’re trying to create.”
For anyone in the glamping industry, this episode is packed with insights that could transform the way you think about hospitality. Tune in and take notes—you won’t want to miss it!