South Africa to Host Its First-Ever Glamping Expo in 2025

AAfrica’s inaugural Glamping Expo is set to revolutionise the outdoor tourism and hospitality industry. Taking place from 20-21 June 2025 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre (Nasrec), the pioneering event will bring together innovators, thought leaders and enthusiasts along the glamping value chain.

According to Grand View Research, The South African glamping market generated an estimated USD 65.8 million in revenue in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 89.5 million by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2025 to 2030. Notably, the 18–32 age group was the largest revenue-generating segment in 2024, reflecting a growing demand among younger travellers for innovative, experience-rich travel options.

Under the theme “Reimagining Innovation & Regenerative Tourism,” the expo will shine a spotlight on the global movement toward experiential, eco-conscious travel. As the first event of its kind on the continent, the Glamping Expo aims to showcase how glamping, a premium fusion of glamour and camping is transforming the tourism industry. By merging sustainability with unforgettable travel experiences, glamping aligns with the expectations of modern travellers.

 “The Glamping Expo will convene a wide range of players across the glamping value chain, from suppliers and operators to financiers and supporting sectors. We’re thrilled to host Africa’s very first Glamping Expo. This is more than just an event it’s a celebration of how tourism can evolve sustainably. The expo will explore innovative opportunities to redefine how people connect with nature and communities in meaningful ways,” said Gugu Sithole, Glamping Expo Lead.

Key Partnerships

Partners of The Glamping Expo, South African Tourism and Gauteng Tourism Authority play a key role in elevating both the glamping sector as well as South Africa as a key tourism destination in the country.

“South Africa is leading in terms of glamping innovations in the Global South and we are glad that the country is taking a lead by initiating a key calendar event such as the Glamping Expo,” said Sithole

"We are proud to support South Africa’s first ever Glamping Expo, an exciting milestone that adds depth and diversity to how travellers experience our Mzansi. said Darryl Erasmus, Acting Chief Convention Bureau Officer, South African Tourism

“This partnership reflects our commitment to diversifying South Africa’s tourism offering in line with evolving traveller preferences. It’s also a powerful driver for sustainable travel, rural tourism development, and it contributes to job creation in lesser-visited areas. As a country that prides itself with diversity, we know that glamping adds to South Africa’s attractiveness as we continue our drive to be a leading destination for outdoor and responsible tourism. Through this initiative we are also unlocking new markets and inviting more travellers to come find their joy in our country."

South African Tourism, through its South African National Convention Bureau (SANCB) business unit is supporting the Glamping Expo as part of its bid support strategy not only focuses on meetings, incentives, and conferences but also places strong emphasis on exhibitions, the “E” in MICE.

“Exhibitions are a crucial platform for industry development, knowledge exchange, and sector growth,” Erasmus continued.  “By supporting the Glamping Expo, SA Tourism is reinforcing its commitment to advancing innovative platforms that showcase South Africa’s diverse tourism offering while also contributing to the broader objectives of the MICE sector.”

The expo will also feature distinguished voices from the tourism sector, including Faith Meyer, Frank De Lima, Jillian Blackbeard, and Siphelele Luthuli. An advisory board made up of respected industry leaders; Dr. Eddy Khosa, Paul Gardiner, Professor Nellie Swart, Mandisa Silo, Hulisani Thabela, and Phindile Chirwa, will help guide the event's programme and impact.

“The theme reflects the global focus on eco-tourism. However, we aim to take this a step further by exploring innovation and how the sector can contribute meaningfully to regenerative tourism,” added Sithole.

What to Expect at the Glamping Expo 2025

Over two days, attendees will experience:

• Exhibitions from leading glamping providers, sustainable travel brands, and tourism organisations.
• Inspiring keynote addresses and panel discussions on regenerative tourism.
• Hands-on workshops designed to help attendees create unforgettable and sustainable travel experiences.

Exhibitor Registration Now Open

Glamping businesses across the value chain are encouraged to register to exhibit via the official website: www.glampingexpo.africa

ENDS

Media Enquiries:

Gugu Sithole

Email: gugu@glamping-adventures.co.za or +27 73 144 9159

Website: www.glampingexpo.africa

Thandiwe Mathibela: GM: Global PR, Communications & Stakeholder Relations

Email: thandiwe@southafrica.net OR mediaq@southafrica.net

Website www.southafrica.net