Amid the innovations and connections promoted by Africa's Travel Indaba 2025, the one that stands out at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Center in Durban is the South African Canvas and Tent Group, a specialist in luxury camping structures. With more than five decades of global operations, the company stands out at the fair — held from May 12 to 15 — by presenting solutions that combine extreme comfort, sophisticated design and commitment to the environment.
“We sell experiences. We help our clients offer guests something unforgettable, surrounded by nature, with minimal environmental impact,” says Hans Hillebrand, the company’s representative at the event, which brings together more than a thousand international buyers and 1,300 exhibitors from 27 African countries.
Glamping with purpose
Canvas and Tent Group, creators of the Bushtec Safari brand, designs and manufactures luxury tents in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, using local skilled workers. With over a thousand projects completed in 82 countries, the company caters to everything from small lodges to large hotel chains interested in operating in remote areas.
“We work with architects, developers and hotel groups who want to develop properties in unexplored locations. We offer tents with pre-defined or custom designs, as well as complete structures for common areas, such as bars, spas and restaurants,” explains Hillebrand.
Low impact and mobility
One of the biggest advantages of Canvas and Tent tents is that they can be installed without the need for concrete foundations. “This feature is crucial for protected areas or temporary concessions. The tents can be dismantled and reused in another location without leaving any traces,” he emphasizes.
According to Hillebrand, the lightness and mobility of the structures also allow for a more immersive experience in nature. “You fall asleep to the sounds of the savannah, with the tent fabric gently swaying in the wind. It’s the luxury of being connected to the environment, without barriers,” he describes.
Report and photo: Mary de Aquino.