South Africa has so much to offer that no two trips could ever be the same. Even if you go back to the same place twice. Each sunset that makes you want to freeze time will be different. Every new friend who makes you want to wax lyrical for hours underneath the stars will be unique. Every animal and its unexpected glimpse, or camera-worthy antic that just makes you want to sneak closer (but you won’t because you’re South African and you know that wild animals aren’t toys) is a moment you’ve never experienced before.

The abundance of experiences you can have in your own home country is mind boggling.

How could you not be tempted by that? How could you not feel the allure of waking up enfolded by the raw beauty of the bush, the soft sound of birdsong and a canvas tent flapping gently in the fresh breeze (and I’m not talking a tiny two-person tent here, I’m talking a luxurious safari tent where you can snuggle under your duvet, feel like you’re sleeping under the stars, and gaze out your large Serengeti style door).

And then there’s the promise of a magical day as the sun stretches her warm fingers over the African plains. The acres and acres of vibrant life. Teeming with thousands and thousands of creatures both enormous and small. The smell of the earth. The scent of adventure.

The sound of cicadas in the midday heat, the bats at dusk, the wood crackling on an open camp fire. Who wouldn’t want to wake up to such an awe-inspiring escape from their daily routine? You don’t have to travel thousands of miles to get to all this.

What better way to enjoy our country than in a cheap, luxurious way? Glamping with companies like Tented Adventures gives you a simple, but genuine bush experience, loaded with all the comforts (like a proper bed) without the hefty price tag of a safari resort or five-star retreat.

Now come on South Africa, put your own country on your bucket list!