Editor’s note: African-Startups is a sister publication of EU-Startups, bringing trusted coverage of startups, venture capital, and innovation across Africa.
Cape Town-based Conservio, the online booking platform for nature and safari accommodations in South Africa, Namibia, and other locations across southern Africa, has been acquired by Dutch luxury camping platform Glampings.com, for an undisclosed amount.
The deal adds over 1,000 bookable nature lodges to Glampings.com’s existing collection of more than 4,500 accommodations across 18 European countries.
Led by Justin Rijnberg, Conservio offers travellers a curated collection of accommodations ranging from safari lodges in private reserves to remote eco-retreats and campsites, all bookable directly online.
The platform collaborates with local accommodation partners and focuses on travel that prioritises nature conservation. Following the acquisition, Conservio’s offerings will continue under the Glampings.com umbrella, and existing bookings will remain unchanged.
Justin Rijnberg, co-founder and CEO of Conservio, said, “In Glampings.com, we’ve found a partner that aligns well with the vision behind Conservio. Both platforms focus on inspiring destinations, unique accommodations, and travel that celebrates nature. By joining forces, we’re creating a strong foundation to further enhance our offerings, appeal to a broader audience, and continue to grow internationally under the Glampings.com umbrella.”
Founded by Sven Schuurmans and Tom Groenen, who together have more than 30 years of experience in travel, online marketing, and e-commerce, Glampings.com has completed multiple investment rounds over the past two years.
The company is backed by Quantum Leap Capital, led by KNAB co-founder Mike de Boer and Albelli founder Andre Grimbergen, as well as Héléne Kolster and Bright Business, founded by serial entrepreneurs Bart van Went and Mike Verhoeven.
Sven Schuurmans, co-founder of Glampings.com, said, “The acquisition of Conservio fits perfectly into our plan for strategic and international growth. In addition to expanding our offerings, we’re also gaining valuable experience through Conservio’s co-founder and CEO, Justin Rijnberg. That’s exactly what we need to realise our ambition: to become the world’s largest glamping platform, with more than 35,000 accommodations.”


