Romantic Luxury safari tent, Deep Creek-Smoky Mountains NP, Hot Tub & Firepit

Shakonohey Safari Tent – Land of Blue Smoke Safari Tent

Slip into the hot tub beneath a sky full of stars, wrapped in the quiet of the forest as soft string lights glow around you—this is Shakonohey. Peaceful, romantic, and tucked into the trees, it’s a place to slow down, breathe deeper, and feel completely at home in the mountains.

Shakonohey (pronounced Sha-Kon-O-Hey) comes from the Cherokee term meaning “Land of Blue Smoke”—a name inspired by the mist that gently rises through the mountains of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As Dolly Parton sings, “makes no difference where you roam, the land of blue smoke is your home.” And here, it truly feels that way.

Tucked into the woods just outside the Deep Creek area, Shakonohey is a luxury safari tent designed for couples seeking a quiet, immersive retreat—with all the comforts of home and the magic of nature just outside your door.

Arrive and step down into your private escape, where a large wraparound deck welcomes you. Inside, everything opens beneath one expansive canvas—light-filled, airy, and thoughtfully designed. The central living area offers a plush loveseat and chair, a rustic Teak dining table for two, and a wall-mounted TV. With windows throughout, natural light pours in while keeping you connected to the forest beyond. Modern comforts like Wi-Fi, heat, and AC make your stay effortless.

The full kitchen is beautifully appointed with granite countertops, a gas range and oven, microwave, dishwasher, and fridge/freezer—fully stocked for everything from a simple breakfast to a romantic dinner. Enjoy meals together at the live-edge table, or take them outside under the trees.

On one side of the tent, the bedroom invites deep rest. A log-style king bed dressed in soft linens and a cozy quilt sits surrounded by wraparound windows—so you can fall asleep to the quiet rhythm of the woods and wake to filtered mountain light. Curtains allow for full privacy and restful darkness when you want it, and thoughtful touches like bedside lighting, a ceiling fan, and a small desk complete the space.

On the opposite side, the spa-like bathroom feels like its own retreat. Soak in the tub while taking in mountain views, or unwind in the walk-in tiled shower with a bench and rain head—designed for slow, indulgent moments.

Outside, the experience expands. The massive wraparound deck is perched on a hillside, offering elevated, panoramic forest views and a sense of total privacy. Lounge beneath the covered seating area, where cushioned swivel chairs and glowing string lights create the perfect setting for evening conversations. Grill dinner on the propane BBQ, dine al fresco, or slip into the hot tub under the night sky. Just beyond, the firepit invites cozy nights with a glass of wine and the soft crackle of firelight.

Located in Elk Hollow Resort, you’re just minutes from Bryson City—a charming mountain town known as the gateway to the Smokies. Explore the Deep Creek area with its waterfalls, trails, and tubing, or take a scenic ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. From hiking and rafting to local shops and laid-back dining, everything is within easy reach—yet your retreat feels worlds away.

Shakonohey is deeply romantic and intentionally peaceful—a place to reconnect, recharge, and experience the Smoky Mountains in a way that feels both grounded and elevated.

Features at a Glance
• Thoughtfully designed safari tent with subtle nods to Cherokee heritage, sleeps 2
• Designed for two guests, no children allowed
• Plush king-size bed dressed in luxe linens with rich turquoise and warm orange tones
• Spa-style bath with soaking tub + large rainfall shower
• Private hot tub and Fire pit
• Magical string lights throughout outdoor
• Fire pit for starlit evenings
• Wraparound deck with grill
• Heat & AC for year-round stays
• ~11 steps to access the deck and 12 down to the firepit
• No pets or indoor smoking & vaping
• 24/7 exterior video surveillance