Tepui is a well-known and beloved roof top tent manufacturer based in Santa Cruz, California. This company got its start in 2010 and has been rocketing in popularity ever since.
To people familiar with the roof top tent (RTT) industry it doesn’t come as a surprise. Tepui offers extremely high-quality tents with the best in class-leading features all for a fair price!
In 2018, Thule acquired Tepui making the duo a perfect fit. Thule is a world-leading roof rack and accessory manufacturer so this acquisition made for great synergy.
Tepui’s line up of RTTs is quite extensive and you can easily overpay for some features that you will never need or find useful. This article will compare and highlight the differentiating features between each respective model made by Thule Tepui.
This is my completely unbiased and honest opinion of there products. After hundreds of hours using and researching RTTs, I know I have a really good understanding of what matters and what doesn’t.
Comparing Thule Tepui’s Roof Top Tents
I have arranged this list in order from models starting at the entry-level point working there way up to the more expensive and robust options in Thule Tepui’s line up!
Tepui Ayer 2
The Ayer model from Tepui is a perfect entry-level RTT for couples and solo campers. You get some great features, a well-made tent, and it all comes in at a reasonable price.
For a fraction of the price of Tepui’s high-end models, you get most of the same features and all of the quality.
For example, the telescoping ladder and 260-gram poly-cotton blend fabric are features that should not be overlooked.
Telescoping ladders are far safer and easier to set up than a sliding ladder. The 260-gram fabric is the same as all of their other models unless you upgrade to a ruggedized edition that can handle harsher environments.
The fabric is also both UV and mold-resistant making it ideal to withstand any weather environment throughout all 4-seasons.
The rest of the tent has comparable features to their more expensive tents such as the mattress, storage inside the tent, the tent cover, and the frame as well.
The Ayer is extremely lightweight and is very compact since it is a foldable model. This tent can be used on just about any vehicle type which makes it a very popular option.
Who should buy this tent?
Since this tent can accommodate up to two people, it is ideal for solo campers, couples, and even couples with a small dog too.
For anyone looking to buy their first RTT this is one heck of an option across all RTT brands. The reason I say this is because you get all of these great features including four-season capabilities, all at a very low cost.
Some of the cheapest RTTs are barely under $1,000. So paying just a few hundred more and then getting all of these extra features plus the quality backed by Tepui is a no-brainer in my eyes.
If I were to recommend a tent to a friend who was buying for the first time, I would suggest this one since it packs such a great value!
Tepui-Low Pro 2
The Low-Pro model is very unique as it is one of the thinnest softshell RTTs on the market. At its slimmest point, it is just 7″ in height, while at its thickest it is 10″.
This thin and low-profile design is what makes this tent so unique, but that’s not all it’s good for! It is also extremely lightweight at just 105 pounds in their two-person model.
Even with the minimal weight of this RTT, you can use it in all 4-seasons which is pretty remarkable! The Low-Pro has a thermoplastic engineered design which is a really fancy term for indestructible.
Some other great features include a telescoping ladder, 2″ hard density foam mattress, breathable canopy fabric, and is UV/mildew resistant. The specs are the same on both the 2/3 person models, the only thing that is different is the dimensions of each tent.
I have seen this tent multiple times on the road and while camping. I can clearly notice how slim it is compared to my RTT which is almost double its height when packed up. This tent is pleasing aesthetically but is also very practical!
Who should buy this tent?
This design is perfect for individuals with a smaller vehicle, prefer a minimal design, and travel alone or as a couple.
Since it is so lightweight and slim, mounting it to your vehicle will have a very minimal effect on how your vehicle handles while driving.
Check out these must-have roof top tent essentials which I recommend for all campers!
For solo campers or couples, this tent packs plenty of sleeping space. Even better is the fact that the Low-Pro is rated for 4-season use. It’s nice to have on colder nights or if you’re feeling a little crazy and want to go winter camping!
This is a great base model tent. It may not have all of the bells and whistles but it isn’t missing anything that will hold you back from being able to camp anytime, anywhere!
Thule Tepui Explorer Kukenam 3
The Kukenam is a tier above both the Low-Pro and Ayer models in a few respects. The biggest difference between the Ayer and Kukenam is the sleeping capacity, which can comfortably fit three people. The biggest difference between the Low-Pro and Kukenam is the Low-pro’s lightweight and thin design.
For a similarly sized tent, the Low-Pro 3 is more expensive than the base Kukenam since it has that special design implementation.
The overall features in the Kukenam are practically the same as the other models when looking at the mattress, ladder, fabric, and vents. When it comes to the base model Kukenam 3, you’re simply paying for the extra sleeping space.
However, the Kukenam also has the option to upgrade to Tepui’s Ruggedized series. The Ruggedized version of the Kukenam has a handful of additional features that make it more durable and turns it into a true winter capable tent.
Check current pricing for the Tepui Ruggedized Kukenam here!
As you can see in the table above, the price jump is significant being $600 more than the base model. This $600 bundle goes a long way and packs a lot of value.
In this “bundle” with the Ruggedized Kukenam you get a 360-gram polyester-cotton canvas which roughly 29% thicker than the base version. It also adds a heavy-duty aluminum tube frame with diamond plate cap sheets.
The frame itself is upgraded as well coming with 3/4 inch (19mm) aluminum tube poles in comparison to the base models 5/8 inch (16mm) wrapped aluminum tube poles.
To top it off, this upgrade also comes with an anti-condensation mat to help prevent moisture from building up under the mattress. I would say this is one of the more significant upgrades because you will notice how easily moisture forms under the mattress, especially if you plan on winter camping!
If you’re leaning towards another model or want one that doesn’t include an anti-condensation mat, check the current pricing and benefits here!
Who should buy this tent?
The base model Kukenam is perfect for a family of three that neither cares or needs the lightweight and thin construction of the Low-Pro 3. The Kukenam is a very solid 3-person tent.
While it may not be drastically different from the smaller models, it still includes all of those great features while adding more room for your family!
The base model Kukenam can be used in all 4-seasons but the Ruggedized Series Kukenam 3 is even better equipped for such use. The added strength, durability, and anti-condensation mat make this option extremely attractive.
For both frequent and off-road adventure users, this tent will ensure a long life-span with all of its extra add-ons. For winter camping especially, have the thicker fabric and poles will come in handy when it needs to handle the weight of snow or rain.
If durability and longevity are important to you, I think upgrading to the Ruggedized edition makes a lot of sense!
Thule Tepui Explorer Autana
The next tent to consider is the Autana! This RTT model has more options to choose from as it is configured in a 3-person, a 4-person, and a 3-person Ruggedized option.
There are two major differences to point in when comparing the Autana and Kukenam models. The Autana comes with an annex and has an overhanging canopy covering the ladder and entrance of the tent.
The included annex is really nice since they retail for $350. With the added overhang, when you attach the annex it will enclose the ladder but still allows you to access the annex while never having to go outside.
The overhang is great for protecting the entrance of the tent from allowing any water or dirt to get in the tent. It’s also handy having the ladder sheltered so it stays clean and dry!
That Autana is also the only RTT is Tepui’s line up that can accommodate four people. They used to offer a Kukenam 4 but that has been discontinued.
The Ruggedized Autana 3 has all of the upgrades I brought up when talking about the Kukenam 3 model. Again, the difference here is that overhang on the tent and included annex.
Who should buy this tent?
If you have a family of four and want a Tepui, this is your only option with the Autana 4. Having the annex bundled with the tent is really convenient because that one accessory is the best thing you can buy to take your RTT camping experience to the next level.
An annex can be used for extra sleeping space, a changing room, storage, or a place to eat meals. I am personally a fan of the overhang covering the entrance since it prevents any water or debris from getting in the tent when you open the door.
More importantly, having the annex surround the ladder is a game-changer and that can only be achieved with that overhang component.
For families or people that prefer a larger tent, the Autana packs plenty of space and has some extra perks that may be well worth paying a bit extra over the Kukenam model!
Tepui Hybox
| Price | Weight | Dimensions (closed) | Sleeps |
| $2,999.95 | 177 lbs | 84″ Lx 55″ W x 12.75″ H | 2 |
Finally, a hardshell roof top tent! The Hybox is currently the only hardshell made by Thule Tepui.
The hardshell design of the Thule Tepui Hybox offers a quite, aerodynamic, and fuel-efficient design. The upper shell is made of 5mm thick ABS plastic with both UV and color fade inhibitors. In the bottom shell, it combines ABS plastic with their specially made felt-lined honeycomb Tepui Tec panels for reinforced support.
Aluminum honeycomb flooring is a best practice for hard shells across the industry and it is great to see Tepui use their own version. The tent is completely waterproof and has the same 260-gram fabric as many of the other models.
However, hard shells have the immediate advantage of being waterproof since the shell can repel water far more effectively than any fabric can. This tent is ready to go for cold weather and winter camping since it is also fitted with a lined upper interior that adds a layer of insulation and deadens sound.
Another huge differentiator seen in this tent is its ability to double as a cargo box. When you don’t plan on going camping, you can unzip the fabric of the tent from the shell and use it to store items such as luggage, skis, or any other gear!
The rest of the features in the tent such as the ladder, fabric, mattress, and more are similar to the Ayer and Kukenam!
Who should buy this tent?
There is a lot of value to be had buying a hardshell RTT! The added durability, convenient setup, streamlined design, and waterproof ability justify the added cost alone.
If you want an annex, this is not the tent for you as most hardshell RTTs don’t offer one. However, you could still buy an awning which I do recommend.
This tent is ideal for a solo camper or couple looking for the most durable and simple set up process. You will never have to worry about the tent being able to handle certain weather conditions and it will last you a very long time since it uses that ABS plastic to protect the fabric.
Roof top cargo boxes are also extremely popular and cost around $500. For someone who has been considering buying one or would at least enjoy having that extra feature, this is one of the only RTTs that offers this unique option.
The one downside to any hardshell RTT is the limited sleeping area since it doesn’t double in size when opened like a softshell. The headroom will also be considerably less since it pops-up using gas struts.
Tepui Baja Series
| Model | Price | Weight | Dimensions (closed) | Sleeps |
| Mesh Ayer 2 | $949.95 | 95 lbs | 48″ W X 42″ L X 11″ H | 2 |
| Kukenam 4 Mesh | $1,599.95 | 124 lbs | 72″ W x 48″ L x 12″ H | 4 |
| Ultralite Kukenam 4 | $1,649.95 | 124 lbs | 72″ W x 48″ L x 12″ H | 4 |
I purposely left the Tepui Baja Series for last because it is so unique in its offering that it doesn’t really fit with the rest of the models.
The Baja Series is a Tepui exclusive offering. These tents are almost the same as the original models however they employ a much lighter and thin fabric and rainfly.
In many parts of the world, people will never need to worry about having a tent that can handle colder conditions. This tent is target directly at that segment of campers.
Not only are these tents extremely light, but they all allow for great airflow into the tent. This is especially true for the Kukenam 4 Mesh, which literally has a mesh fabric.
Who should buy this tent?
The two major perks with the Baja Series is their lightweight and their optimized fabric for hot and temperate weather.
For those who live in very hot climates this by far the best options especially if you have no plans for ever camping in colder weather.
This series will save you a lot of money and you still get all of the build components and features as the other, more expensive models.
Best Thule Tepui tent accessories
Why buy a Thule Tepui roof top tent?
As I said before, buying from a trusted and known brand is always the right call when it comes to tents in general.
You should buy a Thule Tepui roof top tent because they offer a 2-year warranty on all tents and accessories.
While quality is a huge factor, having the option to upgrade post-purchase is also important. With Tepui being such a huge brand, they have every accessory you could want for camping and RTT use.
Whether you’re camping in extremely hot climates or in a snowstorm, Tepui has you covered for every situation.
Suggested content
If you still feel that you have some unanswered questions about which Tepui or roof top tent to buy in general, I have hand-selected some helpful articles and content.
I think you must first understand the Major Differences Between a Hardshell and Softshell RTT.
You may be looking into some other RTT brands besides Tepui, here are the Best RTT Brands Worth The Money. It should be no surprise to you but Tepui is on that list. I know that article will give you extra guidance if you’re interested in exploring your options further.
Check out both our Youtube channel and recommended gear page to learn more about the best gear, practices, and ways to roof top tent camp!
Final recommendation
Depending on how many people you go camping with as well as what type of camping you will be doing can drastically make one model a better fit than another.
Either way, buying a Thule Tepui tent guarantees a worry-free purchase. If you ever need to sell the RTT, Tepui’s hold their value very well and people recognized the brand as well.
In complete honesty, I would highly push a friend or family to buy any Thule Tepui RTT because I believe so strongly in their product offering. You will not be limited or regret a purchase from them, just ask the thousands of RTTs owners that will agree with me!
I hope you found this article helpful and answered all of the questions or concerns you may have had coming into this buying process. Best of luck and enjoy your awesome RTT!