A couple of weeks ago we released a blog post about Yoga retreats in Cape Town. This was designed to appeal to the passionate coastal lovers from around the world seeking out a sublime seaside location for their Yoga sessions. This week, we’re targeting the wildlife enthusiasts and bushveld lovers with our Yoga safaris in Africa blog post. A sojourn to Africa’s wildest places is already a soulful experience that lets one connect with nature on a deeper level. Throw yoga into the mix, and you’ve reached new heights of consciousness. Imagine saluting the sun on a balcony overlooking a river teeming with elephants, and smashing a green smoothie while the roar of the lion rocks your core. We’ve selected a few safari destinations that offer Yoga classes and/or retreats in southern Africa. Yoga deserves pristine and uncommercial surrounds that encourage the perfect balance between body and mind.
Phinda Private Game Reserve Yoga Retreat from 7 – 14 November
This profound, 8 day spiritual journey takes place in two sought after destinations in South Africa – Cape Town’s coast and the unique wildlife biome of iSimangaliso / Greater St Lucia Wetland Park. While in the Mother City, your intimate Yoga group will have the opportunity to experience all the historical sites and vineyards of Cape Town.
Not only is Phinda home to the famous big five species, but its contrasting habitats provide an ideal home for a variety of game. Visitors to Phinda should be on the lookout for the rare black rhino and slender cheetah. The region is fondly referred to as the “Seven Worlds of Wonder” because of its biodiversity and interlinking ecosystems. You have typical savannah bushveld, mixed with tropical coastal vegetation, rivers and beaches.
It’s a combination of beach and bush, all in one location. Phinda offers the standard bush walks and twice daily game drives, with the option to indulge in a few beach-driven activities.
These adventures only add to your tranquil Yoga experience.
Here’s what you need to know about the Phinda Yoga Retreat :
- There are only 6 – 8 guests which is the perfect size group for game drives and other activities.
- The yoga facilitator is Dr Tanya Pergola
- During your stay in Cape Town you will have the opportunity to enjoy historical day trips, tours to the famous wine regions of Franschhoek and more.
- Your safari at Phinda includes game drives, dinners under the stars, sundowners and dining on traditional fare in an African boma.
- At Phinda, you can sign up for a number of optional activities that combine the best of both beach and bush.
- Flights between destinations, accommodation, food and standard activities are included.
Marataba Mountain Lodge in the Waterberg Region of Limpopo
Marataba oozes a classic charm and is certainly up there on the list of exclusive mountain lodges to visit in South Africa. The brand Marataba is synonymous with safari sophistication and the mountain lodge has certainly earned its luxury reputation. Located at the foot of the Waterfall in the valley, the lodge is surrounded by a network of streams forming part of the Matlabas River. This remote retreat is ideal for an exclusive Yoga retreat. With its minimalistic Scandinavian design and 5 eco-suites adorning the remote valley, Marataba certainly sets the tone for finding your Zen. Yoga at Marataba is all about connecting with the essence of self, and finding flow within your environment.
This is the simple life that is best spent exploring the tranquil trails through the bush, soaking up views from your balcony and living in the moment. When the African sun beats down, you’re encouraged to meander your way to the infinity rock pool for a soothing swim. Water has a profound effect on the body – the infinity pool is an added delight!
Your retreat at the lodge includes a weekend of yoga and meditation classes, walking trails, game drives, wholesome meals, and accommodation.
Sausage Tree Safari Camp in the Balule Nature Reserve
Sausage is not a Yoga retreat, but rather a simple luxury safari lodge that offers private Yoga sessions on the deck of your tent overlooking the bushveld. Located in the big five Balule Nature Reserve overlooking a bustling waterhole, Sausage Tree prides itself on its stellar surrounds and exclusive lodgings. The emphasis at Sausage Tree is on the experience, and is a luxury owner-managed and run eco-friendly camp. It’s a warm and welcoming camp that offers twice daily game drives, and the opportunity to indulge in spa treatments after your soulful Yoga experience. Dinners at Sausage Tree are a lavish affair and take place under a network of stars, around a fire in the traditional African boma area. When the hazy heat of the Kruger bushveld assaults your senses, there is an inviting pool located on the deck just perfect for cooling off the sweat.
In terms of the Yoga sessions, you will need to pre-arrange you classes at least 24 hours in advance. Sausage Tree offers Hatha sessions with Yogi instructor, Jacquie Gauthier. Yoga classes do come at an extra cost.
