Yoga and Safari Retreat
Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
4th - 10th April 2027
Join me for a once in a lifetime yoga and safari experience in the world renowned Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa. This is a rare opportunity to experience the powerful benefits of a yoga retreat alongside a true bucket list safari adventure, all thoughtfully curated so you can simply arrive, settle in and connect with new friends.
This is not a retreat for those looking to spend the day by the pool or drift through doing very little. It's for the curious, the adventurous, the animal lovers, culture seekers and of course those devoted to their yoga practice.
I’m returning for a second time and in all honesty, my first safari here was one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life. I say that having been fortunate enough to experience a great deal. I knew as soon as it ended that I had to come back and share it again with a new group of like minded people.
Our Home
This epic yoga and safari retreat will take place at Baluleni Safari Lodge, a hidden paradise located on the shores of the Olifants River inside Greater Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s biggest and most diverse wildlife reserves.
Baluleni Lodge is a safari paradise that combines luxury with authenticity, offering an unparalleled opportunity to experience Kruger National Park and its wildlife up close. Situated directly on an elephant path, Baluleni is an unfenced lodge surrounded by nature, allowing animals to roam freely. This conscious decision to remain unfenced preserves the natural habitat and gives guests the unique chance to share memorable moments, like an elephant wandering through the grounds and joining you for tea.
The lodge offers a range of room options, each providing the highest level of comfort and service, created with attention to detail and a deep connection to nature. In keeping with the retreat lifestyle, there is also a swimming pool where you can cool off during the afternoons and catch some rays lounging on the deckchairs.
The Safari
One of the reasons Kruger National Park is so renowned for safari is that it is home to the iconic big five, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo as well as a whole host of other incredible inhabitants including over 500 bird species, 147 mammal species, 114 reptile species, and numerous plant species, offering a diverse and vibrant ecosystem. Of course, nature is uncontrolled and there is no absolute guarantee we will see all of the desired animals during our stay. However, with a dedicated team of experienced rangers, several prides of lions on the reserve, an elephant path and multiple game drives throughout the week, we’ve got a good as chance as any.
The Plan
Most mornings will start early with our first game drive of the day led by our in-house private rangers (and no I’m not a morning person either but I will happily get up at 6am if it means spotting a pride of lions heading out to start their day).
After returning from our morning game drive, we'll enjoy a delicious breakfast. Once we've had time to digest, we'll indulge in a nourishing yoga practice, allowing us to connect not only with nature but ourselves.
After yoga you’ll have free time to dip in the pool and indulge in other standard retreat activities such as slowing down, reading and connecting to fellow retreaters, until we all sit down together for lunch.
On multiple afternoons we will have second game drive in the late afternoon, providing another opportunity to witness the marvels of the animal kingdom before returning home for a three-course dinner under the stars.
Evenings will be a combination pre-dinner meditations, early nights and sitting round the fire chatting, setting you up for a peaceful night of rest
Additionally, two extra excursions are included, a river boat safari and a half-day visit to an animal rehabilitation centre offering even more opportunities to explore and enjoy the surroundings.
Excursions
Excursion 1 - An opportunity for a change of scenery and to get out on the water. During the three-hour boat trip, you'll have the opportunity to discover a diverse range of wildlife such as crocodiles basking on the riverbanks and hippos splashing in the water, whilst enjoying the sunset with your choice of beverages and snacks.
Excursion 2 - One afternoon we'll head out to experience an ethical, educational tour at one of South Africa’s most respected rehabilitation centres for wild animals and learn about how injured, poisoned, and orphaned animals are treated and cared for.
Yoga
Each day we will have an energising yoga asana practice in the morning on our serene garden deck, fully immersed in nature. On some days there will also be evening meditation sessions, perfect for unwinding and deepening your connection with the natural world.
Each day we will work with a different philosophical and physical focus, looking to explore the spectrum of what yoga has to offer. There will also be plenty of time to ask questions and explore different elements of the practice that you’re interested in.
Just like headstands, classes are not mandatory, you are welcome to opt out of anything you like in designing the most beneficial experience for yourself.
The Food
Throughout the week, your taste buds will be pampered by talented in-house chefs Nomsa and Tumelo taking care of your needs, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Expect fresh ingredients, hearty South Adrican dishes and delicious flavours.
Expect pre-safari snacks (yes you can get your morning coffee) and a wholesome breakfast will provide everything needed to start the day invigorated. A light lunch perfectly timed to replenish your energy reserves and then delight your taste buds with the grand finale, an exquisite three-course meal prepared with the natural flavours of the region.
Room Types
There are four different types of accommodation that you can choose from, all of which are stylish and authenticly African living spaces, offering choice for different budgets and sharing or private options.
Garden Cottage
Our Garden Cottages offer restful nights on a comfortable queen size bed with mosquito net and an en-suite bathroom. Immerse yourself in nature and enjoy amenities like your private deck with beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness. The room also features air conditioning, a lounge area with a couch, dressing table with mirror and hair dryer, a fridge and tea and coffee making facilities
Riverside Suite
Our newly renovated exclusive riverside suites offer you privacy, elegance and comfort in the middle of the wilderness. Enjoy a double bed with a mosquito net and an en-suite bathroom as well as an extra outdoor shower if you really want to be one with nature. With a private terrace ideal for enjoying and watching the passing animals on the riverbed and drinking at our waterhole your room also comes equipped with air conditioning, a lounge area with a couch and a dressing table with mirror and hair dryer.
Luxury Tent
The luxury Tent is ideal for those who wish for an authentic African Experience. A spacious area with 4 single beds and an en-suite bathroom with a bathtub and shower. The rooms also feature ceiling fans, a dressing table with mirror and hair dryer, a fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Enjoy views from your terrace overlooking an open grass plain where many antelope species come to graze.
Luxury Bushveld Chalet
This unique luxury option is a hybrid combination of chalet and tent, offering stunning bushveld views through full length glass windows and sliding doors. Escape to relaxation with your own hot tub on the patio, a freestanding bath inside, and an extra outdoor shower. Inside, you'll find three single beds a dressing room, minibar, air conditioning, and many more amenities. With its tent-style roof and ample windows, this chalet offers an immersive nature experience. Great for sharing individuals or friends keen for some luxury.
Common Questions...
Do I need to have a certain amount of yoga experience?
No not at all. Yoga is for everyone and the way that I teach is all about the experience of yoga not about how much of a pretzel you can get into or if you know what ekapadakoundinyasana is.
Can I come on my own?
Absolutely! The great thing about a retreat is that you’re guaranteed to meet people, it’s the perfect balance of having time for yourself and getting to connect with likeminded people. There are multiple room options available if you want to share but are planning to come solo.
Is it just for women?
Not in the slightest. Whilst I regularly have more women on my retreats, they are open for all genders.
What’s Included?
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7 day retreat package
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3 delicious and nutritious meals a day
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Daily yoga and meditation
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1-2 daily safari game drives
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Half day boat safari
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Animal rehabilitation centre visit
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Traditional South African Braii
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A once in a lifetime experience in the bush
What’s not included?
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Flights to South Africa
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Transfer to the resort
Supported by the team at Baluleni, I will personally take care of your travel plans, all you need to do is book your flights to Johannesburg and I will arrange the rest.
Spaces on this retreat are limited and it will be a considerably smaller group that many of my previous retreats. So, if you are interested, I encourage you to book on as early as possible.
Investment
Early Bird Prices
(Early bird discount is available until 30th June)
Garden Cottage
Shared - £1645 per person
Private - £2195 per person
Riverside Suite
Shared - £1695 per person
Private - £2245 per person
Luxury Tent
Quadruple - £1795 per person
Bushveld Chalet
Triple - £1795 per person
Standard Prices
(For all bookings made from 1st July)
Garden Cottage
Shared - £1795 per person
Private - £2345 per person
Riverside Suite
Shared - £1845 per person
Private - £2395 per person
Luxury Tent
Quadruple - £1945 per person
Bushveld Chalet
Triple - £1945 per person
Prices are listed per person. A £400 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking. Payment plans are available. Lets chat about it.
For all bookings and enquiries, please contact me directly at sammy@sammyrainbowfurnival.com
Come join me on the trip of a lifetime, you know you want to...
Send me an e-mail to book your spot before it's too late.
