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Safari Retreats

The African Wilderness holds an innate power to heal, inspire and transform.

At Sashwa, we honour nature’s wisdom and profound ability to heal and inspire. In our fast-paced world, many lose touch with nature and consequently, themselves. The African wilderness offers a sanctuary for  reconnection with the rhythms of the natural world. Here, you can find inner harmony and embark on a journey toward well-being and purposeful living.

The scent of damp earth after summer rains, the majestic roar of lions echoing through the night, and the awe-inspiring sight of millions of stars adorning the sky, shimmering off the river- all these elements converge to create an awakening experience with potential for meaningful personal discovery, healing, and growth.

Our holistic experiences complement this natural healing energy. From garden-to-table cuisine and rejuvenating bodywork to transformative yoga and tranquil spa treatments, each is designed to nurture your mind, body, and spirit. Engage in guided nature walks to connect with wildlife and immerse yourself fully in nature. At Sashwa, let the wilderness be your guide on a transformative journey to wholeness.

Upcoming Retreats

Choose to join one of the upcoming hosted retreats

Eat to Thrive Retreat

2 - 6 July 2026

4 nights | 5 days

Rediscover your relationship with food through intuitive cooking with Chef Arabella Parkinson. This 4-night retreat invites you to experience cooking as a practice of presence and pleasure. Move from morning stillness and mindful eating meditations into afternoon classes reimagining comfort foods with a plant-forward twist.
First 3 confirmed bookings (sign up + deposit paid) get an upgrade to Riverfront Suite.

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The Bushmen Retreat

29 Oct - 1 Nov 2026 & 12-17 Nov 2026

5 nights | 6 days

We invite you to Sashwa - River of Stars for an immersive and hands-on retreat guided by indigenous trackers of Namibia. Learn to read the land like a living story; train your focus, intuition and awareness; and restore in the quiet of the bush. Spend up to 5 hours a day on foot in the Greater Kruger. The rest of the day invites rest, reflection, and time together around the fire underneath star-filled skies.

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Birders' Weekend

19 – 22 Nov 2026

3 nights | 4 days

When the migratory birds arrive, Sashwa River of Stars invites you into a mindful escape from daily life. Surround yourself in bird sound, learn to recognise species and bird calls, and take a skill home that brings awareness and presence into your everyday life.

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Hakuna Matata

28 July - 4 August 2026

6 nights | 7 days

Join us for a 7 night retreat that is open to everybody. Your stay will provide two full day excursions in Cape Town including an exploration at the Penguin Peninsula + daily safaris, yoga & coffee walks while on our own private preserve in Hoedspruit.

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Nourish Move Love Retreat

12 - 19 October 2026

7 nights | 8 days

This retreat is a journey - from self-doubt to self-trust. In the wild of the Greater Kruger National Park, you’ll slow down enough to finally hear yourself again. You’ll uncover the beliefs that keep you small, learn how to shift them gently, and remember that the woman you’re becoming isn’t a fantasy or a dream — she’s already within you. This isn’t about getting away from your life. It’s about seeing it with new eyes - and learning to believe in yourself again.

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Host your next retreat at Sashwa

Choosing Sashwa for your retreat guarantees your participants an exceptional transformative experience, blending your retreat program with holistic wellness and the unforgettable adventure of an African safari.

Our Reviews

This was so much more than a luxury bushveld lodge. Our stay was a profoundly moving experience, where every effort was made to create an environment of tranquility and deep inner peace, at one with nature.

Di M

I cannot put into words how amazing our time at Sashwa was, an incredible all rounded experience with amazing people. One of the most gorgeous places I have ever stayed! I don’t think I’ll ever get over the view looking out over the river, with so many animal sightings right outside your room!

Beth

Everything I wished for and more. Your staff are world class in every section of the retreat, from the kitchen with the three course mouthwatering pieces of art served three times a day to the therapists in the spa, meditation, and game drive. It was incredible to experience this in a lodge in the “bush”, this level of excellence is not even available at exclusive venues in our towns and cities.

Heleen P

So much thought and care has gone into making Sashwa what it is. We felt nourished, nurtured and inspired. The vegan food was absolutely delicious. Practicing yoga right on the banks of the Olifants River was a dream come true. The peace and quiet within the camp was an absolute privilege. I highly recommend this special African experience.

Chloe H

Frequently Asked Questions

What style of yoga do you offer? -

We offer a blend of vinyasa and yin suitable for all levels. Our experienced instructor will adapt her classes to your needs. For private yoga sessions, feel free to request what style, how restorative or activating you would like it to be.

Do I have to have any experience in yoga and meditation to join? +

Not at all, all you need is an open mind and keen spirit.

Can I come for a solo retreat? +

Yes, Sashwa serves as a safe and idyllic location for a solo retreat. You can choose which wellness offerings you would like to partake in at your own leisure. We have a variety of holistic treatments, experiences and offerings to facilitate a transformative retreat in the African Wilderness. Our on-site experienced Wellness / Retreat Manager will happily assist you in designing a unique itinerary to suit your needs and be available for you throughout your stay.

Is there anything special I should pack for my retreat? +

Besides what is listed on our Sashwa Packing List, some useful items to remember would be loose and comfortable clothing for the yoga, mindfulness and movement classes, as well as any personal items such as a journal. You will also be able to purchase many beautiful items to enhance your retreat experience from our shop.

How should I prepare for my retreat? +

We recommend taking some time in the days leading up to your retreat to be mindful and reflect on your intentions for your time with us. What would you like to gain from your retreat at Sashwa? Would you like to find healing, rediscover your authentic self, or perhaps connect deeply to nature and your intuition. Taking some time to meditate or journal on these topics will help you prepare for getting the most out of your time with us.

What makes a retreat at Sashwa unique? +

We are the only safari retreat venue in South Africa that has full retreat facilities and is appropriately equipped to host group retreats. Our entire staff are well trained around retreats and their unique needs, and we offer a unique blend of immersive and transformative wellness and wilderness experiences.

Can I book Sashwa for exclusive use? +

You may book the entire lodge for your retreat or special occasion. Please see our rates sheet for more information.

Who is a retreat at Sashwa for? +

We are for anyone with an open mind and heart and desire to immerse and connect deeply with nature.

We are for those wanting to embark on a journey of self-discovery led by nature. Those seeking healing. Needing to rest and recharge Enjoy a peaceful retreat or simply to be and relax into the natural rhythms of the wilderness.

How does joining one of the upcoming hosted retreats work? +

The upcoming hosted retreats on our website are either hosted by various Retreat Leaders who have chosen Sashwa as their venue and have an extended invitation to the public, or they are hosted by us alongside our on-site Retreat Manager and various partners. You are welcome to join any of the retreats listed above that may appeal to you. If the retreat is hosted by someone else, you will be taken directly to their website and will need to book through them.