Retreats & Teacher Trainings
Take some time out to relax and unwind and travel to exotic destinations with like-minded people
Join us on an unforgettable luxurious yoga retreat in wild South Africa in March 2026 for round #3! Offering a unique combination of adventure, exploration, and relaxation, this is so much more than retreat but a journey of a lifetime. Our intimate group size of 10 people will make this time extra special and will welcome anyone whether you travel in pairs or solo.
Each day is designed to leave you feeling energised and inspired. Whether you’re looking to deepen your practice, explore new places, fulfill the dream of visiting Africa or simply take a break from your everyday city life, this South Africa yoga retreat will give you the opportunity to do just that.
​​
Are you ready for an adventure of a lifetime?​ Are you ready for the African bush?
Experience a truly unique yoga retreat in South Africa's majestic bush. Spend 7 nights and 8 days in two luxurious all-inclusive venues, located in a Big 5 area and non Big 5 area to get the best of both worlds. Hear the mesmerising sounds of the bush at night, enjoy activities such as daily Safaris, rock pool climbing, guided bushwalks, stargazing, having a glass of wine and observing the wild animals at a waterhole and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of Africa's nature.
Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast, want to make the dream of a Safari come true or just looking for a fun and unique experience, this retreat offers something for everyone. Join us for a journey of self-discovery and let this experience leave you with memories of a lifetime.
​​
​​
The Experience
At both accommodations, we’ll experience true exclusivity not just in the luxury of the lodges, but in their approach. These are family-run businesses, each one deeply rooted in the land and committed to sustainable, conscious hospitality.
What unites us all myself, the hosts, and you as retreat guests, is a shared set of values: honouring nature, nurturing community, and creating space for rest, reconnection, and spiritual renewal.
It is the heartbeat of the entire retreat.
You won’t be one of many passing through. You’ll be welcomed as part of something meaningful, and you'll feel that in every meal, every moment, and every smile from the people holding this space with me.
​
​​Since the African bush has so much to offer and it is impossible for you to come to South Africa without having seen the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo), we will combine the best of the two worlds and visit both areas -big 5 and non big 5, by staying at two luxurious and hand-picked lodges - each carefully selected and personally tested to ensure every detail supports deep rest, joy, and awe. accommodations with an intimate group size of 10 people. This is far more than a yoga retreat and far more than a safari. Truly a very unique and unparalleled offering.
​​​
Our first home (where zebras are actually crossing), is set in a non-Big 5 area, giving you the perfect chance to gently land, recover from the long-haul flight, and soak up the wild in a softer, more accessible way. Located about 3 hours north of Johannesburg, this lodge is tucked between the rolling hills of the UNESCO-recognised Waterberg Biosphere, surrounded by streams, rock pools, and untamed beauty.
Because this is a non-Big 5 reserve, we’ll be able to freely walk the land, grounding ourselves in nature - literally. Expect game drives, guided bush walks, optional mountain biking, spontaneous dips in rock pools, and other beautiful surprises. (This year, the lodge owner stunned me with a private bubbly wine tasting at sunset, deep in the bush. So yes- keep your eyes open and your seatbelt loosely fastened... there’s more magic in store.)
​​
Who will take care of us
You’ll be lovingly looked after by the most heart-warming, generous staff I’ve ever met. Their care is a huge part of what makes this sacred place feel like home.
During game drives and bushwalks, their experienced and enthusiastic field guides will show us all the beauty that the Waterberg Biosphere Reserve has to offer. You will come across an abundant variety of flora and fauna and be treated to sightings of a large number of bird species, zebras, kudus, nyalas, impalas, giraffes, hartebeest, blesbok and much more. Each retreat so far has been blessed with unforgettable animal encounters, the kind that stay in your bones long after the flight home.
Recent Experiences​
In our first year, zebras wandered so close to our yoga deck that we could practically reach out and touch them mid-OM. In year two, we shared morning Savasana with seven giraffes quietly observing from a distance and a few cheeky zebras helping themselves to a sip from the pool while we were tanning.
You’ll see for yourself: here, the animals mingle among us in the most peaceful, natural way (and yes, always safely). There’s no need to hop on a jeep, the wild will come to you.
​​​​​
The Journey continues
On the 6th day we drive to our second accommodation, a 5 star Safari Lodge in the northern-most part of the Dinokeng Big 5 Game Reserve- around 45 mintutes from Johannesburg. Their name, is derived from the Tswana word for ‘time’, which in today’s fast-paced world is a precious commodity. The owners of the luxurious lodge equate this to a symbol of spending quality time in nature, with family and friends or simply appreciating their breath-taking environment, along with the magnificent wildlife among us. Travellers choose to stay here because of the unforgettable experience, from the moment you arrive and breathe in the surrounds; the seamless luxury, their sincere and passionate team, and of course the spectacular wildlife encounters, both on safari and right on their doorstep.
Sip up the scenery at their vista rooftop bar or spot the elusive Leopard from their viewing deck.
Float in their rimflow pool overlooking their famous private waterhole where elephants and Rhinos refresh themselves and the 360-degree view of the surrounds, again the animals come to US. And wind down under a starlit sky in front of a roaring fire.
We invite you to share your journey in the elegance of the wilderness, where time stands still.
​
​​
Accommodation #1 (5 nights, non big 5 area)
The Deluxe twin Rooms are spacious and comfortable getaways positioned on their private open plains surrounded by the bush. The rooms are situated nearby the main lodge and common swimming pool. They provide a Nespresso coffee station, a private terrace and en- suite bathroom with a lavish bathtub and outdoor shower.
​
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinners will be enjoyed next to a log fire on their covered patio. We also have a choice of dining under the star-filled African Skies. In addition, delicious house wines, local beers, and soft drinks are included.
Our yoga classes can take place either safely in the bush or on their second their terrace.
(For best results open the gallery on a device with a bigger screen)
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
​
The Accommodation #2 (2 nights, big 5 area)
This Lodge’s world-class accommodation is the pinnacle of African authenticity and opulent luxury; from the second you step into your room, to the moment you rest your head on the immaculately cosy linen. All bedrooms feature secure screen doors, allowing you to sleep with a fresh breeze, and the soulful sounds of surrounding nature.
Wake up to the sounds, sights and smells of the African bush, sip on a creamy cappuccino from your private deck overlooking the wandering myriad of wildlife at the waterhole, or refresh with a morning shower under African skies, ensuring each moment is an unforgettable, timeless adventure.
The multi-storey, air-conditioned lodge overlooking a private waterhole offers 5 luxury suites fitted with baths and showers, as well as outdoor showers. Guests can relax in the spacious main lodge area which offers comfortable seating in front of the fireplace or TV, a photographic studio loft and an indoor dining area.
The living area opens onto the covered private patio with an outdoor dining table overlooking the inviting, heated swimming pool and sun loungers, and from here guests can enjoy the scenery and view the roaming game. As night falls guests can relax around the firepit and watch the starry skies.
In case we need to play: A full games room with Pool Table, Table Tennis Table, Air Hockey and board games awaits.
Located in the Pride of Africa Nature Reserve, Dinokeng, the Lodge offers guests a 5 Star, Big 5 Safari getaway only 1 hour from Johannesburg and OR Tambo International Airport
​
​
En-suite Bath & Walk-in Shower-Outdoor Shower-Waterhole View-Nespresso Machine-Outdoor Deck-Private Firepit / BOMA-Screen doors-High-speed internet-Minibar-Smart TVs (Netflix Enabled)- 24hr securitz-Lodge is fully fence24hr reception-Laundry services-Rimflow pool onto the famous ‘Pumba’ Waterhole, Which is regularly visited by Elephants, White and Black Rhinos, Lions, Buffalo, Hyena and even the elusive Leopard that resides in the area.-Award Winning Wine Offering-Large Outdoor Terrace with Bar and Seating Area
(For best results open the gallery on a device with a bigger screen)
​​​​
​​​​​
​​​​​
​​​
​​
​​
​​
​​
​​​​
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
 |  |  |
Add your own content here. Click to edit.
The Food
Although yoga and your personal transformation are absolutely at the heart of this retreat… from my perspective? It’s the food that truly seals the magic.
And I’m not exaggerating when I say: I have never eaten better!
Every meal is lovingly homemade by the lodge’s highly skilled chefs, using fresh, local ingredients and it shows. Whether you're gathered around the breakfast table or soaking up a sunset with dinner under the stars, you’ll feel nourished in every sense of the word.
Unwind with a fully inclusive dining experience, designed to meet all your dietary needs. Gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options are thoughtfully catered for, too.
Both lodges feature spacious outdoor terraces and patios, plus a viewing deck with a rooftop bar at Nako Lodge, where you can sip a glass of award-winning South African wine while the stars sparkle above you.
Imagine: a candlelit dinner, heart full, sky lit up in constellations... That’s the kind of memory that never fades.
A selection of local red and white wines is included with meals, and you’ll have access to complimentary soft drinks, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate throughout the day.
​​​
The Yoga
This retreat is your invitation to fully unwind and deeply immerse yourself in your practice, whether you're brand new to yoga or have been on the mat for years. The sessions are accessible for all levels, with a focus on connection, presence, and listening to your own rhythm. We focus on gentle pranayama (breathing exercises) to help you relax and to relieve sore muscles after your adventures. In addition, together we will explore techniques to build psychological flexibility and to help you to regulate your nervous system and build inner resilience, because retreat isn’t just about escape, it’s about real, sustainable integration.
You'll leave the retreat with a valuable toolbox of skills to take home, so you can continue to benefit from yoga, in ways to ground yourself, reconnect, and navigate daily life with more ease, grace, and embodied awareness. The Yin practises will be infused with Reiki healing, creating more energetic support.
The yoga offering contains: Pranayama, Meditation, excursions into yogic philosophy, yoga Nidra, Yin Yoga, Hatha-Vinyasa and plentz of time for adjustments and to dive deeper into your practise.
​​
The Teacher and Host
Bella is a Senior Yoga Teacher and Aerial Yoga Teacher Trainer with nearly a decade of experience guiding people into deeper connection with themselves. She’s also a Reiki Master, a mentor for self-employed women building meaningful wellness businesses, a passionate world traveller, and a full-blown life enthusiast.
Her teachings weave together embodiment, empowerment, and a dash of wild spirit, creating spaces where people feel truly seen, supported, and free to grow.
She travelled to South Africa for the first time in 2023 and made her dream come true of visiting this exotic and magical country, joining Safaris and bush adventures. Least to say that she fell in Love with this beautiful country and the freedom she experienced hosting SA retreats ever since.
She believes in bringing people together not just to practice yoga, but to remember their light, their strength, and their joy and to create unforgettable memories while doing it. Read more about her here
.
​​Sample day (TBC)
The days will vary due to different activities and surrounding- the days at our second accommodation will commence at 5.30am for sunrise game drives as this when the animals are the most active in the golden light. That said, please know this: everything is optional. This retreat is about you listening to your needs, your body, your pace. Whether you choose to greet the sun on safari or sleep in and journal with a cup of rooibos tea, it’s all welcome.
​​
5.30 am/ 8.00 Energising Morning Yoga & Meditation or Sunrise safari
9.30am Breakfast
Time to relax until lunch, time for massages
13.00 light lunch
Bush activities or workshops
16.30 Game drive
18.30 Calm Yoga such as slow flow, Yin yoga and Yoga Nidra
20.00 Dinner/ Stargazing / Sitting by the fire
​​​​
​​​​
What's included
-
7 nights/ 8 days Accommodation in a twin bed room (2 luxurious venues).
-
3 delicious meals a day and drinks- even the tastiest South African Wines are included! Have you ever tried Ostrich? Or had a typical South African "Braai"? (Food depends on arrival time at arrival day, breakfast on check out day). Vegetarian, vegan and Gluten free dishes are available
-
Daily guided safaris in Big 5 and non big 5 areas
-
Bushwalks, mountain biking, rock pool climbing with experienced guides
-
Twice yoga a day, meditation, breathwork and optional workshops
-
Personal Pick up and drop off by me at Johannesburg Airport and drive between venues with a private bus, nothing for you to do- You are well taken care of
-
All national park entry and other conservation fees
-
Plenty of time to relax, to immerse yourself in the african nature and vast space, laughter and making new profound connections, not to forget about plenty of hugs and transformation!
-
Arrival gift
-
Support Whats app group to get to know your fellow travellers and to make travel plans before or after the retreat. Plus Group call before the travels begin.
-
Yoga mats and blocks
-
Little surprises here and there...
​​​
What's excluded
-
Your flight to Johannesburg: When coming from London there will be convenient overnight flights. If you prefer you can also arrive a day earlier and stay one night at an airport hotel to catch up on sleep. Currently the flights are between £500-700. To explore Africa a little further, Johannesburg Airport offers other flights to national destinations (maybe extend your journey to Cape town?)
-
Visa, travel insurance - please assure it covers yoga activities too
-
Massages (extra costs)
-
Tips for staff (cash)
​
What others have to say about the retreat:
"This was a life-changing, once in a lifetime experience. Bella is the most wonderful and inclusive host, exceptional yoga teacher, and sunshine in human form. Everyone that came on her retreat naturally was the same, and I’ve left with a new community and some of the happiest memories of my life."
Leanne Maskell, 5x bestselling author and founder or ADHD works
​
"It is hard to describe what an amazing experience was had by all on the South Africa retreat. Bella created something truly special. The accommodation was excellent, the game drives were awe inspiring and not to forget the yoga of course which, as true to Bella's style, was relaxing, fun and focussed on our holistic wellbeing. Bella has a talent for holding her students in a way which creates a safe space to be yourself and inspires personal development. I was nervous at first about travelling across the world with ten strangers, within 24 hours I had no further worries and I knew I was going to be okay and ten strangers turned into ten friends. I had some amazing conversations on the retreat which have led to personal growth, pinning down my goals for the future and even embarking on a degree course. I will definitely be going back on this retreat. " Sally
​​
"I am still buzzing from the yoga retreat. It was a trip of many firsts - first yoga retreat, first time in South Africa, first time jumping into a rock pool, first time being so close to the nature and wildlife... I will never forget that magical moment of zebras soaking into the powerful vibrations from that evening class. Thank you so much Bella for turning your dream into a reality, and in turn, making mine come true. Thank you for bringing together a fabulous group of retreaters from all walks of life, and yet we share so many common values and support each other as we start to embark upon our very own transformational journeys. Photos wouldn't do the retreat justice - one has to really experience it! Already looking forward to the next retreat :)" Euvian
​​
​"There are not enough words to describe this amazing experience. From the best yoga teacher/travel planner/inspiring entrepreneur and supporting friend Bella, to the other 10 amazing women in the group, laid back, funny, compassionate, and supportive, we were a great bunch! We stayed in amazing accommodations, had close encounters with animals, experience nature in all shapes and forms, had great food and wine and most of all laughed A LOT! Not to forget the precious time spent practicing and learning about yoga and all its facets, receiving sound bath and reiki and much more. It was an unique and eventful week that only Bella could put together so carefully and with so much love." Giulia
​
"Bella was the best leader for my first yoga safari. She infused each day with her care, passion and adventure. I can’t write in words how much this week has meant to me."
​​​​
​​​​​​Investment​
-
Early Bird (only 4 left): £2,350 - for those ready to say yes to themselves fast! (Twin Bed)
-
Standard Price: £2,600 (Twin Bed)
- OR get £100 off when you:
• Pay in full upfront, or
• Bring your bestie and both enjoy the discount! Because who doesn't want to share this extraordinary adventure?(Both only applicable to the standard price).
Secure your place:
-
£400 non-refundable deposit (transferable to another person if life throws a curveball)
-
Flexible payment plans available to support your journey: pay monthly or in 2–3 installments, all settled by 15th January 2026. (Please get in touch for other payment plans that will work for you).
Full payment due: 15th January 2026
Maximum occupancy is 10 people
​​​​​
I can't wait for this experience with you!
I understand that it can seem scary to travel to South Africa by yourself but don´t worry, you will be well taken care of by me, the whole group and the staff! Otherwise let's hop on a 15 min call to go through everything.
​​​​
By clicking "secure my spot" you will be redirected to send an email. All I need to know is that you would like to join and I will send you all the necessary forms.
​​
​​
​
Q&A
​
Is it for all levels?
Yes, my teaching include absolute beginners and seasoned students. I will offer and encourage any level.
​
Can my partner join, even if they don’t practise yoga?
Yes, absolutely! We've had non-yogi partners join before, and we always find a way to include everyone in some part of the yogic experience :)
It is my vision that everyone takes part in the classes, as I truly believe there’s something valuable in it for everyone. That said, there’s also plenty to explore and enjoy off the mat, too.
​
What will the weather be like in March? ​
The weather will be slightly transitioning from their summer into late summer/autumn which is lovely for us as we are coming from our winter and can enjoy the first not too hot sun rays again. It can be anything between 16 and 27 degrees. Slighty hotter in the bush.
​​​​
​Do the camps have their own water supply and generators?
Yes, absolutely, they will turn it on in case of loadshedding. Solar panels are installed as well.
​​​​
How about Malaria prophylaxis?
Please consult your GP about Malaria prophylaxis, we will be travelling in Malaria free areas, nevertheless it is advised to consult your GP.
​​​​
Will there be Aerial Yoga?
Aerial Yoga won't be on the daily schedule as I don't have the chance to hang the appartus but I will bring one or two Airo-belts (small yoga belt) so you don't have to miss out of the sensation of hanging upside down ;-)
​​​​
I'd like to book an onward flight to travel to another part of Africa (highly recommended!) What are the check in and check out times/ when are we travelling from and to Johannesburg airport? (OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL)
It will take us around +- 4 hours from the airport to our first accommodation with a stop for refreshments and a little break on the way. It is recommended to arrive in Johannesburg before 11 am on Sunday the 15th March.
We will check out by 10 am from our second accommodation on the 22nd March and need approximately 1.5 hrs back to the airport, depending on the traffic. Late afternoon or evening flights are prefere.
Please email me if none of these times work for you.
​​​
How about a the VISA?
Please check yourself whether you need a visa or not. European and UK passports in general do not need a visa.
Unluckily we made the experience that an Indian visa took an exorbitant amount of time and had been denied in the end.
​​​​​
​​​​​
New dates for 2024 will be released soon!
Congratulations again from the bottom of my heart to 5 great participants who have successfully completed their aerial teacher training in February 2023! They have also passed the first baptism of fire and are successfully teaching aerial yoga between London and Manchester. What an accomplishment!
If you are also interested in aerial training to expand your niche, the next 50 (!) Hours aerial teacher training is coming up this year! Josh from UK Yoga Collective and I are trying to find a suitable time slot in the joint schedule.
And why 50 hours? Because we just want to give you more time to develop your own trainer voice.
​
Become an Aerial Yoga Teacher
Aerial yoga is a distinctive way of practising the yoga postures you’re already used to practising on the mat. Through the addition of an aerial belt or hammock, you can bring a sense of fun and wonder to your classes that encourages your students to play through their practice. Teaching and practising aerial yoga gives yogis an invigorating sense of self-confidence and invokes a level of focus that grounds them in the present moment.
​
Develop a Unique Skill
As yoga studios look to diversify their offerings, aerial yoga is becoming more and more common. By training to become an aerial yoga teacher you can be at the head of this curve and assist studios in bringing this unique and challenging practice to greater audiences. Aerial yoga is in such high demand since it is such a unique form or exercise with various health benefits that are specific to inversion practices.
​
Gain a New Perspective on Yoga
The support of the hammock allows students to explore inversion postures in ways that can’t be done in a traditional class, but that can change the way students practice on a yoga mat. By suspending students bodies, they can get used to the feeling of being upside down and build the relationship between the hands and the floor, while also reducing the ‘fear factor’ associated with these poses.
​
Share The Joy of Going Upside Down
One of the main reasons to teach and practice aerial yoga is that its fun! You will only find a handful of people who don’t want to try aerial yoga or who aren’t hooked straight after the first class. As an emerging discipline, an aerial yoga teacher training will also place you in the position to be an ambassador for the style and bring it to new studios and students.
​
