Safari Yoga and Calisthenics Retreat
Botsawana
The safari wild life
Chobe National Park, Botswana
Discover one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries. Chobe is home to the largest elephant population in the world and a thriving ecosystem of lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and countless bird species. Between open savannah, riverbanks, and woodlands, every game drive reveals something new — from herds crossing the Chobe River to predators resting under acacia trees. This is the wild at its purest.
Our yoga shala
Designed to elevate your practice, our yoga shala is a sanctuary of peace and connection, nestled amidst the vast open plains. With panoramic views of the African savannah, this tranquil space invites you to move, breathe, and reflect in harmony with nature.
To ensure comfort in all conditions, the shala features transparent canvas rolls that can be gently drawn to shield against the wind or cool air—allowing you to remain immersed in the landscape while staying cozy and present.
Our Venue
Munga Plains, Botswana
Your base for this journey is the eco-luxury retreat of Munga Plains in northern Botswana. Built with deep respect for the land and the local community, the camp blends comfort with wildness. Each glamping tent is elevated on a wooden deck with an en-suite bathroom, open views of the savanna, a swimming pool, and a spacious open-air shala for our practice. Sustainability is at the heart of everything here. Munga Plains keeps its impact low through solar energy, natural materials, and mindful water use, honoring nature while supporting local livelihoods. It’s a place where comfort and consciousness meet, allowing you to rest and reconnect in harmony with the environment.
Activites
Movement, nature, culture and more
Beyond game drives we dive into experiences that move the body and deepen the soul. Start your days with yoga on the riverbank, calisthenics in the open air, or even a session aboard a boat cruise on the Chobe River where hippos and elephants share your view. Later we walk: guided natural-world treks, village visits with the local Basubiya people, stories around the fire, plus that striking stop at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. This is a full-body, full-mind, full-heart retreat: movement, nature, culture, connection.
Culinary Delight
Dining is an integral part of our retreats, offering a fusion of local flavors and healthy international cuisine. Our culinary experience is crafted by chef Ednah Rosen, author of “A Taste of Botswana”. With a genuine appreciation for local ingredients and culinary traditions, Ednah brings a unique and delightful menu that deepens your journey into Africa.
Why Yoga & Calisthenics?
Discover the powerful blend of yoga and calisthenics. While training together, Issy and Maxime found a natural connection between the two, both grounded in functional movement, body awareness, and simplicity. This combination invites strength, mobility, and mindful control, helping you move with purpose.
Beyond technique, it is a journey of self-discovery through movement and stillness. A way to reconnect with the body, explore freedom, and return to a more natural way of being.
After guiding retreats across the world with participants from over forty countries, Issy and Maxime created this approach to bring people back to their roots — playful, grounded, and free. A reset for body and mind that stays long after the retreat ends.
What is Included?
- 1 night in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
- 6 nights at Munga Plains Safari Lodge, Botswana
- Eco-luxury glamping tents with private en-suite bathrooms, wooden decks, open-air views of the savanna, a swimming pool, and an open-air shala for our yoga and movement sessions
- Full board from August 16–21 (three freshly prepared meals daily)
- Half board on arrival day (lunch and dinner)
- Breakfast on departure day
- Includes filtered coffee, tea, water, and fresh juices
- Yoga and calisthenics classes held at the open-air shala and by the river
- Movement workshops focused on mobility, strength, and balance
Each day includes at least one guided safari or outdoor adventure. Activities vary based on weather, wildlife movement, and group flow to give you the best experience in nature. Across the week, you’ll enjoy a mix of:
- Game drives in Chobe National Park (half-day and full-day)
- Boat cruise on the Chobe River with optional yoga on board
- Walking safari guided by local experts
- Night drive and sundowner experience
- Mokoro canoe ride through the river channels
- Visit to Victoria Falls rainforest
- Cultural village tour
- Traditional dance performance during the Boma dinner
- Victoria Falls Airport to partner lodge
- Victoria Falls to Munga Plains via Chobe National Park
Accommodation
Twin beds room
- € 3299 p.p. Early bird price for the first five sign ups
- € 3499 p.p. Standard price
Secure your spot with a €700 p.p. deposit.
(double everything if the booking is for two persons)
The remaining balance is paid in the following instalments:
- First instalment: January 15, €1000, seven months before the retreat
- Second instalment: March 15, €1000, five months before the retreat
- Final instalment: May 15, remaining balance, three months before the retreat
Double bed room
- € 3299 p.p. Early bird price for the first five sign ups
- € 3499 p.p. Standard price
Secure your spot with a €700 p.p. deposit.
(double everything if the booking is for two persons)
The remaining balance is paid in the following instalments:
- First instalment: January 15, €1000, seven months before the retreat
- Second instalment: March 15, €1000, five months before the retreat
- Final instalment: May 15, remaining balance, three months before the retreat
- € 3999 Early bird price for the first 5 sign ups
- € 4199 Full price
Secure your spot with a €700 deposit.
The remaining balance is paid in the following instalments:
- First instalment: January 15, €1000, seven months before the retreat
- Second instalment: March 15, €1000, five months before the retreat
- Final instalment: May 15, remaining balance, three months before the retreat
Meet your hosts
Issy - Max
Issy Nadee
Maxime Ronse
Max brings years of experience as a personal trainer specializing in calisthenics and strength training. With a deep understanding of anatomy, he excels at breaking down movements and integrate muscle groups to optimize strength, mobility, and body awareness. His expertise in calisthenics perfectly complements the yoga practice, as both disciplines share roots in bodyweight training and functional movement. His knowledge and passion for movement make him an invaluable asset to this training, providing unique insights into how strength training and mobility can enhance and deepen yoga practice
Testimonials
FAQ’s
Book your flight to Victoria Falls (VFA) in order to arrive around midday or early afternoon. Contact Munga Plains on WhatsApp if you need any help. If you’d like to arrive a day or two early, don’t hesitate to let Munga Plains know so they can book nights in the same lodge as your main trip (depending on availability).
**Disclaimer**
The schedule shown is an example of how the week can look. The first day when we visit the Victoria Falls is fixed. The chronological order of activities such as game drives, guided walks, mokoro journeys and cultural visits depend on weather, timings, wildlife conditions and group energy. The final program may differ, and we will adjust each day to create the best experience for everyone.
Day 1
- Flight to Victoria Falls
- Transfer from airport to a partner lodge in Victoria Falls
- Accommodation in Victoria Falls
- Visit of Victoria Falls and rainforest
- Dinner
Day 2
- Transfer for Botswana
- Safari Boat Cruise
- Transfer for Munga Plains
- Welcome Circle
- Munga Plains
Day 3
- Light breakfast
- Yoga Session
- Brunch
- Yoga Session
- High Tea
- Guided Walking Safari
- Sundowner
Day 4
- Game drive
- Yoga & Meditation
- Bush dinner
Day 5
- Light breakfast
- Yoga Session
- Brunch
- Yoga Session
- High Tea
- Mokoro Journey
- Sundowner
Day 6
- Wellness workshop
- Breakfast
- Free time
- Lunch
- Game drive
- Dinner
Day 7
- Wellness session
- Breakfast
- Free time
- Yoga Session
- Lunch
- Village Tour
- Boma dinner and traditional dances
Day 8
- Breakfast & Check out
- Mobile safari extension (optional, contact Munga Plains)
- International flights to/from Victoria Falls
- Specialty drinks (alcohol, bottled water, specialty coffees)
- Optional activities (massages, extra safaris)
- Personal expenses
- Zimbabwe visa (double-entry recommended)
- Gratuities
- Travel & cancellation insurance (strongly recommended)
- Zimbabwe: double-entry visa recommended; available on arrival (USD 45 for EU/Swiss citizens, USD 70 for UK/IE). Bring cash in USD.
- Zimbabwe
Official visa check and e-visa portal - Botswana: no visa required for stays of 90 days or less for EU/Swiss citizens.
- Botswana
August is one of the best months to visit. Days are warm and sunny around twenty four to twenty eight degrees. Nights and early mornings are cooler around seven to ten degrees. Rain is very rare which makes it a great time for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities.
Malaria exists in some regions including areas near Chobe, although mosquitoes are far less common in the dry season. If you want to be safe, consider anti malaria medication after consulting your doctor and use repellent, long sleeves, and nets in the evening. There are no required vaccinations for Botswana, but staying up to date with routine shots and checking with your healthcare provider is always a good idea.
- Wildlife Safety: When exploring nature reserves or the bush, always follow your guide’s instructions. Never approach wildlife on your own.
- Cultural Respect: Botswana is rich in tradition and culture. Dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Greet people politely and respect local customs.
- Tipping: Bring cash in Pula (the local currency) for tips to staff and guides at the end of the retreat. We advise giving the equivalent of $10 (BWP 137) per day per person, which will be divided amongst the whole staff.
- Cultural Tip: Learning a few phrases in Setswana, such as “Dumelang” (Hello) and “Ke a leboga” (Thank you), can go a long way in showing respect and making connections with locals.
When it comes to packing for Botswana, think comfort, practicality, and a touch of style. You can also use this detailed packing list.
- Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Botswana can be hot, especially from September to April, with temperatures soaring during the day. Pack loose, breathable fabrics that keep you cool.
- Layers for Cooler Evenings: While days can be sweltering, evenings might surprise you with a chill, especially during the winter months (May to August). A lightweight jacket or a cozy shawl will be your best friend.
- Yoga Gear: Bring your favorite yoga outfits, and don’t forget your mat if you prefer your own. We provide mats and props but we understand if some people have specific needs.
- Comfortable Footwear: You’ll want sturdy shoes for exploring, and don’t forget flip-flops for lounging around the retreat. It can get quite dusty so avoid new white sneakers (we’ve warned you).
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen are must-haves to protect against the strong African sun.
- Insect Repellent: Malaria is a risk in some areas, so pack a good insect repellent to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.
- A reusable, heat proof water bottle is essential. Staying hydrated is key, especially when practicing yoga in the African heat. Luckily, you’ll receive your own Munga Plains branded bottle as soon as you step foot in the camp.
Yes. Here is the standard payment plan for one person. For two people, simply double the amounts.
- Deposit
- 700 euro per person upon registration.
- This deposit is non refundable and secures your room.
- Instalments
- Payments can occur every two months.
- The final instalment must be completed three months before the start of the retreat.
Example payment plan for a shared room at 3,499 euro
- Deposit: 700 euro per person upon booking
- First Installment:
Amount: 1000 EUR per person
Due Date: January 25, 2026 (7 months before
the retreat) - Second Installment:
Amount: 1000 EUR per person
Due Date: March 15, 2026 (5 months before the
retreat) - Final Balance:
Amount: Remaining balance
Due: May 15, 2026 (3 months before the retreat) - All instalments must be completed three months before arrival.
Early bird discount
- The first five bookings receive 200 euro off.
- Shared room early bird price is 3,399 euro.
- Single room early bird price is 3,999 euro.
You can read the full cancellation policy here
And our Liability Policy here.
- Go to the Accommodation section and select your preferred room. Press Book Now.
- You will be taken to the checkout page where you can pay either the deposit or the full amount.
- Once the payment is successful you will receive a confirmation email with your PDF receipt within 24 hours.