This was the most amazing retreat in the most spectacular location! Our retreat began in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, so we were able to enjoy the best of the area that we flew into. Not only did we have an excursion to Vic Falls (- by electric bike, which was TOO much fun!), we also had a sunrise boat trip on the Zambezi River, where we were able to see our first wildlife of the trip - hippos!
The trip to Munga Plains then began, but it was all organised so smoothly that even just the journey was an incredible experience. We had lunch, went on a boat safari seeing an unbelievable array of animals, then onto an unexpected snack break (these were always the best!), before continuing on in Botswana on a land safari to get to our final destination. Our safari guides that were with us for the rest of the trip were SO skilled at finding wildlife that we saw leopards on the first day, and female and male lions on later excursions during the week, as well as every other kind of species that we'd hoped to see! SO beyond grateful.
Arriving at Munga Plains was just a breathtaking moment. The main building overlooking the savannah and the individual glamping homes keep you feeling like you are so connected to the outside world, but with all of the luxury and comfort of amenities that make you feel at home.
Then the yoga shala! It is BEAUTIFUL - and the views are even better - again, it has been built in a way that makes you feel like you are outside, but in comfort, protected by the elements (with optional wind breaker walls, but the hot breeze honestly felt like you were being embraced by Mama Africa - the joy and gratitude are real!). With the shala being few minutes walk away, it gives you the opportunity to really shift into a disconnected mindset, allowing yourself to turn inwards before you even begin your practice. The week of yoga here elevated my energy in such a way that I left feeling centred, energised, reconnected and grateful, filled up again with a joy and a light that I hadn't felt in a long time.
We were even treated to a meditative walking safari and a sunrise tea ceremony guided by a mindfulness coach, which allowed up to set up the rest of the week with guided intentions to really make the most of our time here.
Then the food! With a dedicated chef that is so clearly passionate about his work (he came out to explain every meal, and was bursting with pride through his explanations), that really takes care of every dietary requirement - you really feel looked after. I am vegan, so I was especially grateful for not having to worry if I would accidentally be eating anything. And I was AMAZED by the plant-based milk options, available all throughout the day for teas and coffees at the snack table!
And of course, the excursions throughout the week, were just once-in-a-lifetime opportunities - and every little detail had been thought of, even down to snuggly blankets when the temperature dropped during our trips out!
This is a dream retreat, that encompasses EVERYTHING you need to get back to feeling yourself again - yoga, nature, the wilderness, seeing wildlife up close, sustainable eco accommodation, nutritious food, incredible people, amazing experiences and the SUN!
Thank you so much for the best week of my life. I feel so grateful and will be recommending Munga Plains as a 5 star retreat...
Read moreWe enjoyed a spectacular stay at Monga Plains Lodge. I it is clearly evident that a huge amount of thought, care and an attention to detail has been taken in the design and set up of the lodge. We were only the third group of people to ever stay at the lodge since it’s initial launch. As a result we did experience some of the inevitable teething challenges of a new launch. However Thiery the owner and his fantastic friendly team were quick to respond and addressed problems. they could not do enough to make our stay as pleasurable as possible.
The Lodge is not situated inside a reserve, however it is 30 minutes drive from Chobe Game Reserve where we enjoyed a host of activities. The high light of which was a Chobe River boat cruise at sunset. Some game does traverse from the reserve, as the reserve is unfenced, we saw Zebra, Hyena and Elephant.
We flew in to Victoria Falls International Airport from Johannesburg and a transfer awaited our group at the airport. They took us to the Botswana border where we were collected by the Lodge vehicle. It was a fairly long journey, so I would rather suggest either flying into Kasane Airport or breaking up the journey, with a stay in Kasane first night. Visiting Victoria Falls is a must if one is so close.
The Lodge is a very unique concept appealing to groups and providing an ideal location between top attractions such as Victoria Falls, Kasane, and Savuti and the Okavango Delta. The Yoga Shala is a particularly spectacular feature of the lodge. We were there in winter, so we did not use it, but the pool area as looks excellent.
The food was good and they catered easily to vegan and vegetarian diets, with a creative local spin on the meals. The bush dinner was also a spectacular experience.
I will definitely return to this remotely located piece of African magic. I also highly recommend the local village...
Read moreA fantastic experience from start to finish! As soon as I arrived at Victoria Falls Airport, I was warmly welcomed and from that moment on I was in the best of hands. The visit to Victoria Falls was an impressive experience, and the yoga session on the Zambezi River at sunrise was simply unforgettable - a magical atmosphere that will stay with me forever. On the way to Munga Plains, we were able to spot the first animals, which made the journey itself a bit of an adventure. Munga Plains is an oasis of peace. The main lobby is very cozy and beautifully designed. There is always coffee, tea and small snacks available, as well as filtered water which could be used at any time to fill the Munga Plain thermos flask. The cottage is simple but equipped with everything you need. The bed was very comfortable and the bathroom large. The small veranda invites you to linger and the view is simply relaxing. The refreshing pool was a blessing in the high temperatures in october. Every day the chef from the kitchen spoiled us with wonderful dishes, which he served with a lot of love. The whole team treated us with warmth, respect and a tireless dedication to pampering us. The short walk to the shala was another special experience. As soon as you leave the gate, it feels like you leave everything behind and take a step towards yourself. A unique place that offers relaxation and inspiration. I can warmly...
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