Join Joan and her international community for an unforgettable trip to Botswana, Africa. We will stay at Chobe National Park in Munga Plains. This retreat offers a remote escape to the stunning beauty of the African wilderness.

We begin in Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, easing gently into the rhythm of Africa with sunrise yoga on the Zambezi River and time to settle into the moment. From there, we cross into Botswana to begin our immersive experience at Munga Plains, a bespoke safari retreat center that blends community, conservation, and serenity. Here, daily yoga practices take place in an open-air shala surrounded by the sounds of the savannah — grounding and expansive at once.

Situated on the former tribal land of the Bassublya people, Munga Plains honors local cultural heritage by hiring local staff and supporting artisans. Enjoy cultural workshops, local traditions, and organic vegetarian food. Munga Plains offers a fusion of local flavors and healthy international cuisine. They have a farm to table concept which involves cooking from their own garden to ensure the freshest ingredients but also supports their sustainability.

Munga Plains is a sustainable eco friendly retreat center built with wood, canvas, and they operate on solar power, run their own water treatments, and grow their own herbs, vegetables, and fruits.

The shala is a true sanctuary in the wild where you will practice yoga twice per day with Joan, an international acclaimed yoga teacher. The morning practices will focus on building intensity and flow, while the afternoons will help wind you down and relax you deeply.

The accommodations are designed to provide a comfortable retreat amidst the breathtaking landscape and the whispering sounds of the African bush. There are six glamping accommodations which can be singles or shares that include, a veranda to enjoy the views, a fan and mosquito net, and a private bathroom and shower.

Embark on a classic safari adventure in 4x4 vehicles through the heart of the bush, where every turn reveals iconic wildlife – from majestic lions and towering giraffes to elephants and leopards.
Located in northern Botswana, Chobe National Park is one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations. Spanning approximately 11,700 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. From riverine forests and floodplains to swamps and woodlands, Chobe offers a variety of habitats that support a wide range of species.
Chobe National Park boasts the world’s largest concentration of elephants, often seen in herds along the Chobe River. The park is also home to lions, leopards, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species. Birdwatchers can delight in over 450 species of birds, making it a paradise for ornithologists.

Chobe National Park is committed to conservation with various initiatives aimed at protecting its wildlife and habitats. Anti-poaching measures, community engagement programs, and sustainable tourism practices are integral to preserving the park’s natural beauty and biodiversity. By visiting Chobe National Park as part of your retreat at Munga Plains, you will have the opportunity to support and experience one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations, immersing yourself in the beauty and wonder of this remarkable ecosystem.

This isn’t simply a yoga retreat — it’s a soulful journey through the wild.
A time to remember your place in nature’s rhythm.
A time to feel fully, vibrantly alive.

Activities include:

• Visit of Victoria Falls rainforest

• Sunrise Yoga on Zambezi River

• Boat cruise in Chobe National Park

• Walking safari

• Sundowner

• Game Drives (half day) in Chobe National Park

• Night drive

• Cultural village tour, including cultural workshops (Basket Weaving Demonstration/Workshop, Music/Drumming Workshop, Bush Fauna, Survival and Medicine Talk, Cooking Class, Dance Workshop)

• Traditional dance during Boma dinner

Full Itinerary:

May 7 – May 9: 2 nights in a partner lodge in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

• May 7: 

  • Pickup from Victoria Falls airport, transfer to partner lodge in town

  • Visit of Victoria Falls Rainforest (park fees and transfers included)

  • Lunch & Dinner at partner lodge included

• May 8:

  • Sunrise Yoga on Zambezi with Victoria Falls Yoga

  • OR Visit of Victoria Falls market (with e-bikes or transfer vehicle)

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at partner lodge included

May 9 – May 15: 6 nights at Munga Plains (10 double/twin rooms available for participants + 1 tour leader room)

• May 9: 

  • Breakfast at partner lodge

  • Transfer to Kasane, Botswana

  • Boat cruise & game drive in Chobe National Park before transfer to Munga Plains (packed lunch on the boat)

  • Dinner at Munga Plains

• May 9 – May 14: Munga Plains Retreat

• May 15: Light breakfast and transfer to Victoria Falls airport. Optional mobile safari extension departing from Munga Plains

We are limited to a small group so save your spot today!

Please message Joanhymanyoga@gmail.com for any questions.

A non-refundable $500 dollar deposit is required to reserve your spot.

The next balance will be due November 5, 2026 and the final balance on February 5, 2027.

After Feb. 5, 2027, no refunds will be issued for any reason, including illness, family emergencies, or pet emergencies. If someone can fill your spot, you will receive a full refund except for the $500 deposit.

In the unlikely event of government restrictions or circumstances beyond our control, we will first attempt to reschedule the retreat or offer credit toward a future trip. Refunds (if any) will depend on the recoverable portion of vendor payments.

Please purchase travel insurance that includes “Cancel for Any Reason” coverage for your protection.

Flights

• International flights are to and from Victoria Falls Airport (VFA).

• We will notify you when to book once our trip minimum is met.

Airport Transfers

• Airport transfers will be covered and to arrange a pick up and drop off to the airport please email Joan your itinerary. If you need to be dropped off or picked up anywhere else other than the airport, there may be an additional fee required.

Visas

• Zimbabwe: Two single-entry KAZA Visas are required. These can be purchased in cash upon arrival (USD $45 each for U.S. citizens). You may also apply in advance via the official site: https://www.evisa.gov.zw/.

• Botswana: No visa is required for citizens of the U.S., Canada, and most European countries.

Vaccines & Health

• Malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended. Please consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

• Recommended vaccines: Routine immunizations, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and Yellow Fever (as advised by your doctor).

• Always check with a travel medicine clinic for the most up-to-date regional recommendations before departure.

Travel & Medical Insurance

• Mandatory: All participants must have travel and medical insurance. We strongly suggest a CFAR (Cancel for Any Reason) plan for maximum coverage. These plan typically need to be purchased within 14 days of making your first deposit payment.

• Roommate Inquiry

• If you’d like to reserve a double occupancy room but don’t yet have a roommate, you can submit a roommate inquiry here. We’ll always do our best to help you find a suitable match — and in the past, most guests who’ve requested a roommate have been successfully paired, with deep friendships formed.

  Please note:

  • If a roommate is not confirmed by February 5, 2027 your reservation will automatically convert to single occupancy, and your final payment will adjust accordingly.

  • If a roommate joins your room later, your rate will be modified to reflect the shared accommodation.

  And a friendly note — if you snore, please share that info with good intent so your potential roommate can make an informed choice. A little honesty goes a long way toward a great retreat experience!

Food

• Please list any dietary restrictions on your intake form.

• Our menu is designed by Tswana chef and author of Taste of Botswana, Ednah Rosen. She prepares delicious and nutritious local dishes—from healthy, gluten-free salads to veggie samosas and revitalizing juices made with seasonal fruits from our garden.

Weather

• Weather in Botswana in May is generally considered one of the best times to visit - mild, dry, and very comfortable.

• Temperatures in the daytime 25–28°C (77–82°F) 

Early morning / night: ~8–10°C (46–50°F) 

• Mornings can feel crisp or chilly, especially on early safaris.

Medical Access

• There is a local hospital in Kachikau, approximately 15 km away, offering emergency care, and a larger hospital in Kasane (about 75 km away).

• Our producing partner, Munga Plains, is a member of Emergency Assist, ensuring rapid response support should any situation arise during the mobile safari.

• Please note that all guests are responsible for securing their own travel and health insurance, which is mandatory for participation.

Adventure & Comfort

• This retreat is designed for those open to adventure. We will be in remote wilderness areas, including a mobile safari.

WiFi

• There will be WiFi at our lodge in Victoria Falls.

• There will be WiFi at Munga Plains.

May 7 – May 9: 2 nights in a partner lodge in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe May 7: 

• • Pickup from Victoria Falls airport, transfer to partner lodge in town

  • Visit of Victoria Falls Rainforest (park fees and transfers included)

  • Lunch & Dinner at partner lodge included

• May 8:

  • Sunrise Yoga on Zambezi with Victoria Falls Yoga

  • OR Visit of Victoria Falls market (with e-bikes or transfer vehicle)

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner at partner lodge included

May 9 – May 15: 6 nights at Munga Plains (10 double/twin rooms available for participants + 1 tour leader room)

• May 9: 

  • Breakfast at partner lodge

  • Transfer to Kasane, Botswana

  • Boat cruise & game drive in Chobe National Park before transfer to Munga Plains (packed lunch on the boat)

  • Dinner at Munga Plains

• May 9 – May 14: Retreat at Munga Plains includes, activities, yoga, three drive ins to the park.

• May 15: Light breakfast and transfer to Victoria Falls airport. Optional mobile safari extension departing from Munga Plains