Join us on a 7 night, 8 day traveling yoga retreat experience in Egypt with international yoga teacher DJ Townsel as we adventure throughout the Ancient World of Egypt. Together, we will explore the Great Pyramids of Giza and sights and sounds of Cairo, set sail across the Nile in a traditional Dahabeya boat to discover the magic within the temples of Luxor and Karnak, and venture to laid back Aswan, which brings together Nile views, relaxation, ancient ruins, and Nubian culture in a relatively small space compared to other sprawling Egyptian cities.
In addition to exploring one of the most mystical destinations in the world, DJ will be leading us through a daily yoga practice as well as his signature acro and inversion workshops.
All of the retreat details can be found here:
DJ Townsel, a former NFL athlete, is now an Orlando-based personal trainer, health coach, yoga instructor and most recently a NBC Titan Games competitor.
Inspired by amazing individuals on Instagram, Derrick began practicing yoga in 2012. Not entirely comfortable practicing in public at the time, Derrick became a self-taught yogi in the middle of his living room. He followed online sessions and studied the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects and history of yoga. Derrick has now become an inspiration to thousands who didn't think a passion for fitness or yoga could be a possibility for them, mainly men and people of color. Derrick is now a sought-after 200-Hour Certified Yoga Instructor, Acrobatic Yoga Instructor, Certified Personal Trainer, and Level 2 WCO Calisthenics Instructor in Central Florida.
Channeling his West Indian ancestry, always listening to Bob Marley while he practices yoga, and his signature crown of locked hair, Derrick has become known to the yoga community as the "Rasta Yogi".
Instagram: @dade2shelby
DAY 1: Arrival and dinner on Felucca at sunset
While the sun sets on the ancient city of Cairo, you will embark on a lively felucca ride on the Nile, the river believed to carry water from the heavens by both ancient and modern Egyptians. The Egyptian dinner will give you a taste of the finest Cairean food and will be accompanied by the warm, melodic tunes of the oud, an instrument born in ancient Mesopotamia, raised in Iraq and Spain, and matured in Egypt. Akin to the piano in Europe, the oud is dubbed the Sultan of Instruments in the Middle East and has evolved over centuries to express the timeless, triumphant spirit of the region.
DAY 2: Pyramids & Egyptian museum tour
The ancient Egyptians were one of the most religious people in the world. Their belief system sprang from an age-old mythology and grew to permeate most aspects of their existence. It created the political system that made the state revolve around the pharaoh and the social system that divided society into classes that either ruled or labored. In this tour, we will learn of the revered god-pharaohs and their unique intermediary roles between gods and men; explore how the priests reinforced this perception through their temple institutions; and how the pharaohs were ultimately able to utilize the manpower and resources of an entire nation to construct pyramids that would stand for millennia. Concepts of power and religion that have evolved, yet can still be heard resounding today.
DAY 3: Desert safari on quad bikes and explore Luxor East bank
We'll adventure through the Western Desert in quad bikes. In Luxor’s East Bank, we venture into the temples to marvel at the greatest ancient Egyptian monuments built by some of its most notable rulers. As you witness the power of the pharaohs in the Luxor and Karnak Temples, you will also learn about their loyal servants and covert arch-enemies: the priests. These holy men often tipped the balance of power, and at times, even challenged the pharaohs to rule Egypt.
DAY 4: Edfu & Komombo tours
Edfu and Kom Ombo were religious centers for thousands of years; homes to the most powerful of all kings—the gods. The modern-day cities are where the best preserved temples in all of antiquity are located. It was here that Horus restored justice and triumphed over the evil Set. And here where the gods created the world, raised the heavens, and maintained them with benevolence.
DAY 5: Sailing to Aswan
DAY 6: Aswan full day tour & Nubian dinner and culture show
This tour at the Aswan High Dam, commissioned by late President Abdelnasser as a final taming effort of the Nile’s capricious spirit. We then go back in time to the Philae Temple of Lady Isis. Ancient Egypt had made way for the Ptolemies at this time, but you will see on every pylon of this pearl temple, how the Greek pharaohs continued their dance with eternity, keeping close Isis, Horus, and Hathor. The tour will end at the serene Nubian Village,
where you will have an authentic Nubian dinner while enjoying a traditional performance. As a final relaxation activity, we will take a boat and sail peacefully on the Nile until we arrive at the serene Nubian Village. There you will be greeted by its locals and be hosted for an authentic Nubian dinner that will be followed by a music and dance performance.
DAY 7: Aswan and return to Cairo
On our final day we'll relax in Aswan before departing on our over night train to Cairo.
DAY 8: Flight back home
We'll arrive early morning to Cairo and depart to the airport.
*Yoga and/or workshops with DJ will be scheduled in accordingly. A detailed schedule will be sent to you 30 days prior to your retreat start. The above itinerary is subject to change.
A $500 USD Non Refundable deposit will secure your spot on the retreat or you may choose to pay in full. The remaining balance is due 60 days prior to the retreat start date. Payment plans are available, remaining balance can be split up to 6 payments - please refer to FAQ for more information. A confirmation email will be sent within 48 hours of your booking.
Please do not book your flight until you have received a confirmation to do so. You will be provided with instructions on when to arrive/depart along with travel agent details to assist you with your flight booking (or you may book your flight on your own).
An information package will be sent 30 days prior to departure and will include the retreat schedule, recommended packing list and trip details.
All deposits & payments are non refundable. By booking a retreat, you agree to the Terms & Conditions listed here.
1. Who can attend this retreat?
Our retreats are for everyone! It doesn't matter what your age, gender, race, weight, height, flexibility and level of experience is - the practice of yoga is for every single being. New to yoga? We all have to start somewhere and retreats are the perfect space to start and/or grow your practice. Don't worry about how advanced others may be and remember this journey is yours, take all the time and be patient with yourself. If you're new, let us know so we can make sure our teachers are prepped to assist you.
2. I've never travelled before and I don't have anyone to go with. Can I come alone?
Yes!! Before you go, we are here to guide you and get you prepared as much as possible for this retreat and travel experience. With us, you're never alone! We set up a group chat to communicate with one week prior to the retreat to check in and update each other as you start your travel from where ever you may be. We'll pair you up with a roommate, who will most likely end up being a lifelong friend. You may come alone, but you'll end up leaving with a community of like minded people who will forever be connected through this experience.
3. What do I need to pack?
30 days before your retreat, we'll send you a guide of what to pack and bring.
4. What type of travel insurance do I need and why is it mandatory?
Your insurance will need to cover emergency medical and trip cancellation/interruption. This is to protect you in case of any unforeseen circumstances either before or on your retreat.
5. Do you offer monthly payment plans?
Yes! Once you've paid the deposit amount, the remainder of your balance can be split and paid by the remaining months left until the full balance is due. For example, if the total retreat is $1,800 USD and you pay your $500 deposit in November - starting from December to June (7 months) you will pay a monthly fee of $186 USD. If you would like this option, once you've paid your deposit please email us at info@adzentureretreatsyoga.com to set up a payment plan for you.