NAMASTE YOGA SAFARI 9-Day Wildlife, Adventure and Wellness Retreat - NAMIBIA

NAMASTE YOGA SAFARI
                                        NAMIBIA
                  9-Day Wildlife, Adventure and Wellness Retreat
                                  22-30 October 2021

 The perfect opportunity to re-connect with your soul and experience what Namibia is all
about – conservation, wildlife, landscapes, culture, adventure, wellness and luxury lodges.

                       Naankuse, world famous wildlife sanctuary,
                     Incredible game viewing at Etosha National Park,
                        Adventurous days at the Skeleton Coast,
                           Wellness on a private game reserve.

WELCOME TO NAMIBIA
                               A Country that feeds your Soul

I hope that you are looking forward to your Namibian Yoga Safari Adventure which lies
ahead…

Travelling through Namibia awakens your emotions and senses – colors become brighter,
smells more intense and you taste more appreciative. Your sixth sense finds its mystical home
and above all, you feel re-connected with your soul!

Namibia, nicknamed the Gem of Africa, got its name from the Namib Desert, the oldest desert
in the world and one of the highest sand dunes in the world. Namibia boasts remarkable
natural attractions such as the Namib Desert, Etosha National Park, Fish River Canyon Park
and the Kalahari Desert. Its majestic landscape and natural environment offers a unique flora
and fauna population with an abundant variety of wildlife.

With a country as diverse as Namibia, visitors can easily find themselves overwhelmed by it all.
The vastness and beauty of the Namibian landscape is a place that is inspirational and that
gets into your Soul, bringing peace, stillness and healing to your spirit. It’s something to do
with the vast open spaces, the wilderness and being out in the middle of nowhere, something
you feel deep inside, a place with so much energy and magic, it needs to be experienced….
You feel at one with nature, you sense things that you never have before, life slows down, and
you allow yourself to appreciate your surroundings, your being, yourself.

Most days are set to begin with a morning yoga practice out in nature. What better place to
find yourself at sunrise? The picture-perfect settings will give you the feeling as though time is
standing still and you will almost certainly be able to hear the landscapes whispering
rejuvenation into your soul as the world awakes.

The remainder of the mornings, after breakfast, will be spent on an excursion specific to the
area, a chance to really get to see the country and what makes it so unique. On return from
the activity, lunch will be served and then some time to relax and enjoy the “holiday” part of
this adventure or head off for another afternoon in the wilderness on a guided activity as
offered by the lodges.

As the days draw to a close, you will find yourself back in nature for an afternoon yoga
practice at sunset. An incredible way to end the day and quiet your mind before dinner under
the Namibian starlit skies…

Please note: Due to a few activities needing to take place early in the morning, there will be a
longer afternoon yoga session

ITINERARY
                     Day 1
Windhoek area, Naankuse Lodge/Wildlife Sanctuary
                  Day 2 /3 /4
   Etosha National Park South, Toshari Lodge
                  Day 5/6/ 7
      Swakopmund – Desert Breeze Lodge
                     Day 8
   Windhoek area, Gocheganas Nature Reserve
                    Day 9:
                 End of Retreat

                 ROUTE

DAY 1 – Friday, 22 October

Lodging: Naankuse Lodge – Windhoek surrounds
Accommodation: Family Villa with 4 bedrooms
Includes: All meals
Activities: 1 activity (to the value of NAD750)
Optional activities: Full carnivore feeding tour, Behind the scenes with Marlice, Ancient San
Skills Academy, Guided nature walk, Rhino feeding, Cheetah experience, Caracal experience,
Baboon experience, Meerkat experience, Sunset horse riding, visit to Shiloh Wildlife
Sanctuary – READ MORE ABOUT ACTIVITIES HERE

On arrival at Windhoek International Airport, you will be met and your Namibian Wildlife,
Adventure and Wellness Journey will begin. The drive is about 30 minutes with spectacular
landscapes, plus a chance to see baboons or antelope on the way.

Naankuse is an award-winning lodge offering stunning accommodation amidst a 3,200 hectare
nature reserve. Settle into your luxurious accommodation, relax for the rest of the day or join
one of the many exciting activities that Naankuse offers. A much-needed afternoon yoga
session will open your heart as you take in the beautiful natural surroundings. Dinner will be a
3-course meal out under the African sky.

“The Naankuse Foundation Wildlife Sanctuary provides a safe haven and second chance for
   countless injured, orphaned and conflict animals. Wherever possible our aim is to release
                                 animals back into the wild”.

DAY 2 /3/ 4

Lodging: Toshari Lodge – Etosha National Park
Accommodation: Standard rooms - comfortable and spacious, including a double bed,
wardrobe and eloquent African-inspired furnishings.
Includes: All meals
Activities: 2x Game drives to Etosha National Park

DAY 2 – Saturday, 23 October
A morning yoga flow out in nature will be followed by a healthy buffet breakfast and your
choice of activity. Round 11am we will head to our next destination – Etosha National Park, for
amazing game viewing opportunities. The drive from Naankuse is around 5 hours and lunch will
be somewhere along the way.

Settle into your accommodation, then meet for a sunset yoga session followed by a mouth-
watering dinner. Get a good night’s sleep as tomorrow calls for an early start for a game drive
to Etosha National Park.

DAY 3, Sunday, 24 October

After a healthy breakfast we will meet with an experienced guide that will take us to Etosha
National Park. It is home to hundreds of species of mammals, birds and reptiles, including
several threatened and endangered species. Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, Wildebeest,
Giraffe, Hyena, Zebra, Springbok, Kudu, Gemsbok and Eland are common in the park which
make game viewing in Etosha a unique experience.

Returning to Toshari for lunch, relax for the rest of the day before meeting for an early
afternoon yoga session, followed by a buffet dinner. The yoga session will be longer due to
not having yoga this morning.

DAY 4, Monday, 25 October

After a calming yoga practice and breakfast, we will head to Etosha National Park for yet
another amazing game viewing experience. Numerous waterholes are found throughout the
park and these provide the much-needed water to the animals. Etosha is incredible and if the
game viewing itself is not impressive enough, the Etosha Pan definitely is, as it is even visible
from space. Let that be an indicator as to its’s sheer size.

Relax for the rest of day. Perhaps go for a nature walk, read a book or soak up the sun at one
of the swimming pools. No yoga this afternoon as we will be heading to the neighboring lodge
for an amazing sunset, dinner on their outdoor lapa and live African music.

“The park is home to 114 species of mammals, 340 bird species, 110 reptile species and 16
         amphibian species which make game viewing in Etosha a unique experience”.

                              ETOSHA NATIONAL PARK

Etosha National Park spans an area of 22,270 square kilometres (8,600 sq mi) and gets its
name from the large Etosha pan which is almost entirely within the park. The Etosha
pan covers 23% of the area of the total area of the Etosha National Park.

The salt pans are the most noticeable geological features in the Etosha national park. The
main depression covers an area of about 5,000 square kilometres (1,900 sq mi), and is
roughly 130 km (81 mi) long and as wide as 50 km (31 mi) places. The hypersaline conditions of
the pan limit the species that can permanently inhabit the pan itself; occurrences of
extremophile micro-organisms are present, which species can tolerate the hypersaline
conditions. The salt pan is usually dry, but fills with water briefly in the summer, when it
attracts pelicans and flamingos in particular. In the dry season, winds blowing across the salt
pan pick up saline dust and carry it across the country and out over the southern Atlantic.
This salt enrichment provides minerals to the soil downwind of the pan on which some wildlife
depends, though the salinity also creates challenges to farming.

ABOUT TOSHARI LODGE

Nestled on an outcrop of dolomite rocks, under a forest of Mopane and white Seringa trees,
 Toshari Lodge offers affordable but enchanting accommodation close to Etosha National
Park, one of Namibia’s major attractions. Situated only 25 kilometres from Andersons Gate at
the edge of the magnificent Etosha National Park and ideally positioned for day visits into the
                                             park.

 Toshari Lodge offers a range of accommodation options, including 22 Standard Rooms, 13
   Luxury Rooms, 3 Family Rooms and 3 Campsites. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the
  property, and each room is equipped with mosquito nets, air-conditioning, a small outside
  sitting area from where you can enjoy the tranquil bush and a tea/coffee station for your
convenience. All rooms have en-suite bathrooms, with essential amenities and laundry service
                             is available at a small additional fee.

After the excitement of your Namibian safari in Etosha National Park, relax and unwind at the
  Lodge. Take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pools and enjoy the serenity of our striking
         African-inspired lapa with its stunning photographs of local Etosha wildlife.

DAY 5/6/ 7

Lodging: Desert Breeze Lodge - SWAKOPMUND
Accommodation: Luxury Twin/Double Rooms
Included: Breakfast, Yoga
Not included: Optional activities, lunch and dinner
Optional Activities: Living Desert Tour, Fat Wheel Biking, Quad biking, Dune boarding,
Ocean Safaris, Kayaking with seals, Horse riding, Camel riding, Surfing, Scenic Flights

DAY 5 - Tuesday, 26 October
An early rise for yoga as the sun starts creeping up over the horizon. A time to reflect,
breathe and simply take in the peacefulness of all that surrounds you. After breakfast, we will
be heading to the picturesque coastal town of Swakopmund - where the ocean meets the
desert. The driving time is around 5 hours, somewhat meditative with forever changing
landscapes.

Once in Swakopmund, we will check into our beautiful accommodation overlooking the Namib
Desert. Lunch will be somewhere along the beach, our afternoon yoga session will have
spectacular views of the Namib dunes, ending the day with a German cuisine dinner.

DAY 6 - Wednesday, 27 October
After a scrumptious buffet breakfast, you will surely be ready for a fun filled day in
Swakopmund. You can choose between a variety of adventurous excursions listed above. If
you would like to observe your surroundings from above, you could even try skydiving or a
scenic flight.

Sunset Yoga will be on the beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Namib Desert
followed by dinner at your choice of restaurant.

DAY 7 - Thursday, 28 October
Waking up to another beautiful day at the coast. After our morning yoga session you can
choose to go an another activity, relax or stroll around the streets of Swakopmund for some
curio shopping.

If you want to visit Sossusvlei in the South, we recommend to book the half day scenic
flight to Sossusvlei. The flight departs early morning from Swakopmund, about a 2 hour
flight. Once you get to Sossusvlei Lodge, you will have breakfast and head into the
Park with a Game drive vehicle and explore the surrounding area, including the iconic
Deadvlei. Lunch you will be back at the Lodge, then fly back to Swakopmund. Rates will
depend on the amount of guests in the aircraft. From: NAD5000 per person.

ABOUT DESERT BREEZE

Stay in Luxury and Style - In it’s prime position above the ephemeral Swakop River
overlooking a vast and sensuous apricot dune sea, Desert Breeze offers the ultimate desert
experience. A short drive from central Swakopmund, its spectacular location provides peace
and tranquility away from the bustling town, and the privilege of savoring the ancient Namib
Desert. Surrounded by the colorful and unique architecture contrasting but yet fitting in with
the desert landscape, it will sooth any soul. The luxury bungalows with their creative
atmosphere and the friendly staff will make your stay one to remember. Breakfast will be at
Desert Breeze, lunch and dinner at one of Swakopmund's many cafes’s and restaurants.

SWAKOPMUND has a laid-back feel to it with palm trees, good restaurants and gift
                     shops. Dinner will be at your choice of restaurant.

DAY 8 - Friday, 29 October

Lodging: Gocheganas Nature Reserve and Wellness Center
Accommodation: Luxury Twin/Double Rooms
Includes: Breakfast, Dinner, Yoga, Full body Marula massage
Optional activities: Guided Nature Trails, Game Drives, SPA Treatments

After yoga in the desert, we will have breakfast and make our way to Gocheganas Private
Nature Reserve where you can treat yourself at the Spa, relax at the pool or go on an optional
afternoon game drive. The drive is about 4 hours and we should arrive around lunch time.

Admire 25 different large game species roaming the 6000 hectare Nature Reserve, including
Rhino, Bat-eared Fox, Giraffe, Mountain- and Plains Zebra, Cheetah, jackal and Leopard,
Blue- and Black Wildebeest, Eland, Oryx, Red Hartebeest, Kudu, Springbok, Waterbuck,
Steenbok, Duiker, Klipspringer, Ostrich and Warthog. A fascinating variety of birds are
spread over the Reserve and can be spotted at the Wellness Village, as well as at the
surrounding water places.

           Enjoy your last dinner surrounded by the sounds and beauty of nature.

DAY 9 - Saturday, 30 October

Our last sunrise yoga session…
Depending on flight departure times, you can either relax at Gocheganas after breakfast or
go curio shopping in Windhoek. Not only will it be a memorable drive back to the airport, but
an unforgettable trip never to be forgotten...

VENUE – Gocheganas Nature Reserve

Situated a mere 29 kilometres south east from Windhoek on a hilltop overlooking a
spectacular landscape, GOCHEGANAS is a luxury lodge offering a unique combination of
Wildlife, Nature and Wellness experiences. With 25 different wildlife species located on a 6000
hectare Nature Reserve, game drives and walking activities are welcomed as an enriching
experience. Wellness facilities and treatments of a world class standard ensure a renewal of
mind, body and spirit. The architecture and decor of all buildings at GocheGanas
incorporates local arts and crafts in celebration of the culture of Namibia. Offering 16 totally
private chalets under thatched roof with uninterrupted and spectacular views over the
surrounding Reserve. Gocheganas offers 16 luxurious chalets, under thatched roof with
uninterrupted views over the Nature Reserve. All rooms are equipped with en suite bathrooms,
air conditioning, a mini bar and outdoor showers

The GocheGanas Wellness Village boasts a top of the range selection of wellness treatments,
products and services. Their facilities include eleven treatment rooms with state of the art
equipment such as a crystal bath, hydrotherapy bath, a vichy shower etc, as well as a heated
indoor pool, a cave sauna in a cathedral like masonry vault, a well-equipped fitness gym, fruit
and juice bar, thus making a visit to GocheGanas Wellness Village a unique experience.

Retreat Rates:
         •   Per person shared accommodation: €3500 (2 guests max)
         •   Per person private accommodation: €3850

      Includes
         •   1x Private yoga teacher / host
         •   Professional guides for all Excursions
         •   Daily yoga and meditation
         •   8 nights accommodation at 4 different venues & locations
         •   All meals at Naankuse, Toshari Lodge & Gocheganas
         •   Breakfast at Desert Breeze in Swakopmund
         •   1x Activity of your choice to the value of NAD750 at Naankuse Lodge
         •   2x Guided game drives to Etosha National Park
         •   1x Sunset dinner at neighboring lodge, followed by Live African music. Excluding
             drinks
         •   Road transport and 2x airport transfers
         •   Park fees
         •   Passenger Liability Insurance
         •   VAT & Tourism Levy
         •   Full African body massage
         •   Welcoming gift

      Excludes
         •   Travel Insurance
         •   International Flight Tickets
         •   Gratuity
         •   Laundry
         •   All drinks, bottled water and alcoholic beverages
         •   All optional extra activities and Spa treatments
         •   Lunches and dinners in Swakopmund

FLIGHTS
• Please book your flight to arrive at Hosea Kutako International Airport on the first day
 of retreat. If you want to book an additional night at Naankuse prior to the retreat, please
 let us know and we will book it for you.
• Daily flights to Hosea Kutako International Airport Windhoek
• National airline is Air Namibia.
• British Airways, South African Airways, Air Berlin, Condo, KLM, Qatar Airways and
  TAAG fly to Namibia.
• Most international airlines fly to South Africa with good connecting flights to Namibia.

CURRENCY
The Namibia Dollar (NAD) and South African Rand (ZAR) is the only legal tender in Namibia
and can be used freely to purchase goods and services.

The following are accepted as payment methods:
  • Matercard
  • Visa
   •    Maestro
   •    And local currency (ZAR & NAD)

TIME ZONES
   •    Summer time: GMT + 2 hours from the 1st Sunday in September to the 1st Sunday in
        April.
   •    Winter time: GMT + 1 hour from the 1st Sunday in April to the 1st Sunday in September.

WEATHER
Namibia is a year-round destination. You can expect hot, wet summers and cooler, dry winters.
Generally, the days can be quite hot and the evenings and early mornings can be remarkably
cool.

NAMIBIAN VISA REQUIREMENTS
Visas for Namibia are not required by the following nationals and can stay up to 3 months:
   •   Australia, Britain, Canada, EU and USA.

Visas required by following nationals:
   •   Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Greece, Hungary, Latvia,
       Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovakia and Slovenia

To enter Namibia, a passport valid for six months from date of entry with one blank page
If you require a visa, you must have at least three blank pages in your passport.
Nationals not referred to are advised to contact the high commission/ embassy for visa
requirements for Namibia.

WHAT TO PACK
   •   Comfortable lightweight clothing, sweater or jacket
   •   Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
   •   Sunblock, sunscreen, sunglasses
   •   Swimwear
   •   Toiletries (some will be supplied)
   •   Yoga mat (will also be supplied if you don’t have one)
   •   Camera
   •   For electrical small appliances or chargers, a conversion plug to a three-pin type outlet.