The demand for wellness travel is booming, with more of our guests seeking rejuvenation for both body and mind. Post-pandemic, wellness tourism has evolved beyond spa visits to include more holistic, immersive experiences. Africa’s unique landscapes—from remote savannahs to islands —provide the perfect backdrop for a soul-soothing journey that reconnects you with nature. With destinations offering everything from yoga retreats to nature pilgrimages, Africa has become a premier location for wellness travel that harmonises adventure and relaxation. Let’s delve a little more…
1: Rewilding and nature pilgrimages
Rewilding holidays are on the rise as guests seek to reconnect with nature (and each other) and escape the digital rat race. In Africa, this means immersing yourself in remote, unspoiled wilderness areas where silence and serenity reign supreme. Hiking through South Africa’s Eastern Cape or embarking on a walking safari in Botswana allows visitors to experience the therapeutic benefits of the wild—fresh air, wide-open spaces, and a sense of peace that only nature can provide.
Destinations like Northern Kenya, Elsa’s Kopje, offer an idyllic retreat for those of you who are seeking quiet reflection amidst stunning landscapes. Or get adventurous and off the beaten track and visit places like the Republic of Congo for remoteness like none other and epic walks (photographed).
These experiences provide the perfect setting for mindfulness and meditation, promoting inner peace and mental clarity.
3: Holistic spa and massage experiences
For those seeking relaxation through physical rejuvenation, Africa’s wellness retreats deliver world-class spa experiences. Whether you’re in cosmopolitan Cape Town or remote safari areas, there’s some great properties with impressive offerings.
Giraffe Manor, Kenya has an entire retreat with sauna, spa, pool and massage rooms. For a coastal setting, visit Anantara Bazaruto Island Resort & Spa for its five treatment rooms, ice-plunge pool, health bar for juices, smoothies and shakes, and a swimming pool overlooking the sea. The range of treatments are always designed to detoxify and revitalise the body. These retreats go beyond traditional massages by incorporating local healing traditions and natural ingredients too! African wellness spas often use indigenous plants and oils, providing a cultural connection to the land while enhancing the therapeutic experience. Whether it’s a deep tissue massage after a day on safari or a soothing facial using local botanicals, these treatments will help you feel relaxed and replenished.
4: Adventure and wellness rolled into one
Wellness travel doesn’t mean sacrificing the thrill of adventure. Beyond their conservation credentials, the Varty family behind South Africa’s Londolozi (epic located safari camps and lodges in Kruger region) lead the way on wellness travel in Africa.
Brother-and-sister team Boyd and Bronwyn Varty, trained under Oprah Winfrey’s life coach Martha Beck. Lessons from the bush (tracking, instincts, and silence) create your very own program for personal transformation.
Silent walks, life coaching, healing sessions, spa treatments and yoga await!
5: Why wellness travel in Africa?
Africa’s appeal as a wellness destination lies in its unique ability to provide both adventure and tranquility. Remote locations offer peace and solitude, free from the distractions of everyday life.
So it’s the vast landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and loads of opportunities to reconnect with nature that make Africa a top choice if you’re a wellness traveller.
What we love too is how these wellness retreats are prioritising and valuing sustainable and responsible tourism. The properties we partner with support local communities and conservation efforts, allowing you to contribute positively to the places you visit. This sense of purpose and connection further enhances your overall wellness experience.
Ready to transform your mind, body and spirit in Africa?
We’re seeing such an increate in wellness travel – guests that want genuine transformative experiences that naturally combine the thrill of safari and the wonderful world of wellness. Think yoga in stunning locations, rewinding hikes, holistic spa treatments…
So if you’re ready to rejuvenate your body, calm the mind, nourish the soul and safari, we’re here to help! Let’s get you there and back – feeling truly renewed after the adventure.
Your journey starts here.