Packing check list

Before stepping away from the hum of daily life and into the quiet magic of the African wilderness, taking a moment to pack mindfully becomes part of your intentional journey. A yoga safari retreat is unlike any other travel experience – it's part wellness reset, part wild adventure. That means your suitcase should hold both practical necessities and soul-soothing comforts.

Below is your curated guide to packing for yoga safari retreat during the dry season in Botswana and Zimbabwe, covering everything from yoga essentials to safari gear, with mindful notes on climate, culture, and conscious travel.

Seasonality: The different facets of the dry season

Your retreat falls during the dry season (March to November), a time when Botswana's nature reveals its most majestic side. However, not every month's climate is the same, and you may want to pack differently depending on when your retreat is happening.

March and April mark the beginning of the dry season, with temperatures climbing up to 30°C/86°F during the day, but mornings and evenings can be a bit chilly and you might experience an occasional rain shower. From June through to August, there is very little rain and it is a bit cooler, with afternoon temperatures climbing up to about 27°C/81°F. Nights and early mornings are cold at around 8°C/46°F. As the dry season draws to a close, September and October continue to get hotter before the rains break at the end of November. October is very hot with average afternoon temperatures of 34°C/93°F. However, conditions at night and in the mornings are agreeable.

Key takeaway? Pack layers. You’ll want to peel off as the sun rises and wrap up again when it sets. From June to August, make sure you have thermal wear with you to sleep at night and for early morning safaris and yoga practices.

Travel documents

Make sure your travel paperwork is in order before you arrive:

• ✔ Passport (valid for at least 6 months, with two blank pages)

• ✔ $50-70 in cash for double-entry Zimbabwe visa (paid on arrival)

• ✔ Optional: Travel insurance & photocopies of important docs

• ✔ Yellow Fever certificate (only if traveling via a risk zone) See risk areas

Health & Safety Must-Haves

While you're in safe hands on the retreat, packing thoughtfully for your health ensures a smooth experience:

• ✔ Malaria prevention pills (consult your healthcare provider)

• ✔ Personal medications & mini first aid kit

• ✔ Plasters, antiseptic cream, motion sickness tablets

• ✔ Insect repellent (natural if possible)

• ✔ High-SPF sunscreen & lip balm with SPF

Clothing: Comfort, Layers & Safari Smarts

Style here means practicality and ease. Think comfort, sun protection, and respect for the local culture:

• ✔ Breathable daytime wear (light fabrics, loose fit)

• ✔ Warm clothing for mornings/evenings (fleece, down, thermals)

• ✔ Thermal sleepwear (for chilly nights under canvas, especially if traveling from June to August)

• ✔ Shoulder-covering top or scarf (for village visits)

• ✔ Swimsuit (for pools or waterfalls)

• ✔ Sandals or flip-flops (for relaxing around camp)

• ✔ Comfortable walking shoes or boots (Waterproof/GoreTex ideal)

• ✔ Scarf or bandana (for dust on drives)

• ✔ Sunhat or cap

• ✔ Sunglasses

Note: Neutral colours (khaki, tan, olive) are ideal for safari. Avoid bright colours or white, which can attract insects or startle wildlife.

Safari Gear & Extras

You're coming for more than yoga — wildlife sightings, stargazing, and unforgettable landscapes await. Here's what you'll want on hand:

• ✔ Camera (with extra batteries/memory cards)

• ✔ Binoculars (for birding or tracking wildlife)

• ✔ Backpack or daypack (for daily outings)

• ✔ Flashlight or headlamp (evenings are dark!)

• ✔ Power bank or solar charger

• ✔ South Africa plug adapter (Type M)

Cash & Community Contributions

• ✔ $10–20/day for staff tipping (placed in a communal tip box – please refrain from tipping the staff directly)

• ✔ $50–100 for small local purchases or souvenirs

• ✔ Optional: Donations for community visits

  • School supplies (crayons, pens)

  • Second-hand children’s clothing

  • Plush toys or books

Optional add-ons for the mobile safari extension

If you’re joining the mobile safari camping extension, pack for simplicity and comfort:

• ✔ Backpack for 3 nights only (big luggages will be safely stored until you return)

• ✔ Extra thermal layers, hat, gloves

• ✔ Yoga mat & personal hygiene items

• ✔ Quick-dry towel

• ✔ Personal pillow (if desired)

• ✔ Bag sheet (‘sac à viande’) – great for cooler nights

• ✔ Small backpack for 3 nights

• ✔ Durable clothing for bush camping

Last tips before you go

• Soft-sided luggage only. For light aircraft transfers, keep your bag under 15–20kg (33–44 lbs).

• WiFi is limited – consider downloading meditations, books or music in advance.

• eSIMs or local SIM cards are available, but many guests use the opportunity to unplug completely.

See you on the mat!

This is a journey that begins before you even set foot in the bush. As you lay out each item, consider how it will support your experience – how it will help you feel more at ease, more connected, more open.

Pack lightly. Pack consciously. And get ready for something extraordinary.