An Authentic African Immersion
Equipped with far too much luggage, I set off before a glorious sunrise on a beautiful July winter morning, heading to Durban airport for a flight to Johannesburg and then on to Hoedspruit. Just a few weeks prior, Motswari Private Game Reserve extended an invitation for me to join a media trip, unveiling their new wellness concept in the heart of the Greater Kruger National Park at Motswari African Retreat, a wildlife paradise showcasing the ‘Big 5‘.
I was excited at the opportunity to embark on a wellness journey in the bush, where untamed beauty meets the luxury of a serene lodge; a chance to immerse myself in new energy and fresh surroundings. Yet, amidst the thrill, I couldn’t help but panic: how would I find the time to truly embrace the experience? Despite my concerns, I chose to lean into the opportunity, allowing the allure of this magnificent setting to transport me to a state of bliss.
Three weeks later, as we descended into Hoedspruit, my fears melted away, replaced by exhilaration as I watched the bush stretch endlessly beneath me. I had arrived, ready to embark on a transformative journey. Alongside my newfound friends in writing and journalism, Andrea Nagel and Pippa De Bruin, we began our one-hour road trip to African Retreat by Motswari in the Greater Kruger National Park.
From the moment we arrived, we were greeted like family. Owner of Motswari Private Game Reserve, Marion Geiger Orengo, our ranger and guide, Jeremy Schreiner, along with the reserve team and hosts Sarah Robertson and Keaton Quarmby from Newmark Hotels & Reserves, gave us the warmest welcome. The excitement built as we hopped onto a safari vehicle and took the short drive to Motswari African Retreat, where the retreat’s mission became clear: to immerse guests in the wilderness, harnessing the healing power of nature to promote physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing. Daniel, his entire team, wellness facilitator Roeline, Chef John and Musa, all ensured that our experience would be nothing short of transformative.
Nestled in the bush, my private bungalow offered an expansive view of the wilderness, blurring the lines between inside and out. The luxurious space invited nature in, providing an instant sense of stillness and mindfulness. As I sat on my patio, journaling and listening only to the calls of the wild, I marvelled at how quickly my initial panic over finding time to unwind had dissolved. Time seemed to stand still, and I realised it was perfectly okay.
Day two began with an early morning guided walk with Jeremy and Lola, the camp’s quiet and watchful presence. Jeremy’s profound knowledge of the bush, paired with his contagious enthusiasm, deepened our connection to nature, fostering mindfulness with every step. After two hours of rejuvenating exploration, we were surprised to find Chef John, Musa and team setting up a five-star breakfast in the middle of the bush, using a large flat rock as our table, adorned with tablecloths for elegance and cushions for comfort. The setting was both rustic and refined. It was a moment of sheer indulgence, where every detail reflected the beauty and healing power of the African landscape.
Chef John Roux elevated our wellness experience with his culinary magic, crafting meals that are as nourishing as they are delectable. His deep connection to nature is reflected in every dish, with ingredients thoughtfully sourced from the surrounding landscape and local communities. Featuring African grains, local herbs, wild berries, sustainably sourced venison, fresh fruit and vegetables, each creation is a culinary journey that nurtures both the body and spirit. Using authentic traditional techniques, meals are mostly prepared outside. Dining at Motswari Retreat is more than just a meal – it’s a celebration of the African bush, enhancing one’s holistic journey of healing and restoration. With impeccable presentation and daily variety, his thoughtfully crafted meals inspired us to embrace wellbeing through mindful eating. All accolades to him for such a transformative culinary experience.
At the core of our retreat experience was retreat facilitator, Roeline Hansen, who guided us on this path to wellness. A certified Yoga instructor, massage therapist, Vipassana meditation coach and certified breath coach, Roeline’s expertise radiated throughout each activity. Her sessions were seamlessly integrated into the natural environment – whether it was meditative Yoga, tai chi at sunrise in the dry riverbed, or mindfulness techniques designed to encourage self-discovery. Every moment was transformative, leaving us rejuvenated in both body and mind. We were treated to peaceful outdoor massages on a deck overlooking the bush, surrounded by the serene stillness of the wild. Roeline’s glowing energy made it easy for us to connect with ourselves, encouraging a sense of healing that went far beyond the physical.
The retreat lodge, complete with a river-facing infinity pool and expansive deck, invites one to feel a profound connection with the surrounding environment or simply to be present in stillness. Our evenings were spent around the open-air firepit and boma, where incredible meals were served under the stars. Afterwards, we gathered by the warmth of the traditional fire as reserve owner, Marion, shared the rich history of the land and the deep-rooted communities connected to it, paying respectful homage to both.
On our final evening, we were treated to a late afternoon into early evening game drive with Jeremy and his tracker. The drive was filled with memorable sightings and fortune smiled upon us when we encountered a majestic pride of lions. We parked and quietly absorbed the scene – The sights, the earthy scent of the bush, and the palpable energy of the wilderness created a profound connection to the rhythm of the wild. Observing the pride of lions as they awoke, stretched, and rubbed against each other in preparation for their evening hunt was a poignant reminder of the beauty of being fully present. Their natural, unhurried routine underscored the value of slowing down, taking time, and savouring the moment. The drive concluded with the tranquillity of the African night, the sky alight with a celestial display of stars and planets hovering above the continent. Jeremy enriched the experience by sharing stories of ancient history and the traditional tales of the Southern Cross. His tale is one you’ll have to hear first-hand when you visit.
Witnessing animals in their wild, open spaces offered a renewed perspective on wellness, reminding me of our deep connection to nature and the wildlife within it. It served as a gentle reminder that when life feels overwhelming, nature generously shares her magnificence, calm, and healing powers… like the leopard I saw basking in the evening air in a dry riverbed, embodying that very tranquillity.
Rewind to a few weeks ago, when I was anxiously trying to find time! Leaving Motswari African Retreat, I can’t quite find the words to describe the transformative experience I’ve had – it just felt right. I left feeling completely refreshed, recharged, and enveloped in sheer bliss. This retreat reminded me of something vital: We owe ourselves time. Time to connect with who we truly are, to heal, to be at peace and to find the wellness that lies within. Only when we experience this deep sense of self-worth can we truly love and give to those we meet every day.
Each experience at Motswari Retreat is designed to promote deep rejuvenation with unique offerings, such as art therapy, stargazing, fireside storytelling and journaling, allowing us to tap into creative and reflective practices, all while being fully immersed in the raw beauty and timeless essence of Africa.
Motswari African Retreat truly delivered on its promise. It is a place to rediscover yourself. For me, I found exactly that. For those seeking physical rejuvenation, mental clarity, or spiritual healing, this retreat offers the perfect sanctuary in one of the most beautiful corners of the world. An authentic, transformative escape that seamlessly blends wellness with the wilderness, it is an experience unlike any other. It’s a true African treat!
This is more than just a destination; it’s a sanctuary for the soul, offering an authentic, transformative escape.
“I came looking for an experience, but I left with something far more valuable – I found myself” Mandy
Motswari African Retreat is situated in the Umbabat Private Nature Reserve, a picturesque 18 000 hectare Big 5 reserve with an open boundary to South Africa’s famed Kruger National Park, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the properties.
To book Motswari African Retreat +27 21 427 5901, email [email protected] or visit www.newmarkhotels.com.
