Botswana, Africa
Africa
June 2026

Botswana

[ OVERVIEW ]

The Infinite Delta: A Sanctuary in the Botswana Wild

There is a specific kind of silence that exists only in the heart of the Okavango Delta, a place where the water carves a path through the ancient Kalahari sands. This journey is an invitation to witness the world in its most raw and refined state. We will navigate the crystal lagoons in traditional mokoros, watch the sun dip below the horizon from the edge of the salt pans, and share the landscape with the great matriarchs of the elephant kingdom. In Botswana, luxury is redefined as the privilege of space and the profound connection to the rhythm of the natural world. This is not just a safari; it is a return to something essential. It is a sanctuary for the woman who is ready to quiet the external noise and listen to the steady beat of her own wild spirit amidst the beauty of the untamed.

Experience Details


Trip Duration

12 days 11 nights

28 June - 09 July 2026

Next Dates



deposit: $2,943

Private: $11,323

Shared pP: $9,851

Pricing (CAD)


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Botswana Elephant Womans Retreat
A person with long blonde hair, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, is taking a photo with a camera of a leopard in the distance among trees in a grassy savanna landscape.
A woman practicing yoga on a mat outdoors, reaching out to an elephant that is gently touching her hand with its trunk, with trees and a water body in the background during sunset.

The Daily Rhythm

A day-by-day look at our Botswana itinerary

Our path begins at the majestic Victoria Falls, a place of immense power that serves as our first exhale before we cross into the wild sanctuary of Botswana. From there, we move into the unfenced expanse of Chobe National Park, where the river runs deep and the elephants truly own the land. This journey is designed as a gradual immersion into the purest form of life on Earth. As we transition from our private permanent camp to a mobile safari through Savuti and Moremi, you will experience the bush exactly as it was meant to be seen. Having lived and worked alongside a lion pride in these very floodplains, I have curated this route to lead you into the most sacred and untamed corners of the Okavango. It is a journey of surrender and awakening, where every yoga session and every sunrise game drive serves as a reminder of what it means to be fully, vibrantly alive.

  • Arrive in Victoria Falls and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Africa. In the afternoon, we take a guided walk through the ancient rainforest that hugs the falls. Along these mist-soaked paths, you will witness the raw power of the water as it crashes into the gorge, a sensory experience that invites your first true exhale of the journey.

  • We begin with sunrise yoga aboard a private boat, moving and breathing as the sun spills its golden light across the Zambezi River. This is a morning of pure peace, shared with colourful birds in flight and elephants gathering at the water's edge. It is an opportunity to simply be, grounded by the gentle flow of the river.

  • Experience a soul-touching morning practicing yoga alongside rescued elephants at a private sanctuary. Connecting with these wise creatures in their open home is a humbling and emotional lesson in presence. In the afternoon, we cross into Botswana for a sunset river cruise through Chobe National Park, watching as the bush begins to stir for the night.

  • Following grounding yoga at Munga Plains, we venture into the stillness of the delta by traditional mokoro canoe. As your guide poles through the papyrus-lined channels, time slows down and the world becomes dreamlike. We conclude the day with a village walk, sharing stories and smiles with the local community.

  • Begin with movement and intention before setting out on a walking safari. This is the most intimate way to explore the bush, learning to follow tracks and listen for the subtle sounds of life. The evening ends with a candlelit dinner and a yoga session beneath the vast, silent canopy of the African sky.

  • Ease into the morning with a slow-flow yoga practice. The afternoon is dedicated to the art of basket weaving, a tradition passed through generations that invites patience and pride. As darkness falls, we embark on a night drive to witness the mystery of the wild, from hunting lions to the silent glide of owls.

  • We take to the skies for a scenic flight over the Okavango Delta, witnessing the breathtaking scale of the wetlands. From this perspective, the earth looks like a living painting. We then land and settle into our mobile safari camp, a private sanctuary under canvas with no walls between you and the wild.

  • As we move through the pristine landscapes of Moremi and Savuti, we embrace the true meaning of safari: the journey. Each day begins with a sunrise game drive when the bush is most alive, followed by open-air yoga surrounded by birdsong. It is a time to let go of control and follow the natural rhythm of the land.

  • We explore the legendary biodiversity of the Moremi region, a place I once called home while documenting the local lion prides. Here, the connection to the essence of our planet becomes tangible. We spend our days tracking predators and our nights sharing stories and silence around the campfire.

  • Our mobile safari continues deep into the delta, offering rare encounters with the ancient creatures that roam these floodplains. Every yoga session is an invitation to stay present, and every encounter with the wild is a moment of deep connection with the roots of creation.

  • Our final stop is Maun, a place to rest and integrate the profound experiences of the past ten days. We gather to reflect on the transformation we have undergone and the clarity we have found in the wild. It is a day of soft landings and shared gratitude.

  • Before we depart, you have the option to visit a baby elephant rehabilitation centre to meet and support orphaned calves. It is an emotional, heart-opening conclusion to your pilgrimage. You leave Botswana not just with memories, but with a deep and steady sense that your DNA has been forever changed.

  • Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

    Known as Mosi-oa-Tunya or The Smoke That Thunders, these falls are where our sense of awe begins. Spanning nearly two kilometres, the falls create a permanent mist that feeds a lush rainforest and paints rainbows against the sky. It is a place of immense power and cleansing energy, serving as the perfect gateway to the wild.

    Chobe National Park, Botswana

    Chobe is a land defined by its rivers and its giants. Home to the largest concentration of elephants on earth, this park offers a raw and uninhibited look at nature on its own terms. Whether we are drifting along the riverbanks or tracking through the teak forests, the presence of the great matriarchs reminds us of the strength and grace that exist in the natural world.

    Moremi and the Okavango Delta

    This is the heart of the journey and a place I hold very close to my soul. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Delta is a shimmering mosaic of lagoons, floodplains, and hidden islands. Moremi is renowned for its incredible biodiversity and is where we truly step into the wild. Because there are no fences and no modernity, it remains one of the most pristine and sacred sanctuaries left on our planet.

  • Since our journey begins in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and ends in Maun, Botswana, there are a few different ways to arrange your flights.

    In our opinion, Option A is the smoothest and often the most economical. You’d fly round-trip into Victoria Falls, and then simply book a short one-way flight from Maun back to Vic Falls at the end.

    We also always suggest arriving a day early to get settled after your international flight. Should you choose to do this, I’d be happy to help with arranging the extra hotel night.

    Suggested Dates:

    • Arrival in Victoria Falls: June 27th, 2025

    • Departure from Victoria Falls: July 10th, 2025 (with an overnight in Vic Falls on July 9th)

    • One-way flight: Maun → Victoria Falls (via Airlink) on July 9th 

    ✈️ Option A (Recommended) 

    • Book a round-trip ticket to Victoria Falls.

    • Separately, book an Airlink one-way flight: Maun → Victoria Falls (to connect to your international flight home).

    ✈️ Option B

    • Flight 1: Toronto (or your home airport) → Victoria Falls

    • Flight 2: Johannesburg → Toronto (or your home airport)

    • Flight 3: Maun → Johannesburg on Airlink (highly recommended).

      Note: Avoid Air Botswana, as they are notorious for last-minute cancellations. An overnight at the Johannesburg airport hotel is also recommended for a smoother journey home.

    ✈️ Option C

    • Flight 1: Toronto (or your home airport) → Victoria Falls

    • Flight 2: Maun → Toronto (or your home airport)

    • Daily Yoga

    • All Meals/ drinks - non-alcoholic 

    • Safari Activities

    • Accommodations - we will be in cabins in the permanent camp, and tents whilst on the mobile safari portion of the trip. Vic Falls and Maun will be in hotels.

    • Airport Transfers

    • 1 Domestic Scenic Flight 

    • A life-changing experience, and by that we mean your DNA will be changed from this experience. 

    • Yoga with elephants

    • Sunrise Yoga on the Zambezi

    • Vic Falls Tour

    • A once-in-a-lifetime adventure

    • International Flights 

    • Travel Insurance (mandatory)

    • Alcoholic beverages 

    • Tips 

    • Personal items

  • "I came for the wildlife, but I left with a deeper sense of who I am. From sunrise yoga overlooking the Okavango Delta to connecting with incredible women from around the world, every moment felt intentional. I was nervous to join solo, but by day two, I had a tribe. Penny creates magic. If you're hesitating, don’t. This is the trip that changes everything."

    – Norma, Ontario, Canada 

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    This is not your average retreat. Penny blends adventure with mindfulness in a way that feels seamless. One day I was watching elephants by boat, the next I was meditating overlooking the African Savanna -  It’s real, raw, and transformative. You won't find this anywhere else.

    – Gayle Ann, Ontario, Canada 

      —————————————————

    The itinerary flows like a story from the majesty of Victoria Falls to the quiet mystery of the Okavango Delta. But what sets it apart is Penny’s thoughtful care. Every lodge, every practice, every pause had purpose. You’ll feel it. You’ll remember it forever.

    – Michelle, United States 

      —————————————————

    Penny is the real deal. Her love for Botswana, her presence as a teacher, and the intention behind every detail made this trip unforgettable. I came hoping to disconnect, and instead, I reconnected with everything that matters. It’s not just a trip, it’s an awakening

    – Elizabeth, Ontario, Canada 

     ————————————————— 

    What surprised me most wasn’t the wildlife (which was breathtaking), but the deep connection I felt with the women on this journey and with myself. Penny creates space for truth, for healing and a TON of laughter. The best YES I have made.

    – Arlene, Ontario, Canada 

      —————————————————

    We came for the safari and scenery, but left feeling completely changed. This trip somehow blends introspection and play. Imagine waking to lions calling in the distance, then flowing through yoga as the sun rises. Every detail was intentional. Worth every cent.

    – Marie, United States 

    ​ —————————————————

    What makes this different is Penny. She holds space like no one I’ve met. Whether we were journaling or laughing around the fire, she invited all of us to be fully present. I left grounded, wild, completely supported and fully alive. Book it, you’ll thank yourself later.

     – Alice, United States 

      —————————————————

    I was nervous to join as a solo traveller, but I felt so supported through the whole process with Penny. This group of women became family. I never felt alone, only inspired, and free to be exactly who I was. I am now leaving with a new group of sisters.  If you’re on the fence, let this be your sign: do it.

     —————————————————

     –Natasha, Australia 

    This wasn’t just beautiful,  it was awakening. I cried, I laughed, I found stillness I didn’t know I needed. Botswana worked its magic through Penny’s leadership and the sacred spaces she created. I wish I’d done this years ago. Now I want every woman I know to go.

    – Kimberley, Ontario, Canada 

Group of people in safari attire celebrating with drinks at sunset in a dry landscape with sparse trees.
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[ FAQ ]

Common Questions

    • Daily Yoga

    • All Meals/ drinks - non-alcoholic 

    • Safari Activities

    • Accommodations - we will be in cabins in the permanent camp, and tents whilst on the mobile safari portion of the trip. Vic Falls and Maun will be in hotels.

    • Airport Transfers

    • 1 Domestic Scenic Flight 

    • A life-changing experience, and by that we mean your DNA will be changed from this experience. 

    • Yoga with elephants

    • Sunrise Yoga on the Zambezi

    • Vic Falls Tour

    • A once-in-a-lifetime adventure

  • Absolutely not. You never have to do yoga. You can stretch, nap, breathe, or just exist on your mat. Zero gold stars for pushing, full credit for listening to your body.

  • Safety is the foundation of our exploration. Our safaris are led by highly trained, professional guides who are masters at interpreting animal behaviour.

    Expert Supervision: You will always be in a secure, open air vehicle designed for optimal safety and viewing.

    Strict Protocols: Our team follows rigorous safety standards, from the way we navigate wildlife encounters to the secure setup of our mobile camps.

    Guided Presence: Whether we are in a vehicle or enjoying a sundowner, you are always under the watchful eye of experts who prioritize your well-being and the respect of the animals whose home we are visiting.

  • We understand that life can bring unexpected transitions. Because our journeys are intimate and involves significant advance planning, our deposits are non-refundable. If you cancel before the final balance is due (90 days before the start of the trip), we offer a fifty percent refund of any additional payments made, minus the initial deposit and a small processing fee. Within ninety days of departure, we are unable to offer any refunds. However, we do allow you to transfer your place to another traveler for a small administrative fee if you are unable to join us.

  • Our mobile safari is a deeply boutique experience designed to bring you into closer conversation with nature without sacrificing your comfort. During this portion of the journey, we stay in spacious dome tents that allow you to feel the pulse of the wild while remaining fully supported by our expert camp crew.

    Your Sleeping Sanctuary: Each guest has their own tent equipped with a comfortable safari cot. These are topped with a light mattress, crisp sheets, and warm blankets, and hot water bottles to ensure a restful night under the African stars.

    The Boutique "Bush Bathroom": Each tent features a private, en suite bathroom area. This includes a clean, eco friendly bush toilet and a traditional bucket shower.

    The Ritual of the Bucket Shower: There is a unique grace in the safari bucket shower. Your camp crew will provide warm water upon your request, usually after a dusty afternoon game drive, allowing you to wash away the day while listening to the wind in the acacia trees.

    Falling asleep to the distant whoop of a hyena or the deep huff of a lion, with only a layer of canvas between you and the wilderness, is perhaps the most poetic way to experience the soul of Botswana.

  • Our compass is set firmly on the ground. While we have the TICO credentials to navigate the world of air travel, we choose to focus my energy on what I do best: crafting the visceral, land-based experiences that make your journey unforgettable. Think of us as your architect for everything that happens once you touch down. You are responsible for your own passage through the clouds, but once you land, you can simply breathe and let us take the lead. We are always happy to provide guidance on arrival times and preferred airports to ensure your transition into our sanctuary is seamless. We can also recommend a trusted travel agent to help you book your flights.

  • Yes. To ensure you are fully protected against the unpredictable, comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for every guest. This serves as your safety net for any medical needs, travel delays, or last-minute cancellations. We will ask for proof of your insurance prior to departure to ensure you are covered for the entirety of our time together.

  • Both Botswana and Zimbabwe are welcoming destinations for women travellers. Our boutique approach ensures you are never truly alone, as every transition is managed by our professional team and founder. Botswana is one of the most stable and peaceful countries in Africa, while our time in Zimbabwe is focused on the magnificent Victoria Falls under the care of expert local partners.

  • We recommend that you consult with a travel clinic at least eight weeks before departure. Botswana and Zimbabwe generally require being up to date on routine vaccinations. We suggest bringing a personal supply of any prescription medications in your carry-on luggage. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if you are travelling through or stopping in a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

  • The currency landscape varies between the two countries, but navigating it is part of the "grit" we handle with "grace."

    At hotels and lodges, credit cards (primarily Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted for incidental charges, boutique shop purchases, and premium spa treatments.

    In Zimbabwe, the primary currency for travellers is the US Dollar. Please ensure you bring crisp, new bills (printed after 2021) in smaller denominations, as older or damaged notes are often not accepted.

    In Botswana, the official currency is the Pula, though US Dollars are widely accepted in all tourism settings and lodges.

    For Markets and Small Purchases: You will need cash for the vibrant local markets and small village stops. We recommend having a mix of small USD bills and a small amount of Pula for these meaningful cultural exchanges.

  • English is the official language in both countries and is the primary language used for business, education, and tourism. You will find that all of our local guides, pilots, and lodge staff speak excellent English.

    While you can navigate your journey comfortably in English, leaning into the local languages is a beautiful way to practice presence and respect.

    In Botswana, the national language is Setswana. It is the heart of the country's identity.

    In Zimbabwe, while there are sixteen official languages, you will most commonly hear Shona and Ndebele.

    Learning a few simple greetings will often open doors to deeper, more authentic connections.

    Helpful Phrases for Your Journey 

    In Botswana, a warm greeting is essential. To say hello to a woman, you say Dumela mma, and to a man, Dumela rra. To say thank you, you say Ke a leboga.

    In Zimbabwe, you might use the Shona word for hello, Mhoro, or the Ndebele greeting, Sawubona. To offer your thanks in Shona, you say Tatenda, or in Ndebele, Ngiyabonga.

  • United States and Canadian citizens typically do not require a visa for stays in Botswana for up to ninety days. For Zimbabwe, you will need a KAZA Univenisa, which allows you to move between Zimbabwe and Botswana easily. This is usually obtained upon arrival at the airport or border crossing for a fee of approximately thirty to fifty dollars in crisp, new US currency.

  • In the local markets of Victoria Falls, haggling is a common and lighthearted part of the culture. It is an opportunity for connection rather than a battle of price. We encourage a spirit of fairness and generosity, remembering that a small difference in price often means a great deal to the local artisans. In boutique shops and hotels, prices are fixed.

  • June and July are winter in Southern Africa. While the days are sunny and beautiful, the early morning game drives and evenings in the Delta can be very cold. But we do provide blankets and hot water bottles on the morning safari/ game drives.

    Layering is essential. Pack a high-quality fleece or down jacket, a warm hat, and gloves for the mornings.

    Neutral tones. Please pack clothing in earth tones such as khaki, olive, or beige to blend into the landscape.

    Avoid Camouflage. It is important to note that camouflage patterns are reserved for the military in these regions and should not be worn.

    We will provide a detailed packing list closer to departure.

  • The food in Southern Africa is a hearty and grounded celebration of the earth. While our boutique lodges and camps provide exceptional international fare, we encourage you to sample the traditional flavours that define the soul of these two nations.

    The Staples: In both countries, the cornerstone of every meal is a thick, comforting maize or sorghum porridge. In Zimbabwe, it is known as Sadza, and in Botswana, it is called Pap or Bogobe. It is more than just a starch; it is a symbol of community and is traditionally enjoyed with your hands, using a small piece to scoop up various relishes and stews.

    Botswana’s National Dish: You must try Seswaa, a deeply flavorful dish of beef or goat that is slow-cooked in a three-legged iron pot until it is tender enough to be shredded and pounded. It is typically served with Morogo, a variety of wild leafy greens similar to spinach.

    The Richness of Peanuts: Zimbabwean cuisine is famous for its use of groundnuts or peanut butter. Dovi is a rich, creamy peanut stew often made with chicken or vegetables, while Muriwo Unedovi features leafy greens simmered in a savoury peanut sauce.

    Game Meats: For the adventurous, many boutique lodges offer the chance to sample sustainably sourced game meats such as kudu, impala, or ostrich. These are exceptionally lean and flavorful, often prepared as steaks or in traditional stews.

    Boutique Beverages: To toast your journey, try a St Louis Lager in Botswana or a Zambezi Lager in Zimbabwe. For a non alcoholic local favourite, Gemere is a refreshing, homemade ginger beer that is both fizzy and slightly spicy.

    Dietary Requirements

    Because your comfort is our priority, we are highly experienced in catering to diverse dietary needs. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free, the "Grit & Grace" team ensures that your meals are prepared with the same level of care and boutique quality as the rest of your journey. Many traditional dishes, such as Dikgobe (a mix of beans and samp) and various Morogo preparations, are naturally plant-based and nourishing.

  • While Morocco is a Muslim country, it is also very cosmopolitan. Alcohol is available in many modern restaurants, liquor shops, and within the sanctuary of our selected riads and hotels. While we respect the local traditions of sobriety in public spaces, you will certainly have the opportunity to enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail as we toast to our adventures in the evenings.

  • Tipping is a meaningful way to show gratitude for the exceptional service provided by our trackers, guides, and camp staff. We will provide you with a detailed tipping guide before departure to take the guesswork out of this process, ensuring you feel confident in your gestures of thanks.

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