Sashwa River of Stars

Wellness beside a wild river

South Africa Hoedspruit paid

Along the Olifants River, the wild landscape is part of the retreat rather than a backdrop to it. Sashwa River of Stars pairs yoga and meditation spaces with the chance to watch elephants move through the surrounding reserve and see a wide, star-filled sky after dark. The lodge also has a pool, infrared sauna, spa, gym, lounge and art studio, so quiet practice can sit alongside rest, movement and creative time. Its social-enterprise model supports Koru Camp, a community project focused on education and empowerment, while local employment and training connect the visitor experience to the surrounding area. Meals follow a health- and sustainability-minded philosophy, with options including vegan, vegetarian, Ayurvedic, organic and several common dietary accommodations. This is a paid retreat setting with air-conditioned rooms and a strong emphasis on wellness, wildlife and connection to the land. Ask Sashwa about retreat dates and what each stay includes.

Highlights

A pool overlooking a reserve where elephants may pass
Infrared sauna, spa, gym and a dedicated art studio
A social-enterprise connection to Koru Camp’s education and empowerment work
Meals shaped by health and sustainability, with vegan, Ayurvedic and other dietary options

Good for

yoga practitionersmeditation newcomersnature loverswellness travelerswildlife enthusiasts

Setting

The lodge sits beside the Olifants River in the Greater Kruger Biosphere, with the surrounding reserve bringing wildlife and expansive night skies into the experience. The mood is shaped by the river, open wilderness and spaces designed for retreat and relaxation.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm it with the center. The grounds include yoga and meditation studios, as well as a pool, lounge, spa and outdoor surroundings for time between sessions.

Accommodation

Sashwa has air-conditioned rooms, though room styles and configurations are not described here. Guests can also make use of free Wi-Fi, housekeeping, a lounge, pool, spa, sauna and fitness facilities.

What to bring

Bring comfortable clothes for yoga and meditation, plus sun protection and light layers for changing temperatures. The annual average temperature is 22.8°C; June to August are typically driest, while January, February and December are wetter, so pack rain protection if travelling then.

Website sashwa.org

Address 44KU Struwigrus

How to get there

Daily flights connect Cape Town and Johannesburg with Eastgate Airport in Hoedspruit. Sashwa can arrange a road transfer from the airport for an additional cost; driving from Johannesburg takes about 5 to 6 hours to Hoedspruit, followed by roughly 1.5 hours to the lodge.

Nearest airport: Eastgate Airport / Air Force Base Hoedspruit (HDS) (8 km)

Eastgate Airport / Air Force Base Hoedspruit (HDS) is approximately 8 km from the center. Sashwa can arrange a transfer in advance for an additional cost.

Nearest city: Hoedspruit

Languages

English

How to book

Contact Sashwa through sashwa.org to ask about dates and make a reservation.

Pricing

Prices start from EUR 300; confirm the rate for your dates and what is included directly with Sashwa.

Interested in this center? Check availability and upcoming retreats on their official site.

Visit Sashwa River of Stars website

Climate

Climate Zone: Subtropical

Best Months: Jun, Aug, Jul

Avoid: Jan, Feb, Dec

The area averages 22.8°C across the year, with the warmest months from January to March and the coolest from May to July. June to August are generally driest, while January, February and December bring the most rain.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What does a typical day at Sashwa look like?

The daily schedule varies by retreat. Ask Sashwa about the timings and activities for your dates.

Do I need experience to join a yoga or meditation session?

Yoga and meditation are among the practices offered, but experience requirements depend on the retreat. Check with the center before booking.

How do I get to Sashwa from Hoedspruit Airport?

Eastgate Airport / Air Force Base Hoedspruit is approximately 8 km away. Sashwa can arrange an airport transfer in advance for an additional cost.

Can the kitchen cater to dietary needs?

Listed options include vegan, vegetarian, Ayurvedic, organic, gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free meals. Confirm your needs with Sashwa before arrival.

How can I book a stay?

Visit sashwa.org to contact the center about dates, availability and reservation details.