Darkness Retreat Africa

Rest in darkness, return with clarity

South Africa Broadacres paid

On Johannesburg’s northern edge, the most striking feature here is what disappears: light, screens and much of the usual sensory noise. Darkness Retreat Africa is a home-based sanctuary with two purpose-built rooms designed for complete darkness and sound-dampening, each with an ensuite. These private retreats create space for deep rest and inward attention, with Jacqui supporting guests through the experience. Fresh plant-based meals are served quietly through a hatch and tailored to dietary needs. When you step out of the dark, a garden with trees, birdsong and a pool makes re-entry feel gentle; there is also a lounge and dining area for journalling or integration. A nearby park and conservation area offer walking options. Retreats are paid, with prices starting at EUR 300, and the host can arrange pickup from Lanseria airport.

Highlights

Two purpose-built rooms with complete darkness, sound-dampening and ensuites
Quiet meal service through a hatch, with plant-based food tailored to dietary needs
A garden pool, trees and birdsong for gentle re-entry and journalling
Host-arranged pickup and return from Lanseria airport

Good for

solo retreat guestsmeditation practitionerscreativespeople seeking deep restplant-based eaters

Setting

The sanctuary sits in a quiet home setting on Johannesburg’s northern edge. Inside, the dark rooms are designed to shut out light and soften sound; outside, a garden with trees, birdsong and a pool offers a calmer transition back to the senses. A park and conservation area nearby provide options for a walk.

The practice

A darkness retreat is an immersive practice of spending an extended period in a light-free, quiet room, allowing ordinary visual stimulation to fall away. Here, guests have a private purpose-built room and ensuite, with meals delivered quietly. The experience is intended to support rest and inward attention; newcomers can ask Jacqui about preparation and support before booking.

A typical day

Daily structure varies by retreat, so confirm the rhythm with Jacqui before booking. Meals arrive quietly through a hatch, while the lounge and garden provide space for journalling or gentle integration when you step out of the dark. The retreat is private, rather than organized around a published group timetable.

Accommodation

Guests stay in one of two purpose-built dark retreat rooms, each with complete darkness, sound-dampening and ensuite facilities. A simple lounge and dining area are shared spaces outside the rooms.

What to bring

Bring comfortable clothing and personal essentials for a quiet retreat, and ask Jacqui about any room-specific guidance. Johannesburg averages 17.3°C annually: pack warmer layers for May to July, while November to February are wetter months.

Address Broadacres, Sandton, 2055, South Africa

How to get there

Lanseria International Airport is the closest option. From O.R. Tambo, take the Gautrain to Sandton and continue by Uber or Bolt, or travel by Gautrain bus to Montecasino, where the host can meet you. Driving is also possible via Johannesburg’s major highways.

Nearest airport: Lanseria International Airport (HLA) (9 km)

Lanseria International Airport (HLA) is approximately 9 km from the center, and the host can arrange pickup and return. Uber and Bolt are also widely available in Johannesburg.

Nearest city: Johannesburg

Public transport: From O.R. Tambo, take the Gautrain to Sandton and connect by Uber or Bolt, or take the Gautrain bus to Montecasino and arrange to meet the host.

Languages

English

How to book

Contact Jacqui or the center directly to check dates and arrange a private retreat.

Pricing

Prices start at EUR 300. All meals are included.

Climate

Climate Zone: Temperate

Best Months: Jul, Aug, Jun

Avoid: Nov, Feb, Dec

Johannesburg averages 17.3°C over the year, with warmer weather in January to March and cooler conditions in May to July. June to August are driest, while November, December and February tend to be wetter.

Location

Frequently asked questions

What does a retreat day look like?

The retreat is private, and daily structure varies. Ask Jacqui about the rhythm and any planned check-ins before booking.

Can a first-time darkness retreat guest attend?

The retreats are intended for sincere seekers and creatives, and newcomers can discuss preparation and support with Jacqui before reserving.

What food is included, and can dietary needs be accommodated?

All meals are included: fresh vegan or vegetarian food, tea and fruit. Meals can be tailored, including for gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free diets.

How do I book, and how long should I plan to stay?

Contact Jacqui directly to ask about dates, retreat length and reservations.

Can I get a ride from Lanseria airport?

The host can collect and return guests at Lanseria International Airport. Arrange pickup with the center before travelling.