Wellness has become a way of life. It is no longer about going to the gym or losing weight. Wellness has become a holistic concept that promotes mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health. We now understand that a workout is not enough to be well. All four aspects must be in perfect harmony for someone to be well.
Studies have shown that people that find the perfect balance between these four elements lead happier, healthier, and more prospective lives. Holistic wellness has also become a journey. People are now planning wellness trips and tours to find paradises where they can reconnect with themselves.
Reports also suggest that wellness tourism in Africa will grow by 11% per annum until 2022, with Kenya and Tanzania being the most popular destinations.
However, when people think of wellness retreats, they immediately think about the sky-high budget required. We will explore budget-friendly destinations for wellness experiences in East Africa.
Nungwi Village, Zanzibar, Tanzania
This eight-day yoga retreat takes place in Nungwi Village Zanzibar and offers a complete package starting at only $880 (88$ per night). The program is led by professional yoga trainers and includes various styles, such as Ashtanga, Dynamic, Hatha, Vinyasa, and Power. The package also includes accommodations, vegan meals, 12 yoga classes, and activities.
Paje by Night, Paje, Zanzibar, Tanzania
The Paje by Night resort is known for its luxurious rooms, fantastic spa, and the Rehub Yoga School. The rooms at Paje by Night start at $85 per night, and one yoga class is $15 per person for people staying at the resort. The teacher-led classes are hosted in the studio, the garden, or the open-air terrace (if the weather permits) and include various yoga styles, such as Asthanga, Banda, and Vinyasa.
Diani Beach, Kenya
You can enjoy a four-day (three nights) yoga and fitness retreat at Diani Beach, starting at $455 per person ($148 per night). The package includes healthy juices, vegan meals, accommodations, a 30-minute massage, yoga & fitness sessions, and an evening tapas sundowner. The program is led by professional trainers based on Asthanga, Vinyasa, Hatha, Pranayama, meditation, and a range of fitness exercises.
Banana House, Lamu Island, Kenya
The Banana House is a beautiful resort on Lamu Island that offers unique rooms, yoga classes, and retreats within a budget. The average room rate starts at $97 per night, while their yoga classes only cost $8 per class. You can also spend time at their luxurious Yoga Hall or the Banana Spa. The Banana House has three professional yoga teachers that have a passion for helping others with their wellness journey.
East Africa has many things to offer to the world when it comes to wellness tourism. The region has so many wellness retreats and resorts that will change your life. The experience will keep you wanting to come back for more. East Africa also has many options for budget-friendly wellness experiences, so even if you are on a budget, you can have a wellness experience unlike any other. To learn more about Kenya, read our Five Must Do’s in Kenya.
