From October 13–17 2025, Mindfulness van Commenée is hosting a 5-day silent retreat at Kuti Wildlife Reserve in Salima.
What is a mindfulness silent retreat?
During a mindfulness silent retreat, you are invited to literally step into silence. When you arrive, there’s still time to talk, to get to know eachother, ask your questions, and settle in. The silence begins on the evening of day 1.
In the days that fol’ow, we’ll meditate in silence and take part in silent mindfulness activities like movement practices, horseback riding, and a bush walk. You might be thinking: Silence? But how will I know what to do? Is the guide silent too? No worries – Luka van Commenée will guide the retreat in English. This means all activities include some form of spoken guidance, either from Luka herself, someone from the Kuti team, or both.
There will also be the opportunity to schedule a short one-on-one moment with Luka during the retreat – around 10–15 minutes – where you can briefly break the silence to check in and share your experience.
A retreat literally means “to withdraw” Alongside the guided sessions, there’s also space for rest, reflection, and being with yourself. And yes, that can feel unfamiliar at first. In those quiet moments, the urge to grab your phone or read a book can be strong. And that’s completely okay – nothing is forbidden. But I warmly invite you to try leaving your phone off (even if Ginny the giraffe walks by!) and your book closed, and instead explore what it’s like to just be.
Want to take a nap? Go for a walk? Sit on a chair and simply stare into the distance? Perfect.
Nothing is required – everything is allowed. This time is for you. So if you do choose to read or scroll your phone, and it’s a conscious choice, I won’t stop you.
You are welcome – truly. Whether you’ve done many retreats or this is your very first, the program is designed in a way that anyone can join.
€555,-
This includes:
4 nights in a shared 2-person bush chalet (with bedding & towels), all vegetarian meals, coffee/tea/water, guidance, materials, activities, park fee – and an unforgettable experience.
Not included:
Flights, transfers, travel & health insurance, visa costs (we’ll happily provide a list of nationalities that can get a free visa on arrival in Malawi!), tips, not-mentioned drinks or activities and any other personal expenses.
Tip: After the retreat, you could head to the Lake of Stars Festival – or make that dream trip you’ve always longed for a reality, by planning it with the amazing team at 1-2 Travel Africa.