As if unrivaled wildlife experiences, unspoiled wilderness, and exclusive accommodation in world-renowned South Luangwa National Park weren’t enough, guests of The Bushcamp Company now have access to Yoga and meditation while vacationing on safari. Available at each of The Bushcamp Company’s six remote Bushcamps in the southern stretches of the park as well as at award-winning Mfuwe Lodge just inside the park gate, the Yoga program offers a relaxing addition to daily game drives and walking safaris in the bush.
Available complimentary and on a regular basis to all guests, the yoga program is flexible and can accommodate all skill levels. The basis of the classes focuses on bringing yoga into everyday life, to improve inner and outer awareness, balance, and health. The classes are taught by Shapur Afrand Ghandforoush, a skilled and passionate instructor who joined The Bushcamp Company fresh from a residency at DGI Nordkraft and PS Studio in Aalborg, Denmark.
Shapur, who has completed extensive training to become a Registered Yoga Teacher, specializes in everything from focused breathing “animal movements” to dance movements and meditation. He can be called on by a guest to lead a personal two-hour yoga/meditation session throughout the day if they chose to skip a game drive or called to lead an exclusive yoga session with a couple on the private deck of their chalet. Shapur also regularly leads group sessions, typically offered during Siesta Time when the sun is at its hottest, enabling guests to rest and relax prior to their evening game drive.
Yoga unfolds within interior lounge areas or outside on open-air decks at each Bushcamp and Mfuwe Lodge. Those include the striking new Star Deck at Bilimungwe Bushcamp located along a watering hole that is regularly visited with wildlife. Shaded by a towering mahogany tree and designed with yoga in mind, the Star Deck feels as though it sprung organically from the landscape, with a structure built of long-lasting, environmentally friendly composite that resembles natural wood, and an awe-inspiring 360-degree view of the sky above. When not busy with yoga, the Star Deck is a hot spot for dining, particularly romantic candlelit dinners beneath the stars.
“Our new Yoga Program is a wonderful addition to the wealth of activities we offer at each of our Bushcamps and Mfuwe Lodge,” said Andy Hogg, co-founder and owner of The Bushcamp Company. “Together with meditation, yoga immediately proved popular with our guests, and under Shapur’s guidance it’s sure to grow even more so. We’re thrilled to offer such a relaxing and healthful alternative to the excitement that can be had in the bush.”
The Bushcamp Company, www.bushcampcompany.com