Safari of the soul
A 5-Night Safari, Yoga & Art Retreat in the Wild Heart of Africa
2 - 7 May, 2026
Madikwe, south africa
It is with deep joy and excitement that we invite you to join us on an extraordinary journey into the African wildness… a retreat devoted to remembering your true nature in all its raw beauty and wonder.
Safari of the Soul is a five-night immersion in the majesty of Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa, hosted by artists and facilitators Lara Zilibowitz, Annie Tarasova & musician Holloway.
This is an exquisitely curated experience designed to reconnect you to the magic and mystery of your aliveness, to the wild and wondrous energy that resides within you - the instinctual, intuitive, spirited self that knows how to listen, feel, expand, and roam free.
Each day begins with the rising sun, venturing out on safari to witness the splendour of the savannah as it awakens. Madikwe is renowned for its thriving wildlife and breathtaking landscapes and home to Africa’s iconic Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo - not to mention the myriad other majestic forms including cheetah, giraffe, zebra, antelope, birdlife and more. Our expert guides share their deep knowledge of the land and the stories of the animals who are home here, bringing each encounter to life with reverence and awe.
Returning to Molori Safari Lodge, our world-class five-star accommodation nestled in the heart of the reserve, we’ll gather for long, luxurious lunches and quiet rest before an afternoon of somatic movement, meditation, and art ~ practices designed to integrate the sensory richness of the day and translate it into meaningful expression.
At dusk, we’ll dine under the starry African sky, feasting on delicious local cuisine prepared by our Michelin-trained chefs. Each evening we’ll be guided by the evocative live music of Holloway, creating space for deep listening, reflection, and connection.
Every day on this retreat is an absolute adventure for the spirit - a chance to to slow down, and to be profoundly moved by the beauty and depth of the natural world, both inner and outer.
About Molori Safari Lodge
Molori is a luxurious, intimate retreat tucked deep within the sweeping wilds of Madikwe, perched high enough to offer stunning views across the valley and the distant Dwarsberg Mountains.
Its eight open-air suites, ranging from elegant premier suites to lavish presidential ones, are thoughtfully spaced apart to guarantee privacy, each opening through glass walls onto private decks and infinity pools that seem to merge seamlessly with the savannah beyond. Inside and out, Molori blends contemporary comfort with African wilderness charm: luxe furnishings, fireplaces, private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and calm, artful interiors imbue a sense of refined relaxation.
The main lodge is a haven in itself… with multiple dining areas, a cozy library and bar, outdoor decks, infinity pools, and a heated jacuzzi… ideal for unwinding after a day of safari and art adventure.
Here, among ancient trees and golden grasslands, you are invited to step away from the noise of everyday life and step into a world where nature becomes your teacher.
Reignite the fire in your heart.
Remember your love for this earth.
Awaken your inner spark for life.
Through guided journaling, intuitive practices, connection circles, wildlife encounters, and spacious time for reflection, this journey invites you to soften into presence and discover what your soul has been longing to tell you.
A return to the untamed truth of who you are.
Hosted by: Lara Zilibowitz, Annie Tarasova & Holloway
Venue: Molori Safari Lodge, Madikwe Game Reserve, South Africa
Price - all inclusive experience US$5,500*
A magical opportunity awaits…. Deposit US$500 today**
What’s included in the price*
5-night twin share accommodation in luxury Molori Madikwe Game Reserve
3 sumptuous meals per day in dream locations across the property with snacks and drinks in between
1 long sunrise or sunset safari drive per day
Yoga, meditation, art and music sessions
Shuttle bus transport from Johannesburg
What’s NOT included
Airfaires
Travel insurance
Hotels in Johannesburg
Alcoholic beverages on retreat
Additional spa treatments - can be purchased at your own expense
To secure your place a deposit of US$500 is due now, with US$2500 due on February 1 and remainder due April 1**
If you book by the December 31, 2025 you will receive a complimentary spa treatment!
Sample day schedule:
6:00 am - Sunrise Safari
Begin the day with the first light, venturing into the savannah. After sightings we will stop for tea and coffee and journal reflections out in the bush.
11:00 am - Brunch
Returning back to the lodge for a nourishing meal to replenish body and spirit.
Midday - Rest & Reflection
A generous pocket of time to journal, nap, swim or get spa treatments.
3:00–6:00 pm - Afternoon Session
An immersive session led by Lara and Annie of movement, art, music, meditation, or connection - a creative unfolding inspired by the day’s sightings and sensations. Different each day.
7:00 pm - Dinner
A soulful close to the day with delicious food in one of the many dining locations.
8pm - evening music
Drifting off to a sound journey by Holloway under the stars
How to get there?
You will need to arrange a flight into Johannesburg. Madikwe Game Reserve is a 4-4.5 hour drive out of Johannesburg. The shuttle bus overland drive is included in your retreat price.
Bus pick ups from Johannesburg at 10am on Saturday 2nd May. There is also the option of flying directly to the game reserve from Johannesburg instead of flying. This fee would be extra.
Land Acknowledgement
Molori stands as a guardian of the wild, supporting powerful conservation projects that protect Africa’s most vulnerable creatures. Through anti-poaching initiatives, wildlife monitoring, and hands-on fieldwork, this land becomes a sanctuary where endangered species are watched over with devotion. Guests are invited to witness this quiet magic - the healing of the earth through care, courage, and deep reverence for the natural world.
This retreat honours the sacred lands of South Africa and the Indigenous communities who have cared for them for generations. May our time here be carried with respect, humility, and an open heart.
Watch A video about molori lodge
SECURE YOUR place!
Join this life-changing retreat with a US$500 retreat deposit* today.
About Your Guides
Annie Tarasova
Annie is an independent artist on a mission to inspire you to look within, as she believes all answers to your questions are found in your inner world. She founded DreamyMoons in 2016, initially created to inspire her to make more art when she felt like she lost touch with her creative side. What was created simply for inspiration, turned into the most fulfilling full time job she could ever ask for.
Through making art again, she connected with her inner child and fulfilled her childhood dreams of creating her own books. Her guided journals and oracle decks are now used all over the world, and as of three years ago she has been exploring painting, inspired by visions and dreams.
Lara Zilibowitz
Lara is an internationally touring yoga and meditation teacher, a qualified transpersonal art therapist and somatic guide, devoted to the intrinsic wisdom and healing creativity of the body and soul.
After two decades of passionate self-study, formal training and facilitation across yoga and the healing arts, Lara has become a master in the field of holding space for others, welcoming them just as they are.
Through her signature evocative language, expressive movement, nourishing breathwork and compassionate inquiry, every practice with Lara is a celebration of existence, a healing journey of exquisite self-remembrance and acceptance.
Holloway
“Benny” Holloway - known as Holloway - is a self-taught musician and sound healer. Blending live-looped guitar, voice, and atmospheric textures, he creates immersive soundscapes described as sonic acupuncture: music that invites deep rest, introspection, and emotional release.
Influenced by years spent living across Asia, Holloway’s sound carries the tones of temple chants, call-to-prayer melodies, and street musicians, all woven into a warm, soulful style that feels both ancient and contemporary.
For over a decade, he has offered his music within yoga, meditation, retreat, and ceremonial spaces, where his work acts as a container for transformation and grounding.
retreat Attendee Testimonials
“One of the most inspiring and deep experiences of my life.
An incredible journey that touched the deepest yearnings of your heart and soul.”
“I went on a deep shamanic journey, where I navigated between the intrapersonal (knowing myself) and interpersonal (knowing others), I drifted from light to shadow to witness the beauty and magic of my life exactly as it is.
“This weekend was an absolute gift and a prayer answered, a strong reminder of taking the time to listen deeply… to re-inspire ourselves, to heal ourselves, and in doing so, to heal the world. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.”
~ Vicky, Yoga Teacher and Psychotherapist
“I felt like a newborn discovering life for the first time.
A life-changing, awakening experience that I will be forever grateful for.”
“Lara and Benny are alchemists of life and love, interweaving the two to make the most beautiful tapestry.
“Throughout the retreat - moving my body to dancing, painting to singing my heart out, while meeting some of the most exquisite souls of my life - I experienced a new level of freedom, joy and connection unlike any before.
“Lara’s most gracious, rich, profound, loving guidance mixed with Benny’s out of this world music gave me the space to truly come home to myself. I discovered the deepest love in my heart for myself, everyone and everything around me.”
~ Alex Inch, Theatre Nurse and Yoga Teacher
“Two retreats deep, overwhelmed by magic and beauty, I’ve already planned the next one!”
“I’m forever grateful for what I have had the privilege to experience on their retreats.”
“Lara and Benny hold space with so much tenderness and grace. Thank you for being the pinnacle of authenticity: I feel incredibly inspired to follow suit, to keep opening my heart, to continue being unashamedly me.”
~ Sophia Alize, Yoga Teacher and Dancer
“My whole entire body had been revitalised.”
“Lara holds such a beautiful immersive space, where I felt completely supported and nurtured.
“I belly laughed. I sobbed. My body moved in ways I didn’t think possible. Sound emanated from my mouth like never allowed before. Words and poetry were articulated and flowed to enlighten the mind. It felt like a soothing balm.”
~ Kylie Paget, Reiki Practitioner
BOOKING TERMS
Transferring Your Booking
Bookings may be transferred to another participant up to 1 April, pending approval.
If a replacement is found, all payments can be transferred to them.
Participant is responsible for arranging the replacement.
Cancellations by Organisers
In the unlikely event that the retreat must be cancelled by the organisers, all payments including the deposit will be refunded in full.
Organisers are not responsible for participant travel costs, flights, visas, or personal expenses.
Travel Insurance
Participants are strongly encouraged to take out comprehensive travel insurance covering trip cancellation, unexpected illness/injury, and travel interruption.
Deposits & Payments
$500 deposit is required to secure your place.
$2,500 second instalment is due 1 February.
$2,500 final balance is due 1 April.
Cancellations by Participant
Before 1 February:
Deposit is non-refundable.
If needing to cancel before February 1, the amount can be rolled forward to future event/retreat.
1 February – 1 April:
Payments already made (including the Feb 1 installment) are 50% refundable, excluding the non-refundable deposit.
After 1 April:
All payments are 100% non-refundable, as all accommodation, safari vehicles and logistics are fully committed at this point.